War of the Seven Kings (Super Robot Wars with Code Geass, Muv Luv Alternative and more)

StrifeHavoc · Feb 15, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88 and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

I am posting this story at the urging of those involved and since a combination of stressful events in real life and money trouble, being unable to pay the commission for Greatkingrat88 for the beta work on my crossovers of Code Geass with Sunrider, Kingdom Hearts and Fate/Grand Order for the time being are just the tip of the iceberg. An update is coming for the Honkai crossover, I was hoping to get an update down for the FGO crossover first.
So to show I am still alive and I've stockpiled more than enough chapters to last me a couple months' worth of updates, which at the time of this story's posting I have 11 chapters pre-beta and ready for posting with another three finished awaiting beta work. And updates will be every other week.

Another reason I am posting the story is because while we got MUCH of the story planned out there are some details especially on places Lelouch and others will visit in the coming chapters, once Lelouch concludes his time on the Muv Luv world (expected to be around chapter 16 or chapter 18, the long time spent was due to needing to train, build up exp, and rep). The debates and working out any potential issues, so we need to post the stories so any useful feedback can help with the coming chapters.

I should also warn, massive spoilers for Sunrider the visual novel game ahead.
I'll save the rest of the author notes at the end of the chapter, enjoy.

And a link to a spot to discuss the story Discussion Thread for the story

Chapter 1
Point Extraction
(July 31st 2016 A.T.B.)

-----

"Checkmate."

"You finally got me," a young woman said, more impressed than surprised that she lost.

Sitting across from the young woman was a sixteen-year-old boy with black hair and purple eyes. He wore a black jacket with a white undershirt and matching black pants and shoes. While he did not show it, he was just as impressed as his opponent.

The pair were sitting in a private room with glass walls allowing those inside to overlook the cityscape behind them. It was one of the VIP rooms of the Tokyo Gambling Hall, which were reserved for those who could afford to rent the rooms for special gatherings such as private parties and the like. The room was just large enough for twenty people, with a pair of black sofas, a circular glass table in the center, and two plush chairs opposite one another with the table in between.

"You've provided a good challenge, unlike my other challengers."

"Is that so?" the woman smiled. "You sound pretty bored."

The woman sitting across from the boy looked to be in her early to mid-twenties, with long pink hair, light violet eyes, and pale skin. She wore a form-fitting white strapless dress, flaunting her voluptuous figure while having a scarf of white fur wrapped around her neck. The boy wondered if she was some kind of model or something but chose not to pry.

"I suppose the lack of a challenging opponent would be more worthwhile, but crushing my other opponents has its satisfaction," The boy admitted.

"They were arrogant about chess skills, but you crushed them all in ten minutes."
Arrogant wouldn't be the word I would use, the boy thought. You're not wrong, either.

"Either they never challenged anyone above their level, or they just believed being part of the nobility made them superior to everyone else."

"I say the latter," The woman asked with a smile. "But what about you? Lelouch, was it?

"Yes, it is," Lelouch confirmed the name he had given before the chess match began. "I wouldn't mind a real challenge to test my skills. If I face such incompetent chess players repeatedly, I fear my skills might decline."

"I think I could do a little more than that if you are interested," The woman said before realizing she almost forgot. "Ah, but first your winnings for beating me."

The woman handed Lelouch a generous thick stack of banknotes, much more than Lelouch had normally earned.

"How so," Lelouch asked cautiously.

"I propose a new game with higher stakes," The woman said grinning mischievously. "If you win, you'll get something more than money. I can offer allies and the building blocks for your revenge against Britannia, Lelouch vi Britannia."

"What," In his mind, alarms were going off. However, Lelouch regained his composure and addressed. "I am not interested. Now, if you will excuse me."

Lelouch turned around to head back to the front door, but as he rose to leave the room they had been having their chess game in, the woman snapped her fingers. Before he knew it, everything went white. He found himself trapped in a void as far as the eye could see. Lelouch's eyes went wide in disbelief as he tried to find an exit, but he found nothing, and his mind started to become frantic at the impossible situation he was in that defied all logic.

"What the hell?" Lelouch jerked around. "That isn't funny! What's going on around here!?"

The boy ran around for at least fifteen minutes. Considering his poor physical performance, there wasn't much he could do in his physical shape. With no end in sight where he was, already down to his knees, he found escape pointless.

It's no use. I cannot find a way out of here, Lelouch thought. I guess I should accept the impossible. I am in some unknown location.

By then, he thought he heard some sniffling. He looked up to find someone in the distance.

Huh, someone else is here? He walked towards his new guest, who wore a pilot suit, which looked like a form-fitting body glove in black and yellow. He then noticed that she was a young girl with brown hair. She has an odd style of clothing, probably not a Knightmare pilot. But I can tell that she's Japanese.

He cautiously approached the girl, especially after noticing the blood on her face and attire. The girl appeared to be as old as he was, especially after turning her purple eyes toward him.

"Excuse me," Lelouch approached. "Are you trapped here, too?"

"Who are you? Are you…an American?" The girl asked. She was just as surprised by Lelouch's appearance as he was. But she was speaking Japanese, but thankfully Lelouch was familiar enough to speak it fluently. Even if he hadn't used it for the past six years.

"No, I am Lelouch Lamperouge, a Britannian. I don't know what you're doing here, but I know your language. Are you from Japan?"

The girl was confused, likely not knowing what a Britannian was, but since he introduced himself, she reasoned she should do the same.

"I…I…I am Yui Takamura, an Eishi of Japan," Yui struggled to answer, which was enough to tell Lelouch whatever had happened to Yui was a taxing and traumatic experience.

Despite the blood on her, she doesn't appear injured. Was it from a battle against an enemy? Or did someone else, like a comrade, die for her? Lelouch thought as he tried to piece together Yui's situation and why she had blood on her. It only made Lelouch feel more alarmed about his situation, making him try to think of another way to escape. I don't know what an Eishi means. Maybe a pilot of something if that uniform is what I think it is?

"Sorry to ask the obvious, but were you abducted, too?"

Yui looked at Lelouch, unsure how to answer that question or something else. Yui hesitated to explain, fighting back the tears. He knew it was bad to press something too hard, so he used a gentler method.

"It's fine if you don't want to talk about it," Lelouch stepped back. "You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

"I…I just couldn't do anything," Yui was unable to hold back her tears any longer.

"But you would like a chance to undo it?"

Lelouch turned, recognizing that voice as the pink-haired woman stood behind Lelouch.

"It's you!"

"Who…who are you," Yui said as she struggled to regain her composure.

"I am the great Claude Triello," Claude said dramatically, also speaking fluent Japanese herself. "What you see here is my creation!"

"This is your creation?" Lelouch glared at her.

"Yep, details are all classified," the girl pointed out. "What I can say is that this is part of my power, so you better get used to it."

"Well, you sure made a debut here," Lelouch remained uneasy. "What is this place? Why did you bring us here?"

"Well, for a start, this is what you would call a pocket dimension," Claude grinned deviously. "Time doesn't exist here, and just to be clear, there is no escape until I say otherwise."

"What do you want from us?" Lelouch demanded.

"Well, I am offering Miss Yui a chance to save her friends," Claude faced the weeping girl. "She just had her robot crash, and her friends killed right before her. The poor girl couldn't even bare to pull the trigger on her friend as she wanted. In the end, all she could do was watch her rival turned friend eaten alive before her."

"Eaten alive?" Lelouch was speechless, which triggered Yui to break down in tears again. He would have chewed out
Claude for pressing a trauma button as she did, but he was left with more questions. Never before did he know an enemy that could be so savage to eat their enemies alive, nor how dangerous and desperate a situation was that demanded young girls like Yui to fight in such a battle.

"Now, don't be trying to shed too many tears just yet, for I now have a solution," Claude got Yui's attention. "What if I could allow you the opportunity to fix that error and ensure such a fiasco never happened the way it did?"

"What?" Yui uncovered her watery eyes to face Claude as she continued.

"In return, I would like you to become this man's bodyguard," She pointed to Lelouch. "I am giving you a chance to save four lives in exchange for protecting one. That's five lives in total. Not a bad deal, is it?"

"Are you serious?" Lelouch felt skeptical about the whole thing. Even though having an ally with battle experience was helpful, he suspected there was more to the deal despite not knowing her situation.

"I am quite serious," Claude giggled as she approached Lelouch. "And you are an interesting man who makes miracles happen. Well...you aren't that man yet, but you have been in other timelines I've watched you in. Not only would you succeed at liberating Japan from your homeland, but you would also have changed the world. Very impressive, all done within two years before you were even out of high school."

"I did what!?" Lelouch was taken aback. "Don't screw with me! I did the math myself and knew it would take much longer to make the initial move! There's no way I could have done it for that short time!"

"I understand how surprising it is, but trust me. I've seen you at your best and know how capable you are. But I've been wondering what could happen if you were given a head start with the right people and resources on hand?"

"For what?" Lelouch asked. Even if he believed Claude like she was some kind of goddess, he could not just accept anyone offering her help unless they wanted something in return. "You are not doing this out of the kindness in your heart, so what's your angle?"

"You're right. I do want something," Claude admitted. "You see, I have a problem that can't go away with the snap of my fingers. But I need someone with high-quality leadership capability and tactical planning who can bring together and create the strongest army to face it. You, Lelouch, are lucky number seven among six other candidates. However, as capable as you are, the others have the big edge over you due to their resources and tech. So for fairness, I will give you a helpful start."

"That doesn't answer my question," Lelouch pressed as she turned to Yui. "Why her?"

"Well, I could've picked someone else. For Yui, her world is in a far more dire situation. You've already figured out it must be really bad if they send people as young as sixteen to the frontlines, facing an enemy that eats their adversaries alive," Claude eyed Yui, rubbing her chin to her uneasiness. "But for her in particular, she is a good pilot…and a good head on her shoulders. I know you will grow into quite the bombshell of a woman in a couple years."

"That's hardly appropriate," Lelouch scolded Claude harshly. "You're making her uncomfortable, especially after what she went through."

"Right, my bad," Claude retained her light-hearted mood despite the tense moment. "I was just trying to compliment her. But the real reason is that while Yui is a capable pilot with room to grow, her uncle is in a prominent position. I already made a bargain with him and the rest of his friends who run the Empire of Japan's government."

"My uncle? Yui raised her head. "What deal?"

"Your uncle?" Lelouch inquired of the Japanese woman beside her.

"My uncle…is an officer of Japan's Ministry of Defense's Weapons Technology Development Authority."

"I made him and the Empire of Japan some tempting offers to help them against the BETA. Miss Yui has to protect you, plus they would allow anyone else to join her. Because should all else fail, Japan and the rest of her world would be doomed to fall to the BETA. Having an alternate Japan they could move to could be beneficial as a last resort, but I am confident what I've given them will be very helpful as long as they handle it with care."

"Now, I am even more suspicious," Lelouch said bluntly.

"This does open the door for you," Claude pointed with a sly smile as she folded her arms under her ample bosom. "I mean, you come from a world without BETA, and you have weapons tech different from theirs that could be worth trading for something you could use in return. If you haven't picked up on it, you and Yui come from Earths that are similar but with different histories,"

"I did pick up on that. This is just…This is all rather unbelievable to accept so easily."

"Fair enough," Claude placed one hand on her chin before pointing out. "You know, you got to do something about your trust issues."

"What was that?!" Lelouch snapped, his patience with Claude wearing thin.

"You know what I said, and given what happened to you, it's not hard to believe either. Not that you aren't unjustified in being weary of people, which is why you and Yui will work together on this. It will be a good chance to build trust with one another."

Claude then snapped her fingers. A pair of machines, standing at eighteen meters, appeared side by side. They were similar in general design, with both machines having black armor with gold trims and red eyes from the helmet-like heads. It was the weapons each machine was equipped with that set them apart. The machine on the right was presumably built for range combat as Lelouch and Yui noticed weapons stored inside its wings. The opposite machine had a similar wing design but with a pair of spears stored within them. Both machines had the same weapon, a large gun that looked like a hybrid between a hand cannon and a pistol, which could be stored behind the waist when not in use.

The more melee focused of the two carried a pair of swords stored on its back where the wings connect, but it seemed to have other blades hidden on its forearms serving as tonfa.

"Behold the Izanagi and Izanami, two machines made using some tech I picked up here and there," Claude explained in detail. "The Izanami was designed for range combat, carrying two plasma cannons stored in its wings. Its most useful feature is the fact it has a quantum computer tactical system useful for helping direct the battlefield and works with its most defensive feature, energy shields that can appear as plates that can be used to surround the entire machine. The computer is also used for its main weapon, a Diffusion Structure Phase Transition that functions by firing a liquid prism into the battlefield. The computer would program it to release sweeping beams to wipe out great scores of enemies. Of course, it can fire even without the prism being used."

"That's…impressive," Yui remained stunned by the machine's capabilities.

"Well, the next one isn't too shabby either. Its twin, Izanagi, is more focused on close-quarters combat. It has a pair of swords stored on the back, made from the same material as your machines making them extremely tough, but they are also infused with special particles to increase cutting power. As an alternative, the forearms of the Izanagi have a pair of beam sabers that can double for tonfa blades. It also has a pair of beam sabers on its waist."

"Beam sabers?" Yui inquired.

"Ever watch Star Wars?" Claude asked, to which Yui shook her head. "Well, considering you're from a world where even my kind of entertainment is…quite lacking, it's a weapon that uses a blade made out of pure energy."
Lelouch amused himself.

I don't even know what Star Wars is,

"The beam saber is much more compact than the swords, but the reason for having a physical blade is in the event of facing energy shields as those blades are capable of piercing them should they be encountered," Claude explained before adding. "Finally, a common weapon shared between both machines, besides the Beam Sabers, is the Beam Magnum. One shot can vaporize the upper body of a Tactical Surface Fighter. Even a near miss can be fatal."

"That powerful," Yui muttered, surprised by the machine's capabilities.

"A Tactical Surface Fighter?" Lelouch turned to Yui.

"A giant robot that is about, on average, seventeen meters tall," Claude replied. "They aren't as small or nimble as a Knightmare Frame, but they can fly and have a longer operational range. They can use specialized firearms and swords in battle."

"So you're just going to send us into battle to save her friends with these machines," Lelouch found that to be a question that had to be asked.

"No, of course not," Claude waved her hand dismissively. "You two will train together in simulators before you go in to change the fate of Yui's friends and others. A key feature of these machines requires trust between you."

"What feature?" Yui asked.

"Both machines have a feature called the Coupling System. It connects the minds of whoever pilots these machines allowing for a transfer of experience and more. But, it has the benefit of increasing how much your brain can process information, dramatically increasing response time. Not only can this augment the machine's combat performance, but the cockpits are made of a special material that can read the brainwaves of the pilots, furthering response time and bypassing traditional controls almost completely."

"Training takes time," Yui pointed out. "Me and my friends were barely ready when that battle happened."

"Remember what I mentioned about this place?" Claude winked.

"Time doesn't exist here," Lelouch said.

"Good to see you were paying attention," Claude complimented before snapping her fingers. "So why don't we get started? You should get to know one another while you are at it."

A pair of pods appeared before Lelouch and Yui, most likely simulators for the new machines. After inspecting the pods, Claude vanished, to Lelouch's annoyance. Now the two were left alone as they stared at each other in awkward silence.

"Is this…really happening?" Yui asked after a full minute of silence.

"A good question and I don't blame you for thinking that. All of this is a bit much to wrap my head around, not helped that I don't trust Claude," Lelouch admitted.

"Right, that's fair. But could you pull on my ear, and could I," Yui asked reluctantly, but Lelouch understood her intent.

"I understand," Lelouch said before pulling on one of Yui's ears. She pinched him in return, both feeling pain, confirming this wasn't some dream. Even if their situation was understandably difficult to believe, let alone accept. "I felt that."

"Me too, so what do we do?"

"We're not escaping," Lelouch leaned against one of the simulation pods. "I am still skeptical about her intentions, but our only way out is to get the hang of these machines."

"If I had the chance, I would like to save them," Yui admitted. The deaths of her friends were still fresh in her mind.
"But this shouldn't involve you. You have nothing to do with this."

The scars from watching them die wouldn't heal easily, but if Yui had a chance to save them, it was worth a try, especially given how different it was to a TSF. Her previous knowledge of how the battle at the Supply Base went would be useful, too.

"And in return for this chance, you are to become my bodyguard," Lelouch recalled. "I can't imagine you being okay with that."

"Maybe, but…" Yui was silent for a moment. "If there's a chance to save them.."

"At the very least, I am far less skeptical of that offer. I'll be honest. I also have no idea how even to pilot this machine.
I've piloted a Knightmare Frame owned by my academy, but that's it."

"Well, we have nothing but time here."

"But how long exactly?"

Yui didn't have an answer to give Lelouch, but there was no escape for either of them. The temptation of saving her friends was too great to ignore, but she understood convincing someone she had just met to help her was awkward, which was an understatement. But each time she doubted the possibility, the memory of the death of her friends came back to her. The most horrific ones were Izumi and Kazusa. The latter haunted her the most as she pleaded with her to be killed before the BETA got her.

She failed to give her friend the mercy she wanted before the enemy got her and devoured her alive in a feeding frenzy.

If I can change that, I'll protect this boy if it means helping them.

The problem before Yui was not only the issue of mastering those machines. Could she and Lelouch work together?
That, they would have to find out.

A/N: Right, so the first world Lelouch will be spending time on will be the world of Muv Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse with Yui Takamura to become his first accomplice and later love interest, and a founding member of the polygamous relationship he'll have with other women.

Originally I had Lelouch and Yui start at fourteen years old, mostly because that was the age I assumed Yui was at the time of the BETA invasion due to an entry on Tv tropes, but new information has destroyed that, so I've changed it to reflect their correct ages to match.

Which means I have time to work the relationship between them and others before any romance happens.

But this also gives me a lot of time to introduce the other series and characters that'll be involved giving me a lot of time for set up and introduction avoiding character bloat, I hope. Not to mention given how Lelouch can't fight his way out of a paper bag he needs the time to at least toughen up a bit. I mean he'll be playing more to his strengths as a leader and tactical genius, but he'll have to earn it more in this story, but its also why he has Yui with him, to cover for any issues in his piloting.

After Yui and Lelouch become romantically involved, when the two are seventeen in a couple years story wise, next would be Kazusa Yamashiro with Shimako Kai possibly next. Now I should note the polygamous relationship/harem will have a hard limit of seven or nine. With Stella Bremer, Cui Yifei, and/or Tarisa Manandal as like candidates, assuming the last one makes it through the poll for "problem candidates" being considered, but have a number of issues that could impede their chances against the other candidates.

Poll for the problem candidates

I COULD just build Lelouch's harem/polygamous relationships with just Muv Luv characters easily, but I would like to give other characters I am looking at from other series a fair shot, and not just the CG characters for the sake of more variety. You'll find the poll for the "problem candidates" with the issues they face next to their name and what series they hail from.

I could give a list on who else I am looking at, but it be too big, but anyone who be too dangerous/crazy, too old (C.C. is the exception), is already married with kids are obviously out of the question.

Here are the series involved in this story.
Muv Luv Alternative (Total Eclipse, Schwarzesmarken (I got a plan for that one), and characters from the day after and other spin offs likely to appear)
Buddy Complex
Gundam Zeta/Gundam Unicorn/
Gundam SEED
Legend of Galactic Heroes
Gundam 00
Gundam Iron Blood Orphans
Gundam Wing
Aldnoah Zero
Cross Ange
Sunrider
Gundam: Reconguista in G
Gundam Witch of Mercury
Code Geass
Gunbuster (this might be a short one, due to the time dilation being a serious headache during planning.)
Gun x Sword
Armored Core 2

Reserve/Back up series: (Their inclusion would depend on working out a way to introduce them without expending a whole chapter in their introduction alone, and how well they can fit. Some have more specific reasons.)
Diebuster (worried about this one due to the escalation involving the machines that could unbalance things.)
Heavy Object
Valvrave the Liberator
Full Metal Panic
Neon Genesis Evangelion (I foresee heavy conflict with NERV)
Infinite Stratos (debates on how effective IS suits are and other ongoing debates)
Darling in the Franxx (likely to get attacked by the heroes and getting wrecked, but the VIRM might be much)
Expelled from Paradise
Crossbone Gundam and V Gundam
So I figure I'll save any further details for the author notes of the second chapter, which while its ready to go I'll post it the following week. I just don't like leaving big author notes, and this far bigger than I wanted to do.

Thank you reading, so expect an update every other week. I hope you'll enjoy it, thank you in advance for your feedback and reviews.

StrifeHavoc · Feb 29, 2024

Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88 and Seerking (all of them their author names from fanfiction.net) have also contributed to the development of this story I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

I should note F-14 Tomcat Lover (fanfiction.net author was also a contributor to the story, and I say was is because for awhile now I tried to ask him for help with some of the chapters (11-14) and I haven't been able to get in touch with him, so I am mentioning now before I accidently forget again that he was involved in this the development of this story.

I am posting at fanfiction.net, archive of our own, here and Space Battles, the latter place has some posts and info on some upcoming stuff there if anyone is curious.

---------------------------------------------

Chapter 2
Different Earths

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"Enemy approaching from your right, Yui," Lelouch warned from the cockpit of his simulation pod.

"I see them," Yui replied as she faced the enemy.

Yui had told Lelouch about the enemy the people of her world had been facing, called the Beings of Extra Terrestrial origin which is Adversary to the human race, otherwise known as the BETA. They were first discovered on Mars before they reached the moon nine years later. Unlike his world, the moon had bases stationed upon its surface, most for conducting geological surveys with the possibility for colonization being considered and perhaps even mining operations supported and overseen by the United Nations, international organization comprised of almost every nation that currently exists on Earth, and serves as a means of facilitating international cooperation between countries in almost all subjects and concerns.

Despite their best efforts, humanity lacked a viable means to move needed supplies to the moon to support those fighting against the BETA. Making the situation even worse for the desperate defenders was the fact the moon's environment worked against them and space development treaties prohibited the use of weapons, beyond small arms and certain vehicle necessities, and weapons development on the moon which only served to hinder humanity's efforts to fight back.

Even so the defenders held off for at six grueling years before the United Nations were forced to abandon the Moon, because by that point the BETA had begun invading the Earth.

I knew Yui's enemy was something truly alien, but even seeing them in action is hard to believe. However, while the war on the moon itself might have been a one-sided affair for humanity, they did learn lessons from the conflict.

Even before the BETA had begun their invasion of the moon, many countries recognized the danger they would poise to Earth so research had begun to develop new weapons, drawing from the successful use of a new kind of powered-exoskeleton the Tactical Surface Fighter would be created and be the most effective weapon against the BETA.
Lelouch watched Yui take on a class of BETA known as a Grappler-Class, a creature standing at thirteen meters with two hardened armored forearms used to batter enemies to death and shield against enemy attacks. It had four legs and it was a grotesque looking creature with a human-like head on top, no eyes, but a row of human-like teeth on its tail that made looking at the creature very unsettling.

Yui pulled back as the creature attempted a surprise attack upon her, amazed by how responsive the Izanagi was, and its firepower was truly impressive as Yui quickly moved to its side before firing a shot from the Beam Magnum intending to kill it quickly because she knew Grapplers could turn around very quickly despite their bulk. One shot on its unprotected body blew the creature apart, killing it easily. Suddenly a pair of beam rifle shots flew past Yui striking another BETA type that had been rushing towards her intending to ram her.

The creature was called a Destroyer-Class, a BETA that was at least sixteen meters tall and about seventeen meters wide, a living tank would be a proper description for them. Their hardened frontal carapace allowed them to shrug off most frontal attacks before running up to a hundred miles per hour to ram into targets or most fortifications allowing their fellow BETA to deal with the mop up.
However Lelouch noticed that while the beam rifles were effective, they didn't kill it, but it damaged the frontal armor and the hit was enough to stall its movements to give Yui a chance to evade.

"Thank you, Lelouch," Yui said as she quickly got behind it, but unlike the Grapple-class, the Destroyers couldn't turn their bodies in another direction very quickly making it easier for a nimbler foe to get behind it and strike where its body was the least vulnerable.

"Hang back for a moment Yui, I am going to wipe out some of the approaching enemy and see if I can't clear the field of the Laser-class enemies," Lelouch said as he moved up as Yui stayed nearby to cover him.

"Understood."

The Laser-class are on average three meters tall and surprisingly light, but despite their small size and light body weight, at least compared to other BETA, they were totally lacking any armor, speed, and maneuverability making them easy to dispatch up close. However, they were the bane of Earth's military forces due to their powerful lasers that could hit anything from ten kilometers high and thirty kilometers ahead of their location being the reason they've rendered aerial attacks and long range artillery support almost meaningless. However, according to research made on their attacks as Yui explained to him, they would prioritize attacks on targets with advanced computers such as drones and missiles and almost ignore most artillery unless that was all that was being fired at them.
In addition to the long range, their lasers were frighteningly accurate despite the distance between their targets and could destroy a TSF with a single shot if a pilot wasn't careful to stay low to the ground and thus below the horizon reducing their ability to engage.

"Targets locked in," the computer within Lelouch's cockpit said as the tactical computer combined with its sensors located the Laser-class BETA.

On the lower abdomen of the Izanami was a Scattering Mega Particle Cannon, taking to the air Lelouch took aim as his machine's barrier, called an I-field deflected the lasers of the Laser-class, even redirecting them away from him as the weapon charged readying to fire. Once the weapon was charged it fired a scattering blast which rained down upon numerous BETA units, with many killed in the attack, but most importantly the Laser-class units were wiped out.

"You got them," Yui said, impressed.

"The tactical computer on the Izanami is quite impressive, so I can't take all of the credit. It was helpful in finding a suitable firing location so that I could achieve the desired results and stay out of their line of fire," Lelouch admitted with a grin that he didn't immediately realize he had.

But he could partially understand it.

A machine like this would be useful against Britannia, but…

As impressed as he was by the Izanami, Lelouch was still suspicious of Claude. He was at least certain she had no malicious intent for now, but he opted not to let his guard down around her. Yui, on the other hand, he was more willing to trust, due to their shared situation of being trapped in the space they were in, and he understood the trauma of seeing someone you care for dead. He didn't even want to imagine what it was like watching your friends being eaten alive.

If Claude had something planned for them, then it would logically be in Lelouch's best interest to have Yui on his side, whatever her true intentions were.

With the last of the BETA wiped out, the simulation ended. Yui had told Lelouch the BETA were always known to attack in far greater numbers than those they had been facing in the simulator, which was set to an easier difficulty for the purpose of getting used to both their machines and working together.

Exiting the simulator pods the pair sat down next to one another leaning against Yui's pod.

"Let's grab something, are you hungry?" Yui offered as Lelouch looked exhausted, even now after the amount of training they had done.

"Sure," Lelouch stretched his arms with an audible popping of his spine. "I knew you said fighting the BETA is an endurance battle, but I never expected such battles to last so long."

"True," Yui led the way and Lelouch walked alongside her.

As they began training, Yui was given a copy of her old academy uniform to change into when not piloting. Which Lelouch was thankful for, as the Fortified Suit was more than a little revealing compared to the sailor-style uniforms Japanese schools had used. For Yui and her fellow cadets at their academy it had a blue skirt, a white long-sleeve top with lime green bow, a blue color, long white socks and black dress shoes. Yui normally left the shoes off when they ate or rested. Lelouch guessed it had to do with wanting her feet to be free of confinement from what he had heard the Royal Guards and his mother say about combat footwear.

Since they arrived two months ago, from what both Lelouch and Yui could estimate even if time didn't exist in this space, much of their time had been spent training. Lelouch needed it more among the two, but Yui was quite helpful, instructing him in how to pilot and handle the machine. The controls were different from the Knightmare Frame he had piloted for Ashford Academy, but his previous experience did help him gain an understanding of the basic controls that allowed them to begin training in earnest.

Naturally, Claude added more useful facilities to the space they were in, near the simulator pods and the strange facility they were in was a small hotel, judging by its design. However, both Yui and Lelouch didn't have a good opinion of the structure because of how tacky its decor was. Such that both questioned if it was intentional on Claude's part to fool around with them, likely trying to provoke a rise out of them.

It might've been one thing if the hotel's style was made to match Claude's aesthetic tastes, but then Claude admitted that it was called a Love Motel.

Neither of them could comprehend, or maybe neither Lelouch nor Yui wanted to know why Claude did something like that. Despite their obvious issues with Claude's design choices, the pair had no choice but to endure it.

Entering the motel, Lelouch and Yui made it to the dining hall, and much like the hotel had a heart theme, with the chairs having heart-shaped cushions. The wallpapers had an equally tacky pink color with white hearts upon it. The tables were normal except they were red and were big and round enough to allow for six people to eat.

The machines, contrast to the tacky motel and its old-fashion design, were a different story, they were highly advanced, giving it what Lelouch and Yui could describe as state of the art with food given to them by machines called replicator food dispensers, allowing them to have whatever they wanted when needed to eat and drink.

The pair sat together at one of the, few and thankfully, smaller tables, eating in silence initially, but once they were done with their meal the pair began talking.

"Have you been sleeping better?" Lelouch asked cautiously before drinking some milk from his glass and immediately catching a whiff of himself and noting he would need a shower later.

"A little," Yui admitted, sounding still tired and even a little afraid even now. "I prefer being able to train all the time."

"Understandable," Lelouch said, not quite knowing how she felt, but able to guess and know that while he couldn't understand per se, he did know what the loss of loved ones can feel like. "I remember the nightmares of when my mother was murdered and what I saw when Japan went to war with Britannia."

"Was Japan at war with another country?" Yui inquires, having not done so before, "I seem to recall hearing that a new nation, Britannia replaced America?"

"In my world, yes, that is true." Lelouch answered knowing they would need to compare 'historical notes' later even as Yui drank some juice from her own glass. "I experienced it first hand while trying to survive it with a friend and my sister who was both blind and crippled."

Yui looked at Lelouch in surprise trying to imagine what that was like.

"How old were you?" she asks, looking curious

"I was ten years old," Lelouch answered honestly.

"It was just you and your friend, plus your sister?" Yui had a frown on her face.

"That's correct," Lelouch replied, although he didn't mean to tell her about him being present when Japan and Britannia went to war and the why he and his sister were in Japan.

Have we gotten close enough that I could make such a mistake with an easy slip of the tongue, or…

Maybe Lelouch recognized the sorrow and pain Yui was enduring akin to his own when he lost his mother, and had to struggle to survive Japan while it was at war with Britannia. Since Japan was conquered, Lelouch had to live a lie and hide his true identity and prior history under a blanket of lies. Something he resented at times, but knew it was necessary.

Perhaps I miss Suzaku, because around him I could be…more honest. Maybe I am feeling the same with Yui after all this time we've spent together, Lelouch reasoned, but he was still angry at himself for a careless slip of the tongue.

"I can't imagine that, not just you surviving through a war as a child, but Japan at war with a superpower. Could you tell me more about it?" Yui asked. "Was Japan an Empire in your world too?"

Lelouch shook his head, "No, it was, in theory, a Democracy ruled by an elected Prime Minister. Though, by the time of the war, it was hardly a Democracy in anything but name."

"I see," Yui knew from her mother and cousin the severity of the internal issues plaguing her country and so she could understand why Lelouch used the term 'in theory' and described it Democracy in Name Only, "We, too, have an elected Prime Minister who handles all of the daily running of Japan with an elected Cabinet of Ministers." Yui explained, surprised by how different the Japan
Lelouch knew compared to her own. "Although he technically runs the country in a certain way I suppose," Lelouch didn't have to guess what she meant there, "most of the major decisions are performed by the Nobility, but the Diet has considerable invested powers and technically votes for the Prime Minister from among its members in a Parliamentarian fashion."

"Isn't your Japan an Empire?" Lelouch inquired

Yui nods as she suddenly wishes for a change of topic if the wrinkling of her nose is anything to go by.

"Yes, it's ruled by the Emperor and the Imperial House, but long has it been that he acts more akin to a religious leader than a ruler with complete authority over government affairs," Yui explained. "We have the Shogun and the Shogunate for that, but the position is ceremonial, he or she is the commander-in-chief of Japan's military forces who could wield emergency powers in a crisis. The Emperor, the highest authority, is the true spiritual figurehead who helps unify the people as the leader of the Shinto religion," Lelouch earned a nod from Yui. "That is basically it, but you should be careful of how you refer to the Shogun and the Emperor, some will take offense to that. Though, I hear the Japan of your world no longer has an Emperor or a Shogun, but a Prime Minister?"

"The Imperial Family and the Shogunate were overthrown following a botched war with Russia. Japan technically won, but they got nothing to show for it, other than enraging the population and crippling its economy."

"What about the Holy Britannian Empire? How did that come to be instead of America?"

"Well, there were a lot of events that led to Britannia's birth. For one thing the conflict that led to the birth of the United States in your world ended in favor of the British instead. Then a rebellion in France would engulf all of Europe, seeing every monarchy overthrown save for Russia. Cue Napoleon Bonaparte rise to power, one of the greatest military and political geniuses of his time, who would lead the first invasion of British Isles since the Romans around one thousand and eight hundred years earlier. Once ashore, an Anti-Royalist Revolt aided him and the Queen who controlled the British Isles was overthrown," Lelouch recalled that much quite well and again, he noted the need to see how different history was between their worlds, the Queen and those still loyal to her were forced to flee to the American Colonies from where they had intended to reestablish a Government-in-Exile. But instead, the Queen, childless, would make one of her lovers her successor as she died of illness. He would go on to establish the Holy Empire of Britannia, name her an Empress posthumously, and declare himself an Emperor and connect his position to Alwin I, who defeated the Roman invasion nearly two millenniums earlier, or so historians claim."

"So the British Empire was defeated and driven to America?" Yui frowned, wondering what happened to the British Empire at large, knowing that it was quite large by that time, not quite at its zenith until the mid 19th Century or thereabouts, for her world, before its rapid decline and eventual transformation into the Commonwealth she knew.

"Fearing a repeat of what befell Britain they began an aggressive war of expansion intent on seizing all of the American continent. Eventually they succeeded in becoming one of the world's three greatest superpowers, but their expansion didn't stop. They began spreading to the Pacific Ocean."

"And Japan was conquered by them?" Yui frowned knowing that not even the Americans could be so expansionist as that was quite far for even them and they had a third of a continent to their name and with a Pacific Ocean coastline from whence to operate from, unlike the Europeans, though the Soviets and the Russians before them were notably less interested in the Far East until the other major European nations became heavily invested in it.

"Eventually," Lelouch stated for the beginning, "Japan first had a comfortable relationship with the Empire and even the EU and Chinese Federation. Consider that a miracle at the time, until new leaders came into power and with them, the changes that led to a breakdown in relations with all three powers," Lelouch knew that smaller nations, like the Middle East Federation also cursed Japan strongly. "Cue August 10th of 2010 ATB, when the Empire launched a full scale invasion with almost its full military might, overwhelming the defenses in every direction."

"Did any other nation come to Japan's aid," Yui inquired disheartened to hear about another Japan's fall.

"Unfortunately, no," Lelouch shook his head. "And it might've been for the best, given what was happening."

"What do you mean?" Yui asked, clearly surprised by Lelouch's answer.

"Japan was special in that it was the only place on Earth where seventy percent of my world's supply of Sakuradite could be found. It was a very valuable mineral that had become a key component in military equipment and technological innovations. Japan's monopoly on Sakuradite mining and trading turned it into an economic powerhouse despite its small size and used it to influence world events until it backfired."

"Leading to war with Britannia," Yui assumed, with Lelouch confirming with a nod.

"Had any of the other three superpowers intervened, it would've turned Japan into a puppet state. The land would've split into two at best or three at worst, which was likely a factor why Japan surrendered one month later."

Yui remained stunned to hear the Japan of another world was crushed so completely by a rival superpower. She tried to imagine what a massive invasion with overwhelming force from three different points was like.

But then anger welled up into her, causing her to slam her fists on the table as she stood up quickly, the Fortified Suit she was wearing enhancing her strength that the table not only jumped and tipped in her direction, but her chair was sent flying a good four meters back behind her, crashing into another chair and causing both to tumble to the ground with Lelouch wondering if she broke them and curious if she had cracked the table they were using.

"That's absurd!" Yui shouts at the top of her lungs. "Japan would surrender?! The people of my Japan would've fought to the bitter end!"

"And you're right, they would've fought to the bitter end," Lelouch responds, confident that he had at least a chance in his own Fortified Suit, even if the thing clung a little too much to his groin, "But the danger posed by the superpowers aside, it was painfully clear twenty-four hours after Britannia began its invasion who would win. The Prime Minister, reportedly at least, committed suicide due to the stress, leaving others to surrender in his place all the while what remained of Japan's military went underground, becoming a resistance movement in hopes of overthrowing Britannia when the time was right."

Yui had gone quiet trying to process all she was hearing, if not for being in this strange space and having met Claude, she might've called Lelouch a madman over something the like for what he had told her happening to Japan. Even if it was difficult to imagine what the Japan Lelouch had described was like. Or perhaps, she didn't want to in the face of the fact that her Japan had surrendered in what the West termed 1944 and had signed the San Diego Treaty ending the war with the creation of a more Democratic Japan, more a Constitutional Monarchy, even if the Nobility still had plenty to say and plenty of power.

But it did bring a thought to mind. Something that made her deflate as she went to sit down, only for Lelouch to stand up and stop her and point to where her chair now lay. Yui's face turned an interesting shade of red as she felt her embarrassment for her outburst.

And yet, the boy in front of her, only swung another chair around and that allowed her to sit comfortably which allowed her to calm down to think rationally rather than emotionally and strangely… She felt better after that outburst. Like it was something she really, desperately needed. To boil over and get angry and let it out.
Strange, but comforting.

"You know?" She leaned forward, unaware of what her suit did for appearance as such, but Lelouch was very much aware and thankful for the table, "For everything you've been talking about regarding Britannia, you seem very different. From what Claude said about your future accomplishments, it sounds to me like you have a really big grudge against Britannia. I even noticed that some of your manners are too refined for a Commoner, especially with the way you hold your silverware and chopsticks, the way you walk, and how you seem to be in control of how you speak. All of which points to a higher upbringing than even money can buy."

Yui's knowledge of Lelouch impressed him. The girl before him had shown her ability to understand the situation and from what little he said, begin to paint a picture. No doubt she'll realize he has trust issues. Therefore, she wasn't fully calling him out and was expecting him to not be totally truthful with her.

"An understatement, but you're not wrong in both the grudge and my background being a cut above, if I'm not mistaken, for a Noble such as yourself to notice," Lelouch expected this subject would come up. Lelouch didn't feel at ease revealing the details of his background best kept secret, but he did reason he could share some details and Yui's face made it clear she wouldn't accept anything less.

No reason to tell her everything I suppose. Not like she's expecting it right now either.

"To put it bluntly," Lelouch began, "My mother was a Commoner who clawed her way to the top and was a pinnacle of Knighthood among the Empire's Knights, even being accounted for as an elite after she was accepted into the Emperor's Personal Knights, the Order of the Round Table, and yes, Arthurian Legend is very big in the Britannia Empire," Lelouch had a wry smile on his face as Yui snorted and shook her head as she recalled there were some born to the Nobility and the title of Samurai who lived as Ronin apparently, having cut all connection with Japan and acted as mercenaries for hire or fought for other countries, the West Germans and British predominantly, though some had joined America as well.

"Thus, my mother had achieved the impossible in the eyes of many," Lelouch continued on, "Most notably among the Nobility as she was made a Baron which was only the beginning as there was expectations of her moving on to be a named a Marquis at the very least due to her military nature. Perhaps even a Marcher Lord, which would have put her above many Nobles and left her only answerable to the Emperor himself."

"A lot of jealousy," Yui knew there were some recent Tozoma who were raised to that position due to their military campaigns on Mainland Asia and a number of others were granted even higher positions among the Nobility itself and the IRG for their service overseas and thus, gaining jealousy of those families that had yet to distinguish themselves in battle.

Some were even Fudai like her, but directly to the Imperial Household, whereas she is Fudai to the Shogunate Household. Arguably that makes her and her family Second Rank due to serving the Shogun instead of the Emperor which would be First Rank.

"That's right," Lelouch nodded, guessing there was a system Yui hadn't told him about yet, but then again, he hadn't asked how her system was set up, "But that ended or was tabled as my mother had married up. So, she was now of higher rank through marriage. I never did find out if she had been moved past Baron or not as our territory was never renamed past Barony last I heard and after her death, it was torn to shreds by the jealous Nobles around it."

Lelouch let out a sigh. The whole thing about his exile still was a deep wound. One that time had yet to heal fully. As Claude had mentioned and Yui had picked up.

"When my mother was killed, the man I called father abandoned my sister Nunnally and myself in Japan. We were taken in by a prominent Japanese family, but then we got caught up in the war when Britannia invaded due to their position. Thanks to a friend I had, we managed to survive the month of the war, lucky enough to avoid being caught up in the fighting itself. But we saw much of the aftermath of the invasion, for which I was so thankful I had to carry Nunnally and that she couldn't see either," Lelouch surprised Yui especially at the end there and she had a pretty good idea of why he said that too.

"Your father just abandoned you in a foreign land?" Yui decided that tack was the better choice right now.

"Along with my sister who was left crippled and blind when my mother was killed, yes," Lelouch replied, horrifying Yui and now understanding why Lelouch was grateful that his sister couldn't walk or see.

But that alone couldn't justify wanting to bring down your own country.

"There is more to it isn't there?" Yui observed astutely.

"Yes, but you'll forgive me if I prefer not to share for the time being," Lelouch shrugged as he let out a breath and the look on his face as well as his posture told Yui he had a hard enough time talking about it as it is, "There are some details I would like to keep close to my chest, when I do decide to tell you I think you'll understand why I had to keep some details secret. They are the kind of secrets that can endanger me and my sister if the wrong people find out, which is why we had to fake our deaths following the war to go into hiding."

What kind of secret does he have that would make him and his sister go so far to hide their survival?

Yui was even more curious now, but she decided to respect Lelouch's wishes for the time being.

"Alright I won't pry," Yui at least was able to smile a little, thankful Lelouch had been at least willing to talk, "but you'll forgive me if I say I am curious about the details."

"That is perfectly understandable," Lelouch said with a smile.

"Maybe I'll share some details about me, since you did." Yui said before she began telling Lelouch about her background. "I am the daughter of the man who designed and produced the Type-82 Zuikaku TFS, and I am also part of a Fudai household, hereditary vassals to the Shogun."

"A form of nobility, then?" Lelouch had his guess confirmed.

"Yes, that's one way to describe it," Yui nodded as she leaned back in her chair, "It's a bit more complicated than that, though, with differing ranks that would take time to explain."

"I see," Lelouch understood the system was likely to be different.

"As for the past," Yui continued on, looking up at the ceiling, "I enrolled in a military academy that trained the daughters of the Nobility like myself to become Eishi, 'Guardians' in English, pilots of Tactical Surface Fighters, with my specific academy training only those who are to be members of the Imperial Royal Guard. My friends hailed from similar households, who, like my own Fudai family, are of samurai descent."

"Like you? And Samurai?" Lelouch knew that the Imperial Knights were Knights regardless if the were Order Knights like those in the four famed ones of Euro Britannia or like his mother in the Emperor's Order of the Rounds or even just normal Imperial Knights in the Imperial Army.

So, he was understandably curious by what appeared to be a small difference.

Yui nodded before continuing.

"My family were descended from samurai lineage, as did all the Imperial Royal Guard TSF pilots in Japan. Those in the Regular Imperial Army are just regular Eishi who passed the exams and training to become TSF pilots."

"Britannia is pretty similar, for which I recall that one," Lelouch paused before continuing on. "Relatives have been trying to put a Knightly Order together that would include a number of Commoners in its ranks for example."

Yui didn't miss the obvious pause, but ignored it.

"But the Commoners do not start earlier, but later, correct?" she inquires

"And training begins at an early age for you, as well?" Lelouch was unsurprised at that, given that piloting a Knightmare takes considerable training to achieve a level of competence. While it was possible to achieve competence in a certain amount of time, mastery required far longer and so it came as no surprise to him that Yui had been training for some time already.

"Not quite, the academy I went to accepts students at fifteen years old and begins their physical conditioning at that time as well as continuing their normal education and learning the ins and outs of drill, formation, and military structure," Yui explained. "Actual pilot training begins a few months after enrollment, with the first live piloting a few months later depending on your performance. Normally all cadets would complete training after four years, but my friends and I were sent to the battlefield after a year of training due to the dire situation caused by the BETA invading Japan," Yui explained. "However, because of our lack of combat experience and drastically incomplete training, we were stationed to protect the Arashiyama Supply Base, and…You know the rest."

Yui suddenly looked down towards the floor as some tears began to form in the corner of her eyes.

Lelouch said nothing further, but he did stand up to reach across and use his fingers to wipe away the forming tears.

"There's no need to cry," he said, surprising her. "You friends will live, I'm sure of it."

That had been what Claude told Lelouch, away from Yui during their training. The Supply Base was located along the western outskirts of Kyoto built into a mountain to defend Kyoto from the advancing BETA. It was there that Yui's squad and friends were picked off one by one. Lelouch couldn't imagine how helpless she must have felt as her friends died around her. Despite the horrors Lelouch witnessed in his Japan's brief war with Britannia, at no point did he ever fear being eaten alive. She had ended up alone in a city overrun, faced with certain death.

Lelouch could barely imagine it, although Yui didn't share the details behind how your friends died, but he knew through the night Yui lost them and the rest of the squad she was lost too until she was the sole survivor. Even then Yui almost joined her friends if not for her getting lucky at literally the last minute.

Yui herself was saved by another TSF that was making trips into the city. Otherwise, she might've suffered the same fate as her friends.

Lelouch couldn't begin to comprehend the trauma Yui must've suffered, which explained why she was so eager to change their fates and save them. Of course this also made Lelouch more distrustful of Claude, who was using her trauma and personal loss to manipulate her. Good intentions or not, Lelouch didn't think very highly of using it as means to get Yui to agree into becoming Lelouch's bodyguard and accomplice.

I would be willing to do whatever it takes against Britannia, but even I wouldn't go that far.

"You don't have to join the war with the BETA, you got a sister to look after. Your own goals aside," Yui said, breaking the silence.

"Thank you, but this isn't something I should ignore. Because what if the BETA or something like them might invade my Earth someday?"

"Huh?" Yui looked confused.

"I never remotely considered the possibility of an alien invasion happening, you only see that kind of thing in movies or popular video games and such. This is an opportunity for me to see and take part in a battle for me to gain a valuable understanding so I can make plans to prepare against such a foe. Even if such a foe never appears it would be foolish not to consider and plan for the possibility," Lelouch said, but of course there were other reasons.

The BETA invasion aside, Yui's Earth has developed very differently from his own Earth. Even the battle tactics and new weapons they created to combat the BETA would be worth learning more about them, giving him not only ideas to devise innovate tactics to use against similar foes should Lelouch face them but could even be useful in creating new tactics against Britannia, who like the BETA, do tend to use overwhelming numbers in battle.

How the United States came to be and developed into what it is now, and the United Nations and how well it has functioned would be of use.

Lelouch's goal involved changing the world aside from seeking retribution for his mother's murder and his sister left crippled and blind. Among his plans would be the creation of an international organization in which he could unify the world against Britannia, but observing and reading up on the United Nations would provide useful insight in refining his plans, which could be useful. As for the United States he was thinking of creating a democratic system of government, built up on what Japan should have had initially but expanded to ensure equal treatment and rights for everyone regardless of their nationality.

If the United States in Yui's world is in any way similar to what Lelouch had in mind, he could gain further insight to once more make better refinements as needed.

My issues with Claude and her deal for Yui to be my bodyguard aside, I can't ignore the useful opportunity presented to me. Inspiration for new tactics could be useful, since I don't know what Britannia is developing as far as new weapons go, how it might change fighting conditions should they be introduced, Lelouch thought.

Lelouch hated the idea of fighting in someone else's war, but this was a case where he stood more to gain from it.

Knowledge is power after all, and even brilliant leaders had sometimes drawn inspiration for new battlefield tactics from old ones.

"What you've shared with me has been very insightful about the BETA, but seeing them in battle would help further my understanding of them. Maybe then I will gain all of the required information to begin devising plans and ideas to set up ways to defend against invaders like them."

"That does make sense."

Yui agreed with Lelouch's reasoning, but it only made her curious about just what kind of person Lelouch was.

Claude said in two years, he succeeded in defeating Britannia and changing the world. But what drove him to do that? How did he do it?

The more she talked to Lelouch in an effort to understand him better, the more her curiosity grew which only left her with more questions.

One thing she was sure of, at least, she and Lelouch would be able to work together. That much, she was feeling confident.

"Come on, maybe we should do some endurance training before we go to bed, because as you are learning, fighting the BETA is equal part a battle of endurance," Yui suggested as she and Lelouch finished eating dinner.

"Alright, I guess the history lesson is over," Lelouch mused as he cleaned up his plate and glass and both deposited their dirty items away that would somehow be washed.

Lelouch wasn't a fan of physical fitness, since he was a child his endurance and physical ability was rather poor. However, Lelouch's lack of fitness had come back to haunt him many times since he was child following his exile to Japan. First his soon-to-be friend Suzaku had beaten him within an inch of his life, lacking any strength to fight back, and soon was attacked by the local children whenever he tried to venture out to buy food for himself and his sister. In fact if not for Suzaku providing the muscle, both figuratively and literally, Lelouch was doubtful he and Nunnally would've survived in Japan during its war with Britannia.
Still, he and Yui had been passing the time by doing exercises to help improve Lelouch's endurance at the very least. That way he could better handle the long battles that fighting the BETA demanded without wearing out. They had done push-ups, sit-ups, squats, weight lifting which he actually enjoyed to his surprise and Yui teased him about men loving their muscles only to get a tease about how women loved men with muscles too, and the one they were doing tonight, heavy bag training.

The pair then headed for where the gym was located and into the changing room, which had several changing cubicles. Another of Claude's little pranks they had both decided a while back, but still they changed into clothing attire better suited for working out in a gym, also provided by Claude, before meeting up and heading into the actual gym.
Lelouch wore a black sleeveless shirt with black shorts, while Yui wore a blue sleeveless shirt and identical blue shorts. Yui assisted Lelouch with his workouts, both as encouragement when needed and to provide the needed push, Lelouch often thought of how he could help her come to terms with her loss, believing it would help ensure she would be in the right state of time when the time came. He also saw himself in her. He figured that was Claude's way of making him see someone who had lost so much in such a short time to realize what he had in himself.

"Would it help if I could see if I could put a photo of someone you despised?" Yui asked as she stood behind holding one of the heavy sandbags hanging from a chain.

"Thanks, but no need," Lelouch said, as he was more than capable of imagining it himself.

"Okay, whenever you are ready," Yui braced herself.

Lelouch donned a pair of padded gloves before he threw his first punch followed by another, and in his mind's eye he would try and imagine the people who likely killed his mother. He was thankful Yui didn't press him for further details, because as comfortable as Lelouch had become around Yui after the two months they've spent together, he didn't feel he could trust her as he did Suzaku who knew everything.

He knew Lelouch's true origins and the full reason behind what got him sent to Japan, but Yui didn't, at least for now.

His punches came faster and hit a little harder than before as Lelouch's rage at those who killed his mother, crippled his younger sister while the trauma of their mother dying as she gave her life to shield her from the bullets that killed her even if she couldn't shield Nunnally's legs. Then finally his father appeared in his mind causing a bout of rage that gave him a boost that delivered a punch that nearly pushed the bag back.

"STOP!" Yui shouted, "I think you're getting better."

Lelouch didn't respond as he was too lost in his fantasy of taking his vengeance, the rage in his eyes was visible to Yui who concluded that being abandoned in Japan and his mother's demise, there was much more than what Lelouch had told her. Knowing this and knowing Lelouch had no desire to share for the time being, Yui held her suspicions and her questions back.

Why would someone abandon their child in a foreign nation about to go to war? Giving him away for adoption would've been easier, but why go through that much trouble?

A thought came to mind, the Emperor of Britannia, he must've had children, so could Lelouch be somehow related? Given the parts of Lelouch's story he had shared with her earlier, Yui's suspicions were only heightened; he was somehow related or could even be the son of the Emperor, reasoning that the death of a Prince of an Empire would be good justification for war.

The death of someone from an important position in any nation would be a good reason to go to war? Could Lelouch be the child of someone who wanted Japan to have a better excuse? Even if she was a Knight of the Emperor himself, it was clear her career didn't last long enough for her to make an impression and from the sounds of it… There is more. High ranking? What rank is a Marquis anyways?

Yui had no way of knowing, but she was suspicious given the amount of rage she saw was buried under the surface of the young man known as Lelouch. She continued watching him, studying him, trying to gain a better grasp of him, until he was finally spent. Drenched in sweat as he no longer had the strength to throw another punch.

"Here," Yui said, offering him a bottle of water.

"Thank you," Lelouch said before opening the cap and nearly downing the entire bottle in one gulp if Yui hadn't stopped him and made him drink slower.

"You're lasting longer," Yui complimented, trying to change his mood and her own.

"Thank you, and I am ready to switch."

"Right," Yui replied, picking up a set of gloves she brought before hand while Lelouch took position to hold the heavy sandbag.

Readying herself, Yui began punching the sandbag, but unlike Lelouch her eyes blazed with determination she gradually built up a sweat. Lelouch could feel her hits through the sandbag as he held it in place for her. It wasn't easy, but he put his whole body weight into holding it still for her.

When someone has endured a personal tragedy, they will do everything to keep their mind occupied, Lelouch mused, as Yui would likely be haunted by the loss of her friends even if they succeed.

He knew better than anyone that such scars wouldn't heal. Ever.

---------------------------------------------

This chapter was also an experiment on how I'll handle introducing some series and worlds to folks, this is to not only help Lelouch, but any readers who may not be familiar with the series involved so they can get a better idea of what the series and characters are about as Lelouch and friends do.
As seen near the end of the chapter Lelouch has a lot of rage and Yui suspects, correctly, that there is more to Lelouch's story than meets the eye. I hope this experimental chapter was a success, and they are getting more used to their Gundams via simulators with the Coupling System helping Lelouch catch up to Yui in piloting skill and training saving time, even if they have unlimited time in the dimensional pocket.

I admit the stuff on the two Japan's I did a little piecing together, especially for Muv Luv because while it seems the Shogun is supposed to be figurehead with powers in emergencies it is clear they and the samurai families below them wield a degree of influence and political power, how much outside of the regent houses I cannot say, so hopefully what I said here makes sense or agrees. None of my betas didn't object to it, so I am going to assume it's ok.

Next Chapter, Lelouch and Yui complete their training and return to Kyoto, on the night of that fateful night for Yui. With Lelouch's cunning mind and Yui's knowledge of events can they devise a plan to save her friends, and maybe more with the aid of their Gundams, while this will be one of the first trials by fire for Lelouch.

Now that is done time for the specs of Lelouch's Gundam, but before I do I should note, although Lelouch isn't a Newtype, I went with a Psychoframe mobile suit akin to the Unicorn Gundam because the pyschoframe makes for a much effective thought sharing technology that compliments the Coupling System much more, as shown in Super Robot Wars X making it more effective and efficient. Don't expect Lelouch and Yui to become Newtypes or anything, in some ways the Coupling System could be seen as a means to help them make up for the lack of Newtype potential they don't have. But its highly unlikely they'll match certain Newtype pilots in, say the Unicorn Gundam…at least in a fair fight XD.
Funny enough though originally this Gundam used heavily of Gundam 00 tech, until RedRat8 was like, NOPE…give it here (redesigns it into a true hybrid of different Gundam tech), there you go.

I should note there will be times Lelouch will be forced to use other machines, as I have no intention of letting his Gundam alone carry him through the story.

Overall through this machine is a monster, but remember what it might be facing later in the story.

Model number: TMP-01X
Code name: Izanami
Unit type: Prototype Full Psycho-Frame Mobile Suit
Pilot: Lelouch Lamperouge
Manufacturer: Unknown
Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)
First deployment: July 31st 2016 A.T.B
Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso
Dimensions: head height 19.8 meters
Weight: 55.1 metric tons
Armor: Gundanium Ally coated in Nanoskin
Equipment and Design Features; Sensor Range:23,700 meters;
Psycho-Frame: A Man to machine Interface that builds on the brainwave-to-machine code translator known as Psycommu into the atom-level of the metal frame of a Mobile Suit. More specifically, the psycommu chips are shrank and lined in the gaps between the hive-shaped metal particles of the mobile suit's frame. This allows a Newtype pilot to control the mobile suit as if it were their own body with limitations
Coupling System (with its sister unit the Izanagi)
A.L.I.C.E. System (Advanced Logistic & In-consequence Cognizing Equipment): A.L.I.C.E. is an artificial intelligence, that co-pilots the Izanami.
I-Field Barrier: an invisible force field that surrounds the Izanami and is active all the time thanks to the Izanami's limitless power. Can deflect Anti-Ship Beam Cannons and even the heat and radiation of a Nuclear Bomb close to Ground Zero.
Powerplant: DHGCP (Discontinuous Hyperoscillation Gauge Collapsing Pile) Powerplant: Which is essentially an artifical Black Hole.
Intention Automatic System: This system is inherited from the Sinanju Stein and functions by using the psycho-frame's sensitivity to the pilot's thought-waves to directly affect behavior of the mobile suit. It is also possible for the pilot to intercept the thought-waves of an enemy pilot. Additionally, the system directs the suit's movement when active, and does not completely depend on the pilot for commands.
NT-D Mode: A special operating system installed in the Izanami. The name "NT-D" is supposed to be an abbreviation for "Newtype Drive," but is actually an abbreviation for "Newtype Destroyer," a system developed to eliminate Newtypes. The system is activated when it detects an enemy psycommu machine as well as its Newtype or Cyber-Newtype pilot. When activated, the mobile suit transforms into Destroy Mode, dramatically improving its performance as its limiters are disabled, and allowing it to hijack the enemy machine's psycommu weaponry. However, it places a heavy burden on the pilot and the machine, and is limited to five minutes. This system becomes active when Coupling Mode is engaged, designed to use the combined minds of two pilots to share the burden of the system's usage and to compensate for the lack of a Newtype pilot.

Fixed Armaments
2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns: A basic armament found on many Mobile Suits. While essentially ineffectual against mobile suit armor, they are useful in intercepting incoming missiles/rockets, destroying mobile suit sensors, and engaging lightly-armored vehicles.
4 X Beam Sabers: The beam saber is a small device held in the mobile suit's hands when operated and is powered by a rechargeable energy capacitor. It emits a blade of plasma contained by an I-Field and can cut through most armor not treated with anti-beam coating. The Izanami stores two in the forearms and two on the side of the waist. The forearm-mounted beam sabers can flip over and be used directly. In this form, they are known as beam tonfas.
2 X Beam Shields: Unlike an I-field generator, which is effective only against beam attacks, the beam shield blocks both beam and projectile weapons, mounted on the shoulders.
2 x Dual-Linked Variable Speed Beam Rifles. Also known as VSBRs, they can fire either low-speed beams with high destructive power, or high-speed beams with high penetrating power, sufficient to destroy two MS with one shot or pierce a beam shield, mounted in the wings.
1 x Chest-mounted Scattering Mega Particle Cannon: a high powered Mega Particle Gun that scatters its Beams to inflict a wide variety of area to inflict maximum amount of damage, can also be concentrated for a high powered single beam attack
2 x Flame Swords: A powerful high output Beam Saber which utilizes the same Phantom Light mechanic. By "flushing" the I-Field against a Beam Shield or Beam Saber, the Flame Sword can destroy the I-Field that holds the shape of the defending weapon. It can also be used as a Heat Sword by heating the device without emitting the beam. hand-carry in use, stored on the back, held by sub-arms sheaths.

Optional Handheld Armament
Beam Magnum: A handheld firearm equipped with an energy condenser, it is common to the RX-0 series mobile suits. The power output of a single shot is the equivalent of 4 regular beam rifle shots at the expense of an entire E-pack. As such, a single shot is sufficient to destroy a mobile armor-class machine, and even stray particles from the fired shot have sufficient power to destroy a mobile suit, meaning a direct hit is not always required. The beams fired from the beam magnum are as hot as 10000°C and are surrounded by a field of plasma ranging from 3000°C to 7000°C—depending on how far away a particular area is from the actual beam. Connected to a Wire from the Izanami's generator for limitless shots mounted on the back skirt armor when not in use.

Technical and Historical notes:
Given to Lelouch by the mysterious Claude Triello, although suspicious of her true intentions he and Yui become the pilots for the Izanami and the Izanagi respectively. Drawn into Claude's planned competition as one of the seven to compete to win access to a cache of ancient technology that once belonged to a galactic superpower, the machine is provided by Claude as a "handicap" due to the resources Lelouch's competition already commands and to further help him arranges for rookie pilot Yui Takamura of the Empire of Japan's Royal Guard to pilot the Izanagi with Yui becoming Lelouch's bodyguard in exchange for Claude giving Yui a chance to prevent and save her friends from their horrific deaths during the Fall of Kyoto against the alien threat the BETA (Beings of Extra Terrestrial origin which is Adversary to the human race) as their overwhelming numbers had overwhelmed them with Yui barely surviving with her life while all of her friends were killed.

StrifeHavoc · Mar 14, 2024

Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, F-14 Tomcat Lover, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

Chapter 3
The Miracle of Kyoto, Part I

Yui couldn't tell how much time had passed. For one thing, they had been in the simulators for a long time while trying to get Lelouch up to speed on how to fight the BETA. From their tactics to their class quirks and abilities. As well as how they had been traditionally countered and what they had done to counter the counter. The constant training had had a benefit on his endurance on the side as well as sharpening his mind where he came up with tactics and even strategy on the fly.

Fortunately, Yui had observed, the two never seemed to get any older, so they weren't there for too long.

The thought came to mind when she saw Lelouch make another mark on the wall of the simulator he was in. She counted over 200 marks on the wall by now. He was likely predicting how many days they were in this pocket space based on the number of times they slept for long periods.

Fortunately, the breaks between their time spent in the simulator ease concerns about any mental issues. Even now, they didn't feel a hint of exhaustion after continued training efforts in the simulator. In fact, they just finished what looked like the last stage on the simulators. However, one more came up after the simulation was complete.

"That marks nearly eight months now," Lelouch stated as he finished his mark that morning. He then rubbed his forehead, swearing that he felt a drop left from the previous exercise. "Regardless, it feels like I'm starting to slip."

One could only keep up this training for so long. Without something to offset to rest and resharpen the mind, it was only natural that Lelouch would lose some of his edge. Yui was most assuredly feeling it. But she assumed this was normal given the heightened state of combat prior to the loss of the Korean Peninsula and the invasion of Japan by the BETA.

"It looks like we're almost done," Yui called from the simulators in another room. "Just one more, and that will be it."

"I thought we already cleared all of them," Lelouch pointed out. "We took care of the last one just recently."

"I haven't seen this other one though," Yui noticed the final option.

"I think it just came up after beating all the other courses," Lelouch corrected. "Never expected a bonus stage on the simulators. But I should have guessed. I had, at least, gotten the feeling that Claude wanted to make sure we could pull off all of the training. Then, once we had, this bonus stage would pop up. Clever."

"Bonus stage?" Yui questioned. She had heard of bonus stages before, but not in this manner. Was it something similar?

"As if it were in a video game," Lelouch clarified as he checked off other things, like how if they did things in a certain way, they would be rewarded. Lelouch hadn't noticed it right away, but then it began to click after some time. It was no secret a modern military used some simulations and technology that were more akin to video games than traditional military training to competently teach recruits these days, drastically reducing training time.

At least in theory.

Because something extra was always piled on or a change was made somewhere or for whatever reason, the recruits never got the amount of time they needed to learn.

"A video game? What's that?" Yui wondered how a video and a game could go hand in hand.

"Never mind," Lelouch groaned out, realizing they would be here for a long time if he tried to tell her.

Lelouch kept it to the side, but he felt a little bothered by how she did not know what a video game was. He thought that because her world had simulators, she would easily catch the term. But her obliviousness to the term shows that she did not know a thing.

It must be because of the war and the militaristic state of the Empire, Lelouch thought. I would not be surprised that they never had time for entertainment in their world, considering the resources they're forced to spend on fighting the BETA.

"Alright, Lelouch," Yui called out to him. "Are you ready for the last one?"

"Am I not?" Lelouch commented out the side as he closed his seat to the cockpit. "Let's get this over with."

As Yui nodded in confirmation, the doors for the simulator closed and the grid-like patterns on the simulator faded into a war-torn battlefield. Around them was a black wasteland full of ruined TSFs and BETA creatures, with many types of BETAs still around. There were no friendlies in the area either, meaning they were completely on their own, even worse with the numerous Laser-class BETA in front of them.

Fortunately, Lelouch and Yui had encountered this kind of scenario beforehand in the other stages.

"Move out!" Lelouch shouted as he evaded the upcoming laser fire coming from the BETA. He saw Yui respond in kind as she dodge the enemy fire. Granted, the Gundams they had been given were not the type for mobility as Claude stated, which they experienced throughout the simulator. However, the less shots they took on their Gundams, the less damage.

The both of them boosted high into the sky and around the battlefield until they reached two Fort-class BETA, towering ten-legged creatures with a body resembling a wingless bee. They also took to the sky at a certain distance to reduce the possible enemy fire.

From what I understand, the Laser and Heavy Laser types of BETA won't dare to strike one of their own, Lelouch thought. As strange as it is for an enemy that uses numbers to overwhelm its foes, such a restriction is our advantage.

Lelouch used his computer to input some commands. He locked onto all of the available Laser and Heavy Laser-class BETA before executing the attack, his Gundam's I-field, an invisible barrier that could deflect most energy-based weapons, was working in deflecting the incoming lasers. The Gundam opened up its chest and, for the briefest time possible, the I-Field dropped so the selected weapons could be fired, sending out scattered particle beams. Lelouch fired again, but this time switched the cannon to a single focused beam cutting down any targets Lelouch had missed. Not only were the Laser and Heavy Laser class BETA in the area cut down, but so were many of the smaller BETA that were unfortunate to get caught in it.

As the weapon cooled and the Gundam hovered in the air, Lelouch observed the damage in the area.

It's amazing how such a weapon works, Lelouch thought again. I wonder if I had something like this back in my world.

The Izanami was designed as a machine capable of attacking from a distance, with the Chest-mounted Scattering Mega Particle Cannon being the Izanami's primary weapon. With the aid of its tactical computer, Lelouch could program and accurately aim to ensure the most damage could be inflicted when he fired the mega particle cannon, striking at its intended targets.
Incidentally, while the system simplified much of the work, Lelouch had noted that the tactical computer could glitch and fail in a number of ways. Such as when he didn't make sure he inputted the right data or commands. Including that time he shot Yui in the back and nearly decapitated her mobile suit with the mega particle cannon.

So, while the system was useful, it took time and training to use it right under adverse conditions that could rapidly change and/or evolve or devolve.

While Lelouch had thought a bit, some Laser-class had shown they had been fortunate to avoid Lelouch's attack, so he used the beam rifle stored in its wings to swiftly dispatch them. At the same time, Lelouch made use of the forearm mounted beam shield to deflect their attacks before counter-attacking targets further afield. Knowing that the Laser-class BETA couldn't use their laser again until after eighteen seconds, he could take out the closest enemies before engaging further out.

The Inzangi used its beam magnum to dispatch any remaining Laser-class BETA, while the backwash of the hyper accelerated and activated particles from each shot vaporized any nearby while burning others due to atmospheric friction and actually igniting the air locally due to the high temperatures raised quite suddenly.

Yui had dealt with another Laser-class that had attempted to shoot her down, but like Lelouch she made good use of its beam shield and I-field barrier to defect their attacks, then attacking during the eighteen second window. She started moving ahead of Lelouch to engage the rest of the BETA as they continued advancing upon them.

Lelouch then detected seismic activity coming from below Yui's location. He couldn't figure out the exact size, but it was much bigger than even a Fort-class BETA. Far too much bigger.

"Yui, look out!" Lelouch shouted as he turned on the console, boosting to get backtrack and grab some air and distance just in case. "Climb and fly backwards! Now!"

"Eh?" Yui noticed the alarms going off on her Gundam as well. The earthquake of some sort was erupting near her location at this rate, it was going to engulf her. Using the thrusters on her Gundam, she boosted upwards and then backwards following Lelouch's orders while keeping her main sensors forward. She barely avoided the huge chunks of rock that launched off the ground and would have collided with and dragged her down otherwise.

Bursting out of the ground was almost another Fort-class BETA. However, there was a vastly different distinction by having four eyes that were even bigger than the ones used by Heavy Laser-class and a green fungal body instead of the bee-like head.

"What is that, Lelouch?"

"Don't ask me, this is the first time seeing this kind of creature," Lelouch admitted. "You're the one who knows about the BETA. You're telling me that you don't know about this type either?"

"Unfortunately, this is the first time I've seen this, too. I'm surprised this came up in the simulator at all."

"Well, from what I can visually see, it looks like a combination of both a Fort and several Heavy Laser-class BETA put into one creature. If we could just keep our distance and other BETA in the way…"

Lelouch cut himself off when the new BETA charged its cannons, aimed towards Yui in spite of the Fort and other strains in the way which immediately told him that the rules of engagement had changed and that they had nothing to fallback on.

Damnit, looks like we'll have to use your trump card again.

"Connect with Yui!" Lelouch shouted into the communications.

"Eh!?" Yui jumped, which prompted her to reply by instinct. "A-A-Accept!"

Once the two Gundams received the order, both of their screens changed colors. Headgear emerged from their seats that scanned over their heads. The mobile suits transformed from the outside as well, each head turning into more of a knight helmet with fins from the sides. Vents opened up to release heat from the machine, and wings of energy formed from the back. The armor seams separate, revealing glowing bright red psycho-frame, a sign that the Gundams Destroy Mode had been activated.

I've gotten more used to this as I thought, Lelouch thought, recalling the first time he had used Coupling Mode.

It was as if he was drawn into a sea where Yui was waiting for him and the two passed through one another, and during that moment their minds became synchronized. It was an intriguing sensation, Lelouch recalled how clear his thoughts were, but also so in sync they barely had to speak to one another as the other knew what the other was thinking, allowing them to fight in perfect coordination.

"The Destroy Mode of your Gundams, when activated, will dramatically increase performance thanks to your thoughts driving the Gundam more. However, only minds with a extremely high degree of focus and spatial awareness can hope to use such Gundams to their full potential, but with the Coupling System it can compensate for that to a degree. But remember the strain it puts on your mind, so you are limited to using it for five minutes before it will disengage," Claude's words echoed through Lelouch's mind.

Most of all the Coupling System allowed for the experiences and skills of the pilots to be shared, which was key to helping Lelouch quickly catch up to Yui in terms of piloting skills. At first he retained these skills while the system was in used, but thanks to regular usage and training, Lelouch can use this skills without the system making them his own.

As information surged into Yui's mind, she learned about the new BETA aiming its beams right at her despite the other BETA standing in the way. Her instinct was to boost to the side immediately as the large beam blasted its way through the field, obliterating everything that was in its way. Yui landed on the ground as the bright pink beam faded, creating a half-pipe of molten ground in its wake with steam rising from the sheer heat as well as the areas around burned or even half melted themselves from the atmospheric friction.

"Thanks, Lelouch," Yui caught her breath as she eyed the destruction, noting several BETA had been literally cooked alive while others appear to have simply turned into dried husks from the sheer heat generated. "I owe you for that one."

"No need to thank me," Lelouch was more focused on the larger BETA in front of them. "Looks like this BETA has no qualms about shooting its own kind to get at us."

"I never knew such a strain existed," Yui noticed. "Hiding behind other BETA is a way to counter the Laser-class as they would not engage in friendly fire."

"Well, that tactic doesn't apply to this one."

"Could this really exist in our world?"

"That or it could be a creation Claude made," Lelouch pointed, but if she did, there had to be a purpose as Lelouch doubted she would throw in this surprise until there is a reason. "It appears to be far more intelligent than the rest of the strains we confronted. In fact, it feels more superhuman than anything despite its size."

During that time, Lelouch was counting the seconds in his head. From the past experiences, the Coupling Mode, while powerful, has its limitations. Specifically, it had a time limit of around five minutes, and differing brian wave patterns could make it shorter or longer, which would also change over time.

"Anyway, assumptions can wait until later. We have about four minutes left on the Coupling Mode before it wears off," Lelouch already had considered several sets of tactics and maneuvers, "So let's make this count."

"Let's get closer then," Yui replied as she reasoned with that kind of heavy firepower and size, it had to be weaker in close, plus they really didn't stand a chance at range at this point.

"Agreed," Lelouch said, knowing that attempting to use the Izanami's weapons at this range with the Heavy Laser-class BETA integrated into the creature, put him at risk of a shot getting past him while attempting to attack and he didn't want to risk if his I-Field could actually hold that kind of power off, let alone his beam shield, for longer than strictly necessary.

Getting close has its own risks, but it seemed to Lelouch it would render the Heavy-Laser class built into its body ineffective unless it planned to shoot through itself. Meaning only the Fort-class's stinger would be the only threat to them. Using their beam shields, mounted on the forearms of their respective Gundams, Yui and Lelouch used them to deflect the lasers fired at them. The shields held, but the pair began flying in a coordinated, but unpredictable pattern evading the laser fire.

Once they had gotten close enough, the stinger of the enormous BETA shot out trying to impale Lelouch's machine, but the latter evaded it. Yui drew a beam saber, driving it into one of the integrated Heavy-Laser class rendering it useless. Lelouch meanwhile got under the giant Fort-class, firing the Inzangi's Beam Magnum at its underbelly, killing the creature as the power of the Beam
Magnum lived up to its name and shot a hole big enough for a Glasgow Knightmare Frame to fit through comfortably. Lelouch and Yui moved away from it as the BETA fell over dead, nearly breaking up in two as it looks like Lelouch had destroyed the literal back of the massive thing.

"We did it," Lelouch said, seeing that the simulation was ending.

"That was it?" Yui blinks in surprise as the pods just shut down.

Just after they exited the simulation pods, space warped while they weren't looking and a voluptuous woman showed herself.

"Congratulations on completing the simulator!"

Claude's hair breezed as she spun around and raised her arms in the air, congratulating the two. However, the reception was lukewarm as she got no immediate response. Instead, she got a surprised look on Yui's face while Lelouch gave a stern and even annoyed look. Claude became just as annoyed over the lack of praise for her entrance.

"So, you've decided to show yourself," Lelouch remained ever on guard around her. "It's been how long since you brought us here?"

"Quite a while, but you two seem more than ready," Claude complimented. "You beat the final battle on the simulator on its highest difficulty. Thanks to you two working so well together," a snap of her fingers showed what looked like a recording of Lelouch holding Yui as the girl suffered from a nightmare before she settled into sleep and Lelouch didn't leave her alone, but slept next to her, "and the Coupling System seems to have helped quite well, especially as the trust between you two has built over time. I think you two are ready for the real thing!"

"Really," Yui raised her eyes, hopeful yet cautiously optimistic, but at the same time, seeing the two of them together, with Yui remembering how she struggled to sleep at first, but then Lelouch arrived and did nothing else except hold her gently as the nightmares were chased away by his very presence.

"How exactly are Yui and I going to appear at the supply base?" Lelouch asked, pointedly trying to ignore the image, but couldn't help notice that Yui seemed to practically conform her body against his own and he responded in kind. "The machines we have will bring up some attention. Or rather a lot of it. Their technology is far ahead of the Japanese Empire's most advanced thinking. Even the Americans would be well behind it and they're known for pushing the envelope in Yui's world."

"Don't worry, I took care of that," Claude whimsically held her hands behind her rear. "All you have to do is get in your machines and save Yui's friends, and anyone else if you like. Since you will have the power to do so."

"It can't be that easy, couldn't it?" Lelouch said looking at Yui who shrugged her shoulders, uncertain of how to answer.

"It will be, but first," Claude mischievously handed Lelouch a large white bag that came out of some unseen space as the image disappeared with all the fuss of soap bubbles. "You might want to change."

"Where!?" Lelouch shouted at the new surprise.

"Anywhere, don't worry, I'll turn around," Claude offered reassuringly.

"WHAT!?" Lelouch and Yui exclaimed in unison.

Claude merely laughed at their reactions.

She's a worse trickster than Milly, Lelouch glared at Claude.

"That's not funny," Yui snapped, her patience running out.

"Oh, lighten up," Claude waved her hand dismissively before snapping her fingers, prompting a changing room to replace the simulators. "Just follow the instructions on the wall inside, or would you like Yui to help you?"

Her face turned red in anger before Yui lunged at Claude wanting to strangle her. Unfortunately, Claude vanished causing Yui to hit the ground instead completely missing her.

Yui was left feeling sore from the impact, Lelouch helped her back up to her feet.

"You're going to have to do better if you ever want to catch me," Claude giggled, visibly amused at Yui's effort to attack her.

"Are you alright?" Lelouch asked as Yui was back up on her feet.

"Did she teleport or something!?" Yui was looking positively murderous and Lelouch was glad to see she suddenly had some fire in her and couldn't help but notice that it made her look positively cute as Lelouch was more reminded of an angry kitten for some reason rather than an angry person.

"I think so, it happened so fast I assume she had to," Lelouch replied before turning to Claude. "Just what are you?"

"You'll find out later, but for now, no spoilers," Claude said, waving her right index finger at the duo.

"You lost your patience rather fast with her?" Lelouch noted as she faced Yui.

"We're about to save the lives of my friends, and maybe others, and she has the nerve to just come and start poking fun at us!"

"No argument here, but I should probably change," Lelouch couldn't help but agree with her. But the sooner he got changed, the better so they wouldn't have to deal with Claude more than needed.

Entering the booth and locking the door, Lelouch began changing, which caused Claude to laugh.

"What's so funny?" Yui realized she might've been better off not asking.

"Just so you know, I gave Lelouch a similar suit to the one you wear, replacing that training suit I originally gave him, but with a black and purple color scheme," Claude mischievously winked at her.

"What was that for?" Yui's eyes narrowed as she felt her temper coming to the forefront while also worrying as black and purple were the Shogun's colors and reserved strictly for them and their family.

A few minutes later, Lelouch emerged wearing a suit similar to Yui, but there were some notable design differences. For one the components on the shoulders, wrists and feet were more streamlined and less bulky. Like her suit, it was all black with purple on the metal guards on the shoulders, knees and feet. However, the knees with protective purple plating covered most of Lelouch's legs until nearing his waist and upper inner thighs.

"You said it was similar, but it looks different even if it's just a little," Yui commented before thinking.

He's surprisingly skinny, will he be alright piloting?

"His Fortified Suit is an improved model than the one you are wearing," Claude explained. "It even has an integrated oxygen supply that could last eight hours on a full battery, which itself will last twenty-four hours with all systems running."

"This seems rather flimsy and thin, no different than a body glove," Lelouch inspected himself inside the suit. After putting it on and locking the collar, the suit formed a seal and tightly fit itself around Lelouch's body. It felt so tight upon his body that it was like a second skin. Thankfully, it was a male design so the armor around his waist and midsection prevented certain parts of him from being noticeable on the skin-tight body glove.

"Oh, an actual combat Fortified Suit may look that way, but it has quite the electronics package built into it, as well as the technology from the next evolution in space suits," Claude explained. "Not only can it protect your body from the rigors and risks of piloting a machine like a TSF, it has an automatic system that determines what temperature is best for you, even in the cast of extremely high or low temperatures."

"Surprisingly impressive given how thin it looks," Lelouch observed as he felt more like he was about to, if he dare admit to himself, go onto a stage at a ladies only establishment.

"The thick collar not only helps provide a seal for the rest of your body, but it doubles as a brace to protect your neck from injury during high-G maneuvers. There is even a reactive material in your midsection that will hard upon either a sudden impact or a blow to your gut. It can inject drugs and stimulants when needed to help your body keep going for longer, only if necessary."

"I trust there aren't any drawbacks?" Lelouch questioned, worried these stimulants and drugs could have a negative impact on his health.

"Oh no, as a professional doctor, your suit has only the latest and most advanced technology I could find. Meaning they are beneficial to your body and growth, and will actually help you down the road rather than be harmful through continued use. But the suit only injects them when your body needs it, so if there are any negative side effects that you are worried about, there is no need."

"A doctor?" Yui remarked, clearly doubtful of her qualifications as was Lelouch.

"Of course I am!" Claude cheerfully raised a finger. "I am certified with every major medical licensing organization!"

Why do I feel she's lying, Lelouch thought, while Yui had a similar thought too.

"She said that my suit is similar to yours," Lelouch turned to his partner. "What else can it do?"

"If the suit shares the same similarities to mines, then it should also have the function to record a pilot's combat performance. It's so instructors can compare it to previous combat data to determine what training is required for improvement," Yui answered.

"Well, that's certainly much more advanced than those for Knightmare Frames," Lelouch smirked over the technology squeezed into what was a thin body glove and the fact it was actually practical is definitely a bonus.

"If need be, the suits have waste collection functionality, so that won't be an issue," Claude said, waving a hand dismissively. "Fortunately, most synthetic food TSF pilots are given are designed for maximum digestibility and contain medical drugs that suppress intestinal functions."

"When you put it like that, I can't help but worry," Lelouch said flatly as he recalled when he had his wisdom teeth pulled and how that was a joy..

"Don't worry," Yui reassured. "My friends and I ate some as part of our training. We've never experienced any ill effects."

"Why don't you trust me like that more?" Claude pouted, noticing Lelouch was a lot more trusting of Yui than her.

"Because she hasn't done anything to make me doubt her," Lelouch replied before adding. "And she didn't abduct me with questionable motives."

"Questionable!?" Claude seemed very annoyed. "If I was planning anything malicious towards you, why would I set you up with a bodyguard and a powerful machine?"

"It makes me even more suspicious of your end goal," Lelouch folded both arms across his chest.

"I suppose I could tell that while I need someone with charisma and leadership skills to solve a problem I can't do anything against, where you guys need to go will allow for other issues I can't nip in the bud to be dealt with too," Claude said with one hand on her chin, and a thoughtful expression.

"Need to go?" Yui asked.

"A discussion for later, but most important of all," Claude said before pausing for dramatic effect. "It's to keep me entertained."

"Huh!?" Lelouch and Yui said together, both were left speechless.

"All I can do is offer the occasional help, so I thought why not make it more enjoyable for me to watch everything play out," Claude admitted with a sly smile. "For you I am looking forward to the trouble you'll cause given that I know what you are capable of. Your inevitable clash against the other six competing will be something to look forward to."

For a full minute Lelouch didn't know how to respond to that, and neither did Yui who was also taken aback.

"Anyway, it's your turn. Once you are done changing both of you will be taken to the supply base with your new machines," Claude said before leaving a pink bag for Yui, pulled from some unseen hammer-space before vanishing.

"Oh, and before I forget it will be before the battle, so you'll have time to get acquainted and such." Claude's voice echoed through the white void. "Everything has been prepared for you two."
It was three more minutes before Lelouch and Yui regained her composure as their thought processes returned to normal after the recoil from the shock of Claude's answer completely stunned them.

"Did she just say she wanted to be amused?" Yui found herself essentially struck dumb.

"I believe so, but I doubt we'll be able to get anything further out of her for now," Lelouch said, visibly exasperated with Claude.

Yui massaged her own temples, trying to keep her growing frustrations with Claude from boiling over.

"Let's just get this over with," Yui said taking the bag before vanishing into the changing room, a few minutes later she emerged wearing a suit identical to Lelouch's, but with a gold and black color scheme, designed for a woman in mind and, surprisingly, a little more durable looking with increased armor around her hips and sides as well as her legs and arms.

"So what happens now?"

At the moment Lelouch said those words, the white void was suddenly gone, and now they were inside some kind of office with metal walls, a desk, metal chairs and some cabinets with some books shelves. Lelouch recognized this as one of those offices used in military bases by ranking officials. Designed to serve as both a temporary office for the person in question and their cabin, especially if they are very likely not to stay long at the base. He knew this from the time his mother had brought him along for field testing for the Knightmare Frame she was helping test.

"I don't recognize this office," Yui said before she noticed the picture on the desk that showed several women together in the Red and Black of the Imperial Royal Guard Security Force, "This office belongs to my superior, Lieutenant Kaori Kisaragi!"

"Your superior?" Lelouch inquired.

"It has to be before the BETA's final push on Kyoto, which means we are at Arashiyama Supply Base. I've only seen the outside of her office once along with Kazusa when we were discussing splitting us up into smaller flights should the BETA come upon our location," Yui answered, pointing to the photo sitting on the desk featuring a woman with short brown hair and matching eyes. Dressed in a military uniform in the company of others, they were presumably friends. "I should warn you, she means well but can be…" Yui paused for a moment, "blunt."

Just moments later, the door opened.

"I apologize for the wait," Kaori entered the room and despite the difference, Lelouch was immediately assailed by a similar sensation whenever he was around Sayako, his ever faithful maid.

She looked exactly like the woman in the photo, presumably being in her early twenties, as Yui pointed out. Instead of a military uniform she wore a flight suit identical to the one Lelouch had seen Yui wear before changing out, but she wore a red collared jacket over it. In fact, now that Lelouch had a moment he noticed Yui wearing a yellow one and Lelouch a purple one over their pilot suits.

"No need," Kaori said as Yui, with Lelouch following her lead, attempted to stand up and salute. "At ease, both of you."

Lelouch and Yui quietly sat back down in their chairs in front of Kaori's desk as Kaori herself sat down behind it before looking through a folder filled with papers sitting upon it. Once she was down browsing through its contents, she closed it before putting it down on the desk.

"Let me be upfront, this isn't something I expected would happen. Not only do I get to command a squad of newly commissioned pilots, but two of them have experimental machines to fielded for combat testing," Kaori then eyed Lelouch with narrowed eyes. "One of them happens to be non-Japanese yet allowed to be added into the military."

"Is that a concern?" Lelouch returned a glare when Yui nudged him a bit.

"No," Kaori saved her complaint for later. "It was something, I would say so if it weren't for the government's approval. But then again, Americans are not well known for their… Lack of being colorful when it fancies them."

Lelouch looked down at his Fortified Suit and realized something behind her annoyance.

I remember now, Yui said about how these colors belong to the Shogun, Lelouch remembered more about the lecture about this Japan's military.

The Shogun was the highest in command of Japan's military forces, who would be shifted from a figurehead to absolute command of the military in a state of emergency. Purple was specifically reserved for the Shogun, the only one who could wear the color in battle, which additionally applied to the assigned TSFs. The only reason anyone else could wear the color is if someone had the Shogun's blessing.

Damn that Claude, Lelouch clenched his fist upon not realizing this sooner. If only I knew she would make a laughing stock of me in this fashion.

His thoughts were interrupted as Kaoi went on.

"Make sure that you wear that suit nicely and appropriately," Koari warned him, seeing his personal concerns. "Any screwup with your uniform will be a disgrace to our nation, let alone the Shogun."

"I understand, ma'am," Lelouch complied with mutual sentiments, "Although, I favor the colors myself, I'm well aware of their… interpretation. If I could, I would have had the purple swapped out for green or another neutral color. Preferably the black too as that appears to be the base color overall for the Royal Guard."

"So you speak Japanese, good," Kaori eased a bit as she could instantly see the young 'American' before her was just as annoyed with his chosen colors. "On the other hand, I would almost say something like them is better served on the frontline. But since the orders come from the Regent Houses and Headquarters, I cannot say no to them. Of course, I wanted to get more familiar with the pilots of these machines, named for two of our country's most well-known gods. Bold naming choices. Bold, but fitting. They must have high hopes for you two."

"They are quite different from the usual TSFs," Yui said politely. "Lelouch-san and I have tested them; their performance far exceeds the Type-82F Zuikaku."

"I would remind you that isn't very hard these days," Kaori knew full well how obsolete the Type-82 had gotten. Practically all the F-4 Phantom variants in other countries were being retired. Sure, some could keep them going, but the technology limitations were fast catching up. Kaori knew that the Type-82 had been heavily customized and pushed to its limits as a result. There was literally no room for any significant upgrades left.

"The units should outstrip most more modern units," Lelouch immediately spoke up, speaking using his researched knowledge of other TSF units he had studied while training with Yui for those eight months. "Even the vaunted Su-series of the Soviets and the US Military's current and next generation machines would be hard pressed to match them. They are not invincible, I'll give you that, but that is the truth of any machine."

Kaori nodded. This 'American' if he wasn't a European, maybe British or West German, had a good head on his shoulders in that regard. Especially as he said while they could outstrip the best the Soviets and Americans had, they could still be defeated. Even by those machines as they were truly untested in battle.

Good. He may live to see another year in his life, she thought.

"I would have to see them in action to be truly convinced, but I've been commanded to keep you two together since both of your machines work best when working together. So you shall lead one flight including newly commissioned pilots Iwami, Kai and Noto. Yamashiro will command one flight of other fresh pilots for what will be their first battle, I'll command the first fight and remain in contact
with all of you."

"Understood," Lelouch said.

"Now that we've spoken, I would like you to join the others in the hangar. I have some words that all of you should hear. I'll meet with you all shortly."

Leaving Kaori behind, Lelouch and Yui spoke in the hall as she led him to the hanger.

"So I guess Claude went through in her preparations then," Lelouch said, mindful of the walls have ears, but wondered. Exactly what kind of incentives did she offer them?

"I don't recall meeting with Lieutenant Kisaragi after we arrived," Yui recalled what originally happened. "We must've been summoned after putting our stuff away in the barracks then changing into our pilot suits which happened before we met her in the hangar."

"All we do now is wait, but are you alright about this?"

Yui's calm composure hid a whirlwind of emotions within her. A part of her was delighted to be able to see her cherished friends again and given a second chance to prevent their deaths, but another part of her dreaded the coming battle wishing she could flee with them knowing this base was doomed to be overrun and everyone within it would be killed. However, she couldn't stomach the idea of running from a battle that would disgrace her and her family, not to mention she knew none of them would choose to flee before the fight anyway.

All of these emotions continued to churn within Yui until they reached the hanger where a familiar voice called out giving her pause, causing her mind and emotions to stop in their tracks.

"Are you done talking to Lieutenant Kisaragi, Yui?"

The first of Yui's friends was a young girl of the same age as Lelouch and Yui with long brown hair, a red bow on the back of her head, amber eyes, wearing a flight suit that was black with white along with a matching coat worn over it.

Going off of Yui's descriptions, she must be Shimako Kai, Lelouch thought.

"Hey Yui are you alright, you look like you have seen a ghost?"

You have no idea, Lelouch commented as he quickly figured out who the second girl was. Short hair and very energetic, she must be Aki Iwami.

Aki, per her description Yui had shared while training together, was a girl with short brown hair, teal eyes with a lightly tanned complexion from being the most outgoing and active among Yui's group of friends. Someone who loved hiking and spending time outside a lot, and was the most spirited and energetic girl in the group to match. Her piloting skills, while below average, but through sheer determination Aki pushed herself to match her classmates so she could stay with them after training.

"This is our first deployment as pilots, I wouldn't be surprised if she isn't feeling the pressure."

She seems quite serious, and with that long black hair, she must be Kazusa Yamashiro.

Perhaps the most serious among Yui's friends was Kazusa, her long black hair and steel gray eyes, combined with her serious demeanor made her easy to spot. Lelouch recalled how Yui told her Kazusa and she were rivals because Kazusa was a very competitive young woman that drove her to excel in training and classroom studies. Despite some tension caused by Kazusa coming from a less prestigious family, though hers was known for producing excellent pilots, than compared to Yui's family who were of a higher standing, the two became best friends after Yui bested her in a duel.

Then that means the last one must be Izumi Noto, Lelouch locating the girl in question.

As Yui described, she had long wavy brown hair styled into a pair of pigtails, scarlet eyes with egg-shaped glasses worn over them. She wore the same kind and color of Fortified Suit as the rest of her team with a white overcoat over it. However, unlike Yui's other friends, Lelouch noticed she was looking at something in her hands, but thanks to Yui's information on her the young man deduced what it was.

She lost her boyfriend during the initial invasion of the BETA when they overran Kyushu, Lelouch thought, sympathetic knowing the pain of losing a loved one. According to Yui she fought recklessly and aggressively during the coming battle, but despite it she outlasted most of her friends until they tried escaping through Kyoto.

Lelouch didn't think less of her wanting revenge, as he wants to one day get revenge on the ones who killed his mother, crippled his sister, and ultimately his father for banishing him to a foreign land to die. Evening vowing to destroy Britannia one day and everything it stood for, so Lelouch knew he wasn't in any place to judge.

But, Yui and he did agree to keep an eye on Izumi to ensure she survived like the rest, however her recklessness in battle could get her killed one day.

What could I even say that could be helpful and not cause her to react negatively, Lelouch wondered as he thought his own experiences could be helpful in getting Izumi to be less reckless in battle.

How to speak and get through to her without doing something to alienate a likely ally was another matter.

Not taking notice of him, Aki, Kazusa and Shimako drew closer to Yui, with even Izumi noticing how emotional Yui was becoming caused her to pocket her locket before joining the others.

"Yui? What's wrong?" Shimako tilted her head.

"You're…you're all alive," Yui said softly while fighting back tears at being reunited with her friends, whose deaths she remembered clearly.

Lelouch could see the confusion and concern on their faces, but feeling both awkward and worried they all drew closer to Yui whom they embraced. Yui couldn't stop the tears that flowed, but Lelouch kept his distance and allowed her friends to comfort her, deciding it was best not to interrupt. This continued for a few minutes until Yui's friends managed to calm her down and Yui gradually regained her composure.

"I am sorry, I…I don't know what came over me?" Yui apologized, while lying about what really caused her emotional outbreak.

"He didn't make you cry, did he?" Aki pointed at Lelouch.

"No, he didn't," Yui said quickly, not wanting any misunderstandings to happen.

"You two were walking together, is he a friend?" Shimako inquired.

"Yes, he is, so let me introduce," she noticed the rank marker on Lelouch's collar, "Third Lieutenant Lelouch Lamperouge, he will be part of our squad," Yui said as she gestured for Lelouch to come over for a proper introduction. "We're both piloting the new experimental machines together."

"Why is he wearing a purple outfit," Izumi noticed with a glare. "Let alone a foreigner wearing it?"

"It was authorized by Headquarters and the Regent Houses," Yui spoke in Lelouch's place. "Their decision is absolute, and the Lieutenant," Yui had the smarts to indicate Kaori's office and Lelouch, "knows this as well. We cannot go against them."

"It's a pleasure to meet you all, Junior Lieutenant Takamura has told me much about all of you," Lelouch greeted them in the traditional Japanese greeting with a bow, which Yui had taught him while also remembering the rank she held as a result of her Family's standing. "I look forward to working with you on the field."

"Funny she never mentioned you," Aki folded her arms while eyeing Lelouch suspiciously. "Don't get the wrong idea, you sound like a nice guy."

Suddenly Aki had a big grin, before asking.

"So, is this some secret boyfriend you've been hiding from us?"

"What, no, nothing like that," Yui said as her cheeks reddened from embarrassment forcing Yui on damage control before any misunderstandings could form. "We met after we were chosen to be pilots."

"You never mentioned any of this before," Izumi said, clearly interested in the conversation.

"It's…classified," Yui came up with an excuse on the spot. "Our machines have a large number of experimental technologies."

"Where are they?" Aki asked with both hands on her hips.

"Over there," Lelouch spotted the Izanagi and the Izanami in hanger cages along with other TSF units. "The black and gold is the Izanagi while the purple one is the Izanami."

"Naming them after creation deities, they got to be something," Aki and Izumi began bombarding Yui with more questions since the Type-98X Takemikazuchi is the very best that Japan has.

This is all Claude's fault; trying to explain away all of this is going to be problematic, Lelouch thought, but problematic was an understatement.

It would've made more sense for them to be brought back into events at least some weeks before so they could easily explain away whatever questions Yui's friends might've had and allowed them to be more believable.

Somehow I feel we're going to have to tell them the truth, but I don't think this is a good time. I know Yui understands, too.

"Excuse me, I apologize for my friends, but I am Ca- Pilot Officer Kai Shimako," Shimako politely introduced herself, even though she hesitated a bit when speaking about her rank.

"Nice to meet you," Lelouch said, accepting Shimako's hand to shake it.

"Have you known Yui for long?"

"Yes, but I think you all know her much longer than me though."

"I see, so how did you meet?"

"We were chosen to be test pilots for the Izanagi and the Izanami, I am not sure why they didn't pick one of you given your close relationship as friends but I suspect part of it was testing for opposite gender pairs to pilot the machines," Lelouch explained, being better at improvisation than Yui.

"Why is that?" Shimako placed her right index finger on her chin.

"The machine uses a new system called a Coupling System, which when active will connect the minds of the pilots using the Izanagi and the Izanami. Allowing for experience to be shared, and combat performance to be increased."

"Shared experience?"

"I don't fully understand the technical details," Lelouch admitted. "But think of it like adding RAM to a computer increasing the brain's ability to process information and to react upon it. As an unexpected benefit, experience can also be shared, for example I was barely trained to pilot a machine like a TSF, I was studying History instead, until they snatched me up and were proven right when Yui and I used the Coupling System for the first time. Suddenly piloting at her level became as effortless as riding a bike."

"Really," Shimako said, impressed that such technology exists now. "So they are planning on using it on a larger scale?"

"I imagine so, since the threat of the BETA reaching Japan was a real danger given how close they were. Meaning the training of new pilots would be more limited, so I imagine they plan on using the Coupling System as a means of producing more combat ready pilots more easily, with the benefit of the experiences of a veteran pilot shared for better results," Lelouch said, although he couldn't be sure it was something like that could happen. However, given Claude's promises of giving Japan new tech to coax their cooperation, it was something he logically expected Japan to use for such purposes.

Assuming the Coupling System could be used for such purposes? Lelouch acknowledged it would be a boon for producing more experienced pilots more quickly, but at the same time he suspected it couldn't be that easy to use for such a purpose. He never asked Claude, but made a mental note to do so latter wondering if there was anything notable downsides to the Coupling System, which annoyingly the woman didn't mention to them.

She never did tell us about the technical specifics of the machines, like their power sources and details about the Coupling System, Lelouch thought.

"So that's what they tested with you and Yui."

"But I can't say for sure if they've conducted similar tests using TSF machines equipped with the system. I know trust is a critical factor for the system to work effectively."

"That sounds quite interesting, but I don't think that is all those machines have, do they?" Kazusa said, joining the conversation as she stood next to Shimako with her arms folded over her chest.

"You're not wrong, these two machines also have very experimental weapons, which still have some, best to say touchiness for being used near allies. But rest assured both machines are combat worthy," Lelouch said reassuringly. "Although there wasn't a chance to properly hold a test battle due to the BETA invasion."

"I see, I am interested to learn more about them, Lelouch was it."

"Yes, it was, and you are Miss Yamashiro, aren't you?"

"You can just call me Kazusa, there is no need to be overly formal," Kazusa extended her hand, which Lelouch accepted to shake.

"R-Right," Lelouch knew full well to call her by her given name was a major thing in Japanese customs both here and in his own world, "Of course."

"I apologize for butting in your conversation Shimako," Kazusa turned to her friend. "It was very interesting to listen in."

"Oh no, its no problem at all!"

"So have you and Yui conducted a mock battle between one another?" Kazusa eyed Lelouch.

"Not against each other, but we have endured many simulated battles and training together."

"When circumstances allow it, I wouldn't mind challenging you to a mock battle," Kazusa said, very interested in facing Lelouch. "If this Coupling System you describe works as you say, you should have skills on par with Yui. I am curious if that's true or not."

No shock there I guess, Yui said she was very competitive, Lelouch reminded himself, wondering if she might be good at chess or shogi as an alternative he could suggest. Though, if he recalled right, like Yui, Kazusa was better at Close Quarters Combat instead of Mid Range Combat that Lelouch was naturally much better at.

"I am sure they would allow it, when a chance comes along. The data would be useful," Lelouch said, uncertain if such a moment would come.

"So Lelouch," Aki said, throwing an arm over his shoulder with a mischievous smile. "Maybe you can give us some details."

"What details?" Lelouch glanced over his shoulder at Yui who seemed ready to collapse from a mixture of embarrassment and stress from trying not to buckle under Izumi and Aki's barrage of questions.

"We've known Yui for a long time, but you two seem pretty friendly with one another, are you sure there isn't anything more going on between you two?" the smile on Aki's face reminded him greatly of Rivalz, which was rather refreshing honestly.

"Nothing of the sort, besides aren't we a bit young for that?" Lelouch said, deflecting Aki's suspicions.

"Yeah we are still young, yes," Aki said, nodding her head. "But that doesn't mean you guys aren't dating or anything right."

This one doesn't know when to quit, but it was that same determination that led to her improving as a pilot, or so I was told, Lelouch thought.

Thankfully both Lelouch and Yui were saved from further questions by the arrival of Kaori.

"Officer on deck!" An uniformed officer shouted as he and Kaori approached.

All of the other pilots quickly gathered together and stood at attention.

"I am going to be honest with all of you. Your mission is to protect this supply base with your lives," Kaori said to the assembled pilots with both hands behind her back. "You students have no combat experience and barely any training. If you go out there, you'll only get in the way of our regular soldiers."

Lelouch remained quiet as did Yui, and no one else spoke a word as Kaori continued.

Not exactly a rousing speech to inspire confidence, Lelouch commented internally.

"Right now, focus on only defending this place, dismissed," Kaori said before leaving and Lelouch suddenly realized that the Lieutenant they were to serve under, might be as green to her rank as they were.

As the group of cadets dispersed Yui tugged on Lelouch's sleeve as a gesture for him to follow, as Yui along with her friends, minus Kazusa who was called away by other members of the squad, walked off to the side of one of the cages where a TSF was docked in.

"Get in the way," Aki said, clearly disappointed as she sat down on a nearby crate, joined by Izumi.

"That may be true, but I wanted to get revenge for my boyfriend," Izumi said, who was just as equally disappointed.

"You'll have your chance, just be patient," Lelouch said as he found a good place to lean back and get comforty. "This war will not be over tonight. Far from it. It will last a while more yet. You'll have more than quite a few chances."

"He's right, it's only a matter of time before we'll be in battle," Yui said in agreement, knowing full well the BETA would attack soon.

"You sound so sure," Shimako noticed.

"Given the BETA and their numbers it's only a matter of time. Probably sooner than later," Lelouch said with a serious expression.

"He's right," Yui said, causing a mixture of confusion and concern from Izumi, Shimako and Aki.

Before they could be questioned further, Kazusa came back, running with a look of alarm upon her face.

"Everyone this is serious," Kazusa shouted before stopping then trying to catch her breath as she placed her hands on her knees. "A BETA vanguard has broken through all the way to Takagamine."

"Takagamine, that's right next to us!" Aki said, getting up with a look of alarm on her face.

Yui and Lelouch followed Izumi, Aki, Shimako and Kazusa outside the hangar where a group of soldiers and other pilots had gathered. In the distance they could see the countryside on fire, obviously a battle had broken out. Lelouch and Yui knew this was happening, and so far everything was happening as Yui had experienced last time.

It begins, Lelouch thought as he steeled himself for the battle ahead.

"How," Shimako said, distressed by the fire and battle happening in the distance. "What about the defense line?"

"It was eaten apart," Yui replied calmly.

Izumi, Aki, Shimako and Kazusa were shocked by Yui's words, but Aki noticed something in the sky approaching the base.

"Look, up there!"

A pair of Tactical Surface Fighters were flying towards the base, likely seeking supplies and repairs since Lelouch saw one was missing its right arm and the other a leg. However as they flew towards the base, a white laser beam shot one in the back and through the chest from behind followed by the second TSF suffering the same fate moments later as both machines crashed into the ground as fireballs. The second machine actually crashed into the ground fairly close to the supply base itself.

Suddenly the alarms began blaring throughout the base as soldiers and base personnel hurried to their stations.

The BETA were coming.

"A BETA scouting vanguard is approaching ten km to our west," an announcer declared over the base's intercom system. Condition red, all pilots board your TSFs immediately! I repeat a BETA scouting vanguard is approaching!"

Lelouch and the others hurried into the hangar, Lelouch and Yui boarded their machines as Lelouch sealed the cockpit. The machine came online as its eyes flashed red, while Yui's own machine activated as well, but opened a private channel between herself and Lelouch.

"Lelouch, as we planned."

"Yes, we'll hold off on using the Coupling System until we reach Kyoto. That is when we'll need it most."

"Of course, and as we planned, I'll keep an eye on Aki and you'll watch for Shimako."

"Yes, but be mindful of Izumi if you can."

"Understood," Lelouch said as the crews outside signaled for him and Yui to move their machines forward.

It seems Claude was very thorough in her preparations after all, the DHGCP our machines use doesn't seem to be causing negative effects for disrupting communications, Lelouch mused.

The Izanagi and the Izanami were powered by a unique source of power called a DHGCP, which was short for Discontinuous Hyperoscillation Gauge Collapsing Pile. A unique power source, which Claude assured them would provide unlimited power and therefore operation time. Lelouch and Yui had been curious to learn more about the technology behind it, but Claude evaded their questions and would tell them about how it functioned once they succeed in saving Yui's friends.

Once they were done, Yui and Lelouch opened a shared channel between Aki, Izumi, Shimako, and Kazusa while communications from their superior was open as well.

"They are advancing too fast," Aki declared as her own TSF, a white Type-82A Zuikaku.

Standing at over seventeen meters tall with bulky legs, which housed reinforced armor planting and shock absorption and protection from the jet engines around its waist to allow for flight. Its arms were less thick in comparison to allow easy handling of weapons and close quarters combat, which made the differences between the machines he and Yui were using all the more different.

"How!? This is a supply base nowhere near the frontline," Shimako commented as her own machine, the same model as Aki left its dock.

"No, this is the frontline now," Yui declared as her machine joined her friends along with Lelouch's Gundam.

Meeting them near the launch catapult was their commanding officer, Kaori, inside her own Zuikaku with hers painted red, which Yui had explained to Lelouch was a form of visible ranking. The red paint meant that Kaori came from a influential samurai family close to the Regent Houses while Yui had piloted a yellow Zuikaku, which meant she was a fudai, hereditary vassals to the Shogun, as was the rest of her family.

White was reserved for those from samurai families such as Shimako, Aki, Izumi and Kazusa, but just lacked the social prestige as Kaori and Yui's families, which Lelouch thought was ridiculous but he knew it was best if he kept his mouth shut.

"The BETA scout group is still approaching," Kaori said as her red Zuikaku was ready to launch. "We estimate at least two hundred of them with Destroyer-class BETA at the head of the force followed by several Grappler-class enemies with Laser-class enemies in the rear.

Kaori launched first followed by Yui who declared.

"This time, I won't let any of you die, Izanagi launching!"

The thrusters of Yui's Gundam surged with power before the Izanagi flew out of the hangar at a speed that stunned Yui's friends, but also Kazusa noticed what Yui had said before launching.

"This time?"

"Focus on surviving and staying alive, I gave my word I would help her keep you safe and I'll do just that. Be mindful of the battle, because more BETA could come from anyway so don't let your guards down," Lelouch warned before launching. "Izanami, taking off!"

Following after Yui the Izanagi flew out of the hangar surpassing the speed Kaori's machine displayed when it launched.

Confused, but they didn't have the time to ask Lelouch or Yui for answers, they had a base to defend. They all launched and quickly joined up with Yui and Lelouch as their machines took point.

"Takamura's second flight will go after the Destroyer-class," Kaori commanded.

"Roger that," Yui replied.

"Flight One, under my command, will provide cover for Flight Three. Flight three under Yamashiro will concentrate fire on any individual Grappler-class, but will prioritize Laser-class enemies upon spotting them.

"Roger that," Kazusa replied.

A short time later Lelouch, Yui, Izumi, Aki, Shimako, Kazusa along with the rest of their squad took up defensive positions within an abandoned town, using some of the houses and small buildings constructed upon hills for light cover. As everyone waited on baited breath Lelouch was preparing for his opening attack, using the holographic keyboard that appeared within the cockpit to calculate enemy positions for the Izanami's primary weapon, using the Gundam's AI tactical computer to quickly assist him, to detect and pinpoint the position of the enemy, especially the Laser-class BETA.

I may not have time to manually calculate firing solutions, maybe some prepared ones with the assistance of the machine's AL could help, Lelouch thought.

Like Yui's Gundam, Lelouch's own machine had an onboard assistant AI, called the A.L.I.C.E. System, which was also short for Advanced Logistic & In-consequence Cognizing Equipment. It served as more than an onboard assistant, but if need be it could act as a co-pilot for the Izanami.

"The BETA Destroyer class enemies are closing in," Yui's voice came over the shared communication channel.

The Destroyer-class BETA, Lelouch could see at least more than fifty of them, and more coming along with other BETA types.

Remember Shimako was the first to die by flying too high, Yui thought, reminding herself before calling out to Lelouch.

"Lelouch, are you ready?"

"Ready," Lelouch said as both were drawing their machines' Beam Magnums, the enlarged pistol that looked mixed with that of a rifle that could be held in one hand, while also moving to get into better firing positions to maximize their shots and minimize damage to cover.

Lelouch and Yui fired at the same time, careful their shots would sail over the buildings and hit their targets while mindful not to draw the attention of a Laser-class BETA while exposed. The light blue and crimson beams unleashed by their weapons sailed over the houses, rattling them and still ripping roofing away despite best efforts, but the intense heat set them ablaze while melting down abandoned cars as the shots passed over them.

Lelouch and Yui's shots hit their mark, the front of the advancing and leading Destroyer-class BETA.

Normally the front of a Destroyer-class BETA was protected by an extremely tough frontal armor in the form of a partial body carapace, with hardness fifteen on the Mohs scale in front. Combined with their speed, up to one hundred and seventy miles an hour over an open, flat field, made them ideal for frontal assaults as they could just literally bulldoze through anything in their way. Very few weapons can pierce these hardened carapaces, demanding a TSF fighting one get behind them to shoot their unarmored flanks and rears, and unlike the Grappler-class BETA they can't turn easily.

But when a pair of energy shots from a Beam Mangum struck with a temperature of ten thousand degrees it tore through the armor causing the organics of the BETA to become superheated and explode. The shots plowing through the leading ranks, killing six more BETA in a straight line and the explosive impact of Yui and Lelouch's shots managed to kill several more BETA while wounding others.

Which didn't include the energy backwash or the superheated air that suddenly exploded in instant vaporization when the main bodies of the two shots detonated at their end.

The Destroyer-class not hit straight on, but caught in the backwash were literally pulled off their feet and towards the passage field of the two shots. Their hardened carapaces were peeled away like someone peeling potatoes while badly burning them. Once they hit the passage field, they were instantly caught and torn apart by the trailing energy left in the wake of the twin shots.
Others, caught by the flash explosion of the air, were simply hurled around badly burned with carapace both peeled and ripped away. These BETA struggled for a few moments before stilling, dead from extensive internal and external damage.

The unarmored BETA caught up in the same attack simply ceased to exist the closer to the main shots they were while others, further away, were plastered with secondary debris and could be heard actually screaming in pain that even they could abruptly feel before going just as abruptly silent and unmoving.

For those two shots, the entire attack was thrown off its balance and the BETA were now at the mercy of the Humans as their attack now became a disorganized, piecemeal series of thrusts that could be taken care of.

"H…holy shit," Aki said, left speechless by the destructive power of the weapons of the new machines.

"I want one," Izumi muttered in awe of the weapons and what they did to the BETA.

"All units, advance. Draw them in and fire at will, but remember stay below one hundred meters or a Laser-class will shoot you down," Kaori ordered, although she was quietly stunned by how destructive the main weapons of the Izanami and Izanagi were, she managed to maintain her composure and keep herself from being stupefied. "Be careful of the Izanami and Izanagi's magnums, avoid being in their firing arcs."

"Yes ma'am!" The other pilots shouted in unison as they advanced.

Unfortunately the Beam Magnums, despite their impressive destructive power and effectiveness against the Destroyer-class BETA, couldn't fire in rapid succession. The charging time required and the cooldown needed following each shot to prevent the weapon from fatally overheating.

Still the Destroyer-class BETA were still a safe distance away, Lelouch and Yui joined the others in advancing while firing off their respective Beam Magnums as soon as the weapon was ready again. Even as the Destroyers continued their advance their losses were heavy, but the BETA fearlessly continued their charge, though being careful about trampling over the remains of their own who had been killed.

We've killed a lot, but they still keep coming, Lelouch said, deciding to holster his Beam Mangum so it could begin recharging its shots while saving those that remained, because the weapon had a very limited number of shots before needing a long recharge period.

As Lelouch was preparing to fire the Izanami's main weapon, he noticed a few Destroyers had managed to get close to them, and spotted Shimako's unit take to the air as he could hear her panicked voice. Shimako did manage to turn and shoot the backside of the attacking Destroyer, killing it, but she was in serious danger.

Oh shit, Lelouch said as he flew towards her.

Yui was tied up with another Destroyer that had attacked them, using speed and agility to get behind the Destroyer to crave into its vulnerable backside, killing it.

"Shimako get down from there! You're too high!"

"Huh?"

This would've been the moment when Shimako would've been shot down, being the first of Yui's friends to die.

But not this time.

Lelouch got in front of Shimako's machine, using its beam shield and I-field just in time. A Laser-class's beam bounced off the shield, another fired by a different Laser-class was deflected away by the I-field. Shimako was shocked, realizing she had been nearly killed by a Laser-class.

"Y…you saved me."

"Stop gawking and get to the ground now!" Lelouch insisted as more Laser-class BETA began firing on Lelouch, but the Izanami's defenses held firm.

"Uh, right," Shimako said, returning to the ground, followed by Lelouch, however…

A Laser-class cannot fire again until after eighteen seconds, Lelouch noted, because as he returned to the ground before boost jumping to get a clearer line of sight. A second barrage of lasers pelted his machine and their point of origins were quickly calculated by the Izanami tactical computer prompting Lelouch to grin. Still in the air as lasers were harmlessly deflected by the I-field, Lelouch drew his Beam Magnum to dispatch some more Destroyers before the chest of the Izanami opened as its Scatter Mega Beam Particle Cannon was ready.

Lelouch waited until the Laser-class had attacked again, then firing during the eighteen second window. Having used his height in the air as suggested by the tactical computer to inflict the most damage upon the BETA, but was sure to use two more shots from his Beam Magnum to dispatch any the cannon's scattering shots had missed. Many other BETA were destroyed in Lelouch's bombardment, including Destroyer-class and some Grapper-class BETA that were advancing upon their positions.

Numerous Tank-class, a red multi-limbed creature, about three meters tall, were decapitated before being just essentially erased from the sheer heat and power while a dozen Grapplers were critically wounded or killed, but Lelouch's targets, the Laser-class BETA were wiped out.

"Flight-3 be advised you have Grappler-class BETA advancing on your positions," Lelouch said, looking at the mission time.

"What?" Kazusa responded in confusion, and sure enough she and her unit saw a group of Grappler-class BETA were advancing upon them. "Where did they come from?"

"Good eye Lieutenant Lamperouge," Kaori complimented. "Concentrate fire, we need to draw the enemy to use to keep them off Flight-3."

By now the supply base has been or is about to be overrun, Lelouch thought, as he pushed a few buttons in the cockpit preparing a distress call Claude had given them to play, but just prior to boarding, he had asked that a recommendation be delivered to the base commander, actually hoping that because he was in Purple and Black, that he might be able to influence just enough as a backup plan. The situation will get only more unfavorable from this point on.

"Emergency! All units, this is the Arashiyama Supply Base! We're under attack, requesting immediate reinforcements! I repeat, emergency! This is the Arashiyama Supply base! Our base is under attack and is at risk of being overrun!" the distress call placed before the sound of the officer dying to a BETA was played.

"Command Post, respond," Kaori began responding to the transmission, trying to contact the Supply Base, but all she got was static before slamming the wall of her cockpit in anger. "What are the regular soldiers doing?!"

If Kaori could see, the survivors of the base were doing everything they could to stem the BETA as more and more trucks and support vehicles fled with vital supplies, uncrewed TSFs, and support personnel. Lelouch's 'recommandations' had been taken at value. One of the patrols had discovered a blind spot and barely fortified it before the BETA struck them.

But she couldn't see it. She couldn't even establish contact. The base's transmitter masts had been destroyed by the BETA just moments after Lelouch activated the false signal.

Meanwhile Aki and Yui were fighting the Grappler-classes together, Yui used her beam sabers to evade their attacks before cutting them down, allowing her Beam Magnum to recharge. Lelouch provided support fire using the Dual-Linked Variable Speed Beam Rifles mounted on the wings, while preparing to fire its main weapon again.

"Aki, don't forget, stay mindful, more Grappler-class BETA could attack from anywhere," Yui said, cautioning her friend.

"I got this," Aki said, but she ran out of ammo forcing her to draw her TSF's sword to engage the enemy in close quarters combat.

Yui stayed close to Aki, remembering what caused her death last time.

Meanwhile Shimako stayed close to Lelouch, protecting him so he could continue using the main weapon of the Izanami to continue cutting down the ranks of the BETA. Izumi joined them as she killed a Grappler-class in close quarters combat, but she continued to hack away at its corpse unsatisfied.

"That's right kill them all, he needs to be avenged," Izumi shouted in her cockpit, between shouting in rage while crying, remembering the pain of her loss.

"Commander, there are more BETA approaching from the west," Kazusa reported, having spotted them upon eliminating the last of the Laser-class BETA not killed by Lelouch's previous attacks.

"There were supposed to be only this group," Kaori said, now seeing the next group of BETA, which was much larger than the Scouting Vanguard they were finishing off, which thanks to the weapons Lelouch and Yui had the vanguard had been wiped out beyond a few Tank-class and Grappler-class enemies remaining now being mopped up.

And that doesn't include the fact their base had just fallen to yet another group.

"You trainees can't handle that many," Kaori said, even with the two machines piloted by Yui and Lelouch helping them they ran the risk of being overwhelmed.

Everyone among the squadron she commanded hadn't expended as much ammunition as they normally should have, but Kaori realized everyone would be running dangerously low on ammunition once the next group arrived very quickly. If the Supply Base was truly lost, and she was picking up the odd comms chatter that seemed to indicate so, then it was only a matter of time before they were surrounded.

And without resupply and support, especially reinforcements, Kaori knew there was one order she had to give.

"There is no longer any reason for us to defend this position," Kaori said before commanding. "All flights, listen up, we are withdrawing from this battlefield at once. Fall back to Defense Line Eight!"

Kaori led the group as everyone began retreating from the battle, but Yui and Lelouch knew there was one who wouldn't be willing to withdraw so easily.

"Izumi, we have to fall back!" Yui shouted, knowing Izumi wouldn't respond. "IZUMI!"

Izumi continued hacking into another Grappler-class she had killed, but she continued to cut into its corpse.

"NO!" Izumi shouted in response, a part of her knew they had to fallback or they would be overwhelmed in due time, but another part didn't want to go. That part demanded blood for the death of the boy she loved, who died when the BETA overran Kyushu. "I can't run away! Revenge. I must have my revenge here!"

Yui asserted her authority, but Lelouch stepped in.

"Pilot Officer Noto, that's enough!" Lelouch called out to her.

The sharp commanding words were enough to make Izumi stop. She twitched her head to listen to her.

"Survive and you'll have more chances for revenge, but if you die here you'll achieve nothing. Besides, given how much you clearly loved him, he must have loved you very much. So ask yourself this: 'Would he want you to die?' If you live I am sure he'll be happy, and you'll get more opportunities to get vengeance as long as you are alive, otherwise if you die then you'll have achieved nothing.
Live to get revenge then be there when the BETA are beaten you can stand as the victor with your vengeance complete and honor him by living on victoriously."

"I…I…" Izumi stuttered. Yui could tell that Lelouch's words struck the right cords. By then she finally gave up. "R-right."

Izumi left with Lelouch and Yui, with the three quickly catching back up with Kaori and the others as they flew low to the ground, but Lelouch knew what was coming next. Moving to take up the rear, Lelouch activated the maximum output of the I-field, expanding the field as far as he could behind him.

"Everyone fly ahead of me now, the Laser-class BETA are about to attack!"

"What?" Kaori responded in surprise before a member of the squad, just narrowly avoided being shot down by a Laser-class, having drifted to the side at the last minute thus avoiding death.

"Everyone, do what he says!" Yui shouted even as she turned back to check on the down the pilot, her thrusters more than powerful enough to allow her to catch back up.

Izumi, Kaori, Shimako, Aki, Kazusa and the other members of their squad formed a single-line formation ahead of Lelouch's machine. The Laser-class BETA attacked, but none of their lasers could perpetrate Lelouch's defenses as the I-field harmlessly deflected away their attacks.

"Head for the ridge straight ahead," Kaori advised.

"When did the Laser-class change their firing angle?" Kazusa shouted in surprise, stunned by this sudden development.

"Just focus on reaching the ridge, more BETA will swarm this area soon," Lelouch warned even as Yui caught back up, carrying the shot down pilot who was lucky to be alive, but it was clear her arm was broken.

Everything is going according to plan and to date the squadron has somehow managed to survive essentially intact with no losses, startling as that is and beyond my wildest estimates, but now the hard part lies ahead.

Even as Lelouch thought that last bit, he caught sight of something that surprised him.

His computers read them as two abandoned American A-10 Thunderbolt TSAs and the main arm still clutching its rifle of a third TSA. They were surrounded by dozens of dead BETA, but the two machines sat, with their cockpits open. If the BETA had won that encounter, the two machines and the discarded arm and rifle should no longer be there.

And yet, as Lelouch stabilized the flow and output of his I-Field, he couldn't help but wonder if Yui and her surviving friends and allies had merely missed them previously.

Or did Claude do more than she let on?

Something I'll consider asking Claude later, but right now surviving this night is our priority, Lelouch thought, knowing the night had just begun.

For they were heading to Kyoto, where only he and Yui knew the BETA had already overran most of the city by now.

A/N: Well part one is done and in two weeks part two will come out as Lelouch, Yui and company must make their way through a BETA infested Kyoto as they will be in the belly of the best. As you can see in the chapter, Lelouch and Yui surviving the battle won't be a problem, its keeping everyone else is where the real challenge against an enemy that really loves to Zerg rush with overwhelming numbers.

And yeah supply issues won't be a problem for Lelouch, which is one reason why they got basically artificially black holes powering their Gundams.

The Beam Magnums while useful here, they are even improve models of the ones from Gundam Unicorn, won't carry Lelouch and Yui through the story, because the BETA have a nasty habit of adapting after some days has passed.

And add a question of what else Claude did before Lelouch literally entered the world of Muv Luv for Lelouch and Yui, something to find out once the battle is over.

Now as for the harem, I did decide to just swap out the poll on fanfiction.net (on my profile page) for a new one focused on the Muv Luv candidates I am considering for Lelouch, because let's face it that series alone has WAY too many candidates. As much as I don't want to use a poll it has been difficult for me to narrow down who be best for Lelouch, or at least who should have a shot at Lelouch outside of Yui, Kazusa and Shimako who are locked in for Lelouch, meaning there is room for only six more. For now I am just allowing for big voting, since I am unsure of a good number to put on the poll, and I'll leave the poll on my profile open until Lelouch and company leave the Muv Luv world, because the main reason I am doing a poll is because I am very worried about character bloat. My original plan was to try and have them appear and have an opportunity to spend time with Lelouch to see what kind of chemistry happens between, BUT that is a LOT of characters to juggle with, and once you guys see the poll you'll understand.

I will note as something to look forward to, in the coming chapters Lelouch will be meeting the following characters (a slight spoiler, but people who have followed my forums will know already): Yuzuka Sendou, Haruko Kashiwagi, Haruka Suzumiya, Asagi Minori and Tsukiko Fujisawa who will be the members of a squad Lelouch will have command over as a start. With Marimo Jinguuji as his "drill sergeant," so yeah Lelouch's training isn't done yet, but there are some politics behind this too. Because aside from the BETA Lelouch is going to be caught up in some politics and having to deal with some xenophobia along the way, which will be part of the reason why his training under Marimo will be...rough, especially for those who know the character.

Hence why Lelouch is spending so much time in the Muv Luv world, as the BETA aren't the only problem to deal with since he needs to win over the Imperial Japanese Army to gain their support before he could think about going to another world.

Once things on Muv Luv are concluded I'll do a second poll to narrow down potential Gundam candidates for Lelouch since they have the second largest list of potential candidates, but they are much harder since unlike those from Muv Luv, baring an exception from one or two, are not open to polygamy. But its to avoid character bloat mostly, and those from not a Gundam or Muv Luv are much smaller to worry about so I won't be doing polls for them.

Just keep in mind winning a poll doesn't ensure their placement in the harem, it just wins them time with Lelouch to show what chemisty they can build and if they can fit well with him.

Lastly Stella Bremer, Cui Yifei, and Tarisa Manandal are more or less confirmed, but since that would be six Muv Luv candidates in the poll I am holding off on locking them in thanks to the very good arguments of Silkdreamweaver so they are being kept in reserve for now. After all it will be a couple years in story before any relationships happen, so I got a LOT of time to sort it out.
Anyway through talk on that, let me close the chapter and say thanks to everyone who reviewed and gave feedback, its very appreciated.

Model number: TMP-02X
Code name: Izanagi
Unit Type: Prototype Full Psycho-Frame Mobile Suit
Pilot: Yui Takamura
Manufacturer: Unknown
Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)
First deployment: July 31st 2016 A.T.B
Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso
Dimensions: head height 19.8 meters
Weight: 52.6 metric tons
Armor: Gundanium Alloy infused with Nanoskin
Powerplant: DHGCP (Discontinuous Hyperoscillation Gauge Collapsing Pile) Powerplant
Equipment and Design Features:
Sensor Range:23,700 meters
Psycho-Frame: A Man to machine Interface that builds on the brainwave-to-machine code translator known as Psycommu into the atom-level of the metal frame of a Mobile Suit. More specifically, the psycommu chips are shrank and lined in the gaps between the hive-shaped metal particles of the mobile suit's frame. This allows a Newtype pilot to control the mobile suit as if it were their own body with limitations.
Coupling System (with its sister unit the Izanagi)
A.L.I.C.E. System (Advanced Logistic & In-consequence Cognizing Equipment): A.L.I.C.E. is an artificial intelligence, that co-pilots the Izanami.
I-Field Barrier: an invisible force field that surrounds the Izanami and is active all the time thanks to the Izanami's limitless power. Can deflect Anti-Ship Beam Cannons and even the heat and radiation of a Nuclear Bomb close to Ground Zero.
Powerplant: DHGCP (Discontinuous Hyperoscillation Gauge Collapsing Pile) Powerplant: Which is essentially an artifical Black Hole.
Intention Automatic System: This system is inherited from the Sinanju Stein and functions by using the psycho-frame's sensitivity to the pilot's thought-waves to directly affect behavior of the mobile suit. It is also possible for the pilot to intercept the thought-waves of an enemy pilot. Additionally, the system directs the suit's movement when active, and does not completely depend on the pilot for commands.
NT-D Mode: A special operating system installed in the Izanami. The name "NT-D" is supposed to be an abbreviation for "Newtype Drive," but is actually an abbreviation for "Newtype Destroyer," a system developed to eliminate Newtypes. The system is activated when it detects an enemy psycommu machine as well as its Newtype or Cyber-Newtype pilot. When activated, the mobile suit transforms into Destroy Mode, dramatically improving its performance as its limiters are disabled, and allowing it to hijack the enemy machine's psycommu weaponry. However, it places a heavy burden on the pilot and the machine, and is limited to five minutes.
Fixed Armaments:
2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns
4 X Beam Sabers: The Izanagi can emit four Beam Sabers from its forearms and feet. All four can be used simultaneously in Mobile Suit Mode
Gerbera Straight Katana: A mobile suit-sized katana that is extremely sharp, and does not rely on the kinetic energy of a high-speed swing to cut through its targets. Mounted on the Waist.
Tiger Pierce Katana: A replica of the Gerbera Straight, likewise also mounted on the Waist.
Optional Armaments:
Beam Magnum: A handheld firearm equipped with an energy condenser, it is common to the RX-0 series mobile suits. The power output of a single shot is the equivalent of 4 regular beam rifle shots at the expense of an entire E-pack. As such, a single shot is sufficient to destroy a mobile armor-class machine, and even stray particles from the fired shot have sufficient power to destroy a mobile suit, meaning a direct hit is not always required. The beams fired from the beam magnum are as hot as 10000°C and are surrounded by a field of plasma ranging from 3000°C to 7000°C—depending on how far away a particular area is from the actual beam. Connected to a Wire from the Izanami's generator for limitless shots mounted on the back skirt armor when not in use.

StrifeHavoc · Mar 28, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, F-14 Tomcat Lover, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story.

Thanks to everyone who has reviewed, favorited and followed the past chapters, they always appreciated.

Ok before getting into this chapter I should let you guys know that I had to make some changes to the past chapters, which thankfully I was prepared for so while minimum changes to the chapters had to be done it will cause some changes to the story, and limit the time before events of Code Geass happen.
You see I recently got The Imperial Capital Burns - Muv-Luv Alternative Total Eclipse on Steam (more so since it was on sale), looking for more ideas for Kazusa, Izumi, Aki and Shimako's characters since the story explores more events surrounding Yui's time leading up to and during the BETA invasion. But during it I noticed comments and dialogue suggesting Yui and her friends were sixteen, which also matches with a bit that drafting age was reduced to sixteen around the time of the invasion. Although tv tropes suggested Yui and her friends were fourteen, and no one else opposed this belief when I asked them about, but with the story making it clear they were at least sixteen during the invasion I went ahead and corrected everyone's ages, and bumping Lelouch up to match so they are sixteen.

As I said I was prepared for the possibility they were older than the tv tropes suggested considering that bit about the drafting age, so the edits I had to make were little, but hopefully I didn't miss any.

Before reading this chapter I should note this one and chapter three had been heavily rewritten four times, because the Gundams for Yui and Lelouch were of a different design, but I was forced to rewrite much of the chapter when Redrat8 got involved and redesigned the Gundam's completely.

Now that is out of the way let us move on with the chapter, I'll say responses to reviews I cannot reply to for the bottom of the chapter.

Chapter 4
The Miracle of Kyoto Part 2

Everything has gone according to plan or better than planned, but now we are in no man's land, Lelouch thought.

Thanks to Yui's knowledge of previous events, their plan had worked remarkably well. Lelouch had even made some contingencies depending on how things played out, so far they've avoided casualties among the squadron. Still Lelouch was concerned and didn't want his sense of accomplishments to make himself lower his guard, although he was still confident he could survive anything in the Izanami. However, Aki, Izumi, Shimako and Kazusa were dangerously low on ammunition after they ran into more BETA during their retreat and their machines were more inferior compared to theirs putting them at much greater risk.

"Everything seems to be going well," Yui said through their private communication channel.

"Yes," Lelouch said, hoping Yui didn't jinx it, "Keep your guard up nonetheless, as the BETA do have a known history of surprises."

Lelouch wasn't superstitious or anything, but he was also concerned their success might make Yui relax their guard. Compared to the BETA they had faced earlier, Lelouch knew the ones attacking Kyoto numbered in the tens of thousands if not more, like a surging river crushing anything in their path. The battles they waged in the simulators reminded Lelouch that while each individual BETA was dangerous depending on its type, their deadest advantage was attacking in large numbers, using overwhelming numbers to overwhelm their foes.

Now in Kyoto, which was under siege from the BETA, they would have to watch out for some hiding in ambush within the buildings.

Our machines can detect them thanks to their advanced sensors, but how do we deal with them without the squad becoming suspicious? Lelouch thought, contemplating how to best proceed.

"Just remember the enemy hiding in the buildings," Lelouch said, reminding Yui who nodded in response.

"Roger that," Yui replied, remembering what had happened originally.

I hope I am wrong, but…

Lelouch's unease didn't diminish in the slightest, because thinking from their enemy's perspective Yui and Lelouch's Gundams represented a dangerous unknown. Up until this point the BETA had been able to steamroll their enemies, despite fierce resistance they would inevitably overwhelm their opponents . It was only a question of time.

But how would they respond to Lelouch and Yui's Gundams which managed to defeat an entire scouting vanguard with no losses and very quickly?

Claude said the enemy has a human-level intellect behind them capable of strategy and coordinating the BETA, Lelouch thought.

During the BETA's invasion of Earth, efforts have been made to communicate with the BETA, which humanity thought were some mindless horde that consumed everything in their path. Battles against them lead to situations that insinuated that something or someone intelligent was directing them given how the BETA conducted themselves and reacted to certain strategies. After some experiments humanity created humans, born in artificial wombs, with psychic abilities.

The amoral implications of the experiments that created such individuals aside, the results succeeded in which they gained a greater understanding of the BETA and communication was successful. However, the BETA do not see humanity as living creatures as only silicon-based lifeforms were the only living creatures to them, so peace wasn't possible. Defeating the BETA was humanity's only chance at surviving otherwise they would be wiped out.

Still if such an intelligence was behind such aliens, then Lelouch questioned how it would react.

If I was directing the BETA I would likely focus more of my forces to bolster their numbers, which keeps with their preferred tactic of overwhelming an enemy, Lelouch thought.

Lelouch wanted to be wrong, but he would soon learn his unease was justified.

Yui drew a beam saber before slashing a building in two, one she remembered a Destroyer-class had ambushed her from. The energy blade cut through the building easily, which caused the area around the slash to explode from suddenly being superheated. A few moments later, a dead Destroyer-class tumbled out, crumbling the building to the shock of everyone, except for Lelouch.

"A BETA? Hiding in the building," one of their squadmates exclaimed upon seeing the dead Destroyer-class.

"I am sorry for startling all of you, the Izanagi's sensors picked up a BETA class hiding in the building, its enhanced sensors were designed for such purposes to avoid ambush situations," Yui explained, but in her own cockpit Kazusa's expression hardened, suspecting something more behind it.

"Excellent work," Kaori said, praising Yui even as she rubbed her eyes, feeling the strain personally. "I want you and Lamperouge to check the buildings along our path to avoid any ambushes."

"Roger that," Lelouch and Yui replied.

"If the BETA have advanced this far into Kyoto to lay in ambush, we should assume the defensive lines on the city's outskirts and within it have been lost," Kaori said before noticing some fighting happening in the distance. "We should head towards one of the defensive lines, we'll head for Kyoto station, it's where one of the lines were established. Perhaps we can make contact with command."

"Roger that," the rest of the squad said together.

Lelouch and Yui were thankful Kaori wasn't questioning their actions, but the former was assuming it was due to their situation and their actions had kept everyone in the squad alive beyond the infamous Eight Minutes of Death. Since most inexperienced Tactical Surface Fighters pilots don't always survive their first sortie against the BETA.

It was an impressive feat to be sure, but now they would be entering unknown territory as they were in the path of the main BETA force literally flowing towards Kyoto like a river.

Is this what it was like for the Japanese Army when they faced Britannia?

Lelouch could only imagine what the Japanese Army might've thought and felt when they faced down the Britannian Army after they lost the battles for the sea and sky. To be faced with overwhelming numbers from the south, east and northeastern points of Japan. The BETA may have been attacking from one point in their invasion of Japan, but their numbers were much greater given the speed in how they've overran most of western Japan and those who tried to stop them. Despite the odds, Lelouch was certain most were defiant to the end, even if they knew victory was impossible.

I am sure Yui and her friends might be similar, but the rest of the squad? Lelouch thought, because while he knew a good deal about Aki, Izumi, Kazusa, and Shimako thanks to Yui, the rest of their squad he knew less about.

Advancing further into Kyoto, with Lelouch occasionally shooting a hidden BETA Destroyer-class in one of the nearby buildings with his wing mounted beam rifle. Yui used her beam sabers, since using the Beam Magnum in such close quarters was not only ill-advised, but it could upset the pilots in their ranks over Kyoto being destroyed and risk civilians still alive and in hiding, assuming they were alive somehow. The pair were finding one every few blocks they ventured through, and they weren't the only threats. Likely hiding among the deserted buildings and homes, were groups of Tank-class BETA.

The Tank-class is a smaller variant of BETA being over two meters tall, four-legged, two long arms and a set of powerful jaws that can bite through metal and concrete. Individually, they could be dispatched with infantry-portable heavy weapons, but the Tank-class BETA rarely travel outside of groups numbering in the hundreds or the thousands.

"Enemy contact," another squad member said, noticing a group of Tank-class BETA approaching them.

Lelouch saw them as did Yui, the red, four-legged BETA with powerful jaws rushing down one of the empty streets. Soon Lelouch detected more coming down another street near their location, noticing at least greater than a hundred more of them. The cadets with ammunition remaining began firing upon the Tank class BETA, but more kept coming. Tank-class were known for being remarkably fast in their movements. Lelouch and Yui joined in, using a combination of their CWIS head-mounted vulcans while Lelouch used the beam rifles mounted in his machine's wings to help, while drawing the Flame Beam Sabers, more powerful than the standard beam sabers possessing flame-like energy blades radiating intense heat, keeping them at the ready. His Gundam's tactical and AI co-pilot, A.L.I.C.E. System (Advanced Logistic & In-consequence Cognizing Equipment), automatically adjusted the VSBR to high speed setting, which instead of high destructive power delivered penetrating shots. Lelouch fired a spray of beams down the streets, even the buildings themselves offered no protection for the alien creatures as Lelouch's shots went through the buildings hitting their mark as Izanami Gundam's sensors detected them.

The Izanami Gundam kept its flame beam sabers at the ready, just in case any Tank-classes got close.

I don't recall Yui mentioning encountering this many Tank-class BETA until after their machines were downed, Lelouch thought, his fears confirmed that something had changed.

Yui was killing the advancing Tank-classes by the dozens, as were Lelouch, but they kept coming. But the rest of their squad wasn't as capable, because this remaining supply of ammunition was already getting dangerously low as some had to switch to swords to engage the Tank-class in melee.

"I'm on my last clip," Shimako reported, realizing she had only one clip left for her TSF's Type-87 Assault Cannon. She had already used up what she had left for the Type-87 Support Assault Cannon.

"Here, make them count!" Aki said, handing Shimako a spare clip, despite the fact that she was also running low too.

Among the squad they were giving their fellows what spare ammo clips they could, in the hopes of helping one another survive the BETA onslaught. Lelouch and Yui didn't face that problem other than the bullets for their head-mounted vulcans since their weapons were energy based and could be recharged once put away for a sufficient amount of time.

This is going to get bad if everyone runs out of ammunition though, Yui thought.

Unexpectedly another squad of TSF joined them, providing much needed support, but unlike the machines being used by Kaori and the others these TSFs were a Type-94-1C Shiranui Type-1C, having a more streamlined appearance than the Type-82F Zuikaku. Their arrival provided much needed relief for the rest of the squad and allowed them to hold back the hundreds of Tank-class BETA attempting to swarm them.

Lelouch and Yui didn't ease up in their own attacks as they continued killing the Tank-BETA classes attacking, with those slain quickly replaced by more arriving. The fight continued for another twenty minutes, as piles of Tank-class BETA began forming around them until finally the last of the attack swarm was killed.

The threat of the BETA was temporarily eliminated, for now, but it wouldn't be long before more would converge upon their location.

"Thank you for your timely assistance," Kaori said, talking to the squad leader of the second TSF squad.

"Not at all," A voice familiar to Yui replied.

"Instructor Sanada," Yui gasped, recognizing the voice.

"Its Captain Sanada now cadet, and congratulations on you and your squad surviving the Eight Minutes of Death," Kozou Sanada said from the cockpit of his Shiranui, he was a man in his late twenties or early thirties with a tanned complexion with one blue eye and one red, and brown hair. Just about every cadet in this unit was trained by him.

"I see," the Red Coat chuckled, "You've taught your students well," Kaori complimented.

"Thank you, but this isn't the place for idle chat."

"Agreed, what is the situation?" Kaori said as Kozou explained the current situation.

"The situation is bad for a lack of better words. The BETA have pushed all the way into Kyoto itself as you have seen. They began swarming in from Shikoku Island, and around the time we lost contact with the Arashiyama Base the Yawata Defense Line also fell."

"Why was this information kept from us?" Kaori was shaken and horrified that she hadn't heard a thing.

"'For the sake of morale and wanting those assigned to their part of the defense to hold the line as long as possible,'" Kozou answered in a high, condescending tone, but Kaori and Yui knew he agreed with Kaori's anger over this information being withheld. He had heard it from some higher up who didn't know what the hell was happening. Fortunately, his attitude changed a moment later with some good news, "However, all remaining forces in need of resupply are rallying at Kyōto Station. Some of the Americans are still present and are helping to hold the lines in several key areas. Those A-10s are really something else. They act like the mountain and the BETA have to assail the mountain in order to pass."

Kaori released a sigh of relief, "Understood, I'll take my squadron there to resupply before we return to the battlefield," Kaori said as her squad's next destination was set.

"We'll cover you," Kozou said as he reloaded his TSF's rifle, because in the distance an incoming horde of BETA including many Destroyer-class at the front and Grapplers just behind with many more in trail.

"Instructor," Aki said, fearful for their old instructor.

"You girls have done well to survive this far, and so I urge you to follow your commander. Live and keep fighting," Kozou said before he and his squad left to engage the approaching BETA.

"Let's go, you all need to be resupplied ASAP," Kaori said, but in her cockpit she saluted Kozou and his men as they hurried to hold off the BETA, knowing they wouldn't survive.

Yui knew it as well and so she saluted her former instructor, but regretted he was someone she couldn't save either. His wound was visible through the side of his TSF. Bleeding so extensively that he wouldn't survive even if he were able to pull back.

He was already prepared to give his life, I doubt anything we said could've swayed him and especially with that mortal wound, Yui thought as she and the rest of their squad left, heading for Kyoto Station.

The rest of the squadron was dangerously low on ammo, so they continued forward with Yui and Lelouch occasionally shooting a hiding BETA, mostly Destroyer-class, laying in wait for an ambush. Then, remembering a building Yui recalled from her previous experience of events used her Beam Magnum to shoot a building where she knew a Fort-class was hiding. Last time it had gotten the jump on her, Izumi and Kazusa, causing their TSFs to crash, leading to the deaths of the latter two.

Any potential alarm over discharging such a powerful weapon within the city limits was drowned out by the shock of a Fort-class having been lying in ambush.

Not this time, Yui thought as she saw the Fort-class fall over dead, half its body vaporized and the remains completely engulfed in flame as the acid in its body to be used by its stinger had flash erupted into flames.

"A Fort-class!?" Aki exclaimed, horrified. "How did one get so far in without it being seen?"

"Stay on your guard. It's possible the Kyoto Station might've been overrun if the BETA are this far in." Kaori warned, having a bad feeling about this, a feeling shared by Lelouch.

If the rest of the squad can't resupply we'll have a serious problem, Lelouch thought.

Already worrying was that they were now in unknown territory because at this point Yui and her last two friends were grounded by the BETA, leading to Izumi and Kazusa's deaths and Yui being rescued before she could share their fate. They were doing very well having survived to this point without any casualties so far.

Anything could happen at this point now.

The group approached Kyoto Station, but found it had been overrun by the BETA made up of Grappler-class, Destroyer-class and Tank-class. However around the station were Supply Containers, likely deployed to help the defenders resupply during the attack, if there was anything left they could take it. But the BETA in the area made that difficult, further complicated by the fact Kaori, Aki, Izumi, Shimako and Kazusa and the rest were nearly out of ammunition.

"Damn it, so the defense line has fallen here too," Kaori said, tightening her grip around the control sticks of her TSF in anger.

"What do we do?" Shimako asked, noticing the remains of two United Nations F-16 Falcons among the destroyed TSFs. Even the UN remained to fight to the bitter end.

"If we could get to those supply containers we could reload our weapons, but there are too many BETA around," Kaori said before Yui offered a suggestion.

"Lelouch and I can clear out the BETA, once the area is cleared that should be enough time to take what we can, if that is fine with you commander?"

Kaori weighed her options, it was too risky, but moving through a city infested with BETA without ammunition was even more so. Also fuel would soon start becoming a problem until they could retreat back to safety behind allied lines or, assuming if the Supply Containers had anything left, they could refuel now. She didn't like their chances of going further through Kyoto without either, so Kaori agreed.

"Alright, I'll leave it to you and Lieutenant Lamperouge then Warrant Officer Takamura," Kaori said.

"Thank you," Yui replied.

Lelouch prepared to fire the Izanami's primary weapon, but unlike before Lelouch set the mega particle cannon to a single beam, to avoid hitting the Supply Containers. He also adjusted the fire rate of the beam rifles in his wings, while he held his Gundam's Flame Swords, knowing they would be able to cleave through the tough hides of the Destroyer-class and Grappler-class BETA.

Lelouch was careful to avoid the Supply Containers, as Yui moved in and began attacking with flame beam sabers, cutting apart the Grappler-class and vaporizing the Tank-class BETA nearest to the Supply Containers. Lelouch used the Variable Speed Beam Rifles, gunning down the Tank-class and Grappler-class BETA in the immediate area, and another shot from the Izanami's Mega Particle Cannon to deal with the remaining BETA nearby.

Yui herself used her own beam sabers to cut down the remaining BETA, those too close to the supply containers that Lelouch couldn't risk shooting them. Then she moved on to deal with the BETA arriving to reinforce their fellows, seeking to eliminate them before they could join the battle as Lelouch dealt with the remaining enemies near the Supply Containers. Being extremely careful not to let the backwash or high energy intermix with the Supply Containers and risk an explosion. Outside of her Beam Magnum, Yui lacked any other ranged offensive options except for her machine's head mounted CWIS. However she spotted a discarded TSF rifle that was just big enough for her Gundam to pick up and use.

And use she did, discovering it was an American heavy rifle called the Avenger. Thankfully, it had a fully loaded swept the rifle through the ranks of Tanks and saw them just vanish into a fine, if somewhat meaty, mist. The Americans knew what they were doing when they decided to build their TSAs. This cannon is incredibly powerful!

The weapon soon clicked empty, but it had done its job well.

Seeing the enemy around the Supply Containers were gone as Lelouch and Yui continued working to keep the BETA at bay, Kaori saw their opportunity.

"Hurry to the containers, resupply as quickly as you can!" Kaori commanded as her squad hurried to the containers hoping there was something left they could use.

Luckily fortune smiled on them and the Supply Containers were still stocked with ammunition and weapons, Kaori even finding a trio of spare 36mm GAU-8 Avengers and their ammunition which she tossed to Yui and supplied Lelouch with. With that kind of covering fire, the remaining TSFs didn't waste time restocking their weapons and replacing those as needed, Kaori actually stowing her
Assault Cannon to acquire an Avenger as did Aki who immediately fell in love with the weapon. Once the TSFs had replenished their ammunition and replaced their weapons, Shimako even found an improved Assault Cannon with Sniper functions and claimed it. They started searching the Supply Containers for fuel for their machines.

Meanwhile Lelouch moved with Kaori's group to help defend the others against BETA attacks, while Yui continued to fight to hold the flanks by herself. Lelouch had to holster his Beam Mangum for now, not wanting to deplete all of its energy, to allow it to recharge before using a third firing of Izanami's Mega Particle Cannon, to wipe out the enemies nearby. The hundreds of Tank-class BETA proving to be the most troublesome to keep in check despite how many BETA Lelouch kept killing. However, in the minutes since Kaori and the rest of the squad reached the Supply Containers, those who stocked up on ammunition and having been fortunate in finding a supply container with fuel inside, they joined Lelouch and Yui in fending off the BETA until the rest of their squad was done.

They couldn't have finished a moment sooner, the number of BETA were increasing as more were converging upon their location. Likely in response to the large swaths of losses they were sustaining.

"If everyone is done resupplying, fallback, we're going to head to the nearest defense line to rendezvous with any remaining allies," Kaori commanded.

If the situation here is this bad, then the Japanese might've been forced out of the city, Lelouch thought as he could see what appeared to be areas of the city on fire, likely from the battle and Destroyer-class just steamrolling through everything.

But it was at that moment distant help arrived.

Explosions began chaining up and down the BETA's line of attack on them. Entire groups of BETA were being wiped out with seemingly pinpoint accuracy. But those who knew the ordnance knew otherwise.

"It's the navy!" Aki cheered as naval artillery fire landed in the city, breaking up large groups of BETA. "They're firing on the BETA!"

"And it's being walked this way!" Kaori realized, "Everyone, we are leaving!"

"Reload now to keep yourself stocked!" Kazusa called out as she replaced what she's just used.

The BETA, ignoring the artillery fire from the Biwa Sea, pressed forward to overrun the group.

Lelouch and Yui covered their escape, shots from their Beam Magnums killing dozens more BETA with a lot more Tank-Classes killed by the intense heat and backwash of the passing shots. Buildings either were ripped apart or melted where they stood with a number bursting into flames. Kaori and the rest of the squad provided cover fire before Lelouch and Yui pulled back, following in their flight from Kyoto Station as the artillery shots finally began to land home and BETA were blown to pieces, along with everything else behind the fleeing machines.

"Are there any defense lines still intact?" Aki asked over an open communication line.

Kaori had no answer, but soon she started picking up an incoming transmission.

"This is Major Kyoko Takatsuka of the Regent Houses, if there are any survivors please respond to this channel!"

"This is First Lieutenant Kaori Kisaragi of TSF Squadron White Fang, responding."

There was a sense of relief from Kyoko's voice hearing their squadron was alive.

"What is the status of your squad?"

"We managed to resupply using Supply Containers left behind at Kyoto Station, which had been overrun by the enemy. We were able to temporarily neutralize the BETA, but reinforcements and the naval artillery fire they were drawing forced us to abandon the station. We are now retreating to one of the other defense lines to rendezvous with the main force," Kaori answered, glad to be in contact with anyone at this point.

"Understood, I am impressed you managed to pull that off. We lost Kyoto Station to the BETA about an hour ago at best. We are having all combat-able units to rendezvous at these coordinates to mount a defense against the BETA to hold them back. I am gathering other survivors to aid in the defense, can your unit make it?"

The coordinates popped up on Kaori's feed while Lelocuh and Yui got them by accident due to their machines' being able to intercept and decode them.

"Yes, we'll head to the location you provided at once," just as the sounds of very heavy caliber shells began to be distantly heard and, just barely, the flashes of the large guns firing them could just barely be made out.

"Understood I'll meet you halfway as I am still searching for survivors, if you find any downed pilots on your way please rescue them if you can," Kyoko asked.

"Understood, and we already are, Lieutenant Kisaragi out," Kaori said before relaying their new orders. "Alright by order of the Royal Guard we are heading to a new defense line. Should we find any survivors or downed pilots along the way we are to pick them up, let's move."

"Roger that," Everyone said as they proceeded towards their destination.

Unfortunately barring their path were a group of Fort-class BETA aided by Grappler-class, Tank-class and Destroyer-class BETA, and behind them another similar group was trying to catch up to them.

"So the BETA has deemed me and Yui as the biggest threats so they are converging upon us to eliminate us," Lelouch said, worried that something like this would happen.

He wouldn't have minded being wrong quite frankly.

"They are trying to get us in a pincer move," Kazusa exclaimed seeing what the BETA were doing.

Lelouch responded by using Mega Particle Cannon to clear the area of as many BETA as possible while Yui used the Beam Magnum to begin dispatching the Fort-class BETA ahead of them. With a battle cry Izumi began firing her Assault Rifle at the BETA ahead of them, wiping out scores of Tank-classes, but the Grappler-class and Destroyer-class enemies would difficult to eliminate as they used their armored portions of their bodies to shield themselves from the attacks of the TSFs.

Lelouch's own beam magnum managed to clear them out with three shots fired into the charging group ahead of them. Yui charged forward intent on clearing a path for the rest of her squads and friends, but called to Lelouch. They were hesitant to use them in the city, but given the sheer number of the BETA surrounding them and given no time to tell if the buildings around them had any BETA hiding within, the pair saw little choice.

Thankfully no one protested their choice to use the powerful weapons within the city, as they knew the danger they were in.

"Connective Lelouch!"

Lelouch understood, if there was a time to use Coupling, this was it.

"Acception!"

The two Gundams entered Coupling Mode as the speed and agility of the Izanami Gundam skyrocketed, as it surged forward into the BETA lines decapitating Destroyer-class and Grappler-class BETA. Beam rifle fire and more shots from the Izanami's Mega Particle Cannon, combined with support fire from the rest of their squad.

Together they plowed through the BETA line leaving dozens of BETA types dead in their wake, but once they were clear of the enemies in their path, a Laser-class BETA managed to snipe one of the TSFs in their squads. The shot itself was a hard one to make, due to the buildings, so it was akin to threading a needle. Likely other Laser-classes were attempting to get a clear shot at the enemy far ahead of them, but there were simply too many obstructions.

Except for the one that managed to down Kazusa's TSF. Thankfully the hit wasn't enough to destroy her TSF instantly, but it was enough to cause it to crash into a building.

"KAZUSA!" Yui cried out in horror.

"I am on it," Lelouch said, feeling Yui's alarm through their connection, and he was in a more ideal position to help, while Aki put her newly acquired Avenger to good use to provide cover.

With no BETA nearby Lelouch reached Kazusa's downed TSF, moving enough for him to see the cockpit which was undamaged. The hatch opened and Lelouch saw Kazusa inside, alive and well, other than being badly shaken from the crash.

"Get on," Lelouch called out, glad that Kazusa was one of the ones without passengers, as he brought the Izanami's hand to the downed TSF's cockpit, as Kazusa leapt onto the Gundam's hand and brought it up to the cockpit's hatch. Lelouch opened it to allow Kazusa inside who managed to grab onto the side of Lelouch's seat to secure herself.

"Thank you," Kazusa said, grateful for the timely rescue.

However, Kazusa's TSF exploded a moment later. A Laser-class had managed to get a clear line of fire and shot the TSF in order to destroy both machines. The cockpit shook, but Lelouch and Kazusa were unharmed thanks to the Gundam's very durable construction as the machine sustained no damage. Lelouch used the Beam Shield to block against further laser attacks, fearing the explosion could've compromised the I-field even if it didn't, before hurrying to escape the area.

But while Lelouch was occupied with saving Kazusa he was attacked by a pair of Grappler-class BETA, one attacking from each side. Lelouch dealt with one by shooting it point-blank with the beam rifle mounted in the wings, but the other had a clear shot at Lelouch's back.

Until Kaori came in and gunned down the Grappler-class, striking all of its vulnerable points with her Avenger cannon.

"Get moving!" Kaori snapped as Lelouch got out of the line of sight of the Laser-class.

The group proceeded along with the BETA hot on their heels.

"Damn! It's like we got every BETA in the city after us," Kaori said as she helped cover the rear.

"How did we lose the capital like this?" Shimako, lamenting the loss of Kyoto and the many fond memories in this city.

"Just focus on reaching the rendezvous. We'll have time to fight back and maybe try to take it back from them," Yui said, trying to keep everyone focused on reaching their destination.

As they hurried through the city while zigzagging around buildings to keep them from being targeted by any more Laser-class BETA, swarms of Tank-class were quickly moving to intercept them. Lelouch and Yui used their Beam Magnums to clear the path ahead of them, vaporizing most Tank-class BETA, with even a near miss being enough to kill them. Followed by using their other weapons to eliminate any surviving BETA to ensure they were not a threat, pawing a clear path ahead. However, in response the Tank-class BETA began using the subway tunnels as a way to get close to their quarry without detection, since their small size made it harder for them to be picked up, not giving off as large of a heat signature as the Destroyer and Grappler-classes.

Yui and Lelouch did their best to keep the Tank-classes at bay, as did those with Avengers, but the ones moving through the subway managed to emerge nearby from the exits. Seeing that Yui and her squad were in danger, Kaori attacked, emptying a clip from her assault rifle, while other members of her squadron and Lelouch were dispatching them as they continued to flee from their relentless enemy.

"Look out Izumi," Shimako shouted, using her assault rifle to eliminate a group of Tank-class BETA that had gotten dangerously close.

"Thanks Shimako," Izumi said before using her own rifle to cut down more of the pursuing BETA.

"There are so many of them," Aki said as she noticed how she was already low on ammunition again.

"Keep calm, remember your training," Yui said. If her friends panicked then they would be overwhelmed in seconds.

Barely escaping from the Tank-classes that had attempted to ambush them, the group was getting ever closer to their destination.

Lelouch had lost track over how many BETA he had killed. It was inconceivable an enemy would keep sending many of its own troops to relentlessly advance. The BETA were no enemy Lelouch had ever expected to encounter and unlike themselves, the BETA had the hundreds or thousands to commit to such a siege.

He wondered how many they would have to kill before the BETA would halt their advance.

"Keep moving, we are almost there!" Kaori shouted as they were closer to the rendezvous point.

Yui used her machine's beam saber to kill another Destroyer-class that tried to ambush them, cutting through its armored hide and beheading the two heads hidden behind it. Lelouch used his machine's beam rifles to put down more Grappler-class BETA that kept chasing them through the city. They couldn't stay in one place for too long, as the longer they stayed, the risks of being overwhelmed increased.

Lelouch couldn't use the Mega Particle Cannon in scatter shot mode without being stationary for a minute or two, to gain the ideal firing solution, which would be deadly with the BETA so close by. The number of BETA attacking them was too much and it would put the rest of the squad at risk. Even when the Beam Mangum got low on shots, Lelouch had to holster it and use flame beam sabers and the wing-mounted beam rifles, to dispatch the BETA while also trying to protect the rest of the squad.

"Lieutenant!?"

Lelouch and Yui heard Aki's voice cry out as they saw that Kaori's machine was seized by a Grappler-class before it was slammed through a building and thrown into the path of a charging Destroyer-class. Yui was swift in avenging Kaori by decapitating the Grappler-class while Lelouch shot the Destroyer-class with his beam rifles.

"Lieutenant Kaori, are you alright?!" Shimako called out.

"Keep…keep moving, you are almost there. Takamura, you are in charge now," Kaori said as she was coughing up blood.

Tank-class BETA were already swarming her machine, using their teeth to begin tearing the machine apart while Kaori was badly wounded. She tried to trigger her Tactical Surface Fighter's self-destruction, but the device malfunctioned and the noise of the Tank-class trying to get into her cockpit grew louder.

"I need one of you to finish me," Kaori said, as she could barely move, a testament to the extent of her injuries. She couldn't even reach for the pistol she and all other TSF pilots kept in their cockpits to end themselves to avoid the worst case scenario.

Everyone hesitated, even Yui, but it was obvious they couldn't risk rescuing her yet alone lingering with the BETA after them. However, Kazusa put a hand on Lelouch's right hand before calmly asking him.

"Could you draw that powerful hand weapon you've been using?" Kazusa said solemnly before speaking into an open communication channel to reassure the squad. "I'll help him do it."

Lelouch was speechless. Although he hadn't known Kaori for very long, he didn't like the idea of delivering a mercy kill. Even if Kaori wasn't likely to survive even if they saved her, something about it just left a bad taste in his mouth. He set his finger on the trigger with Kazusa laying her's on top of his. Lelouch pretended to not notice her trembling.

With some reluctance and help from Kazusa, Lelouch pulled the trigger, striking the TSF and vaporizing Kaori, just as the Tank-class BETA had torn open her cockpit. Her TSF exploded, taking the Tank-class BETA that had swarmed it with her. Lelouch understood he would have to sentence people to their deaths' in his quest to overthrow Britannia, even stain his own hands, but to put a comrade out of their own misery? He did not care for the feeling and now was not the time to reflect on his actions so he buried the feeling.

No one had time to mourn the loss of their commanding officer, all they could do was keep running. As everyone ran for their destination before the BETA had a chance to recover and reorganize themselves once more. They still had some luck as the BETA that were still behind them were now struggling at catching back up due to the rain of artillery fire from the fleet in Lake Biwa. It bought them much needed time to flee and get ahead of the horde that had been nipping at their heels.

"WHY DO THEY KEEP COMING AT US IN SUCH NUMBERS?!" Shimako shouted in fear as a missile exploded at the head of the group and caused several Destroyer-class to topple over and slide across the ground, briefly acting as a barricade and stopping the BETA.

For now.

"Damn it, we're already low on ammo again," Izumi said, realizing they had nearly used up all of the ammunition they've taken from the supply drops.

"Where the hell is everyone?!" Aki shouted as they kept firing at the BETA as they continued making a run for their destination.

Other members of the squadron were on the verge of panicking, despite Yui's attempts to keep everyone calm.

"Remember your training, we have to stay calm!" Yui tried to reassure her friends.

"How can we stay calm? The BETA are right behind us and we are almost out of ammunition again." Aki said aloud what other members of the squad were thinking.

"Focus on surviving," Lelouch said, intervening. "We've made this far despite the odds. We know our allies are ahead, so we need to keep going!"

"What if the BETA has overrun them?" Shimako asked, terrified if Tango Line had suffered that fate by chance.

"Then we'll keep pushing forward until we rendezvous with them. You are supposed to be members of the Royal Guard, descended from samurai. Did anyone in your family panic during a battle, when they met on the battlefield with swords? I am certain none of you would be here if they did, and you are entrusted with Japan's defense despite your incomplete training. That is why we must survive, and endure. Or is this how you want your families to remember you?" Lelouch said, trying to inspire them to keep fighting.

"R-R-Right," Shimako said.

"We made it this far," another member of the squad said. She was a young woman around Yui's age with dark brown hair styled into a pair of small pigtails and brown eyes.

"Sayuri and Lelouch are right, we must as well keep going," another member of the squad, a girl with long brown hair with a blue hairband, and brown eyes.

"Yeah and I think the BETA seemed to have stopped," another girl with long black hair and gray eyes said, sounding hopeful.

"Be careful with that kind of thinking Kasumi and Ayame," Yui warned, worried about a last second jinx. "The BETA swarm as a whole might've given up on us, but we aren't out of danger yet. Stay alert until we rendezvous with allied units."

"Roger that," Kasumi and Ayame said together.

No one else said a word or showed signs of panicking, which Lelouch took as a positive, just not quite a good sign.

As Kasumi noticed, the explosions of artillery fire from Lake Biwa had seemingly shaken off the BETA pursuit for the time being. Perhaps they were organizing themselves for a continued push forward through the rest of Kyoto in order to silence those ships?

Regardless, Lelouch, Yui and the others didn't let this chance pass by and hurried ahead.

The Coupling System had finally worn off by this point, but Lelouch took a deep breath as he tried to relax his mind and body. He suspected it might be needed again once the cool-down period had passed, because he doubted their fight would end once they reached their destination. They had to endure the heavy bombardment of Kyoto that was carried out. Lelouch and Yui's Gundam's detected the long range assault on the city by Japan naval forces stationed in Lake Biwa and the United States Navy supporting from the coast off Osaka given the types of ammunition used and some random intercepts of radio chatter.

That had been by far the largest and heaviest of all bombardments that they had seen or endured.

So Kyoto has been declared lost then, Lelouch said as his Gundam could see in the distance behind them the areas lost to the BETA being the focus of their bombardment.

Lelouch didn't know it yet, but Japan wasn't ready to give up on Kyoto and would fight the BETA for every inch of the city. With revitalized allies at their side and a new commander to oversee the fighting, the Japanese had been reinvigorated and were ready to strike again. Already the reserves were moving into position. The battle wasn't over yet. It wouldn't be for some time.
After making it across the Kamo River, they were approaching their destination, the defensive line set up around Kyoto National Museum. The more open grounds made it a suitable staging area for setting up a defensive formation and receiving airdrops of Supply Containers. However, Lelouch noticed something relieving and worrying, he and the others found the area leading up to the museum littered with the bodies of the BETA. This was a good sign the BETA advance had been stopped, but what worried Lelouch was what kind of condition the defenders were in?

He, Yui and the others had their answer when they arrived.

The defenders had successfully held the line, but they had clearly taken some heavy casualties for it. Over a dozen Type-94-1C Shiranui TSF had been destroyed, and the three that remained were barely functional, some having lost an arm, or two, and were generally badly damaged.

Our approach must've given these defenders a temporary reprieve from the BETA onslaught to attack us, but they needed that break otherwise this line would've been lost too, Lelouch thought.

"Who is in command here?" Yui asked, calling out to the remaining TSF defenders.

"Who is asking?" one of the pilots inquired, sounding understandably stressed out.

"Eishi Takamura Yui, acting commander of White Fang Squadron, Imperial Royal Guard. We were ordered to come here at the direction of Eishi Takatsuka Kyoko," Yui answered strictly.

"Right, please forgive me," the pilot replied, realizing he was out of bounds and that Yui, as part of the Royal Guard, held authority over him. "Lady Takatsuka left some time ago to find survivors, ordering those she found to rally here. Your arrival proves she has been successful in finding some."

Or chose to die fighting to delay the BETA advance as long as possible, Lelouch thought, thinking of Captain Sanada and his unit.

"I assume she hasn't returned yet," Yui asked, worried for her cousin.

"No she has not, and we were beginning to fear the worst might've happened until you arrived," The pilot of the damaged TSF replied. "I'm confident now she is safe, no matter what."

Yui felt emotional, because Kyoko was like an older sister, even if they were cousins, but she also knew she was a highly capable pilot and wouldn't have fallen so easily. Regardless it was clear they had to hold this line as long as they could. Looking around Yui could see scores of injured soldiers and pilots recovered from their destroyed machines, those lucky enough to survive at least, and tank operators who managed to survive up to this point were being loaded onto trucks to take to safety.

"I understand, then we will help hold this line as long as we can."

As if sent by divine intervention, fresh Supply Containers were dropped just beyond the defense line for Yui and her squad.

"Lelouch I would like you to use the Izanami's tactical computer to track the BETA's movements, keep an eye on their movement patterns and call them out as necessary. Offer counter tactics as needed and use your machine's main weapon to carry out crowd control, and your I-field to create a safe zone for our allies to replenish themselves as needed," Yui instructed, which caused a light smile to appear on his face.

Thank you, Yui, you've basically given me tactical command of the defense line.

"Understood, I'll issue tactical counters as needed. "He also punched in the communication line they had intercepted from the Japanese and American transmissions. The operator was surprised to hear from them, but happy to learn that another squad had survived the retreat from Kyoto and that a defensive line had managed to hold. He handed over his squadron's Callsign ID and current location.

"Welcome to the Net! Glad to hear you're still alive," the operator on the other end confirmed his unit's ID, "Units on standby for tasking. Callsign Starbase-Six is in command. Be advised, we're attempting to send reinforcements your way right now, but we got a lot of trouble in another area. A bunch of Fort-class showed up and are requiring special attention."

"Copy all," Lelouch was just glad for the support, "Connect me to Starbase-Six. Got a feeling I'll be making the call for support very soon."

"Copy that." Lelouch signaled Yui he had reestablished connection with command.

"Kazusa, since you are inside with Lelouch, help be an extra set of eyes for him. I am sure the BETA will attempt to flank us at some point," Yui commanded even as a surviving Tank platoon rolled past her feet, survivors on the decks looking up in amazement at the new machines.

"Right, I'll help him as needed," Kazusa said from inside the cockpit next to Lelouch.

"Shimako I want you to cover Lelouch along with any TSF unfit for direct combat against the BETA to both protect him, the Supply Containers and to provide support fire when needed," Yui said.

"Right, I won't let you down," the girl responded as she finally pulled out the sniper cannon she picked up earlier. She noticed it was British made instead of American.

"Aki, Izumi, Ayame, Kasumi, and Sayuri are with me," Yui ordered as the audible sound of orbital drop pods broke somewhere in the distance, signaling additional reinforcements for someone. "Now all of you who can fight resupply quickly."

"Roger that," Aki, Izumi and others replied even as a group of SPGs pulled in, calling for fuel and ammo as survivors were helped off the decks of the vehicles or out of their crammed interiors.

Thankfully they had enough time for Aki, Izumi, Shimako and the others to replenish their ammunition and fuel as needed.

Lelouch modified and expanded the I-field his Gundam produced to a wide area around him, which should be enough to protect the supply containers, but also any TSFs that entered. Providing a safe zone for the TSFs to resupply while at the same time offering protection from potential laser attacks, should Laser-class BETA take the nearby hills.

They completed their preparations, even getting four American A-10 Thunderbolts thumping in and a trio of Japanese A-6J/Type-81 Wadatsumi TSAs waddling in. Just in time as the BETA renewed their push forward, having reorganized the swarm with a line of Destroyer-classes leading the charge followed by Grappler-classes and at least ten Fort-classes following behind them. Likely hundreds of thousands of Tank-classes and the smaller Soldier-class BETAs ran among the advancing wave. It was terrifying. No matter how many they killed, the BETA swarm was relentless. Even more frightening was seemingly how fast they were able to replenish their numbers.

If creatures like the BETA ever invaded my Earth, I fear as it is now humanity wouldn't stand a chance, Lelouch thought, determined to face them, despite a part of him feeling anxiety at facing such an unrelenting and inhuman enemy.

"Firing first volley," Lelouch said as soon as the BETA were in range, using his Gundam's Mega Particle Cannon in focused beam mode, moving his Gundam from one side to the other creating a cleaving beam that demolished any remaintain buildings, and cutting into the BETA ranks. The focused particle beam cut down dozens of Destroyers, Grapplers, and more than hundreds of Tank-class
BETA along with an unknowable number of Soldier-types.

The Izanami Gundam's beam rifles switched to low speed, focusing on high destructive shots, and further range. Whatever his mega particle cannon or beam magnum didn't get, Lelouch could deal with them from a distance and lay down some more cover fire for the others without fear of harming them with the beam magnum.

Then the Wadatsumi pilots opened up with their 120mm guns. With six of them available, the group had some serious firepower to add. They were picking off the most dangerous targets. Those were the Laser- and Heavy Laser-class types.

Lelouch would fire both his beam magnum and charged particle cannon again as soon as his machine could, but in the meantime Yui and the rest of the squad were not idle. Yui was firing shots from the Beam Magnum into the BETA advance, wiping out any Destroyers not slain by Lelouch's initial attacks. The shots vaporized the Destroyers and anything near enough as they cut into the BETA ranks. The Dual-Linked Variable Speed Beam Rifles of the Izanami Gundam sniped enemy targets, each shot was more than powerful enough to down the larger BETA, and when a group of Tank-classes were hit, the resulting explosions either wounded them or killed them, reducing their numbers.

"Enemy Destroyers are beginning to move towards the sides on flanking maneuvers from the north and south of your position Yui," Lelouch warned. "I advise dealing with the south and center, I'll cut down their numbers from the North. TSAs, hold the line slightly off axis from me. You should be able to fire into one group's flank."

"Roger that," Yui replied, holstering her Beam Magnum so it could recharge.

"Moving to intercept," one of the Americans replied.

Yui began using the Izanagi's Beam Magnum to begin taking out any BETA within range that approached while Izumi, Aki and the others focused on the BETA attacking from the front and trying to flank them from the south. Meanwhile Lelouch fired another volley, but this time used his own Beam Magnum to devastate the BETA's flanking advance from the north, given their angle as they were about to encircle Yui and her friends Lelouch was able to secure a higher number of kills.

Lelouch couldn't get a clear shot from his position at the advancing BETA with his own Beam Magnum, but considering the number of Tank- and Soldier-class BETA likely advancing through them Lelouch deemed it worth the risk. He fired four shots, being safe enough away, although most impacted buildings, the explosions and intense heat of each shot dispatching any Tank-classes trying to get a jump on his position, hopefully.

"Ayame, you have a pair of Grapplers and a swarm of Tank-classes heading your way from the northwest," Lelouch warned.

"Understood," Ayame replied, taking notice of the advancing BETA group.

"Aki, could you lend a hand to Sayuri and Kasumi? They are against a swarm of Tank-class. Just keep them at bay, I'll be firing upon them in a moment," Lelouch asked as he was already creating a firing solution.

"Roger that," Aki replied, swapping for her Avenger and moving to reinforce Kasumi and Sayuri.

"Everyone stay mindful of your ammunition, when you are down to your last mag say so, that way we can cover for you while you resupply," Yui ordered, hoping to create an efficient rotation to maintain the line while those in need of resupply can fallback without any concerns.

"Roger that," Izumi, Aki, Sayuri, Ayame, and Kasumi said together, as Lelouch rained down more death upon the BETA. He was cutting down their numbers as low as he could before they reached Yui's position.

We're doing well so far, but the BETA still far out number us, and we don't have the numbers to hold this position indefinitely, Lelouch thought. From a tactical standpoint they needed a greater number of TSFs for an ideal defensive strategy against such a foe, even with the advantage the seven TSAs were providing.

The tanks and SPGs that had rallied here were positioned to defend the line to their best of their admittedly not quite limited quality. Tanks were more than sufficient to kill Tank-class or smaller BETA. The SPGs were making themselves known to the Laser- and Heavy Laser-class and there was little the BETA could do to respond to them as they fired and relocated too quickly.

Several armored jeeps equipped with rockets and missiles were also adding their weight to the fight. As were other conventional vehicles. The few AH-64 Apaches, a mix of American and Japanese, that had arrived to support them were a big help as well.

But they needed more TSFs and TSAs.

Starbase-Six had been quick to provide support. At least two Battleships and six Heavy Cruisers were now on detail to support them. They also got the odd long range fire support from TSFs equipped with missiles as well. Those were launched from the USS Theodore Roosevelt.

He was still confident they could hold this defensive line, but how long was still the question.

And could they do it without any more losses?

Lelouch holstered his Beam Magnum to recharge it, but took a moment to calibrate the heat sensors of the Gundam to try and pick up any approaching Tank-class BETA. Aside from those that could still get around Yui and the others, there were some that could still attack from the subways using the tunnels to move unnoticed. Individually the sensors could probably not pick them up, but since they traveled in large groups, Lelouch hoped his Gundam could notice them well in advance.

As Lelouch continued to pick off the BETA from a distance with the Izanami's Mega Particle Cannon and occasionally when it was ready, the Beam Magnum. The Gundam's Dual-Linked Variable Speed Beam Rifles were being used to eliminate targets too close for comfort or at least to cut down the enemy to make them more manageable for Yui and the others. Lelouch continued to cut down their numbers as much as he could. Even if none of them reached their intended targets, clearing out the buildings eliminated the potential hiding place for Tank-class BETA.

The A-10 pilots had seen what he was up to and provided some advice while also throwing down some fire in areas that Lelouch suspected some Tank- and Soldier-class BETA to be.

So far, so good.

Yui and her friends were fending off the BETA, even if their numbers were considerable. Thanks to Lelouch's tactical directions and crowd control using his Gundam's main weapon the BETA were manageable. At least to a point they were not being overwhelmed, for now.

"They aren't moving forward another inch," Aki said as she mowed down a group of Tank-class BETA trying to swarm her.

Aki was fighting fiercely as was the other squad mates, using their assault rifles to eliminate as many Tank-class BETA as possible while assisted by Izumi's close support. Izumi was using her TSF's newly acquired Type-74 PB Blade in an effort to conserve ammunition. At the same time Izumi enjoyed cutting down the BETA with a blade even if she tried to convince herself otherwise.

"Die, die," Izumi said in a vengeful fury that wasn't easily satisfied. She was still more than mindful of her surroundings, pulling back from the Grappler-class she had killed to avoid being struck by another.

With a battle cry Izumi charged the Grappler-class, dodging one swing of its armored limb before cutting it off in response and cutting off the head-like appendage on top of its body before delivering a killing blow.

"They took him from me, I'll kill them all," Izumi said with barely restrained fury and sorrow.

"Uh, should we do something about that," Aki remarked, growing very worried about Izumi, even if she did understand her sorrow at losing her beloved boyfriend.

"She is being mindful of her surroundings, as long as it doesn't compromise her ability to fight, then nothing we can really do," Yui said. Although she did share Aki's worries about Izumi, this was not a good place to talk about it.

Yui wasn't wrong though, as much as Izumi was letting her rage and desire for vengeance for the loss of her boyfriend drive her, she did maintain enough clarity and awareness of her surroundings to avoid the BETA from getting the better of her. In essence this made her much more dangerous to the BETA as her drive for vengeance had given her a keen awareness of what was happening around her.

Furthermore, Lelouch's words had also caused that drive for vengeance to meld with an equally powerful drive to survive. The longer she lived, the more BETA she could kill until they were defeated. It gave Izumi more than enough cause to kill the BETA whenever she faced them, but also ensured her own survival to continue her cause.

Even then Yui was keeping an eye on her and Aki, intent on ensuring they would survive.

Yui herself killed another Grappler-class, before using a shot from a recharged Beam Magnum to kill an approaching horde of Tank-class and shooting at more Destroyer-class approaching from three different directions.

Please be alright Kyoko, Yui thought, hoping her cousin would show up and aid them.

One Destroyer-class did manage to survive long enough to get into a running charge towards Yui, but she used the Izanagi's Beam Magnum to cut it down by blasting a crimson beam through its main body.

"Yui, we got Sayuri and Kasumi falling back to resupply," Aki reported, now trying to cover for their two squad mates as one of the Type-81s moved up to support them.

"Understood, they know to hurry, and Lelouch's actions have been helpful in keeping the BETA more manageable," Yui said.

"Right."

"Yui, Aki and Izumi, you have a swarm of Tank-class BETA coming up from the south with a dozen Destroyers covering some Grapplers coming from the northwest," Lelouch warned even as the A-10 pilots reported they needed to start pulling back to resupply.

The Type-81s weren't much better off either.

"Understood. Did you hear him?" Yui said, addressing her question to Aki and Izumi.

"Roger that," Izumi and Aki said together, but the latter added, "What about those Fort-classes coming?"

Aki's question was answered by a crimson beam shooting across the sky, downing the one nearest to their location.

"Lelouch can hit them easily from here," Yui replied.

The Fort-class in the distance, while a danger, was in Lelouch's ability to manage and to deal with them. Not just by his Gundam's main weapon, their towering height made them easy targets for his Beam Magnum. And the switching between the low and high settings of the Izanami Gundam's Variable Speed Beam Rifles, enabled Lelouch to continue killing many BETA, even hiding behind buildings offered them no safety as a high penetration shot demolished any barriers, like buildings, they tried to use.

Meanwhile Shimako and the damaged TSF helping her defend Lelouch and the Supply Containers were fending off some Tank-classes that had managed to get around Yui and the others. Lelouch's earlier efforts had lessened their numbers, but they were a potential danger especially since Lelouch was dealing with the oncoming Fort-classes.

Yui asked me to defend Lelouch and our supplies, I cannot let her down, Shimako thought.

Among her friends, Shimako had known Yui the longest, having known each other since small children due to her family being good friends with Yui's father. They have since gone to the same schools together and have been friends ever since, although Shimako felt something different that went beyond being friends. The kind her family would never approve of. Even so, Shimako was determined to follow Yui wherever she went and support her without being a burden.

Furthermore she did owe Lelouch for saving her life and Yui trusted him, so that gave her even more reasons to defend this area.

Yet…

Why does Yui trust him so much? I've known her for ages, but she never mentioned him, and I don't recall any point in which she could've gone long enough for weapon testing, Shimako thought.

Shimako suspected Yui wasn't being completely honest, but knew well enough she would never lie which meant she must have a good reason to hide the truth.

They were questions that would have to wait until after the battle, giving her another reason to survive and not let Yui down.

"Shimako you got more Tank-classes incoming from the southwest," Lelouch warned, as he spared a Beam Magnum shot to cut down the incoming horde as much as he could.

Most were vaporized, but some scattered remnants of the hundred-strong horde managed to survive and continued charging at Shimako and Lelouch's position.

"Lelouch, focus on helping support Yui and the others, I can handle this," Shimako said, steeling herself.

"Very well," Lelouch said, he had his doubts, but the A-10s had managed to resupply and were clearing out the invading Tank-class, though if those Fort-classes got too close they could be a problem serious enough to undermine that effort.

I am not going to panic, not again. I will not, Shimako thought, gripping the control sticks of her TSF. I will not be a burden to Yui!

Aiming her assault rifle, Shimako opened fire, cutting down the scattered Tank-class BETA. She was joined by the other damaged TSF units, aiding her in eliminating the stragglers. More were still coming, but they were far enough away that Shimako could pick them off from a distance, the zoom features were wonders that made her grateful she snatched up the rifle when she found it.

"Kyoto Station has been reclaimed!" a jubilant voice abruptly reported over the radio, but no one really paid it mind as they were having their own troubles they were trying to get into hand.

Some Tank-class were able to close the distance and get under the shield. Shimako attacked them, holstering her rifle and drawing her TSF's Type-65 PB Knife. The damaged TSFs opened fire while Shimako didn't allow her fear to get the better of her. She attacked using the knife, cutting apart any Tank-classes that got too close. Using the secondary-arm attachments of her machine, dubbed the Mount Pylon system, using both her assault rifle and her support weapon, the Type-87 Support Assault Cannon, to fire upon the Tank-classes, an idea Shimako got from observing the damaged TSFs using the sub-arms in place of their missing arms.

"Stay back," Shimako snapped, determined not to fail.

She impaled one leaping Tank-class on her combat knife, while the rest she was gunning them down with the rifles attached to her sub-arms. With a battle cry to push herself forward and power through her fear, Shimako began pushing back the BETA, leaving Tank-classes dead, but thankfully she was keeping them at a safe distance.

Lelouch breathed a sigh of relief. He worried that he was going to have to intervene, but Shimako proved he had nothing to worry about despite her earlier panic.

"We got her covered," one of the A-10s signaled Lelouch as the pair deployed their famed CIDS-1 Javelin System and Lelouch had to admit, that was a clever idea.

We just need to hold out, Lelouch thought.

The situation improved as Lelouch looked up to see what was above him as the Gundam detected a team of UN-affiliated F-16 Falcons belonging to Orbital Divers come in to land on their position even as a company of surviving vehicles and two Shiranuis arrived to join their defenses as well.

More reinforcements and survivors, Lelouch thought with some surprise. But will it be enough to last?

Watching the battle unfold as Lelouch and Yui made a stand to hold the line, Claude was amused by their struggle, but also impressed by the fact not only did they keep Izumi, Aki, Shimako and Kazusa alive, but they managed to keep the rest of the squad alive. Claude was sitting in a movie theater style room with a bucket of popcorn while lazily reclining in a plush pink seat.

"You two are doing so much better than I thought, but then again she has the Man of Miracles with her. Even if he hasn't become Zero, Lelouch has the touch especially in the right conditions," Claude said before eating a handful of popcorn.

She smiled wondering what would happen next.

Time passed with Aki and Izumi returned to resupply once Sayuri and Kasumi had finished their third and returned to rejoin Yui. As they did Lelouch noticed the sun beginning to rise. What Lelouch didn't know and what Aki and Izumi were discovering was that they were out of supplies. The containers were depleted of ammunition and fuel.

A situation made worse as other survivors wandered in or arrived to join them. Several more drops of resupply had happened through the night, but there had been nothing for a while now. Same with reinforcements as they were no longer getting anymore and Starbase-Six reported they had to withdraw to resupply themselves.

They had gotten a brief support from some American Rocket Batteries, but they had to withdraw to resupply as well. There was just too much demand and not enough ammo to go around it seemed.

"We made it through the night, but I don't think we can hold out any longer," Aki said, wondering if she should break the news before Izumi does.

It's morning I can't believe we made it through the night, Lelouch said surprised.

Looking around Lelouch sees BETA corpse piles around him and near where Yui was. In fact the corpse piles had grown so high she and the others had to pull back. Like him, Kazusa was surprised they had held out, but she knew their survival was thanks to the machines Lelouch and Yui had been piloting.

It only made her want to know the truth behind those machines and what Yui was hiding.

Suddenly her thoughts were interrupted by lasers hitting the Izanami Gundam's expanded I-field, causing Lelouch and Kazusa to call out to Yui and the others.

"Everyone pull back we got Laser-class on the hills," Lelouch and Kazusa shouted.

Yui reacted immediately as did Sayuri and Kasumi who followed suit. Using her beam shield, Yui deflected their shots while protecting her fellow squad mates. Izumi and Aki stayed under Lelouch's shield, providing cover fire as they retreated.

"Crap! Everyone pull back!" one of the UN pilots shouted suddenly and Lelouch saw BETA advancing over the Orbital Divers' position before the Wadatsumis forced them back with devastating point blank fire.

But even so, the Laser-class in the hills made completely reclaiming the position impossible. Or even feasible.

In response Lelouch turned the Izanami Gundam to face the Laser-class on the hill, having already figured out their locations. He fired Beam Mangum, and they were just within effective range allowing Lelouch to eliminate them.

But this presented a problem.

If Laser-class BETA have taken the hills, then the rest of the swarm has likely begun trying to surround us, Lelouch thought, realizing it was no longer safe to hold this position.

But before Lelouch could recommend they retreat before they were surrounded, explosions erupted on the hills south and north of them. Another chain of explosions ravaged the advancing BETA, and they were followed by a new voice on the communications line.

"I apologize for returning late, but I brought reinforcements," Kyoko Takatsukasa said, arriving from the north towards their position.

She wasn't alone, following behind her were ten Type-77/F-4J Gekishin, the standard TSF used by the Imperial Army with limbs slightly bulkier than the Zuikaku. Kyoko's TSF, assuming she was piloting the lead machine, was blue making it stand out. The Type-98XR Takemikazuchi, Tactical Surface Fighter, painted blue as a symbol of belonging from one of the Five Regent Families. The Takemikazuchi was similar to the Shiranui, but with a more streamlined and advanced design.

Explosions continued erupting on the battlefield as Lelouch realized they were artillery strikes raining down on the BETA to halt their advance. Behind them, Lelouch saw more TSFs showing up, a mix of Gekishin, Zuikaku and Shiranui units with further units advancing on their flanks.

They immediately took the place of Yui and Lelouch's group as they took up positions to halt the BETA advance. Meanwhile the blue Takemikazuchi approached them, as the face of a young woman in her late teens or early twenties appeared on the screens in White Fang Squad's cockpits. She had long blue hair tied into a bun with blue eyes and wearing the same kind of flight suit as Izumi and the others, but hers was blue and black.

"I must apologize for my late arrival, but I must also offer my sincerest gratitude. I confess I was worried this defense line would've collapsed, but you managed to hold it throughout the night." Kyoko said, before letting her serious expression soften to one of relief and gratitude. "As a member of the Five Regent Houses, and representing the Shogun on her behalf, I commend your bravery and efforts, well done."

"Thank you, ma'am you are too kind," Yui said, while the rest of the group, which Lelouch followed along with to avoid offending her and causing unwanted trouble, bowed their heads in respect.

"Thanks to those I managed to find and bring to safety, and the time you brought us. We were able to mobilize and gather forces to reinforce this defense line," Kyoko said before her relief turned to one of regret. "I would've joined you, but I had heard the defense line was collapsing so I took those I found to a defense line further back. But when I heard from the wounded soldiers sent back from this defense line you have been holding it, I convinced the Shogun to let me mobilize reinforcements to provide support."

"Thank you, but what happens now?" Yui asked even as a pair of American F-16s skated by, above her head while helicopters began to land to recover any wounded and those without transportation to head for the rear.

"You lot have fought all night and accomplished more than what a battalion of TSFs couldn't. We can secure this defense line for now while the BETA regroup to resume their advance," Kyoko said, eying the heavily reinforced position as survivors from defeated units had streamed in to help bolster its defenses. "I would like you all to accompany me back to base, we have much to talk about."

Even as she said that, more Supply Containers and Orbital Divers arrived overhead. Additionally, more vehicles and conventional troops arrived. Along with Power Armored soldiers as well.

They began relieving the defenders, all of whom praised the White Fang Squadron and the two new machines for enabling them to survive the night.

To the surprise of various commanders, they learned that not one ally had been wounded or killed since White Fang had arrived at the FOB. Instead, they held the defense line without a break all night long. They even managed to protect those who had managed to break through the BETA to reach them.

Even civilians that hadn't evacuated had arrived and were now being loaded into trucks to carry them to safety. Not one of them had died. They all had made it despite the impossibility of it.

It truly was… a miracle.

One that people would come to call the Miracle of Kyoto.

A/N:
Whew the Battle for Kyoto is over, for now, and Yui and Lelouch succeeded in ensuring Shimako, Izumi, Kazusa and Aki survived the battle. Tragically the loss of Kaori was unavoidable. Its not that I wasn't against her surviving, it was debated between me and silkdreamweaver, and we ultimately concluded it would be best for Lelouch's plan to suffer one failure in that Kaori dies, but Lelouch would have to mercy kill her with Kazusa's help, something he won't forget easily I can assure you. It might not affect him much now, but you'll be seeing the signs.

But does this mean Lelouch will begin on going from world to world with Yui, well not yet.

Remember Japan in Muv Luv was badly devastated by the BETA, for those who hadn't played the game or watch the anime by the following month after the invasion was a staggering 36 million. Much of which was due to the navy being impeded by a hurricane and storms around the time of the invasion and evacuations from Kyushu, and while the Japanese had adequate equipment they lacked a solid defense strategy following the loss of Kyushu. The novel surrounding events even hint at signs of complacency among the people of Japan, while they had defenses ready at Kyushu the seemingly lack to take the threat of the BETA serious reflected in the general public. But not to be unfair to the Japanese, the USA, despite their alliance were hesitant to commit forces for head on assaults against the BETA, engagements the American military avoided and clashes on finding an agreeable strategy didn't help things. The Japanese high command withholding news on falling defense lines for the sake of keeping morale at the cost of lives didn't help matters as shown in the chapter.

Which is why, or part of it the early story is spend in sixteen chapters in the world of Muv Luv, Lelouch has to be sure his sponsors in Japan can hold out without loosing anymore ground to the BETA and the reason for events in the next chapter, to ensure Lelouch wouldn't be tied down in Japan fighting the BETA for the whole story.

Now due to me changing the age of Lelouch, I did decide to reset the poll which I did use the chance to cut out those who were under performing among the Muv Luv candidates while adding in Martica Barchenowa (who only appeared in the light novel and was cut out of the anime) in response to people asking I include Cryska Barchenowa, which I wasn't expecting and I was planning to pair with Yuuna Bridges, although I did reconsider this I opted instead, at the suggestion to another after some discussion, to use Martica instead who is Cryska's twin sister and who was never paired with anyone...so.

I will say the only reason I considered it was because outside of Yui Takamura, Shimako Kai and Kazusa Yamashiro the rest of the harem hasn't been worked out for Lelouch. Part of this is intentional on my part, because given the other candidates, not just from Muv Luv alone, you got Gundam and other anime series I need to consider. So my plan was to have them interact with Lelouch and see which of them had the best chemistry.

Because remember I am putting a hard limit on the harem for a total of nine for Lelouch, meaning with Yui, Shimako and Kazusa in it, there is only room for six more candidates. So I got to figure who out of the potential one hundred potential candidates for Lelouch's harem who will be the very best candidates who can offer the most for the story and Lelouch's relationship with them, etc.

Which is why I hadn't put in Cryska into the harem by default or Martica for that matter. Because I do admit the Cryska and Yuuna pairing is a good one, and Lelouch might potentially end up with Stella or Cui so I am trying not to take too much away from him or Takeru for that matter. And I am not against Cryska and Lelouch ending up together if I can be convinced it will be better than any of the other possible pairings I am still deliberating on.

I am also trying to avoid being unfair to the other anime series involved in this story yet to appear by not stuffing Lelouch's harem with Muv Luv characters, but due to the state of their world and the characters I do admit I could work them into a polygamous relationship with Lelouch easily as well as possibly those from Infinite Stratos and Undefeated Bahmaut Chronicles.

BUT it still boils down to the question who would fit with Lelouch the best out of all of the candidates who could work? But with the ages for Lelouch and other being uped I am exploring ways on narrowing down the field of candidates so here are the direct links, just reassemble the links and replace the dots, to the polls. I've broken up the candidates into three separate polls to try and make it easier to vote. The goal is to narrow it down to a smaller candidate pool, like I did with the Gundam candidates with Redrat8's help, since not many Gundam characters are likely to be open to a polygamous relationship.

Muv Luv harem candidates poll for Lelouch

The everyone else poll (Code Geass, Sunrider, Infinite Stratos, etc)

Gundam candidates poll for Lelouch

Remember characters winning the poll don't win a spot in the harem automatically, it just means they'll be given a fair shot at Lelouch to determine if they can earn a spot. After all they have to be A: ok with a polygamous relationship since Yui, Shimako and Kazusa will be romantically involved with Lelouch before anyone else can join the harem. B: How they would meet (this applies to some characters who are part of nations and other worlds outside of Code Geass and Muv Luv chapter), and if they could stay with Lelouch's group. C: (most important) what can they bring to the relationship and the story by being part of the harem?

Ok that is enough of this author note for me, I hope you enjoyed the chapter and coming up next Lelouch is going to meet his new instructor to give him some extra training and potentially a new squad he will lead. Yui will be his main companion, but the ship will need more than two Gundams to provide protection.
Thanks for reading the story so far. Next chapter in two weeks on Fanfiction.net, Archive of Our Own, Questionable Questing and Spacebattles.

StrifeHavoc · Apr 11, 2024

Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, F-14 Tomcat Lover, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story I had begun in-between projects since early last year.
Thanks to everyone who has read, reviewed the chapter and added favorites and follows to it.'

Now I have to say this chapter probably wasn't too good, a lot of exposition and talking going around, with some talks between Lelouch and someone very important regarding future arrangements. But also revealing something going forward and what will Lelouch be doing for the next five chapters as we approach the battle for Sadogashima, including what Yui and her friends will be doing. So I apologize for this being a boring chapter.

Chapter 5
A Royal Hearing

Lelouch, Yui, Izumi, Aki, Shimako and the three others of their squad and the defenders of the defense line were escorted by Kyoko to a safe location in the rear. There, the various soldiers parted to return their respected units or to enter a unit pool for reassignment. But each would get some rest after lasting the night, and all would be recalled for award ceremonies in the future for their heroic defense, relieving them for a while of the battlefield.

For White Fang, they thankfully had the fuel they collected from the last of the Supply Containers was enough to take them to their ultimate destination. A military base north of Tokyo, a safe distance away from the battle against the BETA. It would give them all a chance to rest and recover. It was the Fukushima Military Base, which also had the Research and Development facilities for the
Ministry of Defense's Weapons Technology Development Authority. Yui knew from what her uncle had mentioned that it was here that many of Japan's new technologies and weapons were developed.

Following Kyoko the group landed on the runaway before entering the hangars to disembark their machines.

Lelouch followed the guidance of the hanger crews as they directed him to a hanger rack for his machine. Yui and the others docked as well, and soon began disembarking their machines as crews went to work conducting necessary inspection and maintenance upon them. After Kazusa had left his lap, Lelouch found as he tried to leave his seat, he could feel a heavy weariness hit him, as he struggled to climb out of the Izanami Gundam.

"Here, I'll help you," Kazusa said, managing to slip out of the machine ahead of Lelouch, offering her hand to help Lelouch out.

"Thank you, I can't believe that after an actual battle, I am feeling exhausted," Lelouch now regretted skipping gym class so much to read books.

"Everyone fought an all-night battle." Kazusa helped Lelouch out. "What else would you expect?"

However, Kazusa noticed something at the moment she helped Lelouch out. Although she didn't really look at Lelouch's body before now she realized just how scrawny he was. It was a surprise that Lelouch would be integrated into the Japanese military when they would barely accept that level of physical condition, especially when wearing the Shogun's colors. His slim body also made her suspicious about the man.

How could he have passed the Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation with that kind of body? Kasuza questioned. It would make sense for him to be part of the IJA if the UN had some backing, but he is way below their current standards.

The CCSE Kazusa and her friends took was physically demanding, requiring high physical standards to pass, a shared trait to the CCSE used in other nations. As such she knew it was required for cadets to operate a TSFs, and they had to be physically fit due the difficulties beyond even the normal footsoldier forces. What she felt from Lelouch was certainly below that standard, even if he was given special treatment.

Chances are he wouldn't even pass as an Eishi should he actually be in our military, Kasuza was certain. Even we had to undergo similar training like the men from many years ago.

As Lelouch just touched the ground and stood upright, Kasuza was about to open her mouth. However, Yui suddenly came into the scene along with the rest of their squad.

They immediately noticed Lelouch's skinny body type, causing Shimako to be stunned by it. One of a TSF pilot's strictest requirements was physical endurance and strength because of how physically demanding piloting a TSF was. Their training was based on the physical and mental requirements by the military to pilot a fighter jet. Others like Aki and Izumi's jaws dropped at Lelouch's scrawny body, just wondering how he had endurance to last through the night?

Joining them was Sayuri, Kasumi and Ayame who, noticing Lelouch's skinny appearance, was also stunned, questioning how on Earth did he pass basic training. They began talking amongst themselves, speaking too softly for Yui to hear.
Yui could only sigh, having expected these reactions, but it was a testament to the technology behind their machines allowing someone like Lelouch to pilot through the night. However she did work with Lelouch to build up his endurance as best as she could, which was a tall order given how physically inept he was.

I guess those stimulates and injections really helped, Yui mused.

However, Yui was now faced with her friends who were now looking to her for answers, especially Shimako and Kazusa. Lucky for Yui she was saved as a young woman, who appeared to be in her late teens or early twenties, with long green hair, green eyes dressed in a red long tunic-style uniform with purple lines on it, black gloves and boots. She looked at Lelouch's pilot suit and its colors, causing her eyebrow to twitch.

Soon Lelouch and Yui noticed behind the green-haired woman were three other women, wearing identical uniforms. Their uniforms were similar to the green-haired woman's uniform, but were white with yellow and black instead. Their hairstyles, hair color and eyes were different, but their expressions were one of rage when they looked at Lelouch's suit, causing the young man to quickly explain.

"Look I know it's the wrong color, but Claude gave me this pilot suit," Lelouch explained quickly, his exhaustion gone as he went into temporary survival mode. "She seemed to enjoy it given how she was teasing Yui and me mercilessly!"

"Oh," the green-haired woman said before sighing and looking at Lelouch then Yui with pity. "I assume you two were dealing with Claude directly when you received the machines and your pilot suits."

"Yes ma'am," Yui replied, having been wondering when this was going to come up ever since she saw Lelouch step out of the changing room as he was now.

"I see, we'll need to do something about that before any misunderstandings happen," The woman said before providing an introduction. "Allow me to introduce myself, I am First Lieutenant Mana Tsukuyomi of the Imperial Royal Guard. With me are fellow members of the Royal Guard, the one with purple hair and green eyes is Tatsumi Kamiyo, next the one with brown hair and eyes is Yukino Tomoe, and finally Minagi Ebisu."

Minagi Ebisu was around the same age as Lelouch and the others with blonde hair tried into two sphere-like buns and yellow eyes.

Lelouch, Yui and the others saluted, Mana's red uniform was an obvious sign she was a part of the Royal Guard who reported directly to the Shogun, but everyone had the impression she was taking orders from someone important.

"Now I know all of you are likely very exhausted, but there are some things we need to discuss as well as properly debrief you all. We've prepared a change of clothes for all of you, so that you may change and then after that my subordinates and I will escort you to meet with Lady Kyoko who is representing both the Regnant Houses along with the newly appointed Shogun."

Noticing the expressions from Aki and Izumi, Mana recognized their unease and the source.

"Don't worry the defense is being overseen by Major Takatsugu Ikaruga of the Regent Houses, and we have assembled more than enough personnel, allies, and weapons to hold the BETA back, for now," Mana said, although it didn't dispel their unease completely. "Anyway myself and my subordinates will lead you to get changed before the meeting, especially you for your own sake to avoid any further misunderstandings."

Lelouch nodded in agreement.

"Very well, Minagi, Tatsumi and Yukino, please help these ladies and lead them to the changing rooms," Mana ordered.

"Yes ma'am," The trio said together in unison before saluting, then gesturing to Yui and the other seven girls to follow them.

Mana beckoned for Lelouch to follow her.

After a few minutes of walking out of the hanger, the two entered a changing room for men, Mana directed Lelouch to a duffle bag sitting on a bench.

"I trust you know how to get out of that suit?" Mana said, opening the bag to reveal an instruction manual on how to remove the Fortified Suit. "I hope you'll get changed as quickly as possible Mr. Lelouch vi Britannia."

"What?" Lelouch breathed, shocked with a flash of concern in his eyes.

"Calm yourself," Mana said reassuringly. "There is no need for you to be so on guard here, but did you seriously think we would allow you to fight for us in an advanced machine without us not knowing everything about you?"

"I suppose, but…"

"You have nothing to worry about with your true identity known, but given your history and the country you hail from I can understand why you would be concerned about keeping your true identity secret. However, before going into the meeting I thought it best I warn you in advance you'll be addressed by your true name. But in military operations and such going forward you'll be referred to as
Lelouch Lamperouge," Mana explained as she could see the tensionness leave, but the wariness only dimmed to a manageable level.

"I see," Lelouch said, although he wasn't happy about his secret being given out like that even if the reasoning behind it was sound, all things considered.

"I'll leave you to change," Mana said as she turned to leave. "Be sure to shower before getting dressed. You will be thankful later on."

Once Lelouch was certain Mana was gone he began changing. His annoyance over his secret having been shared, no doubt by Claude, irritated him to no end. Afterall, understanding wasn't the same as agreeing.

Meanwhile, Yui was cleaning herself in the shower, but as she did so Kazusa observed her for a moment. She wanted to ask Yui about the real story behind those machines Lelouch and she had been using, and how someone like Lelouch was chosen to pilot such a powerful machine.

Now I'm certain, there is no way he could've passed the CSSE, Kazusa thought, wondering how he survived piloting such a machine.

The only thing stopping Kazusa from questioning Yui was the fact that making a member of the Regent Houses and the Shogun wait would not be good for them. At the same time, Shimako was also wondering about Lelouch and his exact relationship to Yui, along with what else she was hiding from them. In nearby stalls, Sayuri, Kasumi and Ayame were talking amongst themselves.

"Did you see that guy, how did someone so skinny pass basic training? No way someone that scrawny would've been allowed to pilot a TSF," Sayuri remarked, as she added some shampoo to her hands and worked it into her light brown hair.

"Were they using him as some kind of lab rat to test the technology of that machine of his? It's no TSF I've ever seen before," Ayame inquired of her friends as she began rinsing out the shampoo from her long black hair.

"It doesn't seem like something they would've done, especially with a foreigner. Just imagine the political bomb that could have been if he died," Kasumi said, preparing to use the shampoo herself. "Besides, being a new weapon with all kinds of new tech doesn't seem like something they trust to just anyone so easily."

"Right," Sayuri agreed. "Just what is the deal with that guy?"

"Maybe Yui might know something, we just need a chance to ask her."

Alongside Sayuri, Ayame and Kasumi, Izumi and Aki were beginning to take notice.

"Do you think Lelouch even received proper TSF training?" Aki asked quietly so Yui wouldn't hear her.

"I'm not sure. I was quite surprised they let someone like that pilot such a machine so he must have gone through some sort of regime," Izumi admitted after rinsing out her hair.

"No way he went through the same training we did, so what's the story then?"

"Your guess is as good as mine," Izumi said, not really having an answer to give.

But what is Yui hiding from us?

Aki might've just begun noticing the discrepancies in Yui's story, with Lelouch's obvious lack of physical fitness being a very large red flag. Of course, they weren't oblivious to the fact Lelouch and Yui were piloting highly advanced weapons, nothing they had even heard about. Not to mention neither of them could recall a time Yui could've left to have sufficient time to train to pilot such a powerful machine.

Much like Kazusa, the only thing stopping them from questioning Yui was the fact that a member of the Regent Houses and the Shogun was waiting for them.

A short time later, Lelouch, now dressed in a black with orange uniform similar to the one Mana was wearing, was led through the base to a meeting room. Mana opened the door, gesturing for Lelouch to go inside. There he saw Kyoko sitting behind a table wearing a uniform identical to his, but blue with yellow trim. Opposite to her was an older man with a scar on the left side of his face, brown hair combed back and brown eyes wearing a green uniform belonging to an officer of senior rank if his rank tabs were anything to go by.

In-between them was a woman who seemed to be the youngest of the trio, who seemed to be the same age as Lelouch, sat with a dignified and refined pose wearing a white kimono and her purple hair tied up in a topknot ponytail, with matching purple eyes signifying she was someone of importance.

"It seems you are the first to arrive, Prince Lelouch vi Britannia," The purple haired woman said, greeting the young man.

"Yes, uh," Lelouch said, providing a standard Japanese greeting with a polite bow, especially since he could feel Mana glaring at him from behind if he didn't politely greet her.

The girl laughed before providing introductions, "Be ease, I want to take this chance before the others arrive to talk. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Shogun Yuuhi Koubuin, a member of the Regent Families recently chosen as the new Shogun to succeed our previous Shogun. You've met Kyoko Takatsukasa, another member of the Regnant Houses, but this is the first time you are meeting face to face now."

"It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Lelouch, your performance on the battlefield and the directions you provided were impressive despite it being your first time," Kyoko greeted while offering a compliment. "Perhaps you are everything Claude told us you could be."

"Forgive me, I am a little doubtful on that last part, but I appreciate and welcome your compliment," Lelouch said, honest while mindful of his manners.

"And last and not least, this is Colonel Eiji Iwaya, he oversees all research projects in this base and is a leading member of the Ministry of Defense's Weapons Technology Development Authority."

"Welcome to the Fukushima Military Base," Eiji said. "As Yui's uncle I wanted to thank you for helping her and her friends survive Kyoto."

"Not at all, her knowledge of how events went previous for her was very helpful in planning our survival through the night. We had hoped to ensure everyone in the squad survived, but I regret what happened to Lieutenant Kisaragi."

"Her loss was regrettable," the colonel replied and Lelouch was reminded of a somewhat more laid back version of Kyoshiro Toudoh for some reason. "Tragically as you've learned things like that tend to happen where it's better to be killed, than to be eaten alive."

Lelouch was conflicted, as the act had a lasting impression on him, "It wasn't easy to do."

"No, it never is and I never wish for anyone to be in such a situation. But the fact remains that despite the loss of Lieutenant Kisaragi, everyone else survived. Not just the squad she commanded, a significant number of the base personnel at Arashiyama," the man nods, "Most managed to escape with their lives and badly needed support vehicles and supplies. They escaped to safety, though with losses. The fact that not only did you and Yui survive the entire night against the BETA, but so did everyone else in the squadron. Surpassing the Eight Minutes of Death is hardly an accomplishment anymore as the academies like to make it out, but having the entire unit survive with only one loss? A truly miraculous feat alone," Eiji said. He was astonished by the reports that somehow everyone at the Museum FOB had managed to survive, including civilians that had failed to evacuate in time.

"I think our machines deserve most of the credit for that," Lelouch noted, knowing it was his first battle and he had been, almost literally, flying by the seat of his pants the whole night.

"Very true as their combat effectiveness exceeds our prototype TSFs, let alone our mainstay TSFs. We have already begun production of similar weapons for our forces to use, but it will take time to make enough."

"Indeed Colonel, and the new machine I was given will surely help buy time," Kyoko added as she grasped the understanding of the situation and was thankful that their newfound allies in America would be able to supply them with new equipment, eventually,. "I do agree their survival against the BETA and narrowly holding one of our defensive lines in Kyoto has brought us valuable time to reorganize our defensive lines and reinforce them."

"Yes, even now more BETA has been observed entering Japan from Kyushu, and we know hundreds of thousands more are already making their way across the sea from Asia towards Japan. They'll make landfall near the end of September at Sadogashima, but the entire western coast is at risk," Yuuhi said, her expression grim. "Yet we know just your two machines won't be enough to protect our entire coast."

"So what is your plan if you don't mind me asking?" Lelouch began to inquire.

"The fact is, unless something changes, humanity is slowly losing the war against the BETA. Despite our efforts we have only been able to slow them down," Kyoko said bluntly. "Our soldiers will fight to the last, but we have to acknowledge we'll ultimately run out of people and land to defend. We have lost more than half of the country to the BETA, and with it, approximately thirty percent of our population has been lost."

"That is why Claude's proposal, despite our reservations about the woman herself, was too tempting to ignore," Eiji said with a sigh. It was clear to Lelouch that everyone before him had dealt with Claude at least once. "How events leading into the invasion of Japan played out as she expected, although we did try to take advantage of it to shore up our defenses, but…"

"But?"

"Politics got in the way," Kyoko said with a sigh. "We wanted to place the advanced weapons Claude gave us in Kyushu to slow the advance of the BETA. The politicians and the Prime Minister fought with military leaders wanting to use them to protect our coastline, but we didn't have enough to cover our whole western coast."

"And I assume the political bickering had cost time and lives in the end?" Lelouch asked, earning a nod from Yuuhi.

"Yes, and now half of the country is under BETA control. Having advanced weapons to defend our land won't be enough, we must defeat the BETA," Yuuhi said before looking Lelouch in the eye. "Then Claude suggested we support you, as one of the competing kings. If you win you'll be given access to a storehouse containing highly advanced weapons and technology that made an Empire a galactic superpower before it collapsed upon itself. The technology Claude gave us pales in comparison to what the Holy Ryuvian Empire had."

"Holy Ryuvian Empire?" Lelouch asked, curious.

"According to what Claude told us, it was once a powerful empire that ruled over a whole galaxy. All other alien species besides humans were wiped out, and their technology is unlike anything ever seen surpassing what your and Yui's Gundams possess." Yuuhi said. A word she used caught Lelouch's interest.

"Gundams?"

"That is what Claude called the machines you and Yui use," Kyoko answered.

"I see, but your intent is to see me win this competition and share the technology I win with you," Lelouch said, easily putting together what they wanted.

"Yes and in exchange we'll help you, after all how do you plan to make use of the technology if you managed to somehow obtain it on your own? Furthermore, while we don't know who your competition is, we do know they are in possession of considerable resources, something you lack. Help us and we can help you. It is that simple," Yuuhi said with a smile.

"Respectfully you understand I am doubtful of Claude's prize?"

"Of course, and all things considered I can't blame you for being skeptical. However, the situation does give us something we can both help each other with," Yuuhi said diplomatically. "Regardless of Claude's prize your presence and where you come from provides us with a rare opportunity, and the vessel she has given you for your use."

"A ship?" Lelouch said, quite surprised.

"Yes, as surprising as that may sound. Claude has provided a ship, designed to support your Gundam. It is capable of traveling in the atmosphere, space and underwater. It can travel to other alternate Earths in our galaxy and even travel faster than light," Yuuhi explained, placing both hands on the table. "Should the worst-case scenario happen and humanity begins losing to the BETA, we hope during your travels you'll find a suitable planet for us to colonize. But this is only a worst-case scenario should our conflict with the BETA go badly, however…we are hoping exploration of these different Earths could yield other opportunities."

"Collecting advanced pieces of technology, and mining resources," Lelouch deduced thinking it over and remembered that some of the Americans had been using new weapons and equipment and he quickly deduced that Claude must have made allies for him and the Japanese before in America as well.

How is she doing that so well?

"Correct, since we have lost half of the country, we are in need of resources for weapon production and food. If you could find an Earth not populated by humans, we are hoping not only, could we colonize it as a place for our people to fall back to, we could mine it for resources needed to aid our efforts," Yuuhi answered.

"I assume something similar applies to my world too, if you know my true identity I assume Claude told you of my goals then," Lelouch asked, which Yuuhi confirmed with a nod.

"Yes, but we know you can't speak for the Japan of your world. However, if we do grant you command of some of our soldiers and personnel, perhaps the people of your Japan might be willing to open your doors to us should it be necessary or even just consider a mutually beneficial alliance."

"I see," Lelouch couldn't help but smile at how well Yuuhi was seeking to capitalize on the situation, being impressed with her. "You know my intentions would require me to gather followers, but gaining military trained allies would be a difficult offer to turn down."

"Yes and it would benefit you, would it not?"

"I cannot deny that," Lelouch admitted, although it was questionable how loyal these followers would be.

Military trained followers would be much more useful than whatever resistance fighters he could find, true Lelouch could find a few capable men. How he would obtain his followers without his Britannian heritage becoming an issue was another problem. Even if he concealed his true identity, how would he win their loyalty was another question too. He might've questioned Claude and her intentions, but he couldn't deny Yuuhi was offering a good deal in exchange for his cooperation.

It was also a question of how she would live up to that bargain and could Lelouch fulfill his own side of the agreement.

To make his goals happen Lelouch would need competent and capable followers, both for the sake of efficiency and given that his enemy controlled a third of the entire world. He could gain followers among the local population, but the likelihood of having the kind of training and experience his agreement with Yuuhi would give him was extremely slim. Furthermore, as the number of followers grows Lelouch would need those who could serve as leaders in his army to accomplish his goals. They would be necessary for the sake of efficiency and tactical flexibility in battle.

My enemy is the Holy Britannian Empire and to bring down that man, Lelouch thought, thinking of the Britannian Emperor, his father. He would need any advantage he could get.

Access to the firepower of his Gundam, the Izanami, and whatever technology he could win by playing Claude's game, and the support of a Japan on another world would greatly accelerate his plans to bring down Britannia. It all made refusing Yuuhi's offer all the more difficult.

Especially when he factors in the possibility he could potentially get American support. The very idea of Britannian having to fight a ghost from its distant past that nearly brought it defeat, would be a prospect that would be daunting to many Imperial knights. Especially if their democracy was a truer democracy of that of the EU. What he could win would, indeed, be too big to pass up.

"I should ask if you are willing to trust me with your people, and would they be willing to follow a foreigner?"

Yuuhi smiled knowingly. "That is why if you help us and prove your capabilities to them, I think they will. I say it's a mutually beneficial agreement."

"Yes I can see little faults with your offer, very well I accept," Lelouch said, while internally complimenting Yuuhi on her negotiation skills.

"Excellent. Now-" Before she could say anything further, a knock came at the door.

Mana was annoyed, but she opened the door. After checking who it was, she stepped aside to allow Yui and her friends to enter, one by one, soon followed by Mana's three subordinates. Yui was wearing a uniform identical to Kyoko's, but hers was yellow. Izumi, Aki, Shimako, Kazusa, Sayuri, Kasumi, and Ayame wore uniforms that were white instead of yellow.

"Ah welcome, you've all finally joined us." Yuuhi greeted Yui and her friends.

"Is that?" Aki asked, recognizing Yuuhi's attire.

"Yes, this is Lady Yuuhi Koubuin, the newly appointed Shogun," Mana answered, causing Yui and her friends to quickly bow in respect.

"Please forgive us, Your Highness," The seven girls spoke together, worried they might have offended the Shogun.

"Please be at ease, it hasn't been officially announced that I am the new Shogun yet. This is a discussion and I would like it if you all were at ease," Yuuhi offered in a calm manner.

"Of course Your Highness," Yui said as she and her friends bellowed before Mana gestured for them to take a seat. Luckily the table was more than large enough to accommodate all of them on one side of the table with Yui and Kazusa sitting next to Lelouch, on his left and right sides respectively.

"We were talking with Lelouch, and we were able to reach an agreement. In fact your timing is perfect," Yuuhi said, pleased the girls had arrived at the right moment.

"An agreement?" Aki muttered.

"Yes and you'll have the details later, but first allow me to congratulate all of you for having not only survived a night of battle against the BETA, but also holding the line at Kyoto. All of you gave us valuable time to muster reinforcements and rescue any survivors, you have my thanks on behalf of Japan for your efforts," Yuuhi said, bowing her head in gratitude.

"You're too kind," Kazusa said humbly while she and the others bowed in return.

Japan and the constant bowing. Lelouch thought with an internal shake of his head, They really need to figure out something more accommodating.

"Since you are here, this will be a good time to mention in light of his accomplishments during Kyoto, the Shogun has decided to grant Third Lieutenant Lelouch Lampouge non-hereditary status and a suitable rank within the Royal Guard," Kyoko mentioned.

"A black and orange uniform," Ayame muttered, noticing Lelouch's new uniform.

"So he's a member of the Royal Guard now," Kasumi whispered to her friend, but the pair stopped talking when they felt Mana's glare fall upon them, silently telling them to be quiet.

No foreigner for decades has received such an honor, Kazusa thought, now wanting to question Lelouch and Yui more than ever.

So he can't be someone on loan from the UN or America, Izumi thought.

"Yes, he'll be under the Kyoko's household, which in turn Yui will be supervising him on her behalf. This should eliminate any potential inconveniences his lack of rank and status would cause," Yuuhi said, while the others across from her minus Lelouch were shocked.

Judging by the reactions of the others, my new rank must be something to cause such a response. It explains why Yuuhi wants, no, needs me to prove myself, Lelouch thought.

If he was going to command members of their army to aid him in bringing down Britannia when the time came, he knew it would be necessary for him to gain their trust so they would be willing to follow him when he eventually calls upon them.

It was important for soldiers to have faith and loyalty to their commander in battle after all.

"This is quite the honor you've given me and I thank you for it," Lelouch said politely. Fortunately, he had some idea of the importance and so it was not merely for show that he spoke.

"No, I should thank you for your accomplishments that have more than proven you've earned it. But, now that we've addressed our agreement with Lelouch, along with other needed details, there is something all of you need to see and be made aware of. If you would all follow me," Yuuhi said as she rose from her chair.

Yuuhi led the way followed by Mana and Eiji while Kyoko followed close behind, Lelouch and Yui walked together while Kazusa, Aki, Izumi and Shimako walked behind them and Minagi, Tatsumi and Yukino took up the rear. The group followed in silence until after ten minutes of walking they entered an elevator that was used for transporting heavy materials. It was more than large enough to accommodate everyone.

Entering an access code above the panel, Eiji pushed the button for the elevator to descend to a lower level, deep underground. The elevator descended for three minutes until they entered what could only be called an underground hangar where Yui, Lelouch, and the others saw to their shock a ship. It looked to be at least three-hundred and fifty meters long, with an aerodynamic design with an arrowhead shaped bow, before extending back where a pair of wings extended outwards with a pair of engines.

Atop the ship leading to what was the bridge, which stood on a smooth, yet ascending command tower, were a pair of triple-barrel guns akin to those on a battleship placed along the top of the vessel before the ascending command tower. Ahead of the guns the body was smoothing out to form the arrowhead-tip of the ship's bow. The girls and Lelouch noticed other weapon placements dotted along its hull, but for all of them the ship was unlike anything they had seen.

"That is our first battleship, created using various advanced technologies that exceeds our own, hence it was created by another party before Miss Claude Triello gave it to us. It is capable of operating not just in the air, but also in space and in the sea. We've named it the Takarabune," Eiji said, introducing the ship to everyone.

Yui recognized the name. "Named for the mythical ship piloted through the heavens by the Seven Lucky Gods, a symbol of the new year in every new year celebration in Japan."

"Yes this will be the ship commanded jointly by Yui Takamura and Lelouch Lamperouge, since the latter was made owner of the ship by Miss Triello."

"Huh!?" Shimako, Izumi, Aki and Kazusa exclaimed before looking to Lelouch for an explanation.

Lelouch internally sighed. Trying to explain that to the group would be difficult.

"How does he own THAT!?" Aki exclaimed, pointing to the ship that was roughly as big as an American Nimtiz-class Carrier!

Aki's outburst was just as quickly silenced as she recoiled instinctively under Mana's cold and stern gaze.

The newly made Shogun had been expecting their outbursts. "Well your surprise is only natural," Yuuhi acknowledged. "But, this is part of an agreement with Miss Treillo, so that Lelouch can compete in her game."

"Game?" Shimako inquired, while mindful to be respectful, especially as she began shivering under Mana's glare for speaking out of turn.

"Ah yes, that is something else we must discuss," Yuuhi sighed as she began to massage her temples trying to determine how best to discuss the topic.

"While we have had some theories in that regard," she chose to begin, "We haven't seriously thought it possible. It was one of the more insane ideas put forth in this war, to try and find a method to defeat the BETA. Other worlds like our Earth, some are mostly identical to ours with some small or big differences, exist in this galaxy," Yuuhi laughed harshly in thought, "And yet it is true," the young
Shogun still couldn't quite wrap her mind around it, "A woman approached us and told us of a 'game' she had in mind. One we could hardly believe, but she left us in both disbelief and sober when she proved it."

Eiji decided to pick up for the moment and let the young woman not bear all the weight in this.

"We ran the full battery and tests of what we could," the Imperial Army colonel swallowed thickly, "We were able to prove what she said. It was… not easily swallowed to say the least, but swallowed that pill we did."

The man looked thoughtful.

"Though, not all of us."

Yuuhi nodded, quietly thankful for the moment to get some of her composure back.

"Lelouch Lamperouge has been chosen to take part in a competition of sorts spanning different Earths against six other competitors. Should he emerge victorious over all of them, Lelouch will gain access to a large storehouse of powerful technology that once belonged to a galactic superpower that has long since fallen. Of course, that means he'll be chosen to lead an army against a threat bigger than the BETA, hence the need for that storehouse of technology and Claude wanting such a force to be led by the best leader possible."

"If Lelouch wins Claude's game then our country," the colonel took over once more, drawing himself up as an army officer and superior in rank to their girls before him, "along with our new allies and friends that will support us in other nations and therefore by default their own nations, will gain the technology and resources needed not just to force the BETA from Earth, but also in time force them out of the solar system and hunt them down and end them to the last," he saw them all letting that sink in, "And the shortest route will be the creators of the BETA and a system they have in place to just end the BETA," Eiji added causing the girls to be stunned.

"Forgive me honorable Shogun, but that is all a little hard to take in," Kazusa said after a few actual minutes of contemplation, while still being as respectful as possible despite her shock and confusion.

"I understand completely, in fact many in our government were skeptical of Claude's offer and asking for our support for Lelouch. Even if she was arming us with advanced weapons and warned us of the BETA's invasion of Japan, which happened exactly as she said it would," Yuuhi said, causing Izumi to become curious in that form of trepidation as a terrifying truth dawned on her.

"Did… Did they know Kyushu would be overrun then?" Izumi said softly, remembering her beloved boyfriend was among those stationed in Kyushu when it was overrun, losing his life in its defense.

"Yes, they did regrettably, too many in the military and in the government didn't want to believe it could happen despite evidence to the contrary and the weapons Claude offered," Yuuhi said, overhearing Izumi. "That is why a dozen ministers and others," she paused for a moment, "resigned in shame afterwards."

Izumi was shaken, but Aki was there to help steady her.

Lelouch, on the other hand, merely shrugged. He had known what the pause meant. There had been a quiet coup behind the scenes. Likely a few of the most powerful had realized they had royally screwed up and killed themselves, either through seppuku or having 'accidents'.

How does 'He fell out of the window' still hold up so well? Lelouch wondered. It said a lot for when and how that trend had started as it seemed too stupid to last long.

Among other things, it was something that was actually the norm in Britannia every so often with sharp uptakes.

Especially the closer one got to Pendragon.

"I am truly sorry for your loss," Yuuhi said, knowing that Izumi had lost someone dear to her in Kyushu. She had read the reports on all of them, to know who she was going to be dealing with and deciding how best to deal with them. And this was not the easiest of them, "I am also sorry I can offer no more than my condolences and assurances that he did his duty to the very end."

Izumi struggled to keep her composure, but ultimately began to quietly weep as Aki and Yui were there to comfort her as the elevator continued down. Lelouch remained quiet, but he did sympathize with her loss and understood her grief at hearing how the government didn't take Claude's warnings seriously.

A short time later, the group proceeded across a bridge to board the enormous ship. Once aboard they were saluted by a pair of guards patrolling the ship while various technicians and engineers were working on inspecting and studying the ship.

"This ship is quite the marvel of technology. Much of it is at least more than two centuries ahead of our most advanced tech," Eiji said, breaking the silence at the unseen command gesture of Yuuhi. "The medical bay has a cylinder filled with nanomachines to provide emergency care for pilots in critical condition. The ship has a fusion reactor as a main source of power with material and methodology we have yet to begin to find a path to, let alone find a surface to start scraping at. It is capable of amphibious operations, including subsurface travel, flight in space with even Faster than Light Travel, and somehow has the ability to cross over to other, alternative Earths which we are still trying to grasp even the basics of the basics to just quantify into our understanding, let alone learn."

"Wow," Shimako breathed as she heard all of that, "That means this is quite the ship. Impossibly so. I can see why they are investigating it so thoroughly," Shimako remarks only drew some looks of incredulity from her friends as she sounded forced and she had the decency to blush, because… She felt someone had to say something!

"Yes," Eiji said in agreement, saving the poor girl, while everyone continued through the ship. "Although it will be some time before we can even reproduce and develop our own technology based on it. But we do have a few ships like this one in production thanks to the materials being provided by Claude. Trying to find a crew, in light of our heavy losses, will be difficult, especially given the training they'll need to run these ships."

Eventually the group reached what was the hangar of the ship, where to everyone's surprise were four more Gundams, identical to the ones used by Yui and Lelouch. The hangar itself was large enough to accommodate at least six more similar sized machines, but as they approached one of the four new Gundams they were met by a man wearing a white suit with a blue collared shirt and a white tie. He wasn't Japanese as his tanned complexion and white hair made him stand out.

"So this must be Lelouch Lamperouge, and it's a pleasure to meet you too Lady Yuuhi," the man said before bowing politely to Yuuhi.

"This is Cumpa Rusita, an ally of Claude who has been helping us understand the ship and the Gundams, since it was he who designed them," Eiji said, providing introductions.

"Thank you for your kind words, but some thanks should go to Claude for providing the necessary technology and materials for me to combine using what knowledge and resources I had on hand already," Cumpa said modestly. "She has well compensated me for my services and time spent in helping design and create the ship and Gundams along with other machines."

"Then you designed the Izanami and Izanagi Gundams?" Yui inquired, which Cumpa confirmed with a nod.

"I did, after studying the unique technologies Claude wanted incorporated into them," Cumpa said before looking at the four girls behind Lelouch and Yui. "Judging by the photos I was shown it seems you four are going to be the intended pilots for these Gundams."

"What?!" Aki, Izumi, Kazusa and Shimako exclaimed, as even Lelouch and Yui were stunned.

"I guess no one told you," Cumpa noticed, seemingly annoyed, but quickly brushed it off. "Allow me to introduce these new marvels of technology that I helped create. This one, the third of the same series of Gundams from which the Izanami and the Izanagi come from is called the Tsuna."

The Tsuna had the same general frame as the Izanagi and Izanami, but the armaments and its overall design was very different, it lacked the wings as the Izanami and its sister unit. In their place were holders for a large greatsword and opposite of it stored on the larger than normal backpack was a staff-like weapon with a rocket thruster on one side. Its overall color was black with white trim with some red lining for style.

It had large skirt armor around its waist, which was very noticeable making it stand out.

"Miss Izumi Noto I am told will be the pilot for this machine," Cumpa said, surprising the young woman.

"Me!?" the girl in question yelped as she responded.

"Yes, and this machine was chosen for you based on your aggressive style of combat you demonstrated in Kyoto. It has a quantum communication control for controlling the Tsuna's remote weapons, ten small dagger-like remote weapons called GN Fangs, thanks to the GN particles providing an anti-gravity effect enabling them to fly through the air. They each fire a single beam of energy, or due to their sharpened dagger design, can impale and run through targets at high speeds, using a combination of GN particles and an energy integrated into the blade for greater cutting power and penetration."

"GN particles?" Lelouch questioned.

"Unlike the power sources the Izanagi and the Izanami use, the GN Drive can still provide the same nearly unlimited source of power and therefore a much longer operation time than any Tactical Surface Fighter, as long as the pilot is still capable of fighting that is." Cumpa explained before getting into further details. "Think of the GN Drive as akin to a solar furnace, which also produces a unique and useful particle that grants a number of benefits. One of them is enhancements to the Gundam's frame allowing for faster movements and increased durability. Another is that it enables flight and a greater amount of maneuverability in the air no other machine can possess, giving greater agility to where it could float and move through the air flawlessly. Lastly and most importantly, it allows remote weapons like the GN fangs to function in the atmosphere without gravity or wind resistance to impede them. Yours is unique in that it has two integrated GN Drives, which can provide enormous amounts of power."

"I see," Izumi said, awed by her machine's capabilities. "I can control such weapons, these GN fangs?"

"Yes the cockpits of this series of Gundams use Psychoframe Technology, though I'm told this is a particularly diluted and yet upgraded form for normal people,whatever that means exactly. It's able to read the pilot's brainwaves to allow for greater ease of control. Quantum Communication uses this same principle to control the remote weapons as you direct them by thought," Cumpa explained.
"Of course you have a pair of melee weapons, a GN Buster Sword with a built in rifle that combines GN particles infused in a physical blade and a beam blade, able to cut through just about anything, even if that something can shrug off energy-based attacks. Then you have a GN beam scythe with a rocket attached to the opposite end of the blade for more powerful swings."

"Wow, that's some crazy melee power," Aki commented. She guessed that Tsuna would be close to perhaps a Sweeper configured TSF in design, but she wasn't quite sure due to all the new technology in it.

"Like the units used by your friends, it has beam sabers, but you can use a pair of heavy beam pistols, based on a particular type called a Beam Spray Gun, for more urban engagements, but of course your machine can use a Beam Magnum as well as an optional weapon," Cumpa added before moving onto the next machine.

"Quick question," Yui inquired. "Claude never told us the details about the power source of my and Lelouch's Gundams, could you maybe tell us in summary what they are?"

The shocked look on Cumpa's face was potentially the most terrifying thing that Yui had ever seen. Followed, quickly, by the rage the man showed, before he forcibly calmed himself. It became rather abruptly clear that he was counting numbers in an effort to control his anger before speaking again.

"That irresponsible woman!" the scientist growled harshly before coughing into one hand and steadying his voice, "Giving such young people such powerful weapons without at least giving them the manual," Cumpa said, exasperated with the pink-haired woman. "Your machines use a power source called a DHGCP, which is short for Discontinuous Hyperoscillation Gauge Collapsing Pile. To put it simply, it's a self-contained artificial black hole."

"WHAT?!" Everyone except for Mana, Yuuhi and Eiji, exclaimed while Yuuhi stood back, seemingly amused by their reactions.

"Your reactions are understandable, even I was taken aback when Claude told me of the technology. That being said, like the GN Drives they can provide an unlimited amount of power as long as both the pilot is capable of fighting and the machine hasn't suffered any crippling damage. However, such power sources are extremely difficult to produce, as even myself, modestly speaking, was able and could only make a limited number and only thanks to the resources Claude provided," Cumpa said. No one had any further questions, or rather they didn't know how to respond to that.

Simply smiling and assured he likely wouldn't get many more questions for now, he gestured to the next Gundam in the hanger.

"Next is the Suetake," Cumpa began.

The Suetake was identical in general frame design, but other than its head design, this one had wings that were notably larger and bulkier and it had hip-mounted weapons, a pair of blades. On its back it had cannons designed to flip over the shoulders kept between the wings. Like the Tsuna it was generally black and white in color, but had some blue lining to set it apart from the other machines.

"Similar to the Izanagi, the Suetake is built more towards melee combat, equipped with blades on its hip armor and beam sabers, but with the addition of hardened knuckles that could be turned around to become claws. However, unlike the Izanagi it has a more balanced armament possessing railguns mounted on its back. Further it has hard points for beam rifles akin to the ones used by the Izanami, and what is called a Mega Beam Rifle stored on the rear hip armor. It can fold up for ease of storage."

"Who is the pilot of that one?" Lelouch inquired.

"Kazusa Yamashiro," Cumpa answered, causing Kazusa to be left stunned by the announcement. "Observing past mock battles and her performance during Kyoto, she was deemed to be the best choice to be its pilot."

"Then these last two," Yui said looking at the third machine, surprised herself, but knowing that it would be a good match.

The same humanoid frame, but this one forgoes wings altogether for three arms, each of them is attached to a rectangular shield, seen on the left, right and behind the machine. At a glance it didn't seem to have beam sabers, but it carried a weapon on its rear skirt armor. The shields attached to the end of the larger arms sticking from its back had a dual-barrel range weapon attached on the left and right shields. Like the Izanami it had a mounted cannon built into the torso but it was lower on the abdomen instead. The rear shield, unseen by the others, mounted a rocket propelled anchor. Color wise it was the same as the other machines, but had some pink lines decorating it to set it apart.

"The Sadamitsu, designed for support and defense, its shields have a unique technology, not just capable of withstanding attacks, but they can repel most ranged energy-based attacks. The two shields on the left and right mount a powerful pair of railguns, and it has a Plasma Cannon which thanks to its magnetic field generator can bend and direct where the plasma beam will go," Cumpa explained.

"Wow, so the beam can be bent?" Aki asked, left sack jawed by such a weapon.

"Yes," Cumpa nodded, "Most people forget that plasma needs to be a continuous beam to be useful as a weapon and therefore, with such an ability, it will be good for catching an enemy off guard. It has a melee weapon stored on the rear skirt armor, a Beam Gravie, which is basically a naginata that you should be accustomed to, but it's made out of the same material as the Gundam making it an effective hard-hitting weapon even without a beam blade."

"Who is the pilot," Aki said, clearly hopeful, though she was slightly annoyed at being told that they should be accustomed to naginatas just because they were young samurai girls, which ironically they had learned to use every day they could in training.
Lelouch only shook his head.

He recalled Suzaku telling him about that. How the wives and daughters of samurai had learned to wield naginatas as it was seen as ideal for them to use from a philosophical standpoint. He couldn't remember all the details, and he was certain Suzaku, a boy, had made a few mistakes here and there, but it would appear this version of Japan also kept the tradition of using the 'feminine' naginata.

If only they had met his mother, big sister Cornelia, or Sayako. And most especially Nonnette!

"That machine will be piloted by Shimako Kai," Cumpa answered before mollifying Aki. "As for the last one, the Kintoki will be piloted by Aki Iwami."

The Kintoki was identical to the Izanami, but instead of beam rifles stored in its wings, the cannons within looked stronger. On its hip were another pair of cannons folded up for convenient storage. However the forearms looked bulkier and the backpack in-between the wings looked larger as well too, likely storing another weapon system within. On each arm was a pair of shields, each one mounting a beam saber and a cannon.

"This one is a little different, its forearms are bulkier to accommodate a pair of thrusters because the hands can detach and grab onto targets acting according to the will of the pilot. As such the hands have built in beam guns and can deliver painful electric shocks to those seized. The backpack unit houses a pair of discs, each one equipped with a beam gun, that functions in a similar manner.
The wings house a pair of plasma cannons that fold over the shoulders of the Gundam when in use, and are used in conjunction with the hip-mounted railguns. It has four beam vulcans on its chest for close quarters, and the shields have a beam saber built in along with a mega particle cannon, one each per shield. Finally the most interesting aspect of the Kintoki Gundam is the Multi-purpose
Assault Weapon, codenamed Kujaku, it can transform into different weapons such as a large beam sword, a crossbow-like configuration, and a few others," Cumpa explained leaving Aki in awe of the machine before her.

"As impressive as these machines are, why us?" Kazusa said, before remembering the Shogun is present. "Not that we don't appreciate the offer to pilot such machines, but surely there are better skilled pilots more suited for them?"

"True, and you aren't wrong, but worry not. These aren't the only Gundams Cumpa created, both Lady Kyoko and Ikaruga Takatsugu of the Regnant Houses have been given one. Kyoko has in fact partly come here to pick up her machine, the Raikou. The Miyamoto Gundam is already in the hands of Major Ikaruga," Yuuhi said reassuringly.

Eiji stepped back in, continuing their previous discussion. "Other machines with similar armaments are being made, but some of the technology behind these Gundams are difficult to produce and training pilots on how to use them can be difficult. Even veterans and seasoned pilots would need considerable time to adapt to them, but that might be difficult given how they've spent their lives in a TSF, and they may not adapt well to the differences in weapons and handling of the machines."

"Even if Claude provided Cumpa and us with all of the materials and resources required and more for production, our capabilities are still limited. Further given our ongoing conflict with the BETA it would be easier and less risky to train new pilots especially for these machines, some veterans can adapt well but I feared others may not. Lest not we forget we would need to pull these pilots from the frontlines where their skills and experience are sorely needed at this time."

"But why us?" Aki inquired.

"You are probably wondering why we aren't assigning veterans to these machines instead of you four?" Eiji said, prompting Kazusa, Izumi, Aki and Shimako to nod. "The reason is simple, we have suffered enormous losses to the BETA, some of which was caused by poor tactical decisions made by fools who were dismissed or arrested for not alerting our forces of the collapse of our defense lines."

"As such we need every experienced TSF pilot on the frontlines to keep the BETA from advancing further. Even if we wanted our intended pilots, they would be off the battlefield for at least a couple weeks or a month, training to use their new machines, which would be unexpected since the new defense line is barely holding against the BETA onslaught," Yuuhi added.

"Therefore it's more convenient and less of a risk to our efforts to hold the frontline by having you four trained exclusively to use them," Eiji noted. "Furthermore because of the fact we are still reeling from our losses we don't know the full extent of our losses yet, which includes the loss of leaders which combined with those arrested for their poor decisions and those who resigned our chain of command is in shambles, making it difficult and risky for us to pull any veterans from the front who are holding it together."

" I see, but…" Kazusa said, unable to think of a counter argument.

It wasn't mentioned, but I wouldn't be surprised if some abandoned the fight to save their own skins, Lelouch thought, knowing that likely added to the current woes facing the Japanese Army.

Their forces were so badly battered by heavy losses, bad decisions and likely dissertations from their own ranks left the Japanese Military in a weakened state. So much so that Lelouch recognized no one wanted to risk a potential collapse if they pulled anyone willing to keep up the fight at the front line, likely just holding on by a thread.

Lelouch imagined some of the military leadership might've also fled as well, out of cowardice and to likely save their own skins too for their stupid decisions, facing criminal charges for staggering incompetence in Japan's defense.

Assuming some fled before the invasion fearing the BETA couldn't be stopped, that probably just made things worse for the defense of Japan as a whole as the sudden loss of personnel likely further hindered any efforts of holding back the BETA, Lelouch thought, but he decided to push those thoughts aside for now.

"Uh, what about us," Kasumi said, while Sayuri and Ayame stood with her.

"You three will pilot special test models that use the same Coupling and Pyschoframe technology, but scaled for mass-production. We have spare machines for extensive field testing, so we are seeking pilots for them right now," Yuuhi offered reassuringly to the trio. "We have already gathered newly recruited pilots to begin training in their use."

"That's enough questions," Mana said, shutting down further discussion. "You'll begin training with these machines tomorrow once you have rested. Lady Kyoko will return to Kyoto with the Raikou to oversee our defense and try to push back the BETA while we begin creating a new defense line with the new advanced weapons provided by Claude."

"I should have some time to meet with you before I go, Yui, since some work on the Raikou needs to be done before its combat ready," Kyoko offered reassuringly. "Your friends are welcome to join."

"Except for you," Mana said, putting a firm hand on Lelouch's shoulder. "You are going to meet your own instructor."

"An instructor?" Lelouch inquired and suddenly had a sinking feeling.

"Yes, we have granted you non-hereditary status within the Royal Guard, hence your black uniform, which should make it easier for you to work with us. But your lack of endurance and physical ability is concerning, so at the recommendation of Claude we have asked for someone suited for the task of training you from the Imperial Army to be brought in. She will also oversee training for those intending to pilot the new mass-production models, since we are planning on adding more pilots and some of the experimental machines to this ship's complement," Yuuhi explained. "However, if you expect to command anyone you are going to need to prove not just to us, but to them that you are worthy of it."

Yuuhi noticed someone approaching them from the corner of her eye.

"Ah, excellent timing, allow me to introduce Eishi and Sergeant from the Fuji Instructional Group, Marimo Jinguuji," Yuuhi said, introducing Lelouch to his instructor.

Marimo was a young woman of twenty-four with long brown hair, brown eyes, and wearing a military uniform appropriate for one of her rank. She stopped before the group and saluted the Shogun.

"Eishi and Staff Sergeant Marimo Jinguuji of the Fuji Instructional Group have arrived as requested," Marimo announced, greeting the Shogun.

"Here is your new student Staff Sergeant, he has survived an all-night battle against the BETA, but he still needs some work as it were." Yuuhi said, realizing there might be some understatement there as she began gesturing to Lelouch. "You'll be working with my subordinate Mana, so if you have any questions consult her."

"Him," Marimo said, surprised that her ward was a young man of sixteen, a foreigner at that and one that looked like a stiff breeze would blow him over.

"I'm not that bad," Lelouch decried. "I just happen to be a better swimmer than runner."

The look on the Staff Sergeant's face said it all.

Lelouch is in for a rough time, Yui said, knowing what kind of training he would be put through given the Fuji Instructional Group's reputation.

A/N:

Yes and for those of who familiar with Marimo Jinguuji from Muv Luv Alterative and Muv-Luv Alternative Chronicles Confessions should know how much of a drill sergeant nasty she can be, and this is a big cause of "cruel to be kind" trope in play for her. So Yui's words at the end are an understatement.

But this is where Lelouch will meet those will become members of his personal squad, with the first member being met in the next chapter.

And Lelouch has the backing of the new Shogun, Yuuhi Koubuin, who she and her twin sister are among the biggest contenders for Lelouch who may become romantically involved with him following Lelouch and Yui becoming a couple. But that will depend on how things play out. Still regardless she has made Lelouch a member of the Royal Guard, giving him a non-heredity samurai rank, but as she said if she wants Imperial Japan backing Lelouch in the future he must earn it, and the loyalty of those who will be his personal squad under his command, they would be the starting blocks for what will be the Black Knights later on.

And now Kazusa, Shimako, Izumi and Aki will be given Gundams of their own, thanks to being conveniently available to train to excessively pilot them, and given their relationship with Yui who has experience piloting such machine, will help train them. So that is what Yui will be doing while Marimo puts Lelouch through hellish training and later a mock battle in the new machines that are a hybrid of a TSF and a mobile suit to put him through his paces as a leader.

But all of that aside chapter sixteen is the chapter Lelouch is leaving the world of Muv Luv for the time being to go exploring, but me and the betas have reached a impasse on who else should be assigned aboard his new ship, which I will say while its nice...he's going to end up with something else later due to events beyond his control XD. Just the same it will be good for him to have a second squad aboard to help protect the ship and provide support when needed.

Unfortunately there have been debates on how nationalistic some choices are, if they might pull some shady stuff which could get Lelouch killed, or may not be around at this point. Complicating the matter is the majority of known TSF pilots are women, and I feel I should very careful on how many women I surround Lelouch with, so the new poll located Here has a few male candidates. I would rather see a comment on why I should go with some choices over others than to use a poll, but either someone offering such suggestions or the results of the poll I hope can break the deadlock on our discussions on the matter, so anything can be helpful.

Anyway here are the specs for one of the new Gundams to be piloted by Kazusa.

And I'll see you guys next chapter, thanks in advance for any feedback, they are always appreciated.

Model number: TMP-04X
Code name: Suetake
Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame Heavy Assault Mobile Suit
Pilot: Kazusa Yamashiro
Manufacturer: Unknown
Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)
First deployment: August 2016 A.T.B
Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso
Dimensions: head height 19.5 meters
Weight: 58.4 metric tons
Powerplant: Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactor
Armor: Lunar Titanium Alloy Ver Gamma
Sensors: 23,700

Equipment/Features

Psycho-Frame
Targeting Sensor Eyepatch: An optional Targeting Visor in the shape of an eyepatch, it is used to give Suetake clear range and view of whoever the machine choose to fire upon.
Coupling System
Minovsky Drive System: A new propulsion system and the most prominent feature of the Suetake. it generates a force field and gains propulsion from the resulting repulsive force. It has a disadvantage where massive amounts of mega particles are emitted when creating the force field, but the propulsion generated by the system exceeded conventional systems. The system also places less strain on the mobile suit's generators, allowing it to use its vast array of Beam Weapons. The Minovsky Drive can also be used for both offensive and defensive purposes, sometimes simultaneously. The system's high-energy exhaust plumes manifested as a giant pair of wings ("Wings of Light").

Fixed Armaments

2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns

2 X VSBRs: A pair of Variable-Speed Beam Rifles (VSBRs) are mounted on the hardpoints on the suit's side armor and powered by the suit's reactor. They can fire either low-speed beams with high destructive power, or high-speed beams with high penetrating power, sufficient to destroy two MS with one shot or pierce a beam shield.

2 X Railguns: A pair of back-mounted electromagnetic launchers for super long range shooting, they pivot over the shoulders to fire in mobile suit mode. In Siege Mode, the output of the two Minovsky Ultracompact Fusion Reactors are concentrated on the railguns, allowing them to fire bullets at explosive speed.

2 X Rare Metal Blades: Stored on the blade holder mounted on the rear skirt armor, the pair of Rare Metal Blades are forged from rare metal, just like the V08-1228 Grimgerde's Valkyrja Blades.

2 X Knuckle Guard/Claws: The armor on the back of the forearms can be used as striking weapons and their designs allow them to turn around and be used like claws.

1 X Mega Beam Rifle: A high output beam cannon with an open mega particle compression-accelerator device. It is an enhanced, lighter version of the Beam Smart Gun. Can be folded for ease of storage and mounted on the back rear skirt armor.

Wings of Light: The unofficial final weapon of the Suetake, The Minovksy Drive System's high Energy Exhaust Plums as a pair of giant wing. Which could be used as either gigantic beam sabers or as massive beam shields to shield both the Gundam itself and other targets. The defensive ability of the Wings of Light could even block the ZMT-S29S Zanneck's beam cannon, which could hit targets on Earth from high in the atmosphere.

Optional Armaments: Beam Magnum, Beam Smart Gun

StrifeHavoc · Apr 25, 2024

There was a delay in posting this chapter due to F-14 Tomcat Lover making unauthorized adjustments to the chapter without asking me, so his beta privileges' and role in consulting for the story, since he hasn't made any effort to respond or reply to any messages I've PM him even before the email notification issues.

That being said there will be some sections in this chapter that were not beta-ed by Silkdreamweaver, because those were the sections I had to fix, but Jameyofthemegacosmos did do a quick beta over the new sections, so hopefully that amends it all.

This chapter begins with Lelouch's time in boot camp, where he'll meet the first member of his squad to be.

Thanks to everyone who has read, reviewed the chapter and added favorites and follows to it.

Now on with the chapter.

Chapter 6
Making a Man out of you

Following the initial first meeting with Marimo, Lelouch was encouraged to rest thereafter for the whole day. As Lelouch followed the instructions to where he would be staying on the base, he was met by Claude when he entered his new room who was lazily lounging on his bed.

"Not bad, you got your own modest room, a desk, a closet and your own bathroom," Claude commented with a smile.

"Is this some social call?" The fatigue from battle had finally caught up with Lelouch and was beginning to gain on him, so he was in no mood, or condition for that matter, for antics which he was definitely feeling like this woman could, and would, give Milly a run for her money.

"Oh, don't be so serious," Claude said, waving her hand dismissively before leaping off the bed to face Lelouch who was already annoyed with her. "Afterall with everything going on I thought you would like a chance to visit your sister to check in on her."

"How would that work while I obviously have obligations here?"

As much as Lelouch wanted to check on his sister, fearing she would be worried for him, he doubted he could just simply return.

"Normally, this would be difficult for me. But because of how messed up this world has been with all kinds of branching alternate versions connected to it and more, I can bend the rules for you a little letting you return while you would normally sleep here and likewise when you go to sleep at Ashford Academy," Claude said with a devious smile.

"Difficult? That is something that shouldn't be possible?!" Lelouch was flabbergasted.

"You're right it wouldn't be possible normally, but this world's situation is unique enough that I can bend the rules a little. You'll wake up back at Ashford Academy, barely an hour after you left, but you'll feel rested. Just remember to change back into your uniform before you go to sleep again," Claude warned, while Lelouch looked at her with a very doubtful expression.

"It can't be that convenient?" Lelouch deadpanned.

"It wouldn't be normally," Claude admitted, "but since you have this chance I suggest you take full advantage of it. I'll be busy making arrangements so you can be away from Ashford Academy without people raising any questions or causing trouble for your sister so you can focus without any worries," Claude said, trying to sound reassuring.

And boy was that a chore for even her, though, only that. A chore.

Lelouch was even more skeptical than before, but knew Claude possessed some kind of powers and abilities that defied common sense.

As much as he wanted to ask where her powers came from and how they work, every time he and Yui would attempt to inquire, she would steer the discussion to a different and inappropriate subject matter Lelouch didn't want to recall.

She makes Milly's antics look like those of Saint, Lelouch thought.

Lelouch couldn't help, but compare Claude to Milly Ashford, the granddaughter of the academy's headmaster at the school he attended and lived at. Lelouch was well-acquainted with her, and unlike her parents who lived up to everything he resented about the nobility, Milly was very different. Like Claude she was whimsical, devious, but not in a malicious way, and overly cheerful with an appetite for strange parties, costumes and fascinated by the bodies of her more well-endowed friends. Claude was this and more, but with far less restraint than Milly while difficult to get a read on when not flaunting her sex appeal.

"Just like that?"

"Just like that," Claude said, before noticing the skeptical expression Lelouch had. "Don't give me that look, when I say I can do something then you better believe I can do it."

Lelouch wanted to question that, but decided against it.

"Now just lie down and go to sleep," Claude instructed.

"Before I do, I have a question," Lelouch had just enough energy to ask this one question.

"And that is?" Claude raised an eyebrow.

"Yui," Lelouch had run the details through his mind. Something didn't quite add up, until just now, "Is this Yui the one who saw her friends, or did she dream it and you simply made it look like she participated in the battles that killed all of her friends?"

Claude smirked, "I knew you were a good choice," she began, "But the truth is not so simple?"

"Would you care to elaborate then? I may not understand the full mechanics of what you are capable of, but I would like to understand how there isn't two Yuis? The one I trained with in your dimensional space and the one who should've been there when we arrived? You didn't kill her did you?"

Claude merely laughed, "Oh heavens no I simply merged them into one."

"Merged them?"

Claude nodded, "Even if I killed the past Yui that could've caused some problems, so believe it or not the easiest solution was to merge them. Because even if I did kill her in the future Yui would've ceased to exist, the same thing would've happened if I didn't."

"So merging them, however that is possible, was your only option then?" Lelouch said, realizing the mechanics of Claude's manipulations was more complex than he realized.

"Bingo, but it was easier for me to do here because it already happened to someone else, or rather it will happen to someone else unless my efforts can prevent it?"

"Someone else?"

"That's he would originally die when the BETA overrun his hometown, a city. But simply being killed by the BETA would've been preferable, which he was once they took him and others prisoner."

"This person was taken prisoner by the BETA, I thought they didn't take prisoners?" Lelouch said intrigued and confused by this new information about the BETA.

"Normally they wouldn't, but remember in how I said they don't see humans as living beings as to them carbon lifeforms are an impossibility for their creators? Naturally the intelligence behind the BETA was no doubt confused greatly by lifeforms that shouldn't exist putting up a fight against them. So it took prisoners to begin experimenting on them, not so much to understand humans but rather find other ways to defeat them."

A cold and dark realization began to dawn on Lelouch, recalling what Claude mentioned by "simply being killed by the BETA would've been preferable."

"Judging by your face, I think you realize what the BETA did to those poor people, and trust me it was worst than you thought."

"I won't question you on that," Lelouch said, feeling hesitant to inquire to what happened.

"I'll spare you the horrible details, otherwise I doubt you'll be able to sleep well. Among those prisoners was a girl, a childhood friend to the boy who died protecting her. A simple ordinary girl, who was experimented on in cruel and unimaginable ways, until they realized they didn't need her body so bit by bit they took her apart until she was reduced to a brain and her spine."
Lelouch felt horror and revulsion from this realization, keeping quiet because if she was ultimately reduced to a brain and a spine then just what were the BETA doing to her. What kind of experiment where they running?

The more he thought about it, the more Lelouch believed he was better off not knowing.

"However, despite the horrors she endured, she had but one simple wish, and the wish of a girl can be a very powerful thing. Especially when the hive her brain was kept in was bombarded with bombs that can have abnormal effects on reality, so those bombs and their unknown effects resonated with that wish in a one in a million chance opportunity bringing the boy she loved from an alternate timeline, but unknowingly merging him with the version of himself who died stabilizing his existence here yet turning him into something more as he connected and fused with various versions of himself overtime," Claude explained, seemingly impressed with the girl's wish, but Lelouch realized something else.

"There was some kind of catch, which is actually the problem you want to deal with?"

"You nailed it again," Claude replied with a smile. "Yes, as miraculous as this wish might've been, there was a terrible catch to it. It's one that poor girl couldn't have known about let alone intend it. The boy became a Casualty Conductor, a harbinger of despair in which he causes the gradual memory loss of those close to him, who will forget him in time. But even worse for the poor man he'll cause those close to him and eventually everyone else to die a grim end."

"It's not something he can control then?" Lelouch said, trying to imagine such a person existing.

"Sadly no, and trying to return to his own timeline will just make a much more destructive existence because he hails from a timeline where the BETA never invaded his world. Returning to it as it is will invite an apocalypse in time."

"I see, and you want to prevent this from happening?"

"That's right, his mere existence is a danger and if he were to move around to other timelines he could be a bigger problem for everyone, and the clean up for me would be a lot more troublesome," Claude said, folding her arms over her chest looking displeased.

"Then what about Yui, is she some kind of counter since she was merged in much the same way this Casualty Conductor was?"

"Ding-ding, you nailed it again," Claude cheered, very pleased. "Yes, I made Yui into an anti-Casualty Conductor, whose existence has the opposite effect. It did help in ensuring most of you survived Kyoto despite all of those close calls, and keeping her near you will be of help to you too."

"I see, so Yui was an opportunity for you to create this counter-casualty conductor and involving me was another benefit to prevent the Casualty Conductor from coming into existence then," Lelouch said, deducing Claude's other intentions. "You simply didn't choose this world for just me."

"That's right, let's just say I saw a way to kill two birds with one stone. Besides, given the dire state humanity was in, it was all that much easier for me to get them to back you in exchange for the cool tech I've been giving them, so bonus points right there," Claude replied with a smile.

"I see…"

"If you were wondering Yui does get some extra benefits, while she doesn't get the memories of all of the Yuis who had a bad end, only the one you worked with she does inherit the muscle memory of the others as the Casualty Conductor did, so while it doesn't make her super human, her piloting and fighting skills will improve quickly through as a result," Claude explaining.

"I see, so no other benefits then?"

"Well her mind might get a boost in learning, but like I said, nothing superhuman. But she might have moments of things or someone being familiar to her, but unable to understand why. It could be some help in the right situations, but who can say since this is new territory even for me," Claude replied with a mischievous smile.

Lelouch nodded. That answered his questions, but he had one question left.

"Will you tell her?"

"Not yet, I feel a better time to reveal this will come later. The girl has a lot on her mind right now."

"I see."

"Good," Claude nodded, "Now off to bed."

Lelouch reluctantly did as instructed due to being wary of Claude. But as soon as he was comfortable, it didn't take long for Lelouch to fall asleep due to the sheer exhaustion slamming into him like a Destroyer-class. And so, once asleep, he dreamed, but when he awoke, he found himself back in his room at Ashford Academy. Lelouch felt relaxed being in a place more familiar to him, although he might've written off what had happened in the other world as a dream, he looked down to see he was dressed in the black uniform he had been given.

Somehow, I need to find out that woman's secrets, especially how she does things that are flat out impossible, Lelouch thought sitting up in bed.

Looking around Lelouch saw the bag he had previously put away his clothes in on the chair of his desk. Seeing the sun was rising as the light of dawn began shining through his window, Lelouch got up to clean up and change. He didn't want anyone to see him in the uniform he had and ask unwanted questions, knowing even if he answered truthfully no one would believe him.

Not that he could blame them if he did try telling anyone who had happened to him.

Dressed in a fresh set of clothes, Lelouch went to the dining room, where he found his younger sister Nunnally sitting at the head of the table in her electric wheelchair. She was able to confidently move herself around their living area thanks to her familiarity of where they lived. Unlike her older brother, the thirteen-year-old girl had long wavy sandy brown hair. Her eyes were the same as Lelouch's, but remained close as a result of her blindness due to the horrific trauma of the same incident that left her paralyzed from the waist down.

The day their mother was murdered, she had died protecting Nunnally. Then instead of doing something, like finding those responsible, their father the Britannian Emperor did nothing. Instead he banished them to a foreign nation to be used as political hostages when Lelouch confronted him on the matter. Then they were flat out abandoned to die when Britannia invaded months later, likely expecting them to die and provide a better justification for the invasion.

Seeing his sister reminded him of the injustices they suffered and was a driving force behind Lelouch's desire for vengeance.

"Brother, is that you?" Nunnally asked, seemingly aware of her brother's presence.

"I am here Nunnally, and good morning," Lelouch said, warmly greeting his sister.

"I am glad you are home brother, you worried me last night when you didn't return on time," Nunnally with an expression of worry.

Lelouch joined her at the table, "I am sorry Nunnally. Something unexpected came up, but it…worked out."

He regretted not being honest with Nunnally, but Lelouch knew telling her what he had been actually doing could cause her to panic. It was the last thing he wanted to do to her after all she had been through as a child.

"Were you challenged again?"

"Yes, but this time my opponent was tougher, but I prevailed in the end. Not to mention I got quite the prize for it."

Nunnally looked at her brother with a mixture of worry and disapproval, she didn't like her brother's habit of taking part in these underground chess tournaments. However, her brother was too prideful to get a part time job, and there were risks of their own to just even trying to apply for one since every place conducted a background check which could be risky for him.

She wished her brother didn't have to gamble, but had to reluctantly acknowledge it allowed her brother and by extension her a secure source of income. Nunnally didn't like it, but they had no other alternatives.

"I see, but please be careful brother," Nunnally said, hoping at least he would be cautious with those he challenged.

"Don't worry Nunnally, I always make sure I don't bite off more than I can chew. I know there are people who never take losing well," Lelouch said reassuringly to his sister.

"Ok, as long as you are careful."

Don't worry Nunnally I will be, Lelouch thought, but he held back from saying any more.

The last thing he wanted to do was to make Nunnally worry needlessly. Hearing about him fighting a dangerous alien race would be the last thing she wanted to hear. He didn't feel good about withholding such information, but Lelouch knew it was for the best. Yet seeing her only made Lelouch resolute in his decision to follow the path before him. He had plans for achieving revenge against the
Empire that abandoned him and Nunnally, and the father, ruling it, who casted them aside to die in a foreign land.

The world needs to change, so Nunnally can find happiness, Britannia's way of life that the strong dominate the weak has to be destroyed with the rest of it, Lelouch thought.

Formed from the beaten remains of the British Empire, chased from their homeland of the British Isles, the Holy Britannia Empire grew into a world superpower after rebuilding itself among its colonies on the American Continuant before eventually bringing the entire continent under their rule as a new empire. They continued aggressively expanding, seeing this as a defensive act, determined to not allow a repeat of their near destruction in Britain from happening again.

However, when Charles Darwin's theories of evolution came into play, they took hold in Britannia using it to justify their aggressive expansion while treating all who weren't Britannian as lower class citizens for them to rule over and discriminate. The Royal Family was not exempt from this, in fact, those who ascended to the throne were usually the last heir left standing while other contenders for the throne died under suspicious circumstances ensuring the worthiest heir ascended the throne.

Either that or they had to fight to hold onto the throne for all the time they had the throne. Which would explain why Britannia had such a large number of Emperors and Empresses for a country barely 200 years old. Because the slightest weakness, real or perceived, could prove fatal.

It was such a world he grew up in that claimed his mother's life, a commoner by birth who rose to become the youngest Knight of the Round, the most elite of soldiers who directly serve the Emperor before becoming one of his many consorts.

The other Imperial Consorts likely envied her because of her commoner status, Lelouch thought, suspecting they were potentially involved in her demise. Not to mention his mother, Marianne, was known to have picked fights with the other consorts.

Lelouch and Nunnally only survived because his mother's old allies, the Ashford Family, was willing to shelter them, but only to serve as liability insurance since the death of Marianne. A series of unfortunate events combined with their patron's death caused them to be cast out of the nobility, losing much of their status and wealth. But they still had some resources and old connections that allowed them to retain some wealth and prestige even if it was all a far cry from what they once had. Using those connections the siblings were given new identities while their old identities were declared dead.

Our lack of value kept the Ashfords from exploiting us, but how long can that last? If anyone finds out we are alive we'll end up assassinated as a potential contender for the throne or used as tools of royal ambition that could get us killed, Lelouch thought. It was this knowledge that had him accept Claude and Yuuhi's offers.

Because even among allies, enemies can be found readily enough. Such was the Britannian way of life.

Therefore, Lelouch knew, even if he began his plans of retribution against Britannia, or not he would need to keep Nunnally safe and remake the world so she wouldn't have to hide in fear.

Even if I don't have full control I can still turn this to my advantage given time, and this will be my best shot to make my goals a reality faster than I could've on my own, Lelouch thought, and if something did go wrong he had another place with people Nunnally could interact with to move her to if the situation demanded it.

Meanwhile back on the other Earth, Kazusa was sitting on a bench in the indoor gym of the base, she had just completed her usual workout wearing a white towel draped over her neck, a sleeveless black top and matching gym pants with sneakers, and a water bottle in one hand.

Since all of her clothes were either still at her home in Kyoto, which she didn't even know if it was still standing or not, or at her academy dorm, which she knew had been the scene of fierce combat and had since become a field command post and forward medical station, and thus why she was dressed in the clothes she wore.

Only her underwear, socks, and shoes currently fitted her. The current attire was a smidge too small. Allowing a band of skin between the bottom of her top and the top of her shorts to be visible and cling to her. Her shorts were riding higher than they should, but at least it wasn't uncomfortable, but she had noticed the outlines it was making of her body as she was dressed.

That only added to her frustrations.

Which was another reason why was in the gym. Kazusa was working off some of her frustrations. Chief among those were not only was she denied a chance to question Yui, but it seemed Lelouch was also unavailable, which wasn't surprising given his physical condition and weary state after an all-night battle.

Though, even she needed to rest and get some sleep. They all did. But whereas they were able to rest and refresh in a few hours, Lelouch was reportedly out cold. The medical staff had checked him and found him still completely asleep, just exhausted, but nothing dangerous.

Someone like Lelouch could not have piloted a TSF with barely any training. It was one thing to hear it said, but another to believe it. More shocking was the fact that Yui had trained Lelouch herself, while deducing the Coupling System, if it worked as she was told, likely transferred Yui's piloting experience to Lelouch accelerating his training through multiple uses.

She would've had to spend days at a time with him, and yet, Kazusa thought, unable to find any moments for Yui to have been able to teach Lelouch without them knowing.

The entire situation was unbelievable, making Kazusa want answers.

"Mind if I sit with you," Shimako asked, shaking Kazusa from her thoughts.

Kazusa had been in such deep thought, she didn't notice Shimako approaching. Like the former she had gone to the base's gym to work out as part of her daily routine. She wore a white T-shirt, which had stains from perspiration, and black form fitting gym shorts with a water bottle of her own in one hand.

And like Kazusa, the outfit was of the wrong size. Though in Shimako's case, the shorts were a little larger, requiring a band to help keep them in place and up and the legs to be tied off. The shirt was notably a size too small, leading to Shimako to be cautious of who was around.

Something telling of priorities right now. As troops were transitioning through the base heading for the front. A mix of UN units and Americans were the most common. The bulk of the Japanese units already in battle… or destroyed.

"Oh not at all," Kazusa said quickly, giving herself a mental shake before she could go down that morbid lane, though she was surprised she didn't notice Shimako coming.

"Thank you," Shimako said, joining Kazusa by sitting next to her on her right.

After a moment of silence Shimako spoke.

"I think Yui is hiding something."

"I agree. You've known her longer than the rest of us do you have any idea what it is?"

"Yes we've known each other since we were kids," Shimako confirmed with a nod, while smiling as she recalled some pleasant memories. " But I don't know what she's hiding."

"She is afraid of telling us," Kazusa said, having sensed some kind of reluctance.

Now that I think about it, Kazusa thought back to their escape to Kyoto; Lelouch and Yui were clearly expecting those Laser-class to attack them. Did they somehow know what was going to happen, if so how?

"I can't help, but feel they knew exactly what was going to happen that night," Shimako said, having reached a similar conclusion. "Remember how she reacted upon seeing us at the base following her meeting with the commander, where we met Lelouch?"

"Yes, that's right," Kazusa said, which only cemented her suspicions

"Did…did something happen to us? I know it sounds crazy, but what if she knew what was going to happen?"

"Considering how she reacted right before we met Lelouch," Kazusa began, but she did acknowledge the thought sounded crazy, but if Yui somehow did know what was going to happen did that mean something happened to them?

It should be impossible, but Kazusa couldn't think of any other explanation to understand Lelouch and Yui's advance knowledge of events.

"If something did happen to us, maybe that could be why Yui could be scared. Assuming my suspicions are right," Shimako said, doubtful of her own suspicions, but given the evidence before them.

"You're right. There is just no other way to explain it, no matter how impossible it sounds. We'll only know for sure unless we can talk to Yui," Kazusa said, more resolute in talking to their friend.

Around the same time Yui was in her room. She was avoiding Izumi, Aki, Kazusa and Shimako, because she knew they would seek to question her about Lelouch and other things. As much as she wanted to tell them, she just couldn't do it. Because how could she even explain it, where would she begin?

How do I tell them they all died, Yui thought, replaying the memories of their deaths to play in her mind.

Yui feared they wouldn't believe her, not that she could blame them, but she was certain Kazusa was suspicious, given how observant she tended to be.

I can hide from them as long as I want, not long enough either, but I know sooner or later I'll have to tell them, Yui thought, thinking she might have to prepare for the day she must tell them the truth.

Thinking back on it now, Yui also understood another truth she didn't fully understand until now, a memory of her uncle expressing sadness over someone as young as her going to the front. At the time she just brushed it off as concern for her safety, which wasn't unreasonable yet it was different from her mother who had nothing but pride for her going off to fight.

I am sorry uncle, I didn't understand your sadness then, but you knew what horrors would await me against the BETA. How many friends did you lose I wonder?

Hours later as night time came, Lelouch returned to his room after wishing his sister good night. Lelouch changed back into the uniform he had received before going to sleep as instructed by Claude. Closing his eyes it wasn't long before he drifted into slumber.

Lelouch didn't know how long he slept, but an alarm woke up.

Waking up, and feeling fully rested, Lelouch sat up in bed. He found himself in his room back at the Fukushima Military Base. Getting out of bed, Lelouch saw the time was just after four a.m. Turning on the lights Lelouch saw a pink note and a fresh set of clothes set out on top of the desk for him, given the hearts decorating the card it was likely from Claude.

Sighing, Lelouch picked up the card to read it.

"Dear Lelouch, in thirty minutes you'll be met by someone who will take you to join other new recruits for basic training under your new instructor. Be sure to change and get ready by then, good luck, Claude! P.S. - There are a number of good songs to choose from to describe what you're about to go through. But I left a couple and I highly recommend them."

As much as Lelouch was not looking forward to basic training, but if such pain was needed for him to get what he needed to bring down Britannia then he was prepared to pay for it with blood, sweat and tears. But arrogantly Lelouch had no idea what he was truly in for, though intellectually he wondered how different it would ultimately be?

Doing as instructed Lelouch changed, now wearing a pair of black and gray battle dress uniform pants, black military boots and a black sleeveless form-fitting shirt. Lelouch also noticed he was given his own dog tags, so he put those on as well too. Lelouch was ready with time to spare, which allowed him to use the small facilities and get rid of the smell he realized he had too, when a knock came at his door, which Lelouch promptly opened to find Marimo on the other side, dressed in dark green and brown battle dress pants, boots and a black tank top.

Behind her was Mana and beside her was another woman, she seemed younger than Marimo with short auburn hair, matching eyes dressed in the same manner as Marimo. Unlike Marimo who looked at Lelouch with considerable disapproval in her eyes, the woman was shocked by how skinny Lelouch was.

"I am glad you are very prompt Cadet Lamperouge, but despite your impressive accomplishments in Kyoto, you will be under my care from this moment on, and don't think it means you'll get special treatment from me. In fact seeing your physical condition I'll be giving you my personal attention," Marimo said professionally, yet she conveyed an air of intimidation.

"I understand," Lelouch said politely, but he was silently defiant, something Marimo seemed to notice in his eyes.

Without a change in her expression or tone, Marimo continued.

"Since most of the cadets given to me to train for the new Minamoto models are all female, they'll be sleeping in their own barracks. You'll have to sleep in your own room separate from them for obvious reasons. That being said, my assistant to get you all trained and in shape will be a former student of mine, Lieutenant Michiru Isumi. She'll be fetching you every morning so I can awaken the others on time, or we might switch."

Michiru nodded her head in a silent sign of consent while remaining a professional expression.

"If you expect to lead our soldiers then you need to not only go through the same training as them, but earn their respect. So expect me to be especially hard on you," Marimo said with a steely gaze.

"I understand," Lelouch said, trying to mentally prepare himself.

"Very well, follow me so you can be introduced to your fellow cadets who will be training with you," Marimo said, beckoning Lelouch to follow her.

Mana and Michiru followed close behind and after some twists and turns the two took an elevator before exiting the base. They had exited into a training yard, as the base housed the needed facilities for training new recruits on site, to serve not only as TSF pilots, but also test pilots for new weapons and technologies. The field was wide with an obstacle course on one side, and a pair of buildings on another, which Lelouch assumed were the barracks the cadets were staying at.

Ahead of them, Lelouch saw a group of young girls, most were around his age. One of them seemed older compared to the others, but one of them noticed Marimo approaching, she acted quickly.

The woman was wearing the same BDU pants, black form fitting top with no sleeves, and boots. She appeared to be around Lelouch's age, with short spiky blonde hair and red eyes.

"Company, ten-hut!" The blonde haired woman shouted.

Whatever conversations they had been having ended as the new recruits quickly formed a single line before standing perfectly at attention. Lelouch was silently instructed by Michiru to join the line up while Marimo approached the maroon haired woman who saluted her.

"The squad is formed ma'am," The woman said as Marimo returned the salute, prompting the maroon haired woman to rejoin the line of cadets.

"Well done, rejoin the line up Cadet Minori," Marimo instructed.

"Ma'am," Asagi Minori said with a salute before joining everyone else.

"My name is Sergeant Marimo Jinguuji, my task is to get you all into shape and prepared to pilot Tactical Surface Fighters for the battle against the BETA!" Marimo began addressing the group of nine other cadets plus Lelouch. "Let me be clear about one thing, I will push you to be the best I can make you. I will not hesitate to do what I must, so consider this your only warning. Perform well we won't have a problem, but perform poorly and you will get my personal attention, which none would want. If anyone has any stupid ideas about our fight against the BETA or shows signs of being a cocky shit I will make you regret it. Do you understand me!"

"We understand ma'am!" Everyone said together.

"Good, Lieutenant Michiru Isumi shall be assisting me, and I expect all of you to show them the same respect and willingness to follow orders as would me. You have been chosen to pilot experimental new weapons, so I've been instructed to turn you all into capable pilots by the end of the month. So let's begin, I want to see just how tough all of you are. We will be running ten kilometers, beginning now," Marimo said with a seriousness in her voice. "If any of you falls behind Cadet Lamperouge on the end there, I will not only shock you, but put you through the physical workout of your lives! His physical fitness is woefully pathetic, but unlike the rest of you he actually has combat experience against the BETA and survived."

Lelouch said nothing, but something she said about shocking someone worried him.

"But don't assume I'll be giving him any less special treatment, because I'll be shocking him if he stops running," Marimo said as Mana brought out what appeared to be an electric cattle prod. "Don't worry the voltage is low enough to avoid serious injury, but it will be enough to hurt, a lot, just the same. Maybe a little fear will push Cadet Lamperouge to perform better."

Lelouch's face paled, but he kept his mouth shut fearful Marimo would actually shock him to make an example of him. However, someone would do it instead, and prove his fears correct.

"But that is barbaric!"

"Who said that," Marimo snapped. "Step forward and identify yourself."

In the corner of his eye Lelouch saw a cadet boldly step forward, she was as old as Yui was with long dark blue hair, and antique fuchsia, dressed in the same attire as the other cadets.

"Cadet Yuzuka Sendou, ma'am."

"I see," Marimo said before calmly approaching the young girl, but once she was close enough Marimo punched Yuzuka in the stomach.

No one saw it coming, and Yuzuka's eyes went wide in pain with tears, before she dropped to her knees clutching her stomach coughing, unable to voice her pain, but Marimo wasn't done.

"First warning, never speak out of turn. You ask for permission to speak first," Marimo harshly scolded before shocking Yuzuka with the cattle prod causing her to collapse onto the ground in further pain, causing the teenage girl to cry out in agony. "And second, there are instructors much harsher than me if you think I am bad. Eight minutes is the life expectancy of a pilot fighting the BETA. They make idiots like you panic and wet your pants and that panicking will get you killed. If you can't handle a little pain, or least of all me, then you won't even last five minutes against the BETA."

Lelouch kept silent, knowing he couldn't do anything about it, but he was outraged by Marimo's treatment of Yuzuka. Even if this was somehow acceptable training practices, Lelouch didn't agree with them.

I know survival against the BETA is slim, but this is going too far, Lelouch thought before he deduced something based on Marimo's words. Did she lose someone herself?

"None of you have anything else to say," Marimo said, daring the others to say something. No one said anything as Yuzuka was still on the ground in pain, trying to recover.

"Get up Cadet Sendou," Marimo said, grabbing Yuzuka by the arm and forcing her back onto her feet, which she barely managed even as her legs were shaking. "All of you start running!"

'Told you one of those songs will cover this for you,' Lelouch heard Claude's voice like a breeze whispering in his ear and he really didn't want to know.

Everyone started running as Michiru started running to follow them, meanwhile as Lelouch was about to run he noticed Yuzuka was having trouble trying to run as the shock and hit to the stomach had taken the wind out of her. Marimo glared at the woman and was likely going to shock her again until.

"I can carry you," Lelouch said approaching, causing Yuzuka to look at him in surprise.

To Marimo's surprise and even to that of an onlooking Mana, Lelouch ran back and offered to carry Yuzuka on her back, so she could be given time to recover.

"You can't," Yuzuka said as she struggled to even walk.

"Do you want her to shock you again?"

Yuzuka looked back at Marimo who held the cattle prod in a threatening manner. Realizing she was going to be facing her wrath, reluctantly accepted Lelouch's offer. Marimo did nothing to stop him. While surprised by Lelouch's action she knew he was just making things harder for himself, but believed this could be more of a benefit to him.

Running ten kilometers while carrying a girl on his back, well that will help put some muscle on him for sure, Marimo thought.

Once Lelouch had Yuzuka on his back he started running. His fear of Marimo and that cattle prod pushed his body, even as his muscles began screaming, to force his weak body to keep going. Marimo didn't have to run much to keep up with them, and she already knew Lelouch wasn't likely to catch up even without Yuzuka on his back.

Still she was troubled if this didn't push his physical fitness to develop.

However, whenever Lelouch showed signs of showing down she brought the cattle prod close to his head, which hearing the electric sounds spooked Lelouch enough to keep going. Despite his odds Lelouch managed to make it one lap around the track, but everyone else was on their fifth lap passing Lelouch. Some were surprised there was a boy in their training group, even more so at how despite looking ready to drop he forced his exhausted body while carrying Yuzuka on his back.

Watching him, and surprised by his act of aiding Yuzuka despite being a complete stranger, Mana remembered something Claude said about Lelouch.

"No matter how old and aloof he acts, Lelouch will step in and help others. He won't ask for a reward or praise, treating the whole thing as mundane. He does so believing people should help when others are in trouble, and is disgusted with those who rather just sit back and do nothing," Claude said, actually appearing behind Mana causing the woman to snap to full alertness as she turned around to face the smirking woman. "He has that chronic hero syndrome trope pretty bad, even if he wouldn't admit it. Same thing with "Always save the girl," but that one will bite him in the ass if he isn't careful."

"You, how?" Mana snapped, angry someone had managed to get that close to her without her knowing.
Ignoring her, Claude continued.

"It was for these reasons I picked Yui to be his partner, her plight and the desire to save her friends I knew would appeal to Lelouch because of his willingness to help others and he can't ignore a girl in need especially, because of his sister's influence. Not to mention the temptation of access to technology to put him above Britannia and more were additional incentives, just as I hoped," Claude said grinning deviously.

"So you manipulated him?"

"A little," Claude admitted. "Besides, it's his chronic hero syndrome trait that actually set events in motion causing him to become Zero, and ultimately bring about Britannia's downfall as it was and Japan's liberation even if his intentions...weren't so selfless in the beginning. So there was no reason I couldn't appeal to it myself to get him to agree to play my game and help you lot in the process."

Mana glared at her, while Claude was amused by it.

Truth be told, Mana didn't like Claude, aside from her admitted manipulations of a sixteen-year-old boy and her lack of respect towards the Shogun. But she also managed to unnerve Mana at the same time, being able to sneak up on someone not only trained as a ninja, but also a skilled infiltrator, so no one should be able to sneak up on her without being noticed. Claude being able to do so easily disturbed Mana, along with Claude's ability to seemingly appear anywhere at will, no doubt having access to technology surpassing what their world has.

As much of a carefree and seemingly lazy tease she could be, Mana was instinctively on guard around Claude, suspecting she was far more dangerous than her appearance and attitude suggested otherwise.

Later that day, Yuzuka had recovered enough so she spoke up to the boy who helped her.

"Uh, could you put me down, I think I can run now," Yuzuka said, aware that trying to carry her and stay ahead of Marimo and her cattle prod must've been hard on Lelouch's body.

"You can put her down," Marimo said, overhearing Yuzuka's request, allowing Lelouch to stop long enough to allow Yuzuka get back on her own feet.

"Thank you for your help," Yuzuka said, thankful for Lelouch. "Uh…"

"Lelouch, Lelouch Lamperouge," Lelouch managed between deep breaths, his body drenched in sweat.

"Yuzuka Sendou," Yuzuka said, returning the introduction.

"Alright, you're done with introductions, back to it," Marimo said holding up the cattle prod prompting the pair to start running, and Yuzuka being in far better physical fitness managed to get far ahead of Lelouch.

Lelouch managed to run a little faster now that he was no longer carrying Yuzuka, but he couldn't help but wonder how he was still managing to keep going despite knowing too well that in the past he could barely run a lap.

Wait, are there still some lingering effects from the stimulates in my body? No that can't be, Lelouch thought as his mind tried to explain how he was able to keep going.

Suddenly Lelouch felt a sharp pain in his lower back causing him to jump in shock and pain, releasing an anguished howl.

Marimo was surprised too, but unlike Lelouch she saw what caused him to cry out in pain.

"Ta-da," Claude announced, approaching riding an electric Segway colored in pink, while holding a dart gun in one hand. "Don't worry Lelouch I got you, this potent endurance and muscle boosting supplement will help you. It's all natural and it encourages muscle and endurance growth."

"You SHOT ME!" Lelouch snapped, pulling out the dart that had been stuck in his back.

"Because I care," Claude said with a big smile. "Besides without regular injections it could take you months to get where they want you to be, and I don't think you would've survived that long."

"Regular injections," Lelouch inquired, not that he was afraid of shots, but it was really the person offering that he was concerned about.

"Uh-huh," Claude said before smiling as she put away the dart gun. "You should be noticing a change right about now."

Lelouch did notice as he was starting to run faster and his previous exhaustion was gone as he began pulling away from Marimo, much to the latter's surprise.

"I trust you'll be giving him those injections every morning?" Marimo questioned.

"Of course, did you want to shoot him in the back too?" Claude offered jokingly.

"No," Marimo said bluntly. "It will be a normal injection."

"Oh," Claude replied, sounding disappointed. "I thought you'd be fine with shooting him."

"I am no sadist, I am simply doing my job to prepare these kids for hell," Marimo answered coldly before running faster to catch up to Lelouch.

"She's no fun," Claude said with a huff.

Despite the odds and thanks to Claude's injection, Lelouch was able to complete his ten kilometer run, although he was the last to finish, the fact he was able to finish at all was a miracle. It was mid-afternoon and everyone else had long finished the run, however Marimo approached him as Lelouch leaned against a lamppost.

"I actually didn't expect you to finish without collapsing," Marimo complimented, even if her expression was stone faced.

"Thank you, ma'am," Lelouch barely managed in between breaths.

"Now it is getting late and we're not done yet," Marimo said before noticing Michiru approaching. "Lieutenant, I'll leave Cadet Lamperouge in your hands to continue physical fitness, but tomorrow I'll be expecting him to keep up with everyone else once Miss Triello gives him an injection in the morning. I'll be checking on the others."

"Yes, ma'am," Michiru said with a salute, which Marimo returned before she left.

Once Marimo was well out of earshot, Michiru sighed.

"You dodged a bullet with her, she was a lot more brutal and uncompromising with us when we were trained by her."

"Really," Lelouch inquired, taking advantage of the chance to regain as much strength as he could.

"What you saw her do to Cadet Sendou paled what she did to a friend of ours," Michiru warned ominously. "But, I have to acknowledge she has her reasons for it. I think having engaged the BETA in battle, you've gotten a glimpse of it haven't you?"

"She lost someone didn't she?"

Michiru nodded.

"Yes, I found out later she was assigned to the Japanese Expeditionary Force that was sent to Dalian, China. She was made squadron leader and many of her fellow classmates from training made up her squad," Michiru said before continuing the story. "However a surprise BETA attack wiped out the rear guard leaving Marimo and her squad completely surrounded. She barely survived but many of her friends and squad members didn't."

Lelouch was quiet, but he couldn't help but think of how Yui was when they met first, fresh out of Kyoto having lost her friends.

"She felt the weight of their losses, because as squadron leader she felt responsible for their lives. Marimo would fight recklessly in the following battles trying to avenge them while I think some part of her was feeling suicidal wanting to join them. Instead she kept surviving those battles until she was transferred to become an instructor."

"Now she instills her students in a way to prepare them for the horrors of facing the BETA?"

"Yes. Although I didn't agree with her methods, after getting command of my own squadron and finding myself in her position, I understood why she was so harsh," Michiru admitted, and Lelouch recognized what she meant. She commanded a squad of her own, then something happened that caused most of those under her command to end up dead.

"I see," Lelouch said, but his tone suggested to Michiru that he understood the meaning she was conveying.

"Which is why I think she'll be a lot harder on you than the others. You want to be a leader to command others don't you? Well I think she intends to instill on you the responsibility of the lives of those who serve under a leader leading soldiers to battle."

"I understand."

"Good, now come on, you still have training ahead of you."

Lelouch said nothing further, but he willed his body forward.

No matter if this is what it took to gain what he needed to bring Britannia down and remake his world into something better, then he would endure whatever Marimo threw at him.

But quietly, deep inside of him, burned the need to help those living in their own personal hell, be free from it.

Claude smirked, "You're not alive unless you're actually dying," she sang before quietly disappearing as she did so.

"Now… When will you tell others it isn't a good day to die?"

With those words echoing in his mind, an exhausted Lelouch followed Michiru into a nearby building; it was mostly empty, but it had rows of tables upon it. They were left bare, but one spot, likely reserved for him, had parts of what appeared to be an assault rifle; it wasn't a model he had seen before but Lelouch was guessing based on its size and magazine. Nearby were parts for a pistol, which made it easy for Lelouch to understand what the next test was.

"Just because you'll be piloting a machine doesn't mean training on firearms and hand to hand combat will be ignored. After all there might be times you might be caught outside your machine in a dangerous situation.

"I suppose that is true," Lelouch began, but paused when a knife suddenly embedded itself causing him to reflexively move back.

"Try not to sound so lazy, I'll take it as a sign you are taking this seriously. And yes you'll be taught how to use a knife in a fight. However, given your woeful lack of physical ability we're going to how off on close quarters combat and knife training for now," Michiru said, before pulling her knife off the table's surface.

I barely saw her draw it out, Lelouch thought, as the display left him sweating a little.

"Now show me how much you know about firearms, can you assemble one?"

Lelouch would've said no, but under Michiru's steely gaze Lelouch decided to attempt it. However, he found, almost knowingly despite never having done it before, he knew exactly what to do. Marimo seemed surprised watching Lelouch assemble the weapon, as if he had done it before. It wasn't long before Lelouch assembled the handgun as well, surprising Marimo even more so.

"I wasn't aware you handled a firearm before, but not bad. You just beat all of your fellow cadets," Michiru said, checking her stopwatch.

The only explanation is that I must've inherited Yui's training she was given, not just her experience in piloting, Lelouch thought, deducing his unexpected knowledge of handling a weapon.

"Thank you ma'am," Lelouch said.

"Lieutenant, take care of the cadets, I'll handle his next training," Marimo said, approaching causing Lelouch's blood to run cold.

"Yes ma'am, Cadet Lamperouge completed his assignment in a impressively timely manner," Michiru said, saluting.

"Very good to hear, you are dismissed," Marimo said, as Michiru left.

"Normally we would have you work on the study of tactics at this point. However, given what I've heard of being a natural with tactical planning we'll skip it for the first few days for you.. But I believe you need more of a workout, otherwise you'll never come close to the fitness of your fellow pilots," Marimo said, as her words sent a chill down his spine. "You have a lot of work ahead of you, so follow me."

Lelouch could do nothing but follow, because he knew to say no or to fall behind would just result in more pain.

This time Lelouch was led to a gym, where he was instructed to work on lifting weights, but his body hadn't had time to recover from the long run he had endured in the morning. Being lead to a mat, Marimo pointed to it.

"Get on that mat and give me thirty push ups," Marimo commanded.

Lelouch did as instructed, not wanting to get shocked, but his body was barely moving. Yet someone he hadn't collapsed yet, it seemed whatever injection Claude gave him was helping him. But only just as, since Lelouch recognized he'll need more injections to properly adapt and get the most out of them.

After Lelouch performed his first two push ups, which took about three minutes due to how exhausted his body was, Marimo shocked him with the cattle prod. Lelouch howled out in pain before he felt Marimo's knee on his back, holding him down. Marimo knelt down close to Lelouch's ear to whisper something into him.

"Just know I take no pleasure from this, but you haven't seen the horrors of the battles against the BETA. You had a highly advanced piece of hardware to make it easy for you, or maybe I should say you've never fought against them using what the rest of us had where eight minutes is the life expectancy against the BETA," Marimo said, although her voice sounded menacing there was something else.

Lelouch said nothing, knowing that talking back would result in another shock or something worse, forcing him to hold back his anger.

But Marimo noticed the rage in Lelouch's eyes.

"Good to know you are smart enough to not lash out. If you have the strength to do that, then you certainly have the strength to do more. Now get moving!"

The verbal abuse pressed him more, made him comply with orders much to his wounded pride. Already, he thought himself thrown for a loop despite the warnings about his extreme lack of fitness. He would probably be dead before the end of the month, or even the day. But if he survived Marimo's training, then perhaps it could be worth it in the end.

A/N: You know Jameyofthemegacosmos, as a fun fact, is among those who would like to see Marimo apart of Lelouch's polygamous relationships, considering the hell he is no doubt being put through I admit I am curious on how such a relationship would happen between them, but its good to remember she has some serious competition.

Anyway you've met two people who will be apart of Lelouch's squad, Yuzuka Sendou, and Asagi Minori, both are from Muv Luv Alternative the Day After, which was a hard decision to use them since I am being VERY cautions on the number of women surrounding Lelouch since most female characters are potential love interests who could potentially join with Lelouch in a polygamous relationship, which as a reminder nothing of the sort will happen until Lelouch and Yui are officially a couple in every way (They are my main focus before anyone else).

And there is HOW for it best to happen and getting Lelouch and Yui to be okay with it, I got some ideas, but its one of those I must wait and see where the story stands at that point especially after Yui and Lelouch are more romantically involved.

As for the rest of the squad to be, you'll see them in the next chapter.

I wanted to do more of Lelouch's training for this chapter, but I didn't want to drag it out too much especially given that Lelouch can't fight his way out of a paper bag at this point, so I focused on giving just enough to show what Marimo intends for him. And tactics are taught in basic training in Muv Luv, and we all know Lelouch would be the top of his class for that one, but its everything else he'll have trouble on.

Thankfully Claude is helping him, in his own way.

And there is some reveal on how Yui was brought into the past after training with Lelouch in the early chapters, and she did have another motive for what she did.

And lastly there is Lelouch going back to his world while he sleeps in the Muv Luv world, which was a move I was worried about but none of the betas seemed to oppose it and its well within Claude's abilities, BUT this only last while Lelouch is on the Muv Luv world. This was to keep people on the CG world from wondering where Lelouch is, and to provide an easy way for me to introduce some of the Code Geass characters more easily and at my leisure like Nunnally.

Speaking of Code Geass, I did decide to move the "everyone else" polygamy candidate poll for Lelouch to my profile page, while it has the objective of narrowing down candidates for Lelouch's polygamy relationships (the limit is seven-nine as a reminder), I am worried about character bloat and there are just too many candidates so I am trying to narrow it down to a smaller number, and these choices were considered and debated by me and the other betas, but there are too many.

However, the poll serves another purpose in deciding if series like Gun x Sword, Aldnoah Zero, Darling in the Franxx, Valvrave the Liberator, and especially Full Metal Panic since its at risk of being cut completely, partly because no way in easily introducing it without too many hoops to jump through. So the higher they are, at least making it to the top twenty might ensure they stay in, but not assured yet it will convince me to work harder to keep them in. I am allowing fourteen votes on this poll only because I KNOW Code Geass characters will get the most votes, but keep in mind I will only pick one or two from those that score the highest and ignore the rest.

For the Infinite Stratos folks, it has been deemed Lelouch will a few IS user for his side so if any of them at least make it to the top twenty they might tag along with Lelouch's group.

So the poll is a way for me to kill two birds with one poll in this case.

As for the other two polls to narrow down the love interest candidates for Lelouch who will form a polygamous relationship with, the Muv Luv candidates (because there are enough candidates for their own poll), are located in my Code Geass Crossover R&D fanfiction forum under Crossover Chitchat Corner.

For the Gundam character candidates, which is ongoing, is located in the same forum Code Geass Crossover R&D, but under the thread "Super Robot Wars crossover plans" with impressively, Secelia Dote from Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury winning, with Shirin Bakhtiar (Gundam 00), Norea Du Noc (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury), Loni Garvey (Gundam Unicorn: she would be a combination of her novel and OVA selves) and Marina Ismail (Gundam 00) all tied for second. I didn't think Shirin would do so well if I am being honest and the same for Norea.

And in third are Dorothy Catalonia (Gundam Wing) and Miorine Rembran (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury), Mirorine being in third place is shocking since I do like the Mirorine and Suletta relationship, and lastly in fourth and fifth are Ingrid Tradoll (Gundam Seed Freedom) and Rena Imelia (Gundam Seed), and Sophie Pulone (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury) and Suletta Mercury (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury) respectively.

As a reminder these polls are just to narrow down the candidates, out of worry for character bloat, but most important especially for characters outside of Muv Luv, Infinite Stratos and Undefeated Bahamut Chronicles, who would be okay in a polygamous relationship with Lelouch? I'll swap out the polls for one of the three aforementioned polls, likely I'll switch back to the Gundam poll and relocate it to my fanfiction.net profile again, but I will eventually put the Muv Luv one on my profile once enough of its cast has been introduced.

But before I leave here are the specs for Shimako's Gundam, which was designed to be the bane against the Laser-class BETA, which are what killed her. I chose a fusion reactor from the Sunrider series, since they are likely more advance, but sadly don't offer much detail on them so my apology for that one. And I do regret not having the artistic skill to draw these Gundams, because I am sure they would've looked awesome or at least I would've liked to be so.

Model number: TMP-05X
Code name: Sadamitsu
Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame High Speed Assault Mobile Suit
Pilot: Shimako Kai
Manufacturer: Unknown
Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)
First deployment: September 29th 2016 A.T.B
Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso
Dimensions: head height 19.3 meters
Weight: 55.1 metric tons
Armor: Gundarium Alloy Ceramic Composite painted with Anti-Beam Coating: Not Gundanium Alloy, but rather something else known as Lunar Titanium Alloy. When the Earth Federation designed the RX-78 series of mobile suits, they also wanted a material that was strong, lightweight and durable for its construction; at that time they did not possess an adequate number of facilities to effect very-large-scale production and maintenance. Titanium isn't considered ideal as it becomes brittle if subjected to large amounts of stress over time as well as being slightly more complicated to work and weld when compared to other alloys like Steel, prompting the engineers to develop a new lightweight alloy that eventually came into being U.C. 0064, known as Luna Titanium.
Introduced in the U.C. 120s following the miniaturization of mobile suits. This material added a ceramic composite material similar to the earlier armor's used on mobile suits during the mid to late UC 0080s and UC 0090s. With the advent of miniaturized mobile suits in the early U.C. 0100s, multiple mass production suits (such as the RGM-109 Heavygun) could be made out of Gundarium for the price of a single mobile suit of an older design. Unfortunately, the hybridization of Gundarium and Ceramic composites degraded the protective qualities of Gundarium. This meant that while mass production mobile suits were armored with Gundarium instead of a cheaper Titanium/Ceramic based composite; they were more vulnerable to physical attacks, whereas the older prototype mobile suits with pure Gundarium armor were almost impervious to attacks that would severely damage or destroy the former.
Powerplant: Ultracompact Fusion Reactor (Sunrider-series model, due to having more advance fusion reactors)

Equipment Design Features:
Sensor: 23,700 Meters
Psycho-Frame: only the Cockpit is laced with Psycho-Frame due to the rarity of said material
Geschmeidig Panzer Energy Deflection Armor: Mounted on the shields, this system utilizes colloid particles to repel and redirect energy beams away from the mobile suit. The particles used are different from those in Mirage Colloid stealth system, but both systems are similar as powerful magnetic fields are needed to hold the particles in place above the armor. This deflection system however seems to be ineffective against close combat beam weapons, as ZGMF-X09A Justice Gundam's beam boomerang is able to damage the shields' surface. This system is also used for moving through water and counteracting water pressure.
Coupling System
Magnetic Field Generator: To make the "Hresvelgr" Plasma Induction Cannon- more effective in battle, the two "Eckzahn" railguns are equipped with magnetic field generators. These devices generate a magnetic field between the railguns that can alter the direction of the Hresvelgr's plasma beam, making it difficult for enemies to evade the attack and allowing the beam to hit unsuspecting enemy units.

Fixed Armaments:
60mm Vulcan Guns
2 X Butterfly Buster Bs, Improved and more powerful version of the Mass Produced Butterfly Busters, mounted on the hip section.
1 X "Hresvelgr" Plasma Induction Cannon: Most powerful Beam Weapon and mounted in the Abdomen.
2 X "Eckzahn" 88mm Railguns, each Railgun is mounted on the side Shield for offensive and variable range fire attack.
1 X EEQ7R Extensional Arrestor: A Wire Rocket Anchor quipped with small caliber beam cannons. Additionally, a beam pick can be generated from the muzzle of the beam cannon. The Extensional Arrestor is also connected to the suit's backpack via a cable and can be launched to strike enemy unit tens of meters away. It is a type of hidden weapon and is difficult to master. Mounted on the back Geschmeidig Panzer Shields as a surprise back attack and to use the Wire Rocket Anchor to move better across the environment and make tricky turns.
3 X Geschmeidig Panzer Shields: Unlike most Defensive Systems, the Geschimeidig Panzer Shields are Physical Shields mounted on sidearms with two on the side for offensive penetration and one on the back for extra defense. Only the two Side Shields carry the Hellguns. The Back Shield carries the Extensional Arrestor.
1 X Beam Glaive: An Naginata Beam Weapon, it's main advantage is its length in CQC with the Beam Blade being able to pierce its target's weak spots with pinpoint precision, the shaft itself is made of Gundanium Alloy and can still be used as a hard hitting quarterstaff. It can be retraced and stored away on the back skirt.

StrifeHavoc · May 9, 2024

Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consult and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

I regret this is another talking chapter, partially, but some important character moments take place, and with the other members of Lelouch's squad being revealed.

This chapter has been edited a LOT, partly because I had to change the ages of the characters introduced, which some was me just taking a guess and praying to god I was right lol, but I did use other characters to narrow down their likely ages and what ranks they had when they appear, etc. And I admit there were some things I was questionable on including at the suggestion of some of my betas, but I decided to go along for this to maybe play up the troll trope for a certain someone. As this something she would no doubt do if she were capable of it outside of what makes the Muv Luv world unique, something that will be touched up on in this chapter, to employ the use of her powers as shown in Sunrider Liberation Day, which can be found on Steam and its prelude game can be downloaded for free last I checked if anyone is curious about the game.

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Chapter 7

New Friends

The following morning, Lelouch awoke, but before training could begin for the second day Michiru brought Lelouch to a doctor who administered Claude's special supplement. Lelouch preferred it over having it shot into him like yesterday and was more comfortable with an actual professional doing it.

"You know I could've done that," Claude pouted with both hands on her hips.

"Not when you're wearing that!" Lelouch said, pointing to Claude's professional attire.

Claude's attire as a doctor was a revealing, form fitting white nurse outfit decorated with pink hearts, buttons and lining. It left little to the imagination on how much it revealed Claude's voluptuous figure.

"No respectable medical professional would dress like that," Michiru said, agreeing with Lelouch. "Are you really a doctor?"

"Why, yes I am!"

Michiru was of the same mind as Lelouch and Yui, that of highly doubtful. Even if she has the necessary knowledge and skills, her wardrobe, personality and idea of shooting an injection into someone using a dart gun was not part of any proper conduct befitting a doctor.

"Anyway he's finished," Michiru said, who like Lelouch, didn't want to deal with Claude more than necessary, finding the woman irritating.

"Well just be thankful I'll be nice and continue providing supplements every morning from now on," Claude said, offended, but brushed it aside.

Lelouch was just thankful that it was over with, but most importantly, he was happy it wasn't shot into his back this time.

I can't believe I am looking forward to physical exercise, just to get away from Claude, Lelouch thought with a grimace not realizing that Claude was smirking as he left as though she knew exactly what he was thinking.

Later that morning Yui was sitting across from her uncle, Eiji Iwaya. The pair were inside his office, seated at the table, having breakfast. Despite Yui's initial warm greeting, Eiji could tell that Yui was clearly troubled.

"What's on your mind Yui?" Eiji asked, catching her off guard.

"It's… nothing," Yui said, after a moment to regain her composure.

Eiji sighed. "You are just like your father, but you don't need to tell me what is going on. You've been avoiding your friends since Kyoto haven't you?

"I…" Yui wanted to offer a counter argument, but the calm and knowing look in her honorary uncle's eyes made her realize no excuse she could offer would convince him otherwise. "I was arrogant."

Eiji seemed surprised, but said nothing.

"I felt proud on the day I would be joining the fight against the BETA, I wanted to help you and our country. I don't regret my decision, but," Yui hesitated, trying to find the right words. "I understand why you seemed less enthusiastic about me when I sought to fight on the frontline. You told me not to be hasty, and yet you and others were praying young girls like me and my friends would never see the frontline."

Eiji sighed, looking at Yui with understanding eyes.

"I was a lot like you before I went into battle against the BETA, but then…I was the sole survivor of my squad. All of them were my friends from the academy and through training," Eiji explained, shocking Yui. "Tragically it's common for fresh and inexperienced TSF pilots to be the sole survivor of their squadrons during their first battle or be wiped out with the rest. There are some skilled and lucky squads that avoid this, but more often than not only one or two out of a squad composed of freshly trained pilots would survive their first battle."

Yui was silent, processing his words as she now understood the truth.

"The problem with surviving is that you end up with the ghosts of everyone you'd ever left behind riding on your shoulders," Eiji stated, before adding with a thin smile. "A quote from Paolo Bacigalupi."

"That feels very true," Yui said sadly.

"Yes, but you had a chance to undo their deaths, something even I wish I could've done. You should be proud of having been successful," Eiji said hopeful, but when he studied the expression on Yui's face, "But the memories of their deaths will never leave you I suppose."

"No, it's not something I'll be able to easily forget," Yui said regretfully as each death was terrible in how it occurred.

"From what I heard about how they met their ends I cannot blame you, but I regret I can't do anything to help you. I can only offer you kind words, if nothing else," Eiji said, his face full of regret that his niece had to endure such horror.

"Thank you uncle," Yui said, accepting her uncle's kind words with a small, yet genuine smile. He knew as well as she did that there was no way she could banish the trauma she suffered from that day.

All she could do was endure and find a way to move beyond it.

Following the competition of morning exercise and training, Lelouch was eating lunch in the cafeteria. He was exhausted from morning exercises, but unlike yesterday and thanks largely to Claude's supplements injected into him, Lelouch was barely able to finish, narrowly staying ahead of Marimo and her cattle prod.

As much as Claude got on his nerves, to put it kindly, he couldn't deny how effective her supplements were.

Lelouch was expecting to eat alone, but his actions from yesterday and the fact he held his own against the BETA in Kyoto all night had drawn a few people to his table. Yuzuka was among them, and a few more as Lelouch spoke to them.

"I apologize again for causing you such an inconvenience," Yuzuka said regretfully, sitting to Lelouch's right.

"Please Yuzuka, it was my choice to help you. There is no need to apologize again," Lelouch replied. Although he didn't mind her humility he felt she was feeling much more guilt than she really should.

"You guys should be thankful Sergeant Jinguuji didn't decide to punish you both," A young woman warned. She was five years older than Lelouch with long maroon hair tied in a ponytail with two small side-tails and matching eyes. She was dressed in similar attire as Yuzuka and sat across from Lelouch. "If you thought that was brutal, she was a lot worse with me and my friends."

Her name was Tsukiko Fujisawa and from what Lelouch had gathered she was a former TSF pilot who had left the military sometime following the completion of basic training. Lelouch didn't know why, but given how she was older than the other cadets and she was more than familiar with Marimo's training methods, it did confirm she had been under Marimo's tutelage in the past.

"Really," Yuzuka asked, nervously as Tsukiko swiftly finished eating her rice and fruit salad.

"Yup," Tsukiko replied after swallowing. "I was in the same training group as Michiru was."

"And now you are back under her again?"

Tsukiko was silent looking down at her plate. Clearly Yuzuka had unknowingly touched a bad memory and it would explain why she left the military.

"Say Lelouch, was it," a new voice interjected. "How did you end up piloting such a powerful machine and gaining non-heredity status with the Royal Guard?"

The girl was around Lelouch's age, with long dark pink hair, some tied into a pair of small thin braids around her face, and green eyes. She was sitting to Lelouch's left trying to eat a fruit salad.

"It's an unbelievable story. Haruka is your name right?" Lelouch asked, while he gave a nod of recognition for a much-needed change of subject.

"Yes, my name is Haruka Suzumiya." Haruka said, providing a proper introduction.

"There are still some questions I have behind my selection, but I know the one behind it was Claude Trello."

"Claude Trello?" Haruka inquired, curious and surprised. "I've heard that name before. The doctors who restored my legs mentioned her as the one who gave Japan the technology. They are hoping if I successfully make it through training again, they can use it on those who had to leave active service as a TSF pilot to try and get more experienced pilots back out onto the field."

So Claude gave Japan advanced medical technology to regrow missing limbs, Lelouch thought, making both a note of that and wondering what else Claude gave them to ensure they would work with her?

"Training again, so you completed basic training before?" Yuzuka said, realizing she was like Tsukiko, only that Haruka didn't leave the military like Tsukiko did.

"So with the technology that could restore missing limbs, would it allow others who couldn't finish their training to actually finish it? Meaning more pilots for them to recruit," Tsukiko asked. She was surprised to learn she wasn't the only returning cadet.

"Yes, I had to endure physical therapy before they decided I should go through basic training again. To ensure my new legs are strong enough to pilot a TSF, given how physically demanding piloting one can be. I am part of a test group in which they want to be sure the technology will work before allowing it to be used more readily," Haruka explained.

"Basically you aren't going to have much trouble with the training regime having gone through all of it before. You're just hoping that your new legs can handle the physical side of it, otherwise you have no chance with a TSF," Yuzuka stated, which Haruka confirmed with a nod.

"If you don't mind me asking, what happened to your legs previously?" Lelouch asked.

"I'll answer that question if you'll answer mine about the machine you had gotten," Haruka said with a playful smile.

"Fair enough," Lelouch said. "Claude was also the same one who provided the technology for the machine I used. I can't say I fully understand the technical details behind it, but I know much of the technology is far above that used for a TSF, but I dare say that she has a personality I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy due to her antics."

Lelouch rubs the spot where he was shot the previous day. The pain is there and it is a tender spot too. Though it does allow him a moment to think.

Where would I even begin to explain how Yui's and mine machines are basically powered by a miniature black holes held in electromagnetic stasis fields that if they fail would instantly subject the black holes to real time space and gravity with the effect of going off like an Antimatter Bomb? Lelouch thought, deciding maybe it was best to avoid mention of that and regretting asking Nina and Old Man Reuben about the topic himself.

Naturally Lelouch had played it off as a hypothetical ideal when he asked them about it.

"What are the weapons like?" Haruka asked swiftly, changing the topic for which Lelouch was grateful for.

"They are energy based, which seem to be much more effective against the BETA," Lelouch answered. "One of the weapons used is called a Beam Magnum. One shot is a bolt of energy carrying enormous destructive potential and each shot is rated at one thousand degrees."

"Holy crap, that's hot. You're likely to vaporize the BETA with a shot like that," Yuzuka exclaimed, trying to envision how destructive such a weapon can be.

"It wiped out a lot of Destroyer-class, Fort-class, Grappler-class and Tank-class BETA quite effectively," Lelouch stated from experience, the smaller Tanks were definitely vaporized with others dying from Flash, extreme burns, or exploding as their bodies hyperheated through flashboiling before they exploded. "Even the armored bodies of the larger class of BETA cannot withstand such a weapon."

"And Japan just got their hands on this tech?" Haruka inquired.

"Yes, but I am not sure when. I don't know how long before they can reproduce and field similar weapons, but one risk is that you have to be careful with it. The size of the passage field of each shot and the intense heat and energy release can easily damage or destroy a TSF caught in the line of fire, even a glancing shot or near miss can be fatal," Lelouch cautioned.

"If it's that powerful then you must've killed more BETA than I thought," Haruka commented as she tried to envision how many enemies Lelouch must have killed with such a weapon.

"I can't imagine it would take them long to produce such a weapon in large numbers to get them out as soon as possible," Tsukiko said.

"They might have to modify existing TSFs to use them, or create specialized models for them though," Yuzuka commented. "Judging by what Lelouch described, the recoil on that weapon has to be crazy. Existing TSFs may not be able to handle such a powerful weapon without modification."

"Really, how can you be sure?" Haruka said, curious.

"My father is the owner of a TSF production company," Yuzuka answered before explaining. "He would usually talk about the new models they would make and their parts during dinner. Usually it was about conducting weapon testing, which I recall he said the recoil and the effect it has on the machine has to be kept low otherwise they risk higher rates of mechanical malfunctions and stressing the frame which could be costly for the pilot."

"That is true. If your arms were to fail during battle that could get you killed, especially if it happens at a bad time," Lelouch agreed.

"So is Claude an American or solely part of the UN?" Yuzuka inquired. "The technology she is offering is certainly above anything I've heard about, but which country or organization does she belong to?"

"That is a good question. I think she has ties to the UN, America, and Japan, that much I am certain. How far her support and the resources she commands is unknown to me, but it is clear she isn't American either or they would have that technology already in service, but I saw them using some of it and they were using it quite differently," Lelouch answered and then went on to explain what he had seen the Americans and even the UN using during the many small battles that made up the larger Battle of Kyoto.

"So they were using plasma suspended inside of solid munitions?" Haruka frowns as she couldn't quite understand the why.

"Basically a plasma-based HESH round," Yuzuka had caught on quick enough. "Clever too as it saves them a load of trouble trying to troubleshoot any new technology and they can seamlessly add it in without much hassle or retraining except for some new allowances and restrictions here and there as well as new handling procedures, though, that is pretty benign and normal for any new weapon and infinitely better than learning a whole new weapon system outright to handle."

"If she had access to technology like that, why not share it? Where did it all come from?" Haruka asked.

"A good question, but regrettably I don't have the answer and I wish I did frankly," Lelouch said before finishing his meal.

"That sounds concerning, but I imagine the government who has been dealing with her would know more," Haruka commented.

I imagine they do, but now that I think about it. If Claude is giving me this much assistance, then just what kind of weapons and resources do my competitors have? Lelouch wondered deeply concerned over the threat and that for a moment, Claude had actually been serious with him and that actually scared him.

"They probably do, I can't imagine they would deal with someone like that if they didn't," Yuzuka said, which was spot on with what Lelouch suspected.

"But how much do they know is the real question," Tsukiko added, a question Lelouch silently wondered as well too.

"Excuse me?" A woman, one around Lelouch's age with blue hair in a pageboy style haircut, and green eyes dressed in the same attire as everyone else. "Is this table taken?"

"No it isn't, and you are?" Lelouch asked politely.

"Oh I am cadet Haruko Kashiwagi, I just wanted to meet the guy who barely had any training and who took on the BETA in Kyoto. Not to mention that was pretty bold, giving that poor girl a piggyback ride after the sergeant knocked her down pretty good," Haruko said, giving Yuzuka apologetic glance.

Yuzuka on the other hand didn't know how to react, her cheeks were red, a mix of anger and embarrassment.

"Someone is getting popular," Tsukiko said grinning, as Haruko found a place to sit, as close as Haruko could get to Lelouch.

"Come this isn't high school, she is just curious about the machine I pilot and such," Lelouch said, seemingly dismissive of anyone having any romantic interest in him.

But whether it is true or not is another question.

"Speaking of curiosity, weren't you going to tell Lelouch how you lost your legs?" Yuzuka said, glancing at Haruka who realized she had forgotten.

"Oh right, I guess I need to uphold my end of my deal," Haruka said with a sigh.

"If it's not something you are comfortable with, you don't have to tell," Lelouch offered after swallowing some food.

"No this actually might be useful to you to hear," Haruka said before explaining with a more serious expression. "It was during our Comprehensive Skills Evaluation, a landmine was set off causing an old wrecked car to knock towards me while me and my friends were taking cover behind it. They managed to get away, but me…my legs were crushed under the car. They had to amputate them. I was given some advanced prosthetic legs, but they didn't fit well enough for me to pilot a TSF."

"But you're about as old as us," Yuzuka pointed out. "Were you in a military academy since I don't think they allowed pilots to join the military even if they recently lowered the recruitment age to sixteen when the BETA invaded."

"Yes that is true, I was attending a military academy meant to train pilots near Mt. Fuji. Upon graduating we would've been made pilots, which by that point I would've been the right age," Haruka explained, which Lelouch silently noted was likely similar to the academy Yui and her friends were attending, likely more for civilians than those of the Royal Guard. .

"I see, you are sharing this because we'll likely have to take the Comprehensive Skills Evaluation as well," Lelouch said, realizing the reason behind Haruka's willingness to share the story of how she lost her legs.

"Yes, and even with our accelerated training, I have no doubt they will put us through it," Haruka said, seemingly certain of it.

"I see, then perhaps at a later time I would like to hear more then," Lelouch said, which Haruka acknowledged with a nod.

After lunch Izumi was back in the simulator cockpit, learning how to pilot the Tsuna Gundam. Even if its weapons were radically different from those she had been trained to use. She found herself relishing the Tsuna Gundam's firepower and combat capabilities, though, as they were well exceeding the Type-82A Zuikaku she had piloted.

Though an experienced officer overlooking her training, with experience on the F-15J/Type-89 Kagerou, knew just about anything to be better than the Type-82 in general. The F-4 Phantom derived TSF was simply too old to soldier on effectively. Like many others with actual experience, the officer believed the Type-82 should have been retired long ago in favor of newer models.

The cost savings from the maintenance of aging F-4J/Type-77 Gekishin and Type-82s, which was actually a sad thing as that meant they were not seeing combat at all until it was too late, would have allowed for the Type-94 Shiranui to be accelerated into service and fight with the Type-89 as an equal rather than one machine bail out the others, to the detriment of all machines.

Which is why the officer hoped that Izumi and the other cadets would succeed at their training and master their entirely new machines. Machines far superior to anything else they already have. So, finally, the Imperial Military can update their entire inventory.

Still, the officer's job of overseeing the training included arranging for, as the Americans put it, curve balls to surprise the inexperienced cadets and help them learn before they developed bad habits prior to entering their machines for real, let alone going back into actual battle with them.

She had just evaded a charging Destroyer-class before retaliating with its scythe. The rocket engine on the weapon ignited allowing Izumi to deliver a powerful swing that combined with the crimson energy blade nearly beheaded the alien creature as it passed. A warning sounded in the cockpit alerting Izumi to the incoming swarm of hundreds of Tank-class BETA with more than a dozen Grappler-class BETA behind them.

"Fly my fangs!" Izumi shouted the vocal command as the ten-blade-like bits were deployed from the skirt armor of the Tsuna.

Acting on her mental commands thanks to the cockpit's quantum communication interface, the bits swarmed the Tank-class BETA, shooting them, ramming through them, or decapitating them in passing. As the Fangs dealt with the Tank-class BETA, Izumi put away the scythe to draw the GN-buster sword, the second primary melee weapon of the Tsuna.

Her Gundam held the large blade with one hand before it drew its Beam Magnum, as the GN fangs retreated to recharge. The BETA that survived Izumi's GN fang onslaught, were vaporized from the shots fired from the Beam Magnum, wiping out most of the Grappler-class BETA in the process.

Even if killing BETA in a simulator didn't bring the same satisfaction, she was filled with eager anticipation for the time she would take the Tsuna into battle against them. The amount of BETA she was killing in the simulator alone just fueled that anticipation.

I must really thank Lelouch for this opportunity and for his words, Izumi thought.

Izumi had to acknowledge, while killing BETA was satisfying, she knew killing a lot of them wouldn't be meaningful. Humanity had been fighting the BETA for decades, always on the defensive as they would inevitably be pushed back as their defenses wore down.

"Survive and you'll have many more chances for revenge, but if you die here you'll achieve nothing. Besides, given how much you clearly loved him, would he want you to die? If you live I am sure he'll be happy, and you'll get more opportunities to get vengeance as long as you live, otherwise if you die then you'll have achieved nothing. Live to get revenge then be there when the BETA are beaten so you can stand as the victor with your vengeance complete."

As enjoyable as killing the BETA was, killing them, especially these simulated ones simply didn't bring her much satisfaction. Lelouch's words resonated within her, even more so now that Izumi had a machine on par with those Yui and Lelouch had during Kyoto.

"Victory over the BETA, huh?" Izumi mused as she glanced at the kill counter, she had killed more BETA than in Kyoto.

This woman Claude, who knew about the BETA invasion beforehand and provided all of this technology; maybe she knows more about the BETA, even something I could work toward to get real revenge upon them, Izumi thought as an idea came to mind, but suddenly an alarm on her watch went off.

"Oh it's that time already," Izumi said before shutting down the simulator. "I guess we still need answers from Lelouch and I am curious about a few other matters too."

It was late in the evening as Yuzuka and Haruka followed Lelouch after dinner. Training was over for the day and the young man's exhaustion was apparent.

"Forgive me for saying this, but I think it's impressive at how well you've been handling the training."

"I am a little surprised myself to be fair," Lelouch said, most times he could barely even run a half-a-lap before collapsing.

Claude's supplements are clearly potent. It could've taken me months to be able to endure such training, Lelouch acknowledged internally.

"Yes, but outside of the physical part you've been excelling. You are the top cadet in tactics class, and I didn't think anyone could assemble a gun or a rifle so fast as you did, it was like second nature,"

That actually surprised me, and I think I can thank the Coupling System and Yui for that.

In the afternoon Lelouch had once again taken part in the class about learning how to inspect, clean, and assemble/disassemble/reassemble a pistol and an assault rifle. Lelouch had practiced with a pistol before so he knew how to shoot, but the processes for assembling and cleaning a weapon was very different. But to his surprise he knew what to do and how to do it, demonstrating the knowledge and skill to do it, even for the assault rifle which he had never touched before. Even today not only was his skill in this regard better when he first demonstrated it to Michiru, but he seemed faster than previously like his body was going off of muscle memory.

It was all second nature to him.

"I am certain that it came from the Coupling System our machines use."

"Coupling System?" Haruka inquired. Yuzuka leaned in, just as curious.

"During my training to learn how to pilot the Izanami, my machine and the one piloted by Yui, the Izanagi, had a system called the Coupling System. When activated it enhances the machine's performance, but also links the minds of the pilots, to enhance the mind's ability to process information and respond to situations much faster in turn," Lelouch explained before Haruka picked up on something.

"That includes the other person's skills, right?"

"Yes, I'm told it would help me catch up to Yui's level of skill and experience in piloting. I still needed physical training to be strong enough and to master that experience, but it seems I got more than just her piloting skills and experience," Lelouch answered.

"Was Yui a cadet like us or…" Yuzuka began to ask, but allowed her words to trail off.

"No, she and her friends were enrolled at the Eishi Imperial Academy in Kyoto." Lelouch answered. "Is their training similar to the one we have been receiving?"

"Yes, but theirs is more spread out over a period of a few years teaching them other skills, history and more," Haruka replied.

"Are you saying you got all of Yui's training and experience from the Imperial Academy?" Yuzuka asked, surprised.

"I think so, " Lelouch said, before wondering what did Yui get from him?

"If they got a system like that then you could train new pilots a lot faster and get them more experienced," Yuzuka commented, impressed by how much Lelouch had gained from Yui.

"They were discussing such plans, but I wonder if it's really that easy." Lelouch said, wondering or rather suspecting there was some kind of drawback or limitation.

"No brain is the same I imagine, what if it's a matter of compatibility?" Haruka suggested with one hand on her chin as she contemplated this information.

"That is a possibility. I know trust between the users is very important," Lelouch replied, believing that compatibility was a likely requirement.

Maybe our minds were compatible with each other, which could be why Yui was chosen out of many others perhaps, Lelouch thought.

"Hey Lelouch, I think you got company," Yuzuka said as they turned a corner and noticed a group waiting outside his room.

"There he is," Kazusa said, folding her arms across her chest.

She was waiting with Izumi, Aki and Shimako.

Lelouch could only sigh, knowing what they were likely here for.

"Lelouch, have you seen Yui lately?" Shimako inquired politely.

"No, not since we returned from Kyoto anyways."

"In that case maybe you could answer a few questions," Kazusa began with a serious expression. "How did you and Yui know about what would happen to us on the way to Kyoto?"

Haruka and Yuzuka were confused, but Lelouch was quiet, furrowing an eyebrow and coolly gazing at the four girls before him, something that surprised the four as they had seen such looks on higher ranked nobles' faces before. Seeing them only be taken aback, Lelouch sighed before asking, "When did you figure it out?"

"There were plenty of clues, one was how Yui reacted upon seeing us after you and her met with Lieutenant Kisaragi. Then there's how you knew those Laser-class BETA would change their firing angle and fire upon us as we escaped. Next Yui knew where the BETA were hiding in Kyoto, which seems to be more than just your machines sensing them, she acted as if she knew where they were," Kazusa answered confidently, before asking, "Should I go on?"

"No, I actually suspected you four would come to see me. I am disappointed Yui wasn't able to tell you all herself, but I can't blame her for her, quite understandable, hesitation."

"Hesitation?" Shimako inquired.

"As impossible as this might sound, did Yui go through the events of that night before? She seemed aware of what was going to happen," Kazusa inquired before reluctantly asking, "Something happened to all of us, didn't it?"

The girls saw Lelouch's reluctance in his eyes as he nodded. Then he gestured to his room and opened the door. He brought all of the girls inside and checked behind him before closing and locking the door. It would stop whoever might want to just storm in.

Turning around, he faced the girls before him as each took a spot in his room. Their rooms would have been no different, he assumed. Lelouch was tidy by nature, more so than Milly ever has been. Wild girl her.

"Best to talk in here," Lelouch began as he took a seat on his bed. "Less chance of being overheard. This information is somewhat if not completely known to some very specific higher ups."

The girls knew just who he meant. They nodded as they understood they had to keep their mouths closed about anything he shared.

The rest might be up to Yui and those who knew her. She likely told her uncle and possibly her sister figure as well, but no one else.

"Yes," Lelouch finally said after a few moments to gather his thoughts, "It is impossible, but Claude somehow reversed time to give Yui another chance to save you and perhaps the rest of the squad or, as I suspect is the more likely case, she fused a Yui from the future who trained me and experienced those events with a Yui of the past to prevent any kind of destructive paradoxes, which comes with its own headaches I don't even want to hazard a guess at for a number of reasons, my sanity being chief among them."

The girls all shared a look with one another in absolute disbelief before Lelouch continued on.

"I don't know how she did it, or anything else she did quite frankly, but-" Lelouch began, but was interrupted.

"That's impossible," Aki stated.

"Oh I agree," Claude said, causing a look of horror to appear on Lelouch's face.

Everyone turned to see Claude standing behind them with a smirk, much to Lelouch's dread.

With a snap of her fingers, everyone in the room including Yuzuka and Haruka were transported into Claude's pocket dimension, that familiar white space. Then it suddenly changed as a large movie theater-screen appeared behind her and everyone found themselves in movie theater seats complete with popcorn, soda, candy. Yuzuka found her shoe stuck on some chewing gum. The girls stared at their surroundings in disbelief.

"This is impossible," Haruka commented.

"Impossible is what I can do," Claude declared, proudly. She pushed out her chest and set her hands on her hips in a pose of smug superiority.

"Claude, don't do this," Lelouch demanded. "This is Yui's story to tell. We both know Yui will do everything in her power to kill you for it, right?!"

Yui's willingness to kill Claude aside, what concerned Lelouch the most was how Claude might reveal the truth about the fates of Kazusa, Aki, Shimako and Izumi. How could you even begin to explain how they died, but convincing them it happened would be much harder.

How would they even react to that, which was no doubt another reason Yui had been avoiding her friends.

"Oh she can try," Claude said dismissively, waving her hand. "Besides we both know how well her last attempt to strangle me went. Also, do you really think even if you explain it that they would really believe it? Which you can't even blame them for, so let's leave little room for doubt shall we?"

Lelouch only huffed in response. Knowing full well that she was right. Despite everything that they had experienced already, it was too in the realm of impossibility for them to take him at his word. Kazusa seemed to be the only one willing to believe.

"So you're Claude?" Kazusa asked, remembering her name from the meeting after they arrived at the base.

"Guilty as charged," Claude replied with a playful wink. "First let's take care of the obvious question, I borrowed this theater from an actual world and so, the seat stains and chewing gum are not me. I think I nabbed it from a 1960s California in a timeline where there is not only no BETA, but no mecha as TSFs generally fall under the heading of for others. Hmm… Maybe I grabbed this from a Texas theater given the decor? No matter, onto the nuts and bolts of why we're here!"

"I no longer doubt your comment on protecting your sanity," Aki stated to Lelouch, before both she and Lelouch were suddenly long eared and dressed in a green tunic with gray tights for Lelouch and a pink and white dress for Aki.

"WHAT IS THIS?!" both roared at Claude.

"Both a demonstration of my power, Link and Zelda." Both growled at the fact they were being targeted by one of her games, "And second, I said we're talking about the nuts and bolts, right? Pay attention and no talking."

"Just change them back," Yuzuha felt a migraine coming on as both were returned to normal.

"Good to hear!" Claude chirped before moving on, "But yes, during Yui's first run during that night the supply base was attacked," she paused, less for effect and more because she needed to take a few steps away, "All of you died. Except for you two who weren't present, but Haruka, a lot of times, you do die in later encounters with the BETA, just FYI."

Haruka shifted nervously, uncertain how to take that.

"One by one, until only Yui was the sole survivor," Claude went on without missing a beat, "Which tragically is a normal occurrence among first time squads who go into battle, which eighty percent of the time they either get wiped out or a sole survivor or two usually make it. Of course, there are some lucky ones who don't suffer any losses, but those are becoming increasingly rare."

"Why do I find that loss rate unsustainable?" Lelouch murmured.

"Technically you're right, so I suspect something else is going on in the background," Claude shrugs because there are just those kinds of surprises in life, even for her.

"We died, but that can't be right. We trained hard," Aki denied, which Lelouch thought was understandable.

Such reactions were to be expected after all.

"Uh huh," Claude said before pulling a remote out of nowhere. "To be fair you did last past the eight minutes of death, BUT!"

Upon pressing the button, a video footage played of Aki in the cockpit fighting fiercely against the BETA before the screen was shrunk to allow an exterior shot of Aki in battle against a Grappler-class BETA using an assault cannon until it ran out of ammo. It wasn't focused on her initially, but after failing to land a fatal blow the BETA turned around to focus its attention. Aki managed to dodge its first strike, barely, but she couldn't escape its follow-up sucker punch that sent Aki's TSF flying.

Her machine hit the ground so hard Aki was slammed against the seat with enough force that she bit off part of her own tongue with a blow to her head causing blood to run down her face as her TSF landed on the ground in a damaged heap.

"Just after nine minutes a Grappler-class sucker punched you, sent you flying before you died of severe external and internal bleeding minutes later, including the loss of your own tongue coupled with severe trauma across your body including such things like a broken skull, back, and pelvis, among other injuries," Claude said, as Aki was left silent and horrified at her own death, dropping to her knees.

"The lesson here is close quarters combat with a Grappler-class is a bad idea unless you can kill it before it can retaliate." Claude scolded a shell-shocked Aki.

"Then…that Laser-class that fired at me, is what killed me wasn't it?" Shimako asked hesitantly as she realized when her death would've happened.

"Yup, but compared to what happened to everyone else your death was clean and painless," Claude said ominously. "Your mistake was panicking and going too high into the air to evade the Destroyer-class BETA, making you the first to be killed."

Unlike Shimako, given how close she was to death, without Lelouch's intervention she realized she should've died then.

"How many made it to Kyoto?" Izumi asked reluctantly.

"Just you, Kazusa and Yui initially," Claude answered. "Very impressive given how you were fighting quite recklessly. Everyone else got shot down or killed during the retreat to Kyoto, even your commanding officer, once it became clear the supply base had fallen to a separate force of BETA and HQ had been withholding the true state of the battle from their forces out of fear for morale, which only caused more unnecessary deaths in the end. I don't need to tell you how that was a very bad idea to put it mildly and bluntly."

No one was going to argue that. Especially those in the know of the… recent 'retirements' in the government among other shuffling being done.

"What…what happened to us?" Kazusa asked.

"You guys did fine in Kyoto, after Yui was almost killed by an ambushing Destroyer-class hiding in a building. She was saved by your old instructor who gave you directions to the nearest rally point," Claude explained, but both Izumi and Kazusa could sense a but in her words. "Sadly as you were heading to Kyoto Station a Fort-class got the jump on all three of you, causing you all to crash. Yui was lucky and crash landed in an empty parking lot while you and Kazusa crashed into a nearby building. When Yui regained consciousness she began searching for you two." The next images showed Izumi being eaten by BETA, "Tragically she found you dead having been eaten alive by a bunch of Soldier-class BETA."

Izumi was struck numb when Claude pointed at her. Her reaction wasn't as bad as Aki's, because deep down from reflections afterwards, she realized she should've died many times during the battle were it not for Lelouch and Yui. Not only that, she couldn't even begin to imagine how Yui might've reacted upon finding her corpse, furthering her feelings of horror.

Thankfully Claude chose not to share any more images of Izumi's death, but Lelouch was worried about Kazusa's demise if she would show anything then. Lelouch noticed the change in Claude's tone during the conversation,. She wasn't being playful or teasing, but more serious than normal and yet sympathetic in her words. Given how she acted, it was usually difficult for Lelouch to tell if she was being sincere or not, but somehow Lelouch felt that this time she was.

"Kazusa was still alive, but both of her arms were broken in the crash, so she couldn't escape. Or fight off the Tank-class BETA swarming her machine. Yui had no chance of saving her, armed with only a pistol with some limited shots, not enough to kill a Tank-class, much less the multiple ones swarming Kazusa's fallen TSF," Claude said as Kazusa paled, realizing the choice now before Yui.

Noticing her expression and realization Claude spoke.

"I guess you realize what that means. Knowing you had no chance of escape. you asked Yui to kill you. The cockpit was open so Yui had a clear shot."

Horror dawned on Kazusa realizing what likely happened, "How could she? She lost everyone. How did she still have the strength to do it?"

Izumi, Aki, Shimako, and even Yuzuka and Haruka who had been caught up in all of this were left in stunned, horrified silence.

Claude gave Kazusa a sad smile as her voice softened. "She didn't," she explained to the girl's shock and mounting horror. "As much as she tried, Yui missed every shot she had."

Kazusa felt sick and covered her mouth as the implication hit her. "That's…" She couldn't put into words the nightmarish horror she felt.

"Indeed. While Yui managed to keep her cool during everything happening around her, the mounting deaths and losses of you all took their toll. Not to mention she almost died herself, but Yui was saved at the last moment by her cousin Kyoko who had been searching the city for other survivors," Claude added before using her remote to show an image of Yui in a hospital room wearing a white button shirt with bandages wrapped around her forehead, and over her left eye.

She sat up in bed crying, mourning the loss of her friends.

"You all would've stayed dead if not for me."

The next image showed Claude approaching a grieving Yui.

"Which I suppose leads to me and Yui meeting that first time," Lelouch noted.

"That's right," Claude confirmed.

"I have a question, why her, exactly? I am sure there were others you could've used, but did it have something to do with compatibility for the Coupling System?" Lelouch inquired.

"Oh someone has been thinking, but yes that is part of it." Claude nodded as she spoke. "Yui has a high compatibility rate for the Coupling System. As you've suspected there was another reason I chose her over others you could've worked with.. As a fun fact I'll reveal that what made Yui an inciting candidate was also the fact that you are compatible with some of her friends with the Coupling System. In fact, among you Izumi has the highest compatibility with Kazusa's compatibility similar to Yui's compatibility followed by Aki. An unexpected, but not an unwelcome bonus," Claude admitted with a smile that shocked the girls in question as they each looked at one another in surprise and at Lelouch who pointedly ignored them, though he twitched slightly.

"Then I take it finding compatible pilots who can use the Coupling Machine is hit or miss?" Lelouch inquired, seeking further answers.

"Yes, since no two brains are the same or function on the same wavelengths." Claude knew as she had been doing this for quite a while., which, despite the headaches, made this little venture all the more enjoyable, "It boils down to having a similar wavelength, which can be determined with what is known as an Emphatier Test. The higher their results are, the more likely a successful coupling will happen, but trust between the two pilots is still critical," Claude answered. "Japan hopes to use this on a large scale, but sadly finding two people who are compatible won't be easy, especially if they want to pair new rookie pilots with experienced veterans."

With a snap of her fingers, they soon saw the screen change to show various machines using the same technology in different worlds with various levels of success and failures as well as a general review of the complexity that follows.

The one with a tech learning how to throw screwdrivers like they were knives was kind of interesting as a byproduct, though, the possible loss of knowledge and the near stroke like paralysis was not so comfortable to see. More so in one example where five complete misfits were able to operate their machines in coordination on a level that was just insane, but the loss of personal space in their own minds was definitely an issue.

"Are they still installing them in the new machines?" Lelouch asked, with one hand on his chin, processing what he was learning.

"Yes and I combined it with Psychoframe Technology because it's a far more efficient method of thought sharing than the standard Coupling System on its own and helps increase its chances of success. Since Psychoframe technology has cockpits lined with thought reading receptors it also increases the efficiency and effectiveness of the Coupling System, which as a bonus helps the machine become an extension of the pilot. It becomes possible to pilot the Gundams with thoughts, bypassing the need for complex controls, making it similar to handling a Tactical Surface Fighter," Claude replied with a wink, quite proud of herself.

"I see, but what was Psychoframe technology designed for?"

"To work with Newtypes, humans possessing high spatial awareness who are usually those best adapted for living in space, or so it says." Claude answered, surprising some among the group. "In general, they possess a heightened mental awareness and incredible focus. For example they become capable of sensing one another. Most importantly they are sensitive to the hostile intentions directed at them by others. So say if someone wanted to harm one of them, they would sense and be able to uncannily react to that person's hostile actions before they attempted it. There were some Newtypes with abilities so well developed they were capable of telepathic-like abilities or in some rare cases display psychokinesis," Claude explained.

"I assume the Psychoframe Technology was made for military purposes, to capitalize on their abilities?" Lelouch inquired as he deduced the likely origins of the technology.

"Ding-ding," Claude said before applauding. "You get a gold star, but yes that is correct. There were military factions who wanted to take advantage of such people and so began developing weapons that could be operated by such individuals. The Psychoframe Technology was the result of their efforts. Used at first to control remote weapons with their thoughts, it evolved over time until the system allowed machines like the Gundams to act as an extension of a Newtype pilot and much more."

"But Yui and Lelouch aren't Newtypes are they?" Kazusa inquired.

"No, sadly, otherwise the Gundams would be capable of much more than they are now. But who knows; if the theory holds true and if Yui and Lelouch spend enough time in space, perhaps. Even so, the Coupling System and their ability to couple does compensate for this along with the Gundams high performance," Claude said reassuringly.

Lelouch considered asking Claude further, but Izumi stepped forward with a question of her own.

"I heard you know much about the BETA. Just what are they and how can we win against them?"

"Good question," Claude said with a smile. "To put it simply they are self-sufficient biological mining machines, created by silicon-based lifeforms who once existed thousands of years ago, until they were wiped out in their native galaxy."

"Wiped out, by who?"

"The Holy Ryuvian Empire, or at least the humans possessing the technology that wiped them out would call themselves after they finished purging their home galaxy of non-human sentient lifeforms," Claude explained. "The creators of the BETA were convinced that only silicon-based lifeforms could exist and not carbon-based ones, something the founders of the Holy Britannian Empire would take issue with when their world was invaded by the BETA. Unlike Earth however, they were a peaceful yet highly advanced civilization so while they suffered huge losses following the initial invasion, they focused all technological development into military and related innovations, wiping out the BETA in due time. In turn, the BETA's creators unknowingly created the Holy Ryuvian Empire who declared a holy war against threats to humanity and began a systematic purge of the BETA from their galaxy while conquering it bit by bit."

"Until they came upon the creators of the BETA," Kazusa said.

"Yeah they were pretty shocked to find carbon lifeforms were a thing, and more so their creations had been wiped out in their home galaxy. I can't say what happened, but probably the efforts to clean out the BETA from the galaxy left a lot of pissed off people on the Ryuvian side who had lost friends and loved ones to them and weren't feeling too merciful. Obviously, as I've mentioned, they got wiped out and now you know what led to it," Claude said.

Lelouch wondered if the genocide of the BETA's creators was justified, but without further details it was a difficult question to answer. On one hand it was hard not to blame the Ryuvians for their fury against a race who carelessly let their creations go about the galaxy fulfilling their purposes without even considering the possibility that other forms of life existed. Lelouch didn't know if that could be called arrogance, negligence, or both. If the creators of the BETA were wiped out, Lelouch deduced the BETA weren't in regular contact with their creators as they continued trying to fulfill their intended purpose. Which reinforced Lelouch's suspicions that their creators had been neglectful and arrogant.

"I can't image purging the galaxy and defeating the BETA's creators was done in a short time," Shimako added, which Claude confirmed by shaking her head.

"Of course not, it took them thousands of years to clean the galaxy of the BETA, before they finally confronted and cornered their creators. Much of what the Holy Ryuvian Empire would become, would be unknowingly shaped by the BETA, so there was no discussion. They just unleashed their fury upon the BETA's creators for their carelessness and would lead to them being hunted down and exterminated," Claude confirmed, while showing no pity for the creators of the BETA.

"Not all of the BETA were destroyed were they?" Haruka asked, joining the conversation.

"No, per their programing, once they've fully taken a planet they would launch the seed for a new hive to begin on another world. Some of these seeds left their own home galaxy and spread to others over the next thousands of years to follow, even after their creators were destroyed by the vengeful Ryuvians. Eventually they made their way to this planet," Claude replied. "They first landed on Mars, then the Moon and now Earth."

"How do I destroy them?" Izumi insisted on knowing.

"Destroying what is called the Superordinate would be a good step to stopping the BETA. It is basically the supreme commander of the BETA, issuing orders to the rest via the Hive Reactors within each hive, which in a way act as field commanders for the BETA," Claude answered.

"Superordinate?" Aki muttered.

"It's the brain behind the BETA invasion, kill it and the BETA's ability to coordinate large-scale attacks and maintain communication and control over the hives would be broken. Making it possible to destroy the other hives one by one since none of them can take the place of the Superordinate and would lose the ability to communicate with the other hives," Claude answered with a wink.

"But that is easier said than done isn't it? I would assume this superordinate, based on your words, must be in the first hive to be created on Earth, isn't it?" Lelouch deduced.

"Bingo, as you said the Superordinate is located within the Kashgar Hive, which invading that place will be a tall order even with the Gundam as the hive itself is heavily defended. However, should humanity succeed in killing it, they will remove the BETA's ability for high-end strategy giving humanity a chance of fighting back" Claude made it clear that killing the Superordinate was humanity's best chance at victory.

"Yeah, but that's pretty deep in BETA controlled territory," Aki commented, cautiously optimistic.

"At least I know what to live for, so I can be there to kill it," Izumi said as her fists tightened, now having a target for her vengeance.

I'll have to ask Yui to keep an eye on Izumi should the day come where we invade that hive, Lelouch thought, deciding to make a mental note of that. He suspected the Gundams would be needed among others to launch such an assault.

"Now is that it for questions?" Claude asked, clapping her hands together.

"Just one, you didn't say why you chose Yui over everyone else? You said part of it was the fact some of us were compatible with Lelouch via the Coupling System, but mentioned it was a bonus. So what was the real reason?" Kazusa inquired.

"Because she was critical in events going forward beyond what happened in Kyoto for your world. Granted there were others, but among them she had the skills and thus I was able to fuse her with her past self, including others from alternative timelines where things ended badly for humanity," Claude said, but the mention of fusing alarmed people.

"Fused?"

"Yes, but I should first talk about one phenomenon that has affected your world causing it to be a nexus point for so many alternate timelines. At the core of this is a boy who unwillingly became a Causality Conductor," Claude said with a serious expression.

"A Causality Conductor?" Haruka inquired, curious.

"A being caused by an impossible quantum phenomenon, as impossible as someone making tea using ice cubes. A series of events and triggers that came together, causing this phenomenon centered upon one boy because of a powerful wish by one girl, made at the same time as her alternative self across dimensions. This combined with other factors triggering the phenomenon," Claude explained, before elaborating, "She didn't know it, but her wish was answered, only not in the way she expected. That boy would be merged with two of his alternative selves and brought to your world, and whenever he died the world would reset to that day creating a timeline and a new branching alternate world."

"That's how you were able to reserve time allowing me and Yui to change events at Kyoto?" Lelouch deduced. "It's how you prepared everything for us too. You didn't let Yui experience what she saw coming through the eyes of another Yui or even changed time itself to unite her two parts from before and after the Battle of Kyoto. You merely merged a number of different Yui Takamuras to create the Yui Takamura who now exists while also altering history with certain, for lack of a better term, gentle nudges to create the current timeline."

"Bingo again!" Claude really found herself enjoying Lelouch's knack for combining the details, no matter how small, to grasp a larger picture. "Yes, I took advantage of the resulting time loops. The feedback did have some bleed over into other dimensions that needed fixing too, so that made things simpler and forced it to go further back by years for me to lay the groundwork for you two. Thus everything was ready when you arrived at the supply base with Yui," Claude answered, very pleased that Lelouch was figuring out most of it on his own. "However, having two Yuis running around would've been a problem as it's an invitation to cause a reality destroying paradox. So to resolve that problem I spoke to the past Yui. Although it took some convincing she agreed and was soon fused with the one Lelouch has been training with, but I managed to fuse her with other future versions of Yui from the Bad Endings for humanity creating a Counter-Casualty Conductor."

"A Counter-Casualty Conductor," Shimako parroted in confusion.

"Yes, because as the name implies, and the poor boy doesn't intend it, he is an unknowing harbinger of despair whose existence causes those close to him to lose memory of him and they tend to suffer tragic ends. His very presence threatens humanity's future unless the cycle of time loops is broken," Claude explained, saddened by the boy's unintended fate. "But with Yui I made the exact opposite to balance his existence and try to negate this harbinger of despair, at least to some degree. She does gain the same benefits he had though."

"What kind of benefits?" Kazusa asked, now very curious.

"You see whenever the time loop resets the boy retains some fragmented memory of the other loops, unless he experiences the same event over and over again enough to embed it into his mind. The rest of his memory is imperfect at best with some knowledge of future events. For Yui, though, since it was a controlled occurrence I made it to ensure she would have a complete memory of events following Kyoto and training with Lelouch. The shared benefit between them is that she gained the collective muscle memory of all versions of Yui I included in the mix, much like what happened to the Casualty Conductor who retained the increased muscle mass and muscle memory of each loop he experienced. Thus Yui will be extremely physically fit for her age, and whatever experiences and training she had would be retained."

"That sounds like quite the edge. Is she like superhuman now then?" Aki asked, causing Claude to laugh.

"Oh no, nothing like that," Claude stated after enjoying the laugh for a few moments. "She is just in far superior physical shape than for others in her age group would've been. She would beat all of you in physical fitness alone, possessing greater strength, endurance and agility."

"That still sounds quite impressive," Yuzuka commented, sounding a little envious.

"I see," Lelouch said, but he wondered if that was the only reason.

"Well I think that will do for questions for now. I think you four should have a talk with Yui, so you can all talk amongst yourselves for a bit while I go fetch her," Claude said before disappearing before anyone could protest it.

"Now what?" Yuzuka asked.

"Time doesn't exist in this space, so we have time to talk things over before Claude actually returns with Yui. I am sure all of you have questions about me now that Claude has revealed the key parts of what happened," Lelouch stated as he could feel all eyes upon him.

"Uh, understatement of the century Lelouch," Aki pointed out, folding both arms around her chest.

"Right, I should begin bringing you all up to speed," Lelouch admitted. He thought of the important things he would have to share and realized they would have to remain seated a bit longer as he explained things. He would have liked to get up and stretch his legs, but that would have to wait a little longer. "I hope you all can get comfortable because this might take awhile." He couldn't avoid a little frustration seeping into his voice.

Haruka was at least able to pat the boy on his shoulder. He had been right. This was too much for one's sanity at best, but it was also, sadly, their reality and they had to learn to live with it.

Meanwhile Yui was in the gym performing her normal workout routine. She tried to stay in peak shape. Even before her time through the events of Kyoto, she had needed to do so given how physically demanding piloting a Tactical Surface Fighter was. She had been going late to avoid her friends, which while painful to do, she wasn't ready to tell them the truth yet. She tried to prepare herself and mustered up the courage to do so many times, but she always got cold feet at the last minute and just couldn't bring herself to tell them.

Of course, explaining something that complex was not easy. It was difficult to address how they died when the memories still felt fresh for her. While they had avoided their fates this timeline, that didn't change that she had still experienced it in another. She still had the occasional there was the issue of timelines and Claude herself. Despite Claude explaining things to her multiple times, she still struggled to wrap her mind around it all. It all made her question her sanity which in turn made her afraid that she could end up weighing down Lelouch and the others if she didn't get a hold of herself.

How do I approach them on it?

At the moment Yui was on the treadmill, running at speed for a while without any signs of exhaustion or exertion. She was dressed in the basic workout wear of a sports top and splats. Her usual training clothes were still somewhere in Kyoto. Although her mind was occupied she still kept aware of how long she had been running. Yui was quite surprised to see herself surpassing her previous times as well as the distance which was greater than anything she had run before.

Yui brushed it off, unknowingly partly correct, as due to all of the training she and Lelouch had done.

"My word you are doing quite well," Claude complemented, appearing on the treadmill next to her without warning.

Yui practically jumped out of her skin, nearly stumbling and falling off the treadmill. She narrowly managed to regain both her balance and footing in time.

"Sorry for surprising you," Claude said with a mischievous smile.

"Can't you greet me like a normal person?" Yui said, her face red from a mixture of embarrassment and anger.

"Oh now where would the fun be in that?" she teased.

Yui's scowl against the woman only deepened, but it was then she noticed Claude was wearing gym wear akin to her own with pink sweatpants and a form-fitting white sleeveless top that empathized her buxom figure, showing off considerable cleavage and her midriff. Claude was practically flaunting the fact her breasts were bigger than Yui's. Judging by her grin, Yui's suspicions were correct, only annoying the Japanese teen even more.

Does this woman have any shame?!

"What do you want, Claude?" Yui asked, knowing Claude wasn't just here to show off.

"Oh no, small talk," Claude teased. She managed to keep pace with little effort on her treadmill, clearly disappointed with Yui. "You are way too serious. I thought you would want to know that your friends were suspicious that you were hiding something from them and sought out Lelouch."

The blood drained from Yui's face as a feeling of dread washed over her.

"Come on, you knew this was something you couldn't hold off forever, and your friends Kazusa and Shimako especially were very persistent. You should've known it was just a matter of time before they would've sought out Lelouch instead when you kept hiding from them. Even Lelouch knew that would happen, so you left it for him to deal with that," Claude lightly scolded Yui while waving her left index finger in front of her.

While dreading the very idea of what she would have to break to her friends, and suspecting Claude probably just went ahead and revealed what happened, Yui knew Claude was right.

"Damn you for telling them, but…"

"At least you were spared from telling them, because somehow I doubt you could've done so. At least not any time soon."

Yui had no response to that, because Claude was right much to her chagrin. Explaining it to her friends would've been difficult, as any words she could use were lost to her.

"Well, ready to face the music as they say?"

Yui turned off the treadmill before nodding her head.

"Let's go then," Claude said before instantly transporting Yui and herself into her white space where Lelouch, Haruka, Yuzuka, Kazusa, Izumi, Aki and Shimako were waiting. They were all either grim faced or carried concerned and worried looks.

"Izumi, Aki, Shimako and Kazusa, I am sorry I couldn't-" Yui tried to explain as soon as she saw them, but the words died in her throat as she became overwhelmed with emotion. The grief and despair of what had happened previously to them, plus her own self loathing at being a coward to face came rushing out. Tears started streaming from her eyes, as she tried to regain her previous composure, but failed.

Luckily for Yui, no more words were needed as Kazusa, Izumi, Aki and Shimako's eyes showed tears forming before they surrounded Yui and tenderly embraced her.

"Maybe we should give them some time alone," Yuzuka quietly suggested to both Haruka and Lelouch.

Haruka and Lelouch nodded in agreement before proceeding to leave when a voice called out.

"Come here Lelouch," Aki said as some tears ran down her face. "You're a friend of Yui, and therefore one of us, so come on."

"Thank you, but I really should step aside. This is for you and you alone," Lelouch said, feeling it was best he wasn't drawn in.

But unwilling to hear his protests, Lelouch's arms were seized by Aki and Shimako who drew him into their embrace of Yui with the arms of Aki and Shimako over Lelouch's shoulders ensuring he couldn't escape the group hug.

"Well…" Lelouch began, but soon just settled in. He wondered, just how different this was from comforting Nunnally or Shirley or Milly or even Sayako when words managed to sink deep enough to affect them.

Lelouch always said his door was open to his classmates as he technically was the Middle School's Vice President. More often than not, he found himself helping others out. It was one of the reasons he tolerated the role and here he was, once more helping matter how uncomfortable it was to be held by five teenage girls on the cusp of womanhood.

Fortunately, Yui was there to distract that as she cried heavily into the crook of his neck and that allowed him to gently rub her back to soothe her. He would occasionally wipe a tear from one of the other's eyes or give a gentle squeeze on the shoulder to let them know that he was there if they needed someone to lean on.

No man was an island and the same was true for women.

Meanwhile, off to the side, there were three spectators to the whole thing. Two of whom felt awkward and out of place. The third only smirked in a way that would unnerve someone.

Though, that wasn't the only thing.

"This has to feel quite awkward for him," Haruka commented quietly.

"A guy caught in a group hug by girls, yeah I am sure," Yuzuka said sarcastically.

"Ah, not feeling jealous are we," Claude said with a devious smile, but Yuzuka and Haruka had learned enough about the pink-haired woman from Lelouch, which wasn't much, that the best way to deal with her was just to be quiet.

The less of an opening you gave Claude, the less she has to work with.

Most importantly they didn't want to ruin the moment that had unfolded before them, but one thing was certain, their conversations with Lelouch from now on would be much more interesting.

--------------------------------------------------------------

A/N: Well that ended on a touching note despite Claude trolling them, I will admit I did question the theater bit, but I decided to go with it at Jameyofthemegacosmos's suggestion, since I supposed it helped "convince" anyone skeptical of Claude's abilities.

And Lelouch is slowly beginning to realize he is the only guy among a military composed mostly of women, mostly because a lot of the men keep dying and a LOT died early on in the BETA war making women enlisting to replace their losses a necessity, but it isn't doing their populations any favors through. Which is partially why I do feel some characters in Muv Luv Alternative would likely be more open to a polygamous relationship, just how open would vary from character to character.

Speaking of which I do want to dispel any notion of the polygamy polls being done out of a lack of confidence or seeking permission of sorts, but rather they are just simply to shrink the number of candidates, which was mostly my fault since I was too generous in letting my Betas pitch in their suggestions for a good candidate. Which I allowed because I was in a good mood, because for all of the stories I've made I have never gotten this level of help in any of them, catching any potential issues early on and having more than one beta looking over the chapters ensure they are well-polished and more enjoyable to read.

But the other reason that it didn't feel right to have Lelouch's polygamy relationships consist of ONLY Muv Luv characters (and I got a default line up to fall back on if needed in mind already) when I have other candidates from other series I should give a fair shot at Lelouch, which I could do easily, so I am trying to work out who could be real contenders for some.

So on my profile page I decided to give the Muv Luv candidate poll a shot, which as a reminder is only meant to reduce the number of candidates to a smaller pool, characters winning it will just win a fair shot at Lelouch, it doesn't ensure their placement.

Ok enough on the polygamy talk, and I shall speak no more of it for awhile, I've said my piece and if worse come to worse I'll just go to my default line up.

But in the next chapter Lelouch will engage in his new mock battle against his fellow cadets, with his new friends he made. I know the Comprehensive Skill Evaluation should come before TSF mock battles, at least from what I've seen, but they are on an accelerated training track with the evaluation left for last as a final test for Lelouch due its...heightened difficulty because of some politics and keep in mind this kind of test caused Haruka to loose her legs, so consider that for a moment on what the increased difficulty might be like.

Thanks to all who've read it, and if the chapter seemed boring don't worry I promise the next one will be more action packed.

And to end the chapter, here are the specs for Aki's new Gundam, thanks again to Redrat8 for the redesign.

Model number: TMP-06X

Code name: Kintoki

Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame Heavy Assault Ranged Mobile Suit

Pilot: Aki Iwami

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)

First deployment: September 29th 2016 A.T.B

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 19.3 meters

Weight: 58.1 metric tons

Armor: Trans-Phase Shift Armor

Powerplant: Ultracompact Fusion Reactor (Sunrider series model)

Sensor Range: 23,700 meters

Equipment and Design Features:

Coupling System

Intention Automatic System

Multi Lock-On System: As implied by its name, this unique system allows Kintoki to target multiple enemies and attack them at once. To use this system effectively, the pilot must have high spatial awareness capability, which is rare even among Coordinators.

High Mobility Aerial Tactics (HiMAT) Mode: The atmospheric flight configuration of the Kintoki, in which its wings are unfolded for higher maneuverability. The Kinotoki is capable of flight even in its normal mode, but this form is better suited for aerial dogfighting. HiMAT mode can also be used in space whereby it enhances the Kintoki's AMBAC capabilities.

Full Burst Mode: The name of the attack mode in which Kintoki uses its arsenal of ranged weapons all at once. This mode is often used together with the Multi Lock-On System to destroy large numbers of enemy units at once. However, despite its power, Full Burst Mode can only fire in a forward direction.

I-Field Barrier

Fixed Armaments:

2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns, fire-linked, mounted on the head

2 X M100 "Balaena" Plasma Beam Cannons: A pair of powerful plasma beam cannons located in the wings, they are positioned over the shoulders when in use. Amongst the suit's ranged weaponry, the plasma beam cannon has the highest firepower and longest attack range.

2 X MMI-M15 "Xiphias" Railgun: A pair of railguns that are mounted on the waist, they have an excellent rate of fire and high ammunition capacity. Folded into three parts when not in use, they can be used to deal with situations where beam weapons are ineffective and are the suit's most powerful solid-based weaponry.

4 X B3 Beam Vulcan: Four beam vulcans built into the chest below the intakes. Used for direct assault in close quarters, or restricting enemy movement and intimidating enemies at medium range.

2 X Wired Hands: Kintoki specially designed quasi-psycommu controlled wire-guided forearms that can be launched and maneuvered via built in verniers. These remote arms can be employed to grab and hold enemy mobile suits, as a mid-range melee weapon, and possess an electrical shock ability that allow electricity to flow through the cable and arm into a connected enemy machine. This electrical attack is severely painful to the pilot of the captured mobile suit but is not immediately lethal. Each arm also has a built-in beam gun inside in its palm.

2 X Combat Shields: The Kintoki mounts a Shields on each arm and houses both a Beam Saber and Mega Particle Cannon

4 X INCOMs: A remote weapon designed for use with the quasi-psycommu system. These disc-shaped devices are armed with internal beam guns and controlled via wire cables. Every time an INCOM changes its flight direction, it deploys a tiny relay INCOM to hold the wire in place and maintain its connection to its parent mobile suit. When the pilot recalls the INCOM, it retraces its course as the wire is retracted. A skilled Pilot can use the wires to drastically change directions and gain great agility with these INCOMs. stored in the backpack.

Optional Hand Armaments:

Multi-purpose Assault Weapon "Kujaku": The only handheld Weapon of the Kintoki, it is a Multi-purpose Weapon that combines the features of two different weapons in the form of the Muramasa Blaster and the Peacock Smasher into a single weapon. It can switch between the Buster Mode for close combat through a nine beam blade emitter large sword and the Smasher Mode through a nine beam emitter-converted beam gun crossbow that can aim in any direction for ranged combat. Stored on the back, in its retracted folded mode unless ready to be deployed.

StrifeHavoc · May 23, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story. I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

This was also the last chapter F-14 Tomcat Lover help collaborate with me on, working with Silkdreamweaver and I to enhance the mock battle in this one, before he can altering some of my story's chapters without my permission or even asking me, finding out only when I was reviewing them a week before posting them. Thus resulting in his removal as a beta for the story.

Chapter 8

Coupling Matchup

The following afternoon, Lelouch was dressed in his new pilot suit, with proper colors while in the cockpit of a Minamoto unit. Next to him were four more Minamoto mobile suits piloted by Haruko, Haruka, Yuzuka, Tsukiko and one other trainee that was assigned to them for this exercise. They were currently in a large training arena that was once a city, but had declined to unsustainable levels. The population was relocated and it was ordered to be converted into a military installation for large scale urban warfare training for new recruits.

With the loss of much of the training facilities in the south, it had a vital role to maintain the quality of TSF pilots.

Today, it would see use by an entirely new machine, the Mobile Suit or MS for short. A machine far removed in terms of technology, but not concept from the Tactical Surface Fighter. For today, most of the weapons used by the Minamoto had been swapped out for the day's exercise. Those new weapons are a training sword and a rifle that fires specialized paint bullets that can disable any TSF they hit.

It had been decided that Lelouch would be leading one team against another until one team was left. However, he was told their final score would be depending on their overall performance, including leadership, tactics, and teamwork. They would also receive a personal score that would be the sundry of all other elements such as reaction time, accuracy, shots fired, and in the case of the training blades, strikes and parries among other criteria.

Still, they were really throwing him into the deep end from the start. From what Lelouch had seen of his opponent and the team he will be up against, it was going to be difficult to say the least. Fortunately, not impossible, but it was still not an even fight at best.

They are stacking quite the odds against me, Lelouch thought as a grin appeared on his face.

Because the rest of their opponents was everyone else in their cadet unit, led by Mariko Amemiya a recent veteran of the Defense of Kyoto who was being considered to be given a Minamoto for her exceptional performance during the battle. It was also due being a hereditary vassal and whose family has the same rank as Yui's family the Takamura. In addition to that, she has more practical experience, having served on the frontline in the south of Japan, being a very rare type of Eishi at this point, someone who survived the entire invasion from its beginning to this point in time.

Which included taking command of disorganized troops and holding her position until it was no longer tenable and retreating in very good order despite being under such pressure from the BETA.

But that all aside, Lelouch had looked over her personnel packet until he had to return it, but the information had been enough. The young woman is naturally skilled, talented and intelligent. Coupled with being more trained up and experienced, she is even more gifted than Yui to have graduated two years early and in the top five percent of her class. That is in stark contrast to Yui who is considered a near borderline prodigy and was still scheduled to graduate in another year or two.

Mariko Amemiya is a talented individual. Lelouch frowns in thought as he noticed that Mariko Amemiya was to be assigned to White Fang Squadron, the same squadron led by Yui's cousin no less and that Yui had been slated to join it as well, which is telling of the level of talent needed to be part of the White Fangs.

"Uh, can we do this? We are literally going against everybody else!?" Yuzuka inquired.

"They seem to think so," the newest member of their group replied neutrally.

Inside the cockpit of the sixth Minamoto was a young woman, a year older than Lelouch with short unkempt blonde hair, red eyes with a willowy athletic frame.

The addition of yet another young woman had made Lelouch frown. While he was not against women on the battlefield, his mother had been an Ordained Knight of the Round Table, he still had to wonder where all of the young men were?

As far as he knew, he was the only male in his entire class, including the instructors. He had asked Claude about that and she had said she had nothing to do with it, but refused to elaborate further. He felt he should avoid asking what might be a sensitive topic, for now at least, of his instructors and fellow trainees.

"Asagi, I think that's the sole reason." Haruka believed there was another motive behind this setup.

"Really? You sound as if our drill instructor is out to get Lelouch," Asagi Minori suggested.

"It certainly feels that way. Especially since who's leading the other side is a veteran Royal Guard pilot from Kyoto," Haruko remarked, sharing Haruka's suspicions.

"And many others from south of Kyoto too," Yuzuka pointed out.

"Lelouch?" Tsukiko inquired, noticing Lelouch's machine was picking up a wrecked TFS target dummy.

It was the remains of a decommissioned Gekishin frame. Lelouch had noticed about less than a dozen were left in the city to rot, after being used in whatever tests and training scenarios they were involved in.

And with a growing smirk, he realized there might be a few more he hadn't seen yet and because of how long they had been left out that they were now just background scenery…

"The enemy group hasn't been deployed yet?" Lelouch asked, as an idea came to mind.

"We have twenty minutes left until they do. Why?" Tsukiko asked.

"I have an idea actually," Lelouch replied.

Yui, Izumi, Kazusa, Aki and Shimako arrived at an observation room in order to watch the upcoming mock battle between Lelouch's team and the rest of the cadets from his training group. They were not alone, as others had come to watch. Marimo was likely in the command center to monitor the entire battle with Michiru and Yui's honorary uncle, Colonel Eiji Iwaya. Aside from other notable members of the base's personnel, like engineers and officers, Yui spotted other members of their unit.

"So it's seven against thirteen?" Sayuri asked, sitting with her friends on a bench before one of the monitors, providing live feed from cameras scattered around the training arena.

"Fourteen. You forgot Lieutenant Amemiya Mariko is leading them," Kasumi corrected, raising her right index finger.

"That seems to be unfair, even if Lelouch is experienced," Ayame remarked, seemingly doubtful Lelouch could win.

"She is right. Fourteen against seven, led by an experienced Royal Guard pilot with one year over us and considerably more combat experience, seems too much," Aki complained, after overhearing the conversation.

"Apparently given Lelouch's own experience, adding the Lieutenant to the mix was supposed to make it more of a fair fight," Kazusa said, folding her arms, but Aki couldn't tell if she was against it, approved of it, or both.

As if, Aki thought to herself, knowing full well about the more experienced Royal Guard as she had made a bit of a name for herself with an early graduation.

Aki had always been quicker with her body than her mind. Strength and getting stronger has always been her thing, but that didn't mean she was just all muscles. She could smell the Court Politics from here. Probably more than a few very prideful idiots, the same kind that had nearly lost Kyoto if not for Lelouch."Still seems like a bit much," Shimako said, concerned for Lelouch's odds of victory.

"We handled the BETA. Fighting against staggering numbers is something Lelouch should be used to," Izumi pointed out.

"True, but you know that is not what I mean," Shimako said as a counter argument. "Those cadets with him, have no experience against such odds. He'll have to lead them and keep them from panicking."

"I suppose that's true, but," Izumi began, before Yui interrupted them.

"He'll win," Yui said, confident, surprising her friends.

"Really, against those odds?!" Aki asked, but she is clearly more heated having figured it out.

"I've spent more than a few months with him, training and undergoing simulated battles. It won't be easy, but I would question the idea that he would go down easily against such odds," Yui pointed out, her confidence absolute.

Kazusa watched Yui and knew her confidence wouldn't be shaken in Lelouch, which Kazusa knew if Yui was that confident in Lelouch then maybe he could pull off a stunning victory. It was a question of how he would accomplish it, so Kazusa would watch the mock battle with anticipation, wondering how it will play out.

So Aki figured it out. Kazusa had figured it out quickly enough and Yui most definitely had. Which begs the question of why she is so confident?

The line-up was more or less even, but there was a fair bit more experience in the larger team. So, there had to be something about Lelouch that would trump that. Perhaps that which involved that strange, and wasn't that an understatement, woman Claude.

On one side of the testing arena, a yellow painted Minamoto, symbolic of the household she belonged to, piloted by Lieutenant Amemiya Mariko, a young woman of fifteen with long brown hair, purple eyes, wearing the gold and black pilot suit owed to her by her family's status, who steeled herself for battle. She took point leading the cadets behind her into the arena. Each of them using Minamoto units, painted accordingly to each of their status.

"Stay close and keep to our plan. The other team is hiding in the ruins and no doubt taking up ambush positions," Mariko warned, being careful to keep a firm hand on the inexperienced pilots under her command.

"Yes ma'am!" The other cadets replied in unison.

This machine is certainly much more responsive than my Zuikaku was, Mariko thought, interested in putting her new Minamoto through its paces. Still for a mock battle fourteen against seven seems a bit much? But the Lady Shogun still needs to cement her place and her authority. There are those who are still harboring both rebellion against her and still believe they were right when their actions had caused disasters from the Peninsula of Korea to the very heart of Kyoto.

Amemiya Mariko knew she was among those selected to pilot a Minamoto thanks to her performance during the Defense of Kyoto, but at the same time, she is also aware that while the mock battle set up involving her opponent, an American or British male eishi named Lelouch Lamperouge, provided an opportunity to get some live training with the machine in a mock battle, she was also still being evaluated for her actions prior to Kyoto. So, here she was and not only was she being viewed, but so too would the new Shogun as with her arrival on the base Major Jinguuji had 'asked' her to lead the opposing team of cadets against Lelouch Lamperouge, the man who piloted the Izanami and was instrumental to holding off the BETA advance alongside Yui Takamura.

And who had commanded the battle quite thoroughly wherever he went.

I am curious to meet him, but either they are overestimating his abilities or maybe they are that confident he can face such odds and still win? Mariko thought having her own doubts, and yet the results spoke confidently in his favor and that worried her as didn't quite like the idea of taking on a complete unknown.

But she knew one thing. The Northrock-Grunnan YF-22 Raptor was being constructed with advanced Anti-TSF combat capabilities. There is a good chance that this Lelouch Lamperouge was schooled in Anti-TSF combat tactics and strategies.

Normal tactics will not work here, Mariko thought as she recalled her own Anti-TSF training, as befitting a vassal of her station from birth to grave to be an instrument of the will and authority of the Shogunate. Including taking human life if need be.

So, she would simply have to switch gears, as much as she didn't agree, but she knew that it was inevitable that one day she would take a human life and therefore, it was time to put her training to fight other humans to the test.

Especially if I must some day down the road take a life of a human. For such is the duty of I will be called upon to fulfill.

But for now, she would need to test the waters of her opponent. And hope he didn't take her team apart too fast for her to do anything.

"Pair off into your assigned teams as planned with two pairs to sweep forward while the rest will divide into pairs and we'll assume the Wedge Two formation. Remember, the enemy team is out there hiding and their leader is someone to be wary of, so take heed and caution," Mariko said as she issued directions from her machine. "Don't be rash and charge ahead recklessly, the enemy will try to lure you into an ambush. If you spot the enemy, report, but don't chase them. We'll assume the defensive formations and be mindful of flanking maneuvers."

"Understood," the cadets replied as they broke up from their current column formation to assume Wedge Two while four others sped off to be the vanguard and try to locate their opponents first.

With the formation complete and the vanguard deployed, Mariko and her group advanced into the ruined city, mindful of any signs of the enemy.

It was eerie and quiet as they advanced. Mariko slightly unnerved at the sight of old Type-77s repurposed as drone targets laying wrecked and burned out on the old streets and against buildings. The memories of Kyoto and before coming back as well as the distant pleas and screams. She took a breath and recentered herself as she led her squadron forward.

Suddenly the cadets in the vanguard were under attack as paintballs took down an unsuspecting cadet in an ambush. The barrage as sudden as it began, ended almost immediately the attackers hastily retreated, flying between buildings to use them as cover against the retaliation the remaining three began. But it was pointless as the attack was quick and the ambush team had retreated just as quickly. The main formation catching up with the remaining cadets and firing as well, but the fleeing attackers just narrowly escaped.

"Only two of them," Mariko said, seeing the tactic for what it is.

Classic hit and run style. Still used, a preferred tactic actually, by Humanity to engage the BETA all across the battlefronts. All Mariko could do was shake her head and change up her formation.

But before Mariko could give orders, another cadet under her command was suddenly sniped when she carelessly stepped into an open area of the ruined city to improve her visibility of the surrounding area.

"Everyone avoid any open areas, we have an enemy sniper!" Mariko commanded. "They are trying to bait us. Stay behind cover and maintain formation."

The shocked cadets acknowledged. They all had been sniped repeatedly before in training. Yet, they all still made rookie mistakes. It was one thing on the ground with two eyes and ears, it was another thing with the advanced sensors of a TSF, or in this case, a mobile suit to remember that basic fundamental.

It's an obvious bait attempt, if only two of them attacked us. The rest must be lying in wait while the sniper covers them from the far end of the ruins, Mariko thought, deducing the enemy's tactics.

But something didn't sit right with her, it was too aggressive.

Mariko brought her weapon and fired a long burst off to her side. It was essentially a blind fire attack. A good way to waste ammo or scare your opponent off if they were being aggressive.

Spinning her Minamoto, she fired in the direction they had come with her rifle raised in elevation. The sniper shot that would have gotten one of the cadets in the back, splashed harmlessly against the building she was next to instead.

The resulting gunbattle forced the opposing team to actually stick it out and fight back. But it was clear that her opponents' commander had no desire for that kind of battle. His team retreated, though a couple had lost weapons. One a sword and another a rifle. Two had some damage as well.

In exchange, two of her own were damaged and Mariko could see a few lost weapons, a mix of swords and guns. Minor nuisance as they could retrieve the weapons from the 'downed' Minamotos and continue on. Their opponents were not so lucky.

"Tighten formations into Sierra Seven and advance carefully, avoid any open spaces so the enemy sniper can't target you."

"But they'll shoot at us still," one cadet said.

"No, with the buildings between us and them they have only a few lines of sight they can utilize without moving, otherwise they risk exposing their position. In fact, the sniper has likely already relocated," Mariko replied. "They'll probably try to force us out of cover and into the open. There are even fewer locations a sniper can viably use here. Once we get near their team's main position they will be forced to either engage us in close combat or abandon their comrades."

"Understood."

Meanwhile, Lelouch was finishing thinking over what went wrong.

His conclusion?

Mariko was better than he had reason to suspect.

Oh he had suspected quite a bit. Her record all but guaranteed it. But she had reflexes that were much higher and she had clearly shown deduction and spatial awareness skills far above others.

With some more experience and a few more years on her, she could easily try out for the Knights of the Rounds and have a good enough chance to make it in dang near flawlessly. Lelouch thought, knowing how much skill and talent were needed to replicate what Mariko had done.

Lelouch only shrugged as he clicked his tongue. His team had lost two weapons, which they could replace. Two of his team members had mild damage ratings. But Lelouch had a moderate damage rating from a lucky hit that had cut across his torso by sheer dumb luck.

Nothing that would hinder him right now, but it indicates what subsystems were offline and how much damage his armor took. To be frank, he was now a little tender.

He'll need to review the recordings later to see what exactly happened. But it was clear it was dumb luck as it passed through the windows of three buildings to get him. If he hadn't nearly tripped while relocating, he would have been hit right in a fatal spot instead.

Pleasant thought that.

In the meantime…

"Let's go with Plan Two-B now," he told the others.

"Seriously?" Haruka deadpanned.

"Plan Two-B?" Haruko gave him a flat look.

"That's your name for it?!" Tsukiko smacked her face.

The others remained silent, but were giving Lelouch a look like he did something stupid.

"Hey! You come up with plan names on the spot and get back to me!" Lelouch replied heatedly and defensively.

Despite their issue with the name of the plan, the six girls moved out and prepared for the next round of combat.

In her own 'home' theater, Claude smirks as she sees Lelouch snap back about his calling his plan Plan Two-B.

Normally far more composed than that, Lelouch would never snap back over such a thing. Perhaps growl about carrying out the plan, but never snap back. In any of the realities.

Growing time boy-o. Claude thought as she continued to enjoy her soda, popcorn, and candy. Hmm… Maybe give him a trip to the ladies' shower later? Nah… Probably too early. Plus, he needs to develop a bit more and not just physically.

"There!" A cadet shouted before firing their weapon, but his target had been an old decommissioned TSF propped up against a ruined building with some debris that made it look like it was armed with an assault cannon.

So it begins. Mariko thought as she saw the converted Type-77 standing there.

Its makeshift 'weapon' had been blown free of its hands and the unit itself now sagged against the building, still upright, almost actually standing on its own. The beaten up machine should have been salvaged for recycling, but it had been left to rot. More evidence of the generally poor nature of the previous Shogun's leadership and yet a boon for her opponent.

Clever, but something I would do if I have time. Mariko knew that not many would think that and she doubted she would actually do so as well, unless given both time and a reason. She already suspects that this Lelouch had seen a few left to rot and had realized he had been given a tool to win his battle with her.

Clever boy.

One of the cadets, the one right next to her in fact, was suddenly hit with a spray of paintballs through what had been an office building long since gutted of windows and much of its interior walls. That left an open space to fire through the actual building itself.

Two cadets reacted quickly, using bounding techniques to get around and fire on yet another Type-77, this time armed with one of the assault cannons used by the other team.

"They can't be far!" One of the two cadets kept her guard up and kicked another Type-77 over, only for there to be an assault cannon rigged to the disabled machine and hidden by it, causing her to be shot up with paintballs at point blank range.

"The hells?!" her wingman responded as she spun only to be surprised and overwhelmed by two enemies with their training halberds, "I'm down!" she managed before her machines shut down.

Mariko and the others rounded the corner, spreading out and keeping watch on all vectors, but the pair escaped, even stealing the weapons of their opponents.

Mariko walked over to the rigged TSF as it lay on its side, like a fallen person and she shook off the feeling the sight brought. She now knew why, prior to the BETA, Human military commanders hated the idea of piloted machines with Human form. When viewed from this angle, they looked like someone who died.

Especially with the pitted, penetrated armor with burn marks and shattered components laid out. The fluids of it would have dried out long ago. She had a feeling her cadet had accidentally kicked the Gekishin right back into the same spot it fell a while back, if the ground discoloration was anything to go by, which only added to the illusion of a long dead soldier left to rot in the open.

"That TSF, like the others we've seen, was likely used for weapon testing after its retirement from service and was just left to rot after the research teams were done with them all. The opposing team has seen fit to start using them to confuse us and tempt us into making mistakes. Check your targets with care when you engage and be mindful of more traps in the future. Be calm and collected and watch your assigned sectors with calm, especially when bounding through open areas and where there are buildings taller than we can hide behind. Alright?"

"Yes milady!" the cadets responded.

"Alright, as they say, on the bounce!" Mariko ordered.

As if to taunt her words, bursts of gunfire came from ahead and forced their units behind buildings.

"Contact!"

"I see four units to the front."

"Teams 3 and 4, stick to cover with Team 3 providing overwatch and Team 4 providing suppressive support, all others alternate advancement," Mariko ordered. "Team 7 change direction and move and flank them on the left, draw their fire so the other can move then alternate, but keep your eyes open. They'll catch on real quick."

"Understood!"

Due to the size of her unit, they had to move at a slow pace to allow rear units to catch up and avoid stretching out their line and leaving themselves vulnerable to any surprise pincer maneuvers or ambushes. Mariko felt that Lelouch's best chance would be to engage her units in as close to single-combat engagements as possible. That way they couldn't be suppressed or pinned by supporting fire. Unfortunately for him, she had no intention of breaking up her unit to enable him to do just that. While there is power in numbers after all, that was akin to saying close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades as the Americans like to put it.

Get too drawn out and separated, Lelouch and his team would have numbers. Defeat the enemy in detail. A classic Napoleonic strategy coined by the namesake of that warring period himself.

The tactic worked and two enemy units fled with varying levels of damage. But again, two of the enemies turned out to be more Gekishins propped up. Worse yet, some idiots forgot to collect their weapons when they were expended in tests. Both still had their assault cannons and one even had an unspent and very live 120mm round jammed in its tube.

Mariko took a few minutes to rip control over the lack of weapons and ammo sweeps. The UXO in the barrel could have gone off at any time Lelouch's team was manhandling the TSF and its weapon.

But now Mariko knew she faced another issue. She had noted that a live magazine had been removed and dumped somewhere because the assault cannon had been reloaded with a training magazine. Which told her point blank that training magazines and weapons were also likely laying around the cityscape. That meant that unlike her team, Lelouch and his team now had more ammunition and weapons to use.

Even if the Minamoto's couldn't use the weapons, Lelouch could now prop up disabled Gekishins and set them to fire on her or her cadets. They could also be used to set up traps. There were no rules governing how they defeated one another. Only stipulations on safety and the prevention of live ammunition.

Something Mariko proves when she picked up and threw a piece of debris down one street and set off a makeshift mine loaded with a technicolor of paint, likely made from several rounds of 120mm paint rounds banded together and set together.

Which caused Mariko to frown as she didn't think anyone on the other team should have that knowledge or level of technical skill. The improvised mine was no simple creation. Which made her further dread taking this time on after five of her cadets already.

Then so be it. We will play defensive and lure our opponents out instead. Mariko declared mentally and the results were obvious to Lelouch, who honestly hadn't expected to get so many so fast.

But the following five hours of what many expected to be an hour long skirmish at best had staff and personnel watching on the edge of their seats.

Mariko took a page from Lelouch's book and used a few discarded weapons and TSFs that Lelouch hadn't noticed or had time to work with against him. In that way, her team got its first 'kill' in, Haurka who was surprised by a simple trip wire attached to a long abandoned assault cannon. The assault cannon took out her head, left arm, and 'tore up' her Minamoto's torso, even separating the left leg from the main body in the simulated kill.

Tsukiko barely faired better in the same trap, losing her Minamoto's head and thus her main sensors. Lelouch pulled her back and employed three decoys that had no effect, but it allowed him to relocate and get a better view of the fighting.

Lelouch rightly figured, unless he stood so blatantly where he could be detected by sensors so easily, he could stand on top of buildings a bit further away and observe the maneuvers of both sides, correcting his own team's movements, while helping with sniper fire on occasion.

After all, Mariko would believe him down with the rest of his team or in the back somewhere. Not in a place where she could potentially shoot him down. If she were to detect him.

And that difference in elevation. That extra risk taken. Provided the payoffs that Lelouch wanted and needed. The ability to better control his team and observe his opponent's maneuvering.

It took Mariko over an hour to figure that out. Lelouch had spoiled one too many of her ambushes. The young woman realized that Lelouch was high up. That would explain the last second evasions. Because if it was being relayed, even through a connection through data sharing, there would be lag.

So, Mariko looked up and scanned, spotting not only Lelouch, but his sniper as well. Mariko risked the fight in front of her, to remove the enemy observation and sniper, and hopefully end this fight.

Lelouch managed to evade. Yuzuka did her best, but her teammates had been pushed back long enough and she was caught in a crossfire of every member as she sailed behind the building that eventually blocked further view of her machine.

Lelouch pulled his team back. Outnumbered so badly had its negative effects. Still, Asagi managed to close with and take out another cadet. She would have gotten two if Mariko and three others had chased her back at the last second with a hail of fire.

Two cadets made the mistake of chasing Asagi to a bend. Both stopped short of existing into what had been a park. But both forgot about the TSFs laying at their feet and what they could have been armed with. As such, Tsukiko detonates the remote training mines taking both out as they had bunched up and 'damaging' a third cadet's machine that barely withdraws back before Asagi can take her out.

After that, set piece fighting essentially settled in with the odd pop shot at one another.

That is, until Mariko accidentally walked her team into Lelouch's biggest trap and the one he had been, throughout the day, trying to lure her into as he had observed enough to know that Mariko was definitely Rounds' material and therefore, she was likely to take out his entire team, even if he got her entire squadron in exchange, if he didn't get her into one place with limited options.

In the control center for the entire exercise, operators had been going frantically over the data. The researchers working on the Minamoto's hadn't expected the results they were getting. Something they were overjoyed about, though they agreed with Mariko about the discarded machines, weapons, and ammunition, both live and training, that needed to be swept. The Minamoto is good, but a 120mm at point blank range would still cause damage to the machines and possibly injure or even kill the pilot.

The officer in command had been saying the same things for a while now. So now there will, undoubtedly, be a clean up effort.

Meanwhile, in a hidden room, Koubuin Yuuhi sat in a position of servitude as the Emperor and Empress of Japan both observed the training bout become a skirmish before them. The Shogun did not show any of the unearned arrogance of her predecessor and was fully aware that two of her best were pitted against one another.

The Emperor of Japan leaned over to his wife and the Empress nodded at her husband's whispered words before signaling for Yuuhi to actually sit at her side.

The young Shogun of Japan obeyed and sat as instructed.

"Our Lord Husband and ourselves are very impressed," the Empress removed something from within the folds of royal kimono gown and held it before Yuuhi who brought her hands up reverently to receive it, "Take this and know that you have our complete faith and support, Daishogun Yuuhi-dono, to command and lead as you see fit. Our trust is such."

Taking the symbol of not only the Empress, but the Emperor himself, Yuuhi realized the power she had been given. She wasn't just the Shogun, she was Daishogun. Her forehead touched the floorboards in recognition of her gratitude.

None could stand against her now.

And if she could not save her world, she could save the people and place them on a new world. That she promised. For no one remembered the dead. Only the living remembered and therefore, to keep the memory alive, her people would survive.

"Now, be sure to keep a close eye on your sister," the Empress added, "After all, family is important."

"It is," Yuuhi found her voice and the Empress placed a hand on Yuuhi's hands with a warm, matronly smile.

"So the final fight has begun," the Emperor did not want to interrupt, but he knew both should watch the fight that will come, "A prince from another world? We daresay that this Claude was right to pick him. He embodies principle as expected and the Takamura have another potential heir, so their daughter will do well at his side and bring honor to both our Empire and her family. Arrange a blue stripe for the Takamura, they will need it and give the head of Takatsukasa a purple stripe as well. That should solidify the young woman's position and reveal my ire for what has happened to our Empire."

"It will be done, Our Emperor," an attendant responded at once, knowing that the Emperor will only make ceremonial moves, but they were moves with influence.

The Daishogun will wear the crest of the Imperial House itself and the addition of the colored stripes will mark the Takamura Family and Takatsukasa Kyoko into positions of ascension.

If anything were to happen to the Imperial House, Koubuin Yuuhi would become the next Empress, Takatsukasa Kyoko the next Shogun, and the Takamura would in turn become a Regent House, either through absorbing or taking over the Takatsukasa Clan as a whole.

All is now set and the attendants are relieved now that there is an established line and unquestionable authority.

After managing to advance deeper into the city the suppressing fire stopped.

A head count revealed that Mariko's squadron still outnumbered Lelouch's team. But from fourteen who had sortied, including herself, she was down to six. They had halved Lelouch's numbers in exchange, a trap neutralizing one, their sniper having been literally shot down, and they had caught and overrun one more in melee, which is how she was down to six after another cadet was terminated in melee.

There was suddenly a brief and fleeting few moments of silence. Which stretched on and on as they advanced. There was no one shooting at them. Something that surprises Mariko and her cadets as well as adding confusion before the enemy team unloaded their entire mags down the streets in a maelstrom of bullets. It was an unimaginable barrage of training rounds that locked Mariko's remaining squad in place.

"There's no way we can advance under this gunfire!" One cadet states before his Minamoto's head is 'destroyed' and he ducks down deeper into cover while offering short blind fire in return.

Mariko knew right away the intense fire was all of the abandoned TSFs, weapons, and ammunition left in the cityscape. She had investigated one decoy earlier after noticing it was firing, but no rounds left its weapon. It had been filled with blank rounds, little more than noisemakers with flashes of light.

No doubt for every flash they could see, a few were nothing more than noise and light for a similar number that were sending paint their way.

And Lelouch likely had rigged the weapons to fire at different times to sustain their limited magazines.

"I'm hit!" one cadet shouted as her Minamoto 'lost' a leg to a 120mm training round.

A few moments later, she was taken out a tight grouping of fire.

"Movement!" Another cadet fired her weapon where she saw an opponent disappear around a corner.

Mariko went quiet as her gut told her something was off. Despite being down three of his TSFs, Lelouch was being suddenly very aggressive against her team that still held the advantage of numbers and had restocked their ammo from discard weapons, no doubt like Lelouch and his team had been doing. Even with the heavy suppressive fire Lelouch's team and decoys were laying down, if her team rushed them, while they may lose 2-3 units in the process, which would be the most 'damaged' of their units, they would wipe out his entire team and her remaining numbers would still be more than enough to handle Lelouch when he was alone.

That wasn't even taking into account that they could wait until they've burned through their ammunition. They were playing too aggressively, almost pointlessly. Which didn't add up. As she ran through potential traps, her eyes settled on one of the decommissioned TSFs. Suddenly it clicked for her. She opened her mouth to warn her team, but never got the chance.

"Ahhh!"

Her teammates were caught completely off guard as two enemy TSF units burst out from behind decommissioned units and opened fire. The units charged through her team, guns firing as they went. In mere seconds her unit was down another three units thus making the fight a fair one of three on three.

"Damn you!"

"Wait!" Mariko warned, but it was too late. The cadet wanted to fire after the fleeing units and the moment her TSF stepped into the open it was met with a barrage of gunfire that repainted the front of the mech. It toppled over from the force as it shut down, registering the enemy's "kill".

Mariko bit back a curse. She pulled on the last cadet not to be shot down and the two fled around around a corner as the fire began to slacken as the neglected weapons either burned out, malfunctioned, or simply ran out of ammo. Through it all, she had to admit to Lelouch Lamperouge's skill and leadership.

And dare I say, with no pun intended, his daring. Mariko was impressed and while not an impossible feat, far from it really, it was impressive enough that she knew who she wanted to fight in a war beside.

Lelouch had been one of the two who had charged right through her remaining cadets. He was identifiable by the clearly near kill shot streaked across his torso. She had noticed it early and realized that Minamoto was the leader. They had been so close earlier and she had to conclude that it was pure dumb luck that they could have closed this training match out earlier in the day.

Especially with how it has been turning out.

They had gone from a clear numerical superiority with slightly above 2-to-1 to now being on par. Lelouch's team was reduced to three active units. One of which was significantly 'damaged' and therefore not of much use other than a distraction or if they got careless. As such, it was still possible for them to win. Especially as Mariko thought about it, her unit was completely undamaged and her wingman was only lightly damaged. Both of the opposing units that could still fight normally were damaged. The odds were still in their favor in a way. There was still a shot at victory for them.

"Contact! Left side!"

It was the damaged enemy unit trying to avoid being seen.

But it had run right across their path. Its main sensors were disabled and the secondary sensors in the torso had been 'damaged' in the mock battle. As such, the eishi inside had accidentally run right by them without knowing it.

But also likely moving to get behind its own allies!

"Turn hard and cross the path it took and then follow me!" Mariko ordered and her last cadet followed her without question.

The pair crossed the path Tsukiko had taken and then Mariko rounded a corner, then another, and another, until, as she predicted based on the layout of the streets from what she recalled of the map, they had reached a unique junction area with several distinct buildings it, that she again saw the damaged unit and knew they were now in position for a final ambush.

Lelouch for his part had frowned as they had lost contact with Mariko. Then he saw the unique junction as well.

"Crap! They're behind us!" he informed Asagi.

"Tsukiko is in trouble!" the young woman responded.

"Double time!" Lelouch shouted as he contacted Tsukiko and rerouted her to a new location to keep her safe from the ambush that was about to occur.

Mariko felt the abrupt turn around more than saw it when she collided with the enemy they had been tracking.

"Milady!" the cadet shouted as Mariko bounced down the street, her thrusters coming online as she was shaken and gripped her controls too tightly, sending her further down the street by accident.

The cadet didn't have time to worry. Because as soon as she started moving, a stream of gunfire just barely missed her. She snapped around and opened up, striking her attacker's weapon and taking it out and forcing them to hop to the side to avoid being taken out.

A large '01' on the shoulder armor with a streak across the torso told her who she was looking at.

"The enemy commander!" She raised her weapon to fire, but suddenly her Minamoto staggered forward as all systems shut down except for life support and the monitors letting her know she'd been terminated.

Tsukiko staggered her machine back to its feet. The impact had really shaken her hard. Now she knew how beans in a can felt all over again.

Stepping forward, she looked at her handiwork. It was just pure luck that when she collided with the building, she had landed with her back against it. As such, her remaining 'active' sensors had told her of what was happening and she immediately reacted. The last of her rounds had painted a nice portrait on the last enemy's back.

"Tsukiko, evade!" Lelouch shouts and the young woman blinks before she feels like beans in a can again and she realizes that the other enemy hadn't been taken out when they collided.

Mariko turned to Lelouch. Her assault cannon had slid off somewhere, but her training halberd remained in hand. So, without waiting for Lelouch to get his out, she shot down the street to engage him.

And he was still in shock by her return as he fumbled for his weapon, but still was able to draw it fast enough to avoid being knocked out and to parry her attack successfully.

Though he was unstable and she wasn't about to pass up the opportunity.

She had to win. They had reached this point. All of her cadets had been taken out. She owed it to them. Especially her last cadet who could have done the rare feat of winning the fight for their squadron. Rare for cadets to win under these conditions against those just better than them.

Lelouch met her next attack with more confidence. In moments they were trading blows, but he was still shaky. Likely trying to get himself reoriented as she was striking hard and fast, giving him little option but to parry her at this point.

"I don't think so!" It was the last enemy subordinate!

And this one laid down a full barrage from her weapon before she ran out of ammo. Then she drew her training halberd with skill worthy of a Japanese eishi. Both training weapons collided and Mariko was on the defensive.

"You're not getting Lelouch!" the other young woman shouts as the two fight it out.

Both are highly aggressive. Both uncompromising. But Mariko was just that more skillful and better taught.

In a series of rapid exchanges that normal TSF eishi could only dream of, both collided their weapons fast and hard. The response times of the Minamotos were simply so much better. The technology in their limbs and bodies allowed them to react much more critically. In many ways, they were extensions of the pilots.

Armored samurai rather than pilots in machines.

But still, the human fluidity and grace was still not there. There was still some fixation in their movements. Limitations they couldn't overcome.

And Asagi forgot that for the briefest of moments and was overextended.

"Not so fast!" Lelouch was there, his training halberd, blocking Mariko as he pushed back and managed to parry her attack away from Asagi. "If a king does not lead, he will not be followed!"

And leading into the attack, Lelouch did. His great weakness was melee combat. He was a gunfighter not a swordsman. He knew he would never have his mother's gift. He always knew he would not be the Son of the Flash.

But that didn't stop him from fighting in close. In melee form. And…

"Those are Yui's moves!" Shimako declared, recognizing Lelouch's fighting form and movements for what they are.

"When did you teach him your exact style?" Aki inquires, looking surprised.

Surprised by Lelouch's movements, Yui can only say one thing.

"I didn't."

Mariko was surprised. She had once had the honor of taking on Takamura Masatada in a training match. So she knew the Takamura stances well enough.

Sword styles ebbed and flowed with fluidity as they were taught as no two people fought the same. But there were nuances that always remained. Such as stances and preference in movement.

And Mariko could instantly tell she was fighting the Takamura Family's style. It was derived from the techniques of the Nara Prefecture, the former Yamato Province. Given that the Takamura were of the Takatsukasa House, once part of the Fujiwara Clan, it came as no surprise they would have their own techniques and stances.

But while Lelouch had incredible and indelible control, what he lacked was both experience and skill to precisely unite the styles as finely as Takamura Masatada had done.

So she timed his moves and then, at the precise moment, jumped back and set her alarms off about a threat to her flank.

"What?!" she looked over to see a down enemy unit. "The sniper! She wasn't terminated, only downed!?"

The Minamoto was 'damaged' with an arm and leg crippled or outright destroyed. Its back was resting against a building with a sturdy outcropping to help prop it up. More than that, the remaining arm used the remaining leg to stabilize the weapon in hand.

Aimed right at her and with no way to escape as she was boxed in by buildings on two sides, the sniper, and the pair she had just withdrawn from.

And the Minamoto's one weak point was that it lacked a TSF's raw thrust ability to power jump thanks to the turbofan afterburners not found on the Mobile Suit.

And despite that and that she had lost, Mariko couldn't help the small smile that appeared on her face.

Well played, Lelouch.

The rifle cracked and her machine rocked back from the hit into the building behind her. Her screen went black as it flashed a red termination notification. A moment later the siren went off, announcing the end of the match. Mariko chuckled. She was impressed and could admit that she was starting to see what the higher ups saw in Lelouch.

Yui wasn't surprised by the result itself, but rather how it came to be. Shimako, Aki, Izumi and Kazusa were stunned. Not only did Lelouch win against such odds, but he transformed what should have been a short skirmish into an hours long battle with a shocking and completely unexpected conclusion right at the end.

"Holy shit," Aki said, breaking the stunned silence. "That has to be the most epic training bout I've ever seen! It was like a real battle between them."

"I knew he would win, I just didn't know how," Yui said, very impressed by Lelouch's leadership as he exceeded her expectations. Though she is still surprised by his use of her family's swordsmanship. Which she suspected, and rightly so she expects, that he got the knowledge from her during their training period together.

"Using the abandoned decommission units as decoys and to hide his teammates was clever," Kazusa complimented. "As well as scavenging for resources to use as well. To say nothing of how he could quickly back pedal if something didn't go right and turn it into an advantage."

"Indeed, I don't think anyone would've expected it," Shimako remarked, she understood why Lelouch's tactical talents were held in such high esteem by Yui. "And despite being in a position to fight and defeat the opposing commander, who was more skilled than he and his last wingman, using the ruse that he was down to two active Minamotos instead of three."

"This will cause a stir for sure," Izumi said, quietly applauding Lelouch's performance and how he led his team. "The numbers are something that can be overcome. The use of tactics and tricks to win is all but promised to be part of war. But that both commanders had dragged out an hour's long skirmish into a nearly six hour battle using differing methods to oppose and counter one another in so many ways, that I expect that the highlights will be entered into future training education."

"You know, could we maybe ask if we could transfer to whatever unit Lelouch commands?" Sayuri commented, to the surprise of her friends.

"Huh, but you know no one will allow that?!" Ayame pointed out.

"True," Sayuri acknowledged. "But if we had to serve under a commander, who would you want? The guy who can take on and lead under difficult odds or someone else? I mean we wouldn't be here if not for him and Lieutenant Takamura."

"She does have a point," Kasumi said, nodding her head, arms folded.

"Maybe, but you two know it doesn't work like that." Ayame added.

Unknown to Ayame, she and her friends were being considered for the unique squadron built around Lelouch and Yui. More than that, their spots were all but guaranteed due to the restraints the Japanese face. Plus, their level of skill with their machines were an indicator they would remain as part of the larger unit if they continued to apply themselves and no one better was found and even then, there was always a chance it would be expanded.

If there was anyone more shocked at how the mock battle ended, it was Marimo and Michiru who, while not necessarily expecting Lelouch to lose, didn't expect him to so deftly maneuver and successfully mask his final move the way he did. However, Marimo's reaction wasn't for the reason some were thinking, and Michiru suspected the real reason.

"He may not be the most physically capable, but he makes up for it in intellect doesn't he?"

"Yes he certainly does," Marimo acknowledged, surprised by the result. "However, his skill and talent in tactics is unparalleled compared to every other student I've taught. That's why I had to modify the mock battle like this, hoping it would make it difficult for him."

"You suspected he would win, even against these odds?" Michiru, said clearly surprised.

"No, but I knew it would be possible. Did you even see the tactics he proposed and those he offered as a response to some of the situations we put forth to the cadets to solve?" Marimo said, having figured out early on that Lelouch was tactically brilliant, she had planned the mock battle in such a way to truly challenge him, and perhaps form a stronger bond with his team, all of whom Marimo chose by observing Lelouch's interaction with his fellow cadets.

"I don't think anyone could've expected him to achieve victory like this," Michiru said. "While no flawless victory, given their rarity, an hour long skirmish has become a six hour battle and then, when clearly outmatched and likely to lose, he reveals that you should never count your teammates out until the very end."

Marimo nodded to Michiru's words. At the same time, she regrets not making it harder now. While difficult, she could have adjusted the difficulty a little more. The cadets needed to learn. Truthfully, it was more pure luck because so much had been left to waste away in the training city. Something that would be changed going forward.

"It isn't just that, but because he was smart enough to recognize cadets and our pilots being too accustomed to fighting against the BETA, that he would have been able to exploit any other commander and group of cadets. It is true that during training they engage in mock battles to build teamwork and train them to fight together as a group, but they never were truly prepared to fight human opponents," Marimo said, seemingly applauding Lelouch on finding and exploiting the weaknesses of his foes.

"Only I saw that before it could happen and therefore arranged a suitable leader and team to be assembled to take him on," Marimo continued before she sighed, "Unfortunately, a number of the cadets still made simple mistakes that are fatal against Human enemies, but we also have cadets here with high learning curves and that's what I choose. More than that, they would be able to directly follow their commander without her having to hold their hands in battle. As we saw, they learned fast, Lady Mariko is a skillful leader and no doubt she proved herself this day despite her defeat. Her opponent was just better and he still found one weakness in her that she couldn't have anticipated so easily and that is when she switched from using her range weapon to her melee weapon, she lost her awareness and forgot that Humans can coordinate and set far more intricate traps."

"Even so I worry about the reactions from some people, with a foreigner defeating a member of the Royal Guard houses," Michiru said, expressing concern.

"I wouldn't worry too much about it, but all Lelouch needs is competent people under his command and he could be capable of almost anything with the right resources behind him," Marimo added, folding her arms. "Besides I have it on good authority that they will be too busy cutting their stomachs open or retiring to quiet lives in Hokkaido for the duration of their lives."

While a bit of a gross overstatement, Marimo wasn't lying.

Several members of the previous Shogunate had been retired. With bullets through the head by tan-clad Imperial Guardsmen. Direct servants of the Imperial House. Others, wearing their own colors, were from Ninja clans that made deaths look natural.

The rest, wisely, went into retirement of their own accord. Especially as they saw the Imperial Seal with their new Daishogun.

They had lost.

Yuuhi had won.

But for every victory, there is also a defeat.

In this case, the US Government had formally notified her that they had to withdraw their forces. The situation in the Mediterranean was deteriorating faster than could be shored up. The Seventh Fleet would stay a little longer as arrangements were made to get the Third Fleet back out to sea, but the Seventh would be withdrawn as the Fifth Fleet would be taking over security of the Atlantic while the rest of the US Navy would be trying to save the Mediterranean and all of Africa.

It had not been an easy choice. For dilemmas, unlike problems, have no solutions, only choices and neither will be good.

But she had at least two weeks, maybe a month, before the USA would withdraw its forces. So, she had time to stabilize Japan's frontlines and rebuild some of its forces. She had already ordered a priority plan to begin replacing their aging TSFs as quickly as possible. Which she had a spot of good news about, as the US Forces-Japan had to withdraw completely in such a short timeline, they would be leaving behind large amounts of equipment, vehicles, supplies, and TSFs.

Already their first company to use American TSFs. Such as the F-14 Tomcats and the F-18 Hornets being left behind. Both of which would give the Japanese badly needed Phoenix Missile capabilities.

However, little did they know, Daishogun already had something in mind to keep the USA in Japan to uphold their treaty obligations.

A short time later, once their machines had returned to the hanger, Lelouch disembarked from the unit he had been using before running into Yuzuka.

"You were brilliant, we actually won!" Yuzuka shouted as she threw herself at Lelouch to hug him tightly, still on the high of elation about both getting the drop on and taking out an elite like Mariko Ameriya .

"Yes, but you each deserve credit for fulfilling your roles in each plan perfectly," Lelouch complimented, just stroking her back after catching himself to ensure they both didn't fall on the gantry.

His experience with the wild creature known as Milly Ashford, did have uses after all.

"Thanks," Yuzuka said smiling, although a part of her was even more joyous over their victory since she got to take down a member of the Royal Guard, so much so, that she leaned up and gave Lelouch a brief peck on the cheek before she blushed and looked away, but Lelouch only shifted his grip to let her know he was honored and she returned to smiling at him.

"And there he is," Tsukiko said, approaching Lelouch and Yuzuka followed by the other members of Lelouch's team.

The pair separated as Tsukiko took her turn to surprise Lelouch with a hug, "Thank you for the victory and for trusting me despite everything."

"Of course," he patted her on the back as he returned the embrace.

"The most devious son of a bitch ever you took on double the enemy led by a member of the Royal Guard," Asagi complimented, taking her turn to embrace Lelouch once he and Tsukiko separated, "It feels so good to have won," she quietly whispers and Lelouch gently holds her head to let her know he had faith in her the whole time and that he was glad to deliver.

"Yes I think without your strategy the battle could've ended differently," Haruko said, joining the other members of Team Lelouch to praise their leader and get her embrace in as well. "Your leadership was quite impressive and your faith in us, thank you so much."

Like Yuzaka she pecked him on the cheek, showing how grateful she was for the victory. Lelouch, like he did with Yuzaka, tightened his grip enough as he patted her back to let her know he was honored. And that he was pleased to deliver results.

"Thank you, I appreciate the compliments, but don't forget your efforts in executing my various plans were invaluable," Lelouch said, although he didn't mind the praise he knew it was best to compliment those working with him as a good leader should and he knew he had a good team and good teams won and celebrated together as a team.

Which came as no surprise when Haruka also stepped forward and embraced him, "But we had you to lead us and you never set yourself apart from us, my lord king who I will follow," she teases at the end, but with yet another peck on the cheek and Lelouch can only blush.

"You heard that, right?" Lelouch chuckles with Haruka still in his arms, "But I meant it too. A leader needs to learn to take great risks in order to gain the trust of those who will follow them. Not too many unnecessary risks, that's just arrogance, but the risks that are needed to be taken. The moments that decide a good leader from a bad leader. We're victorious! So let's celebrate our hero of the moment and our win as a team!" Lelouch declares to his team who joyously raise their fists in the air as they cheer and dance a little.

Without warning, Yuzuka leapt onto Lelouch's shoulders getting an impromptu piggyback ride. Lelouch staggered forward, struggling to maintain balance. But left wide open as it were, Asagi and Tsukiko suddenly leaned in and kissed him on the cheeks as well, laughing at his situation.

"Are you Lelouch Lamperouge?" a new voice suddenly cuts through the merrymaking of the six pilots.

All eyes turned and saw Mariko approaching Lelouch, wearing a yellow coat over her fortified suit. Behind her, with coats over their own fortified suits, are the thirteen cadets defeated in the exercise. Each looking a little dour at losing, but standing at attention and keeping themselves in check.

Oh great, here is some elite snob and sore loser to ruin the moment, Yuzuka thought upset at Mariko's arrival even as Lelouch put her down and moved to stand before the Royal Guard.

"That would be me," Lelouch replied, although he noted internally it should've been easy to find him since he was the only male in the group, but she was likely being polite.

Some were expecting Mariko to verbally berate Lelouch for his foreigner status or not fighting honorably, or at least Yuzuka was. To, essentially, 'defend the honor' of the Regent Houses and their subordinate branches. That he should have known to yield to the betters. However, to the surprise of most, Mariko instead smiled and offered her compliments.

"Your leadership and tactics were brilliant, I can see why you have been hailed for your accomplishments during the Defense of Kyoto," Mariko said, offering her hand to Lelouch.

Lelouch wasn't too surprised by it, having dealt with the Britannian nobility enough to instantly sense and see the difference in Mariko from those over bloated on their 'status', but nevertheless he accepted her hand and the praise.

"You didn't do too bad yourself, uh…" Lelouch knew who she is and what her combat record was, but he wanted his team to hear her name and to put a face to it, so they would learn to trust her in the future.

"Oh right, I apologize I should've introduced myself, I am Lieutenant Amemiya Mariko, I was leading the cadets against you in the battle," Mariko said, introducing herself, but also realizing what Lelouch was up to and was pleasantly surprised by his actions to bridge the gap between herself and his own team.

"A pleasure," Lelouch replied and it was true, as she reminded him of Marrybell and Nonette, two people he did truly miss as he knew Marrybell had suffered his own fate, only far worse, and Nonette simply could not speak back being a Knight of the Rounds and Marika felt as a balance between the two before him now that he had met her.

"If you don't mind me asking, were you a veteran of the recent battles?" Haruko inquired politely as she hadn't failed to notice how Marika had reacted and even planned her own ambushes while figuring out some of Lelouch's tricks as the battle went on.

"Yes," Mariko nodded as she shifted, showing how uneasy she felt fighting the BETA, as any veteran did because of how brutal to savage the fighting could get, "I was also a commander of forces, in a manner of speaking, in a number of the battles I was involved in from the Battle for Kyushu through the Defense of Kyoto."

Lelouch nodded to the others to show he knew ahead of time and that she was on the level.

"Her leadership was called into question due to her junior status and insubordination to the previous Shogun's directives, but she won battles and preserved troops so they were trapped in a quandary only solved when the Lady Koubuin took leadership herself to turn things around following the demise of her predecessor during the invasion."

"How old are you?" Asagi frowned, "You look no older than us and yet you did all of that?"

"I am only a year older than most of you and I graduated last year," Mariko answered Asagi's question, "I was fast tracked due to my grades and standing within the class as a result. That is not including the need for skilled bodies for the defense down south, which sadly, was still incomplete and ill-prepared when the BETA landed and we were struggling like everyone else."

"She was accelerated through as a genius eishi and graduated early," Lelouoch supplied as well, "After that, she was under extensive work ups and training with other fast tracked cadets to form the backbone of new units for the invasion. But few of the units were prepared or ready and like all other units, they suffered heavy losses. Only thanks to Claude's involvement did the evacuation of civilians go better than what could have been expected, but even then, Lady Koubuin was limited in what she could do at the time until it became clear for the change of leadership and Marika happened to be one of those reasons due to her leadership and foresight that led many Japanese soldiers and civilians to safety."

"You praise me too much," Marika modestly replied to Lelouoch's statement, though, it was actually somewhat accurate as there was more to everything that happened.

"I see, so you are experienced, at least more than Lieutenant Takamura and her squad were," Asagi continued the conversation while Haruka remained quiet.

"Sadly they were fast-tracked and technically considered graduated early to help provide extra soldiers for the battles fought during the invasion itself, so while preventable, due to the constraints that developed it couldn't be helped," Mariko pointed out before glancing at the Minamoto. "On that subject I must say the new machines are truly amazing. I hope they can produce more, especially their weapons and get them to our soldiers in the field as soon as possible."

"Yes they could indeed, it's just a matter of producing them fast enough and getting people trained enough to be familiar with them, and comfortable using them in a fight. I don't doubt people will need time to adjust to using them," Lelouch noted.

"I agree with you," Mariko said.

"Provided they aren't reserved for those brats of the nobility," Yuzuka remarked quietly, causing Haruka to gently nudge her shoulder to keep quiet about that, lest she get in trouble for disrespecting a member of the Royal Guard.

"In that we are agreed," Marika responded to what Yuzuka said, even if it was technically out of turn, "But I was informed by a member of my Regent House that a number of units are making conversions to American TSFs that are being donated for our use. A mix of F-14 Tomcats and F-18 Hornets that come equipped and supplied with the AIM-64 Phoenix Missile, so now we will have a way to finally counterbalance the BETAs' numbers into something we can fight."

Marika stopped for a moment, to let Yuzuka or one of the others to speak, but none did.

"If you have distaste for the Royal Guard, I daresay it is well founded," Marika didn't take her eyes off the new machine before her, noting the number '01' on the shoulder and the streak of paint across the torso, signifying it was Lelouch's mount, "We have far too many obsolete machines in our inventory and our supply organization is a mess as a result. While we will be adding new machines, we are retiring others at long last. Hopefully this will save lives and allow us to reclaim what is ours."

Yuzuka stayed quiet, but she rolled her eyes in protest for what she considered patronizing words.

I wonder how she feels about getting her butt handed to her by a former prince? Yuzuka thought, relishing in the victory over a member of the Imperial Household.

Lelouch might've been a prince, knowing his secret allowed her some knowledge to have well-placed faith in him, but the keyword was still a former prince. As far as Yuzuka was concerned Lelouch was no different from her and everyone else, even if he was made an honorary member of the Royal Guard, but Lelouch's rank wasn't anything special other than being a mere formality.

For what he pulled off he deserved more than just the lowest rank of the Royal Guard, maybe he should be in charge of his own battalion or something, Yuzuka mused.

She was wary and distrustful of the Royal Guard and their family, breed out of the fact that whenever new weapons and machines were produced they were given to them than the regular military who were on the frontlines, usually dying by the hundreds while the fudai households and those above them were given priority when it came to new weapons and machines while rarely taking the field and gaining the experience needed for such machines.

Everyone else will likely be stuck piloting chunky machines like the Gekishin for months before they even see any new machines or weapons, Yuzuka thought, folding her arms in quiet anger at the thought, before Lelouch turned and stepped over to her and gently unfolded her arms and held her hands, looking her in the eye and letting her know what she was thinking, surprising her and she blushed and looked away, feeling ashamed to challenge Mariko while Lelouch had just led them to victory.

"Once more," Marika spoke again as she turned and stepped over to Lelouch and Yuzuka and holding out her hand, "Well fought match. I hope for a rematch in the future, because I know I will learn well."

Lelouch took the hand, only to be pulled in close much to his surprise.

"Thank you and good luck," Marika whispered into Lelouch's ear before giving him a quick peck, "Please save as many as you can," she whispered once more before she turned and walked away, followed by her surprised cadets and leaving a stunned team behind her.

Unknown to the group, watching from the sidelines in a sense, was Yui, who was suddenly concerned about Lelouch. She had been worried about a potential conflict between Lelouch and Mariko, but it seemed thankfully her worries about a potential disagreement over Lelouch winning was for nought.

Yet why do I feel so uneasy, Yui wondered.

"Geez I guess Lelouch is getting a lot of attention isn't he?" Aki said, sneaking up behind Yui and making the girl jump in fright.

"Please don't do that," Yui said sternly, slightly annoyed by Aki approaching her from behind, likely trying to spook her. "Besides, given his victory I have no doubt he is being well praised like he should be for such an accomplishment."

"Right, but you aren't worried one of those girls might make a move on him. At the rate he's going he might end up as some kind of war hero," Aki said, studying Yui's face. "Hey Yui, you aren't jealous or something are you?"

"Me, jealous of his accomplishments?"

Aki shook her head, "I am not talking about his accomplishments or the fame he has been gaining, but about the man himself. I mean thanks to our casualties in the war against the BETA, most TSF pilots are mostly women, especially after the invasion did a huge number on our military. He'll be partially and/or almost completely, if not completely, surrounded by women all the time at this point, are you not worried someone will claim him as a lover?"

"Why are you asking me such a question?!" Yui shouted flustered bright red and fidgeting.

"I don't know," Aki said with a smile, eyeing Yui suspiciously. "You seem to be watching Lelouch, you are quite confident in him, not to mention…"

Aki's smile widened into a knowing smile of the cat that got the cream.

"You are blushing, care to explain that?" Aki teased her longtime friend.

"Huh?!" Yui brought her hands up to her face, a look of surprise and shock as her blushing face became more flustered.

Yui hadn't realize it, but her cheeks had turned red watching Lelouch and then darkened when Aki had surprised her which had gotten only worse with the other girl's teasing.

"That is me just feeling," Yui said, quickly coming up with an explanation. "Just feeling embarrassed because you asked me something out of the blue. We just met not too long ago, we're friends, nothing more."

"Uh huh," Aki said, eyeing Yui even more suspiciously. "But you spent over three months with him alone didn't you?"

"Yes, but that doesn't mean anything." Yui declared, not quite forgetting how safe and warm she felt in Lelouch's arms when the nightmares struck and he would sleep next to her until she could sleep without the fear.

"Sure, keep telling yourself that, or if you are serious you won't mind if I try to win him over," Aki said, trying to probe and provoke a reaction from Yui.

"Stop joking around Aki," Izumi said, thankfully to Yui's relief, intervening. "He doesn't seem like the kind of guy where simple flirting is going to work on him."

"Oh come on Izumi, don't tell me you aren't curious too?" Aki said, grumbling that her fun had been ruined.

"No, that should be between Lelouch and Yui, his love life let alone Yui's love life shouldn't be our business to poke our noses in," Izumi said sagely.

"Thanks for the intervention," Yui said to Izumi.

"Not at all, after all a person's feelings especially in matters of love should never be taken lightly," Izumi said, giving Aki an intimidating look causing Aki to back down.

"But you're still just as curious and interested as Aki and Yui," Kazusa shot down Izumi being uninterested, "Though, the reasons differ," Kazusa revealed that she wasn't blind to her teammates around her either, "But at this point, we're all interested and curious for our own reasons."

Following an exhausting afternoon of being asked questions and showered with praise and actually enjoying a party to celebrate the victory of the day, Lelouch returned to his room. Once he was done cleaning up and changing out of his uniform, Lelouch laid down to go to sleep, expecting to wake up in his bed at Ashford Academy.

However, instead he found himself rolling off what should've been his bed, Lelouch realized he was on the floor of his room in Ashford Academy.

"What the hell?!"

Getting up Lelouch realized he been asleep on his couch, his room had one by the window which he would sometimes lay on it reading books. Trying to understand why he was left on the sofa of his room, Lelouch looked to his bed discovering it was occupied with the head of the person covered up, but the layout of the person told him something he couldn't believe.

Awoken by Lelouch's startled cry, Yui removed the blanket that had been covering her. A blanket by the feel of the material she had never known no less. It was also the wrong color, which given she was sleeping on base, was of the standard military variety green, tan, and gray.

Yui looked around the room and quickly realized she wasn't in her room in the base or even on base at all, before her eyes found Lelouch who looked at her in disbelief. Both were shocked, yet thankfully both were dressed in proper sleepwear, but instead of reacting in anger or embarrassment to the other's presence in Lelouch's room they both realized who was responsible for this.

"Claude," Yui and Lelouch said together, as the two seethed in anger.

"I guess this means you'll be spending the day with me I suppose," Lelouch said, politely averting his eyes from Yui.

"Yes, and it wasn't something I asked for you."

"I didn't think so, since you would've told me in advance," Lelouch said, knowing Yui would've had the decency to have told him in advance.

"Yes, but I am curious about what your Earth is like."

A/N: That is it for the chapter with Lelouch winning his first mock battle by leading his own squad to victory, not only making what should've been a short mock battle last for hours while picking off Mariko's cadet squamates one by one, but winning in the end. I had my worries with the new direction with the battle we went following my original effort since my goal was to show off Lelouch's ability as a commander and tactician which are his strongest suits, and it would be a crime of me not to do that here. Of all of the chapters done and beta-worked in advance this was among those heavily edited and parts of it rewritten quite a bit. So I hope you guys enjoyed the mock battle.

But during that mock battle we got a hint of what has been happening behind the scenes with Yuuhi going from a figurehead Shogun to a much more powerful figure in Japan if her awarding of the new title isn't anything to imply.

I do admit I was hesitant to go with the Daishogun title as an indicator in her rising position in Japan, and the boons it gives it, since it wasn't an official position, but it does fit with the official position she gains in the coming chapters. But if people don't think it can work, or what not then I can easily remove it.

Worrying Yui however, is that Lelouch is getting more attention from the opposite sex, which as Aki pointed out isn't helped by the fact that the majority of men since the BETA conflict began, especially for front-line nations, have been killed. Meaning Lelouch's squad being all female shouldn't be a surprise since the vast majority of TSF pilots are women with exceptions in the US TSF forces. So Yui is going to need to start worrying if her "not-my-boyfriend" could be stolen by someone if she doesn't stay vigilant XD.

Now Yui will be spending a day in Code Geass Earth, so expect Nunnally, Sayoko and even a certain Student Council President to appear, oh yes her coming was inevitable XD.

Also I put up a new poll on my profile page, and unlike my previous polls, this one is to decide Ichika Orimura's fate, since there has been some debate over Infinite Stratos's involvement in the story with some wanting to see the world destroyed, but that would violate my no bashing of series rule. But among the smaller details I am ironing out is Ichika's fate, some have asked I allow him to leave with Lelouch to get the heck away from his harem, however as noted by those against that idea he has nothing of value to justify that. It doesn't bother me either way, but I do feel Lelouch having a few guys with him around his age would be good to balance out the number of women he'll be surrounded by, especially in later chapters where I do find a few guys to add to his growing squad in chapter sixteen.

Just as a reminder through Lelouch's harem/polygamous relationships has a set limit of nine, with Yui Takamura, Shimako Kai, and Stella Stella Bremer locked in to be paired with Lelouch in the future. Kazusa's post in it is being reviewed by me and Silkdreamweaver, and we'll be going through the other characters, the next time when we can talk more in-depth since we're focusing on which candidates have the best synergy with one another, not just Lelouch, as a key factor to decide if they are in or out.

And I am abandoning the use of polls for any further pairings debates due to a lack of feedback and not enough people voting for a definite result to help quell debates among me and the betas to find the best candidates that can fit with Lelouch, Yui, Shimako and Stella.

As I've said before I could easily just build Lelouch's harem/polygamous relationships with Muv Luv characters alone, but that would be unfair for folks from Code Geass and other series, like Gundam who don't really have any characters who be open to a harem/polygamous relationship outside of a very small few. But worry not it will still happen and I got my default picks to fallback on, but I am just treating this extremely seriously in my planning to pick the candidates who wouldn't just fit Lelouch, but can work well off of one another to benefit the story as a whole.

Ok now that will be the last time I will speak of Lelouch's relationships for a long while since nothing will happen until Yui and Lelouch end up a couple first and foremost, but I felt people should be made aware why I abandoned the use of polls, and if people want to pitch who should be paired up with Lelouch after Yui, Shimako and Stella they should keep what I mentioned in mind, so don't tell me who you want to see paired with Lelouch, I must know why so I and the betas can be convinced of it, as final decisions falls to me after debate with them.

Now in response to Azai Jin's review from fanfiction.net, aside from specs for another machine, here are some current mobile suits and Gundams that can be used to visualize what the Gundams Lelouch, Yui and others are using. To help until I can find someone who can commission art of the Gundams, which will I will likely wait on until the story is further along in chapters to justify spending that kind of money, because I doubt it will be cheap and my spending is rather limited for the time being so I hope you guys understand.

Lelouch's Izanami Gundam: It uses the Unicorn Gundam as a base line machine, then combine it with the Wing Zero Rebellion's colors and chest gem, and a fusion of the Unicorn Gundam's head. Its wings are from the Freedom Gundam, just replace the plasma cannons with the variable beam rifles, and add the hip mounted rail cannons on its hips, then add a mega-particle cannon on its lower stomach.

Yui's Izanagi Gundam: Due to using the same psycho-frame system/technology as the Unicorn Gundam, it uses this as the main body, but it uses the colors and general design of the TSF Type-00F Takemikazuchi. It uses weapons from the Red Astray Frame, while its back unit, using the same kind of wings as the Freedom Gundam, its back unit has arms for both holding its weapons and can use said arms in battle.

Shimako's Sadamitsu Gundam: Like Lelouch and Yui's Gundam it uses the Unicorn Gundam as a base since the psycho-frame technology it uses better compliments the Coupling System. However it has a chest design similar to the Forbidden Gundam and a plasma cannon built into its chest, while its back unit has three shields attached to arms, akin to the Forbidden Gundam, but without the backpack unit flipping over the Gundam's head, with the shields being equipped with railguns. It also carries its hand-held weapons on its waist, its Butterfly Buster B, weapons used by the XM-X0 Crossbone Gundam X-0, its coloring it primarily black and white with some pink lining.

Izumi's Tsuna Gundam: Uses the Unicorn Gundam as a baseline body, but it combines elements from the GNW-002 Gundam Throne Zwei, such as its skirt armor to hold its GN fangs and its GN Buster Sword, and including a similar holding rack for its GN rocket scythe while its GN pistols are mounted on its hips in special holders. It's coloring is mostly black with white and red lining.

Kazusa's Suetake Gundam: Baseline Unicorn Gundam body like the rest, but uses the wings of light from the LM314V21 Victory 2 Gundam, being part of its Minovsky Drive System, but it has special arm-like wings attached which help manipulate the "exhaust" of the wings because they can double as enormous beam sabers or a massive beam shield for it and others. It also keeps two rail cannons mounted on its back that can be used in siege mode when flipped over its shoulders. Its Knuckle Guard/Claw is based off of the ASW-G-35 Gundam Marchosias and it has hip mounted weapons like beam rifles and blades stored on them. Its primary color is black and white with blue lining.

Aki's Kintoki Gundam: It has the Unicorn Gundam as its baseline, but its fused with the ARX-014 Silver Bullet, using many of the same remote weapons, but more powerful and advanced, such as its arms having a built in beam shield, beam saber and beam guns. This applies to its forearms/hands that can detach from the machine, and the wired controlled disc units. It has four beam vulcans mounted on its chest, two near the head and the two below it, lower on the chest. But this Gundam uses the wings of the Freedom Gundam, which uses the same plasma cannons and its hip mounted rail cannons including using the High Mobility Aerial Tactics (HiMAT) Mode too. But its handheld weapon, the Multi-purpose Assault Weapon "Kujaku" comes from the XM-X0 Crossbone Gundam X-0, a literal Swiss Army knife of mobile weapons.

The Minamoto units, are based off of the Type-94 Shiranui for a baseline machine with elements of the ARX-014 Silver Bullet which uses its Quasi-Psycommu System in place of the one used by the Gundam as an attempt to create a mass production friendly means of integrating the Couple System, an attempt that would ultimately prove unsuccessful, so future models beyond the limited production models would exclude the Coupling System. Limited production models would mount a beam shield as well, but future mass production models remove this due to how draining it is on energy reserves. They do use Trans-Phase Armor and the Solar Rechargeable Energy Conductors allowing it to passively recharge itself in sunlight, and even without it could continue operating for a week. A system used by the GX-9900 Gundam X, but not needing a solar power base on the moon. It also has the same sub-arms as traditional TSFs, which can be used to store weapons and use them too. Its colors are based off of the Imperial Army colors seen on the Type-97 Fubuki.

And this week's specs for Izumi's Gundam, the Tsuna.

Model number: TMP-03X

Code name: Tsuna

Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame Advanced Assault Mobile Suit

Pilot: Izumi Noto

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)

First deployment: August 30th 2016 A.T.B

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 18.4 meters

Weight: 58.5 metric tons

Powerplant: GN Drive

Armor: E-Carbon

Equipment/Features:

Coupling System

Sensor Range: 23,700

Intention Automatic System

Twin Drive System

GN Field

Bit Control System

Trans-Am System (LOCKED)

Fixed Armaments:

2 X GN Vulcans

2 X GN Beam Saber, mounted in the shoulder armor for quick access.

1 X GN Buster Sword: A huge handheld sword with the traits of both a physical sword and beam sword. High density GN Particles are stored in the center of the GN Buster Sword, and they are released the moment the weapon is swung. It is stored under the right forearm when not in use, and slides down into the hand during combat, with the reverse occurring after use. It can function as a firearm by transforming into 'Rifle Mode'. in Rifle Mode, the GN Buster Sword remains mounted under the forearm, with a grip popping up from its back for use by the right hand, and the weapon's blade separates into upper and lower sections, revealing the barrel and muzzle of the built-in beam gun. The GN Buster Sword can also be used for defense and was shown deflecting beam shot from GN-0000 00 Gundam's GN Sword II.

1 X GN Beam Rocket Scythe: One of two Main handheld weapon of the Tsuna, it is a long staff that forms a GN Beam Scythe Blade at the end on one side with a rocket booster on the other to give it more speed and impact and can tear through anything and can be retracted to be stored away more easily.

10 X GN Fangs

2 X GN Beam Pistols: Mounted on the waist for quick deployment and ranged attack in Urban Settings.

Technical and Historical notes:

Following the successful battle where Lelouch Lamperouge and Yui Takamura were successful at holding the line at Kyoto against the unrelenting BETA, four new Gundam machines using a mix of technology from different Earths were designed and constructed with resources provided by Claude Triello while construction and design of the machines was carried out by Cumpa Rusita.

StrifeHavoc · Jun 6, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story. I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

Also I want to thank the game "The Imperial Capital Burns - Muv-Luv Alternative Total Eclipse" for providing a LOT of fanfic fuel for this chapter and beyond, which you can get on Steam and I highly recommend the game if you plan on using Yui and her friends in any of your own Muv Luv stories. It just took me over nine hours to finish it. Its only sad the game didn't come out last year when I did these chapters, it didn't release until months later. (sulks in a corner at the missed opportunities, especially at the thought I could've done SO MUCH more for the early chapters).

Anyway (bounces back from being depressed), still I was able to make use of interesting bits from the game to enhance this chapter and add more to it than before. Especially with Yui comparing some things from Lelouch's world and hers, which before this chapter released I did check again and again if any thing knew on the exact status of stuff like the entertainment industry, and other things in Yui's world might've been updated in anyway since the chapter was made.

I do want to give thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos for helping me ensure I got Yui right in this chapter, for reasons I don't want to spoil, but I think it also shows how Yui differs from Kallen, a fellow tsundere.

Enjoy the chapter.

Chapter 9

A Holiday Within a Day

Lelouch and Yui were both exasperated with Claude's antics, but at the same time Yui was undoubtedly curious about seeing Lelouch's world. She was less than thrilled about how that opportunity came about, especially when there was no warning.

"I can't believe Claude would pull a stunt like this," Yui grumbled.

"Does it surprise you?" Lelouch asked.

Yui needed only a second to consider her answer, "You're right, it doesn't surprise me. At least she didn't leave us in the same bed."

"Don't give her ideas," Lelouch warned.

"Right," Yui said, dreading that Claude might've heard that. "So what now?"

"It seems Claude left a package," Lelouch said, noticing a pink paper bag in the corner of his eye sitting atop his dresser.

"What did she leave me," Yui said in dreadful registration.

"There is a letter." Lelouch found a letter in a pink envelope on top of some folded clothes within the bag along with a watch-like device.

Opening the letter, Lelouch began reading its contents to Yui.

"Dear Lelouch and Yui, by now you are probably surprised to see Yui on Earth. Don't worry as long as she returns to the room by the end of the day to go to sleep, you'll both wake up back in your rooms on the base as normal. I just thought after everything you two had been through you deserve a little holiday and some time to spend together. From yours truly, Claude. P.S. enclosed are some clothes for Yui and a special advance watch to help mask her Japanese features to appear Britannian with a fake ID to avoid trouble," Lelouch said, finishing reading the letter.

"Would you hold it against me if I said I am actually worried about what Claude picked out," Yui asked, nervous.

"All things considered I can't blame you," Lelouch said, sighing. "You probably should change, if nothing else, if what Claude gave you isn't tasteful maybe I might have something that could fit instead."

"Right, thanks," Yui said, grateful for Lelouch's understanding.

"I'll leave and make sure Sayoko and Nunnally won't notice you are in my room, I would rather not have any misunderstandings," Lelouch said.

"I completely understand. I would rather not explain how I ended up in your room, let alone dealing with any misunderstandings from people discovering me in your room could cause," Yui said. A girl being found in a boy's room would raise a lot of questions, questions Yui would rather avoid answering.

"Thank you. If anyone is awake, I'll keep them in the kitchen and dining room."

"Right, so how do we explain this then," Yui suggested.

"I haven't told anyone else about my trips to your world, so we'll need a cover story," Lelouch said as he and Yui went to work developing a believable story.

Minutes later after Lelouch and Yui worked out a cover story, Lelouch took a change of clothes to freshen up and change into before making his way to the kitchen. Knowing by now Sayoko Shinozaki, their maid and caretaker, would likely be making breakfast, while Yui would wait twenty minutes before exiting Lelouch's room to knock on the door, ostensibly to meet up with Lelouch as a friend visiting.

It was a bit of a stretch, but it would be played up as Lelouch meeting a friend who was new to Tokyo he had met while gambling, which was technically true, to show them around the city who expressed curiosity about the school.

As agreed Lelouch emerged from the bathroom, having showered, and changed, where he proceeded to the kitchen.

"Good morning master Lelouch," a young Japanese woman of twenty-one spoke with short brown hair and matching eyes. She wore the traditional western maid attire consisting of a white apron, a matching hat, a black dress, black tights, shoes and a buttoned top.

"Good morning, Sayoko. Is Nunnally awake?"

"Yes she is. She awoke quite early so she is waiting for you in the dining room. Breakfast will be ready shortly," Sayoko said, kindly.

"Thank you. If you need help you can let me know."

"It won't be necessary, but thank you sir."

Leaving Sayoko to complete cooking breakfast, Lelouch made his way to the dining room where Nunnally was seated in her wheelchair at the head of the table. The thirteen-year-old girl, who looked notably different from her brother such that people could mistake them for being unrelated, possessed long sandy brown hair. Her eyes were a beautiful violet, but due to physical and psychological trauma she endured in the past, her eyes were closed and hidden away from the world. Wearing a yellow dress with long white poofy sleeves, Nunnally seemed unaware of Lelouch's presence yet a smile on her face suggested otherwise.

"Good morning brother," Nunnally said, greeting her brother.

"Morning Nunnally, did you sleep well?"

"Yes, I did, and I hope you did as well."

"I did, my time asleep was well spent I promise," Lelouch said, seemingly as a joke only known to him.

Meanwhile, Yui was waiting patiently for the time Lelouch suggested for her to come out and was looking out the window at the academy grounds. At a glance it seemed no different from the academy she and her friends attended, but the obvious difference was there was no sign of a training zone for TSFs or any flying in the nearby area.

A world without BETA, so this is what such a world feels like, Yui thought.

Aside from gazing out the window, Yui had mentally gone over the cover story the pair concocted together, using the false identity Claude had provided. She is Crystal Simmons, the story would be that Lelouch and she had met after Lelouch won a round of gambling via chess. She had challenged Lelouch, and unlike his previous foes Yui had put up a far better fight until Lelouch bested her. As it would turn out the girl had just arrived from the Britannian Homeland and like Lelouch sought challenges in games of chess leading to the pair meeting, finding a worthy opponent in the other. He offered to show her around Area 11, and Ashford Academy, under the pretense of considering her own enrollment Lelouch offered to show her around the campus.

I don't mind the opportunity to get a closer look at Lelouch's world, but why did Claude do this? She could've just asked, and I would've said yes, Yui said, as her eyebrow twitched with irritation.

"I have a feeling that are thinking, why did I allow you a chance to check out his world? Is that right?"

Yui spun around to see Claude sitting on Lelouch's bed smiling mischievously.

"What are you up to," Yui snapped, pointing an accusing finger at the pink haired woman.

"Nothing, other than giving you and Lelouch some alone time together and maybe a chance to finally meet his sister."

"Uh huh," Yui said, eyeing Claude suspiciously.

"Why must you be so on guard around me," Claude said with a dramatic sigh.

"Do you really want me to list why?" Yui replied with a deadpan expression.

"Oh ok, be like that," Claude said, waving her right hand dismissively. "But I do hope you'll take advantage of this opportunity to get closer to Lelouch, because I really think you two make a cute couple."

Yui said nothing, but her suspicions of Claude ran high.

"Especially since you don't want any other girls getting Lelouch right?" Claude asked with a sly smile.

"And why are you so concerned about his love life?"

"Well I am curious to see who he ends up with, mostly because it will be something fun to see unfold," Claude replied, but when she saw Yui about to lash in anger she threw a verbal hand grenade at her. "Besides, did you know polygamy is legal in Britannia?"

"Huh!" Yui asked, face flushing pink, as the subject's sudden change caught her off guard.

"Surprising isn't it, but I guess you can partly thank the sorry state the British Empire was in when its remnants fled to their American Colonies after losing the British Islands to Napoleon," Claude mused. "As long as you got the finances to afford having more than one wife and the kids that would come from that, you could marry as many wives as you want."

"But we're sixteen!?"

"I know. I wasn't expecting you and Lelouch to get hitched now. But it's something to keep in mind since as someone who can move forward and backwards in time I've seen all of the possible ways Lelouch's journey could go. I know he does cause some girls to fall for him, so you'll have competition in the future," Claude replied with a grin.

"Lelouch isn't some kind of playboy!?"

"No he isn't, but don't tell me you're not attracted to that brooding, devious and cunning audacity. His ice prince looks and that tragic backstory tugging at the heartstrings," Claude explained as she clasped her hands together dramatically.

Yui's cheeks took on a bright shade of pink before reddening in anger, which only caused Claude's grin to grow bigger.

"If you think about it, Lelouch is a chick magnet without even trying, which is scary in a way. The more he plays up the ice prince, the more people become curious and some girls become infatuated with him."

"And!?"

"Why I think he's already hooked a few without knowing it, and trust me it's just the beginning," Claude said grinning deviously.

And you Miss Takamura got Shimako who is full on lesbian for you, Claude thought, deviously.

Yui reached her limit and attempted to punch Claude, but only hit a human-sized, inflatable dummy of Claude with a cartoonish grin, which recoiled at the punch before launching forward to smack Yui in the face and knock her back.

"Did someone forget I control time, so I can easily freeze it and replace myself with a dummy?"

Claude vanished, but her fading laughter at Yui only caused the girl to seethe in anger.

"One day I'll make you sorry for all the times you mocked me," Yui said, trying to restrain her anger.

Sometime later, Lelouch had just finished helping Sayoko set up for breakfast. Lelouch had warned Sayoko he had helped out someone and to have extra in case they arrived. Sayoko acknowledged this, but said nothing further, seemingly content to allow things to unfold.

"Breakfast is ready," Sayoko said to Nunnally as she and Lelouch finished setting the table.

"What is for breakfast today?" Nunnally inquired.

"I thought we would do something easy and simple for today, Pancakes, sausages and scrambled eggs," Sayoko replied.

"That's wonderful," Nunnally said, in a good mood.

Lelouch made himself a serving of food while Sayoko made Nunnally's plate. A short time after the trio began eating, a knock came at the door, prompting Sayoko to answer it. As planned Yui was waiting on the other side.

"Hello, is there a Lelouch Lamperouge living here?" Yui asked, politely. For her disguise she was now wearing a pink high collar coat with black buttons, a black shirt underneath and blue jeans with white sneakers.

"Why yes and you are?"

"Crystal Simmons, I was told I could find him here," Yui said, using the fake name, as the holographic disguise masked her Japanese features.

Sayoko was silent for a moment before replying, "Yes I'll inform him that you are here."

Yui sighed internally, relieved that the maid didn't challenge the hastily fabricated story. She tried to mask it well, but she was nervous. Part of it was that she didn't like the deception as a whole, but she acknowledged it was necessary given the circumstances.

Moments later, Sayoko returned with Lelouch who greeted the "new arrival" warmly.

"Oh I wasn't expecting you this early," Lelouch said, feigning surprise.

"I am terribly sorry, but I got here much sooner than I had expected. The directions you gave were perhaps too useful," Yui said, embarrassed by the charade they had to put up. She hated the act, which was much worse than the embarrassment she felt.

I am glad this seems to be working as Lelouch was hoping it would, Yui thought internally as she felt a hint of anger she was trying to keep tucked away, directed at a certain pink haired woman. I just know she is enjoying this somehow.

"I can come back later if that works better for you?" Yui offered.

"If Sayoko doesn't mind, you could join us for breakfast." Lelouch said.

"Not at all, since you informed me that we would have extra company." Sayoko said, overhearing the pair.

"Thank you Sayoko," Lelouch replied, grateful everything was going according to plan. "This is a perfect opportunity for you to meet my sister Nunnally."

"Brother who was it?"

"Just a new friend I made. Crystal, this is my sister Nunnally." Lelouch introduced the two girls to one another.

"It's nice to meet you Crystal, I am glad to see my brother making more friends," Nunnally replied.

"Thank you and it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Now that introductions are done, should we enjoy breakfast together?" Lelouch suggested.

Following a hearty breakfast, Lelouch and Sayoko cleaned up the plates and dishes while Nunnally and Yui chatted together in the living room. Once Lelouch and Sayoko were done, the four planned to go their separate ways for the day.

"I am sorry that I can't tag along," Nunnally said, regretfully.

"It can't be helped, you have a doctor's appointment to attend," Lelouch replied as he looked at Sayako.

"I'll make sure Nunnally makes it back safely once she is done. I am sure you two might have another chance to talk more later." Sayoko noticed how Nunnally and Yui had been getting on impressively well in such a short time.

"I could come by later. I would just need to check on a few things," Yui said, reassuringly.

"Ok. I'll see you both later," Nunnally said, waving farewell as Lelouch and Yui left, leaving Sayoko to prepare Nunnally to take her to her doctor's appointment.

Once Yui and Lelouch were certain they were out of earshot, Yui broke the silence.

"Was this how everyday is for you? Lying about who you are and masking yourself?"

"Yes," Lelouch admitted without hesitation. "There are things I can't share with Nunnally."

"About your future goals?"

"Correct and especially now with what I am doing? Even if she believed me, I can't imagine she would accept it," Lelouch acknowledged. "I don't enjoy it, but at least now it feels like I am actually living my life."

"What do you mean?"

"You've only had a taste of what I had to endure daily, but for me, I've had to do it for six years. Lying to everyone about who I am, and keeping secrets from the only family I have wasn't all. It's like living a life that is more akin to a cage. One without any walls, but the chains were real. The chains of having to conform to survive.. It would've been a slow death." Lelouch explained. Yui said nothing, allowing Lelouch to elaborate further. "I wanted to bring down Britannia, avenge what was done to my sister and my mother, and create a world where Nunnally could find happinesses, but…"

"How would you even accomplish that? Is that the question you kept asking?"

"Exactly," Lelouch said before adding, as the pair walked down the stairs. "There were many questions I had to address before I could make such moves. After much research on the essentials I would need for my goals I did develop plans, but they would need time to make them happen. So until then I had to wait and endure living a lie. Something that was only possible because the Ashford Family sheltered us, but the potential threat of being sold out to rivals seeking the throne always hung over our heads."

"Thankfully that never happened," Yui commented.

"No it hasn't, which I think it's mostly because we have no value to anyone after we were declared dead. We are useful as liability insurance if things didn't go well for the Ashford Family. They had to relocate to Japan after losing almost everything to a chain of unfortunate events that befell them."

"I recall you telling me part of it was your mother's death as the Ashford Family supported her as Empress?"

"That is correct, and the other was their Knightmare Frame production efforts flattering following both their inability to further develop their only successful prototype, the Ganymede, and excessive spending by the head of the family at the time, bankrupting them. Losing their titles of nobility was almost the final blow, but Rubern Ashford did have his fair share of useful connections that allowed him to build this academy and offer education services as a new business to survive. They regained a fair amount of wealth, but nowhere near what they had at their height," Lelouch explained.

"Sounds like it was quite the fall from grace, but did they only save the children of the one they backed just to save their own skins?" Yui said, sickened by the reasons behind the Ashford Family's motivations for helping Lelouch and Nunnally.

"Ruben, I think, had some less selfish desires in taking us in, but control of the family has fallen to his son and his wife who represent everything I despise about the nobility. If it would suit them I am sure they would sell me and Nunnally out, just as I've heard they are trying to marry off their daughter to a wealthy member of nobility."

"No wonder you were willing to accept Claude's proposal, despite your obvious reservations," Yui said, trying to grasp how living under such conditions was like for Lelouch.

"I still don't trust her, but what she is offering would advance my plans and goals by years. I have no idea if the Ashford Family will sell us out or if our true identities could one day be discovered, putting Nunnally and I at great risk…"

"You had to take the chance."

"Yes, despite, as you said, my reservations about her offer. It was too good to ignore, but it's all the more reason I think we should both exercise caution around her."

"I completely agree with you, but if I may ask, how is the daughter of the current leader of the Ashford Family? Milly, if I'm remembering correctly. I think you mentioned a few times that she is different from her parents."

Lelouch could only sigh, "Yes, she is very different from them. So much so that I even question if she is even their daughter. She is obviously very free spirited and hates all of the arranged marriages they kept setting up and she is not even seventeen yet. But…she is…how do I say this…eccentric?"

"Eccentric?" Yui said, tittling her head to one side in confusion.

"Long story short, let's just say she has some very wild ideas when it comes to school events and to quote one friend, has the mind of a dirty old man."

"That sounds worrying," Yui said, feeling uneasy. "But wait…school events?"

"Right," Lelouch said, realizing there was one detail he needed to add. "She is the Student Council President, she replaced the last one who graduated and after this year I think the rest of the council will graduate too. They are already planning elections for those who will replace them, so all they do is plan school events and set up the budgets each of the school clubs will have for each month."

"Oh I see, we never had one of those in my school," Yui said, clearly curious about what kind of events they planned.

"No event like school dances, carnival events or even school clubs like horseback riding or swimming?" Lelouch asked, to which Yui shook her head in response.

"There was only one club at Yamayuri Girls Surface Pilot Academy, yes, but mostly those related to TSF or military training, such as the Armored Kendo Club at my old school," Yui replied. "Based off of Armored Fencing, based around elements of kendo, descended from kenjutsu."

"Use of bamboo swords and armor, that was kendo as I knew it?" Lelouch said, recalling his friend Suzaku, having once demonstrated kendo when he faced his teacher. But they used the armor mostly to keep Suzaku from getting hurt during sparring matches. Naturally Lelouch recalled too that Suzaku was being trained in kenjutsu as well, incorporating Kendo as they went so he could perform better in sparring matches where the armor was necessary to avoid injury since his teacher, Mr. Tohdou wasn't afraid to pull his punches when necessary.

"Similar, but not that all different from Armored Fencing overall."

Armored Fencing, yes I recall you telling me about that, Lelouch thought, but from what Yui told him it didn't seem too different from kendo and kenjutsu at a glance, but more was incorporated.

Armored Fencing was a comprehensive close quarters combat martial art, created by the Royal Guard for surface pilot training curriculum used widely throughout Japan. It's a mixture of jujutsu, aikido and karate using a resin training sword that replicates the weight balance of the Type-74 melee blade used by Japanese TSFs. Students would wear protective gear during training, the armor itself being more heavy duty than those used in kendo. Mastery of Armored Fencing was critical for advancing through TSF training, as training in this art was meant to be translated through to the TSF via the brainwave interface developing potentially life-saving close quarters combat skills. Since using firearms in close quarter combat situations against the swarms of BETA ran the risk of friendly fire incidents.

As an added bonus Armored Fencing would give cadets such as Yui and her friends, a taste of high-speed close quarters combat would be like, helping them to get more familiar with it. Training was carried out in usually teams of four vs four or four against two veteran instructors, to build teamwork and coordination during combat. How you function as a team was also part of your grade that decided if you became a surface pilot or not.

Lelouch remembered Yui telling him that some Royal Houses had devised their own styles of Armored Fencing, such as Yui's family Jigen-ryu style, which put an emphasis on landing the first strike. A style, Yui's father had taught her to use before going to the academy, at least during times where he was home long enough to do so.

I've inherited that part of Yui's training through the coupling system without realizing it until basic training and that mock battle, Lelouch realized, Yui's Armored Fencing training was recorded as muscle memory for him.

He would need to train more to really make use of it, something he would need to ask Yui about later if time allows.

"Well I guess today you'll be experiencing some new things then," Lelouch said, knowing that Yui's world was very different from his.

He knew they didn't have much in the same way of entertainment as they did, possessing no video games, movies or television shows of the short. He supposed, given her goal to become a TSF pilot, high school was replaced with a military academy, likely a very strict one from what Lelouch had gathered during previous conversations.

"I suppose we can begin in the city, and then…" Lelouch was saying as he and Yui neared the double doors that made up the exit of the two story building they were in.

But as Lelouch reached for the door, it was opened by someone on the other side.

Oh damn it!

Lelouch cursed internally at the person on the other side. She was a year older than he was with shoulder-length blonde hair, blue eyes and a fair skin complexion. She wore a beige jacket over a white dress shirt, a green tie, a black skirt with black shoes and green socks.

"Oh Lelouch there you are, I am glad I caught you," the blonde haired girl said smiling before a mischievous grin replaced it upon seeing Yui. "Who's your friend?"

"My name is Crystal Simmons," Yui replied, showing her visitor's pass. "Lelouch was just showing me around."

"A shame you didn't ask for me, I am Milly Ashford, the Student Council President," Milly introduced herself, before giving a pouting expression. "If you were interested in enrolling I could've given you a tour, unless Lelouch finally got a girlfriend!?"

"Milly, I am sixteen. I am a little young for that," Lelouch replied with a deadpan expression.

"Maybe, but the best relationships start early and are built up from a young age," Milly replied waving her right index finger at Lelouch.

"Whatever," Lelouch said brushing the comment aside with a dismissive hand wave. "I am going to be busy today showing Crystal around Ashford Academy then the rest of the city."

"Well why don't I take care of that and we can talk about your new job," Milly replied with a smile.

"New job?"

"Yup, you're going to be Student Council Vice President," Milly announced.

"WHAT!" Yui and Lelouch exclaimed.

Lelouch quickly regained his composure. "I didn't even apply for it, don't you have to be elected?"

"Actually only the position of president requires an election among the students. The president chooses who fills the other positions," Milly replied with a matter-of-fact tone.

"Ok, but why me?"

"Because as you know it's required for all students to be part of a club or the student council. Since none of the clubs interest you, and being on the student council doesn't ask for much beyond setting up budgets for the other clubs and planning events, it could work for you," Milly answered with a confident smile. "And you're one of the smartest students in school so you are perfect, so you're more than qualified in my book."

Lelouch didn't have much of a counter-argument, except for the fact he was likely to be very busy soon. He did consider bringing it up, but Lelouch didn't want to have Milly probing the matter too much until he knew more about what kind of cover story Claude was fashioning for him.

"I see your point, but I assume this takes place once the rest of the current council graduates?"

"That's right," Milly chimed, clearly in a good mood. "Now then, since you are clearly interested in the academy. How about I give you the tour instead?"

"Uh sure," Yui agreed, thinking that saying no could cause some unwanted issues.

Lelouch could only quietly groan. He hoped Milly wouldn't turn what should've been a simple tour into something over the top.

Meanwhile in another facility in the northwestern corner of the nation, Kyoko had arrived to inspect a second vessel akin to the Takarabune, but the ship's coloring was different being a dark blue with gold and black. However when Kyoto arrived at the platform overlooking the ship in the hidden construction yard where it had been built, there was someone waiting for her.

"Hello Kyoko."

The man greeting her was around her age with medium-length dark silver hair with icy blue eyes, wearing the blue and gold uniform belonging to a head of one the four regent families. Kyoko recognized the man instantly, having known him for a long time due to her own position. Takatsugu Ikaruga, the head of the Ikaruga Family of the four regent families.

"Major Ikaruga," Kyoto replied.

"At ease Kyoko, no need for ranks here. But tell me what you think of your new ship?" Takatsugu asked, pointing at the newly completed vessel. "The second of our new Takarabune-class, the Hachiman."

"Named for Hachiman Daimyōjin, the Shinto god of war and agriculture, the divine protector of the Minamoto clan," Kyoko said, recognizing the meaning of the ship's namesake.

"Exactly, and you will be her commander once the crew is ready and you have chosen pilots to take ownership of the Minamoto Units aboard."

"I thought there was only one ship?"

Takatsugu couldn't help but laugh, but quickly regained his composure.

"You didn't seriously think we would give our only advance ship to a foreign teenager, no matter how capable, would you?" Takatsugu said before explaining. "Claude was generous enough to give all the materials and means needed to build at least five ships, the Takarabune is just the first of the line. The other three ships are the Bishamonten, Futsunushi, and the Takeminakata, each being built at facilities similar to this one. I'll be taking command of the Takeminakata once it is finished, but the last two will take time before they are completed."

"What of the crews for them, we are just having a hard time finding a full crew for Takarabune?" Kyoko asked.

"Yes that remains to be an unfortunate problem which will delay their launches, but we are doing our best to find people to fill the needed positions," Takatsugu said with a hint of mild annoyance.

"Is that the purpose of this conversation?"

"Hardly, but I did want to brag a little. The United States has become quite jealous of our successes in not just defending Kyoto, but the performance and combat power of the new machines. Already we are receiving requests for secret talks with other nations, it seems many are tired of the US holding superiority with the UN and global policy especially when it comes to the BETA," Takatsugu said with a smile. "I am looking forward to the kind of ripples upcoming events will cause."

"So we're just posturing right now."

"Far from it, but if Claude's information about upcoming events is accurate, it would do well for us to use this to strengthen Japan's diplomatic ties with other nations and increase our growing political clout too."

"The next target of the BETA will be Sadogashima, but we'll need to watch our eastern flank. So I am asking that you take this ship and your squad to help. Your cousin Yui and some of her friends will command a platoon from within their new machines to defend key points of the defensive line. Hopefully we can hold back the BETA if they attempt to change their strategy."

"Then who will be sent to…"

"Lelouch and his squad, provided there are no unforeseen changes with the situation at Suez and here. I'll be overseeing the battle personally from the Takarabune as its temporary commander and observer. However I'll be arranging for Lieutenant Yamashiro to work with Lelouch as insurance. The US has reassured us they'll deploy four squads of TSF and send two cruisers to provide range support," Takatsugu said, interrupting Kyoko.

Before Kyoko could say something else, Takatsugu cut her off.

"Why not your cousin Yui? It seems we are of the same mind. Keeping those two close would be beneficial, since I think we should consider arranging a marriage between them," Takatsugu interrupted Kyoko again as she tried to speak up. "Yes I am aware of Lelouch's background, so I doubt he and possibly Yui would accept such an arrangement. But I think we could encourage it with some time and patience, and maybe introduce some potential competition. The important thing is we should focus on tying Lelouch to us with something stronger than an alliance of convenience, and marriage with someone notable from the other houses would be ideal."

Kyoko wanted to say something, but she knew Takatsugu would bulldoze any counterargument she tried to make.

Takatsugu has always been like this, this is why I don't like dealing with him. But I am worried about Lelouch and Yui now, and who else was he planning to introduce to him as competition?

"So what do you think so far," Milly asked, as the group stood outside a stadium-like complex, as their tour guide had her hands on her hips.

"It's quite the impressive school," Yui remarked, while behind her was a wary Lelouch, who was on guard for whatever mischief Milly might be planning.

It was reassuring that Milly wasn't a malicious person by nature, but Lelouch knew Milly couldn't help herself when it came to teasing others or having some fun at their expense. Even then Lelouch knew from their past interactions he would be unwise to lower his guard around her, especially since he didn't want to reveal anything that could give Milly anything she could use, or expose something she doesn't need to know.

Milly Ashford had a worrying, yet an impressive, knack for getting what she wants out of people.

"Wonderful, so I hope you'll consider attending," Milly said, clasping her hands together with a hopeful smile on her face. "After all, outside of Lelouch the Student Council still needs some more willing members."

Aware that he might regret asking, Lelouch asked to take some of the pressure off Yui.

"Who have you managed to rope onto the Student Council?"

"A few people so far," Milly said, then as if on cue those people showed up.

"Ma'am President," a young girl called out as she approached the group, she was around the same age as Yui and Lelouch.

The girl had long orange hair, yellowish green eyes wearing the same uniform as Milly.

"I am not President, not yet, allow me to introduce Shirley Fenette," Milly replied with a smile.

"Oh Lelouch it's you, and who is this," Shirley said, joining the group with a folder filled with papers tucked under her left arm.

"This is Crystal Simmons, Lelouch's new friend he made recently, she is interested in attending here," Milly said, quick to handle introductions for Yui. "Shirley here is going to be the treasurer for the council, but she has already joined the Swim Club and the Gymnastics Club."

"Hello nice to meet you," Shirley said with a warm smile, offering her free hand to Yui, who returned it.

"Yes, likewise it's nice to meet you too," Yui replied.

"So how do you know each other?" Shirley asked, glancing at Lelouch before looking at Yui.

"Apparently they met during one of Lelouch's chess games," Milly said, causing Shirley to glance with disapproval in his eyes, akin to a parent.

"Oh how many times have I said you shouldn't be gambling?!"

"Sorry, but the money is good," Lelouch replied, while Yui had a suspicion that this was not the first time they talked about the former prince's gambling habits.

I knew he partook of gambling in underground chess matches, but I guess it must've been more frequent than I believed, Yui thought.

While she didn't approve of Lelouch's gambling hobby either, unlike Shirley, Yui was aware of one reason why Lelouch likely resorted to gambling. Outside of whatever motivations and reasons for gambling, one thing she was sure of is that given the risks of his identity being found out Lelouch couldn't take a normal part time job like anyone his age would.

Since he has kept the same first name he used as a prince, that probably has its own risks too, Yui thought, wondering why Nunnally and Lelouch didn't change their first names when they adopted new identities?

"Besides I likely won't be gambling anymore, I've found a more challenging opponent," Lelouch said with a knowing smile, Yui was the only one who knew the truth behind that.

"Really now, mind sharing buddy," Rivalz said, throwing an arm around Lelouch's shoulder.

"Nah, this wouldn't be a game none of you would be interested in, but its nothing illegal I promise," Lelouch said with a smile.

I think the legality of the game and your ultimate goal might be debatable, Lelouch, Yui thought, keeping a straight face and her thoughts to herself.

"Well thank goodness you've given it up," Shirley said, pleased with this news.

If only she knew what Lelouch was really doing.

"Oh you sound like a wife praising her husband," Milly said, with a grin.

"Come on Milly, not this again," Shirley replied, with a flustered expression.

Lelouch quietly gestured to Yui to follow him, slipping away as Milly and Shirley were busy talking. Rivalz was the only one who saw them leave, which only caused a small smile to appear on his face.

Well buddy do I get the feeling you and that girl are more than friends?

Entering the school main building, Lelouch led Yui to a service elevator, once they were inside Lelouch entered in some codes before the elevator began descending.

"I am sorry you got caught up in that," Lelouch said, apologizing after a sigh.

"You couldn't have seen that coming, but that Milly is quite something isn't she?"

"She's a handful, and I can't believe she intends to make me Vice-President," Lelouch said, his annoyance was noticeable in his expression and tone.

"Probably a good administrative decision on her part," Yui acknowledged with one hand under her chin.

"True, but with her I am sure there will be more work involved."

"I see," Yui said, before deciding to ask a question as the elevator stopped. "By the way, where are we going?"

"There is something I wish to show you, and something I am curious about," Lelouch said, as the elevator doors opened. "But to answer where we are going, we're taking this elevator down to the sewer system that runs below the academy, which also connects to the series of interlocking layers that form the Tokyo Settlement."

"Layers?" Yui asked, curious.

"These layers are interconnecting plates which Ashford Academy and much of the city is built upon, which allows for highways, sewers and more to be built."

"They built over Tokyo is what you are implying?" Yui asked, realizing something in Lelouch's statement.

"Yes, apparently it was less costly to build over the demolished city than simply rebuilding it all from the ground up," Lelouch replied, shocking Yui as she continued to follow Lelouch as the latter led her through a maze of passageways in the sewers below the academy. "However the interlocking plates are useful for weathering Earthquakes and other natural disasters, as they can be removed in such a event."

"These plates have something to do with where we are going?"

"Exactly, as a result of how the Settlement is structured, there are many underground spaces that go unused, like this one," Lelouch said as he and Yui arrived at metal door, locked by a keypad.

Entering a code, the door opened, Lelouch allowed Yui to walk in first as a gentleman would before turning on the lights once he entered the room. In one corner of the room were a stack of boxes, but what caught Yui's attention was some kind of machine in front of her. It towered at least ten feet high or more, sitting on some kind of rotating stand with mechanical parts to allow what seemed to be a cockpit to move around. There was a step ladder off to the side that led to the cockpit, which only reinforced the idea to Yui.

Then it dawned on her, what it was.

"Is that a simulator for a Knightmare Frame?"

"Yes, I managed to get it from the black market a few months before I met Claude. Getting it was easy, but having it brought down here was a different story while covering it up," Lelouch replied, impressed that Yui deduced what it was.

"You've been training with this in secret?"

"Yes, since most battles involve Knightmare Frames, I knew it would be necessary for me to use one. So when I learned of this simulator on the black market, I acquired it. All of the money I earned from those chess matches helped cover all of the costs easily," Lelouch said with a proud smirk. "Did you want to give it a try? My highest rank when I last used it was B."

"Sure, I am curious myself actually," Yui said, knowing that part of the reason Lelouch was showing her this simulator was because he was curious to see what she got from him.

How well he could pilot a Knightmare Frame could provide proof that the skill and experience of using the simulator was shared during the times they used the Coupling System for training.

"Alright," Lelouch said, climbing up the ladder to open the cockpit, as a pilot seat slid out allowing anyone on the ladder to climb on. "Give me a second."

Lelouch climbed into the pilot chair, using a keyboard, likely to program conditions and training for the simulator. It took him a few minutes, but once he was done, Lelouch got out of the chair before descending down the ladder.

"It's ready for you, I've set you up with your own profile to use when you use the simulator to keep track of her grades for each simulation program," Lelouch said, gesturing for the cockpit chair.

"Alright," Yui said, before ascending the ladder to enter the cockpit.

Lelouch took position before a computer terminal, which allowed instructors to monitor the simulation. Of course, could've programmed the simulation from this terminal, but he didn't want Yui to know what he had in mind to test her.

Meaning he didn't want her to know he had set the simulation to scale up the difficulty through the simulated battle she would face.

Let's see how you handle something that operates differently from a TSF or a mobile suit? Lelouch thought, looking forward to Yui's performance.

Inside the cockpit, Yui was familiarizing herself with the controls, immediately noticing the difference in how a Knightmare Frame operated.

"No brainwave headset, and simplified controls huh," Yui said, muttering to herself before using a console to see what weapons she had available. "Ok, so for weapons I have an assault rifle with a built-in grenade launcher, slash harkens that can act as grappling hooks, and elbow–mounted tonfas."

Pushing a button, and grabbing the control sticks, the simulation began.

Lelouch probably put in some kind of scaling difficulty, Yui thought, suspecting the simulation would get more difficult the longer it went on.

The simulation opened to the Glasgow being deployed from the air onto a clearing within a forest with some pathways for the Knightmare Frame to use. Although she had expected to experience some familiarity with the controls due to the experience shared via the Coupling System, Yui was surprised by how quickly she grasped controlling the Knightmare Frame. As if it was second nature to her, Yui sped her Glasgow Knightmare Frame through the forest path, before coming upon some tanks once she cleared the forest and saw them in an open plain.

Weaving to the sides to evade their fire, Yui used the Glasgow's slash harkens to destroy one of the tanks when in range before repeating the process to systematically wipe them out. It took her only a few minutes before the ten tanks were eliminated, without sustaining any damage.

Best to save that assault rifle for later, Yui reasoned, aware it had limited ammunition.

Following the path ahead, Yui's Glasgow reached a fortified position, but tanks weren't her only foe, this time four Glasgows were advancing towards her while the eight tanks remained in the rear at the fortified line providing support fire. But that wasn't all, attack helicopters were moving in ready to support the enemy Glasgows.

Weaving to the sides like before to evade the tanks, but the helicopters would be more dangerous so Yui dealt with them first. Using her assault rifle, she shot down the helicopters before engaging the Glasgows in close quarters. Hoping the tanks wouldn't fire on their own, Yui dodged the enemy Glasgow's assault rifle shots before using a slash harken to take off the head of the nearest Glasgow. Unfortunately her effort to behead a second was deflected by the enemy using its own slash harken to block it.

Using one of its elbow-mounted tonfa, Yui knocked the assault rifle from the hand of the Glasgow before it could take aim and fire, but the third Glasgow had moved into attack range. Noticing the danger in time, Yui got behind the second Glasgow, whose weapon had been knocked from its hands. Unfortunately for the second Glasgow its companion fired, shooting his own ally.

Ranged weapons are ill-advised in close quarters, Yui thought, recalling the lessons of her instructor from the academy.

Yui didn't give the third enemy Glasgow a chance to recover and attack again, this time charging it and punching its head off with its free hand. The last Glasgow, joined the battle attacking with a hail of bullets from its assault rifle. But, to complicate things, six more enemy Glasgows emerged from the forest attempting to flank Yui from behind in a surprise attack.

An idea came to mind, as Yui aimed the Assault Rifle at the tanks, firing the grenade launcher, but oddly it missed its mark landing behind the tanks. Yui smiled as the tanks began to panic fire, hitting the one Glasgow, Yui was keeping at a distance to pull off her plan. She rushed at the others, firing her assault rifle, taking down two before the last two broke away trying to perform a pincer against her.

However, Yui drew close to one, using a tonfa to knock its weapon from its hand. The enemy Glasgow deflected Yui's follow up attack with its own tonfa, but Yui dispatched the enemy Knightmare Frame, using her slash harkens at point blank range to disable an arm while another took its head off.

Using the defeated Glasgow as a shield, Yui attacked the last enemy, shooting its chest into Swiss chess forcing the cockpit block to be ejected. Then all that was left was to mop up the enemy tanks.

"That didn't seem too bad," Yui said, unaware the simulation wasn't over yet.

In the corner of her eye, Yui saw a squadron of planes approaching to begin a bombing run. Understanding the danger, Yui fled the area, before navigation prompts on her screen appeared, directing her to the next phase of the simulation.

Reaching the edge of the forest Yui entered into an urban area, but this time she noticed two enemy Glasgows ahead of her, firing their assault rifles. As she veered down another street to evade she came face to face with a third Glasgow, waiting to ambush her. Luckily Yui was faster, disarming the enemy Knightmare Frame before disabling it with a blow from its tonfa. Yui didn't stop, fearing she was being surrounded, but she made sure to move behind the disabled Glasgow as it fell back to use it as a brief shield just in case.

Then she sharply turned and sped down another street, which was a good move as bullets came flying that would've hit her back. She turned her Glasgow around, opening fire on a pair of Glasgows that had likely chased after her in pursuit. Ducking down another street, Yui attacked another Glasgow that had been moving to attack her, getting the jump on the simulated enemy before they could attack. But that used up the last bullets in her rifle, so Yui was in trouble when another Glasgow arrived.

Firing her slash harken, Yui missed, but quickly retracted the slash harken causing a portion of the wall to be ripped out striking the back of the enemy Glasgow's head and its cockpit taking it out. That wasn't intended, but Yui seemed fine with the outcome.

With the assault rifle now empty, Yui tossed the weapon aside before taking the assault rifle used by the downed Glasgow.

Heading down the street, Yui attacked another Glasgow she spotted around a corner, finding three more Glasgows who opened fire on her. Using the street corner to protect herself, Yui fired, downing one enemy Knightmare Frame before slipping down another street, but instead of flanking them she waited in ambush, suspecting they would pursue her.

So when they came around the corner she gunned them down.

Suddenly the words appeared on her screen: "Simulation Complete."

"Well she did far better than expected," Lelouch mused having watched the simulation, although he wasn't surprised that Yui succeeded he was surprised at how it happened. "I guess she managed to translate her skills of piloting a TSF into piloting a Knightmare Frame. If time allows, maybe I should try the simulator myself and see if there is any change in my skills."

It didn't take long for Yui to exit the simulator cockpit.

"So how did I do?"

Lelouch gave a knowing smile, "You exceeded my expectations, you got the highest rank, an A+."

"Its certainly different from piloting a TSF, but yet it all felt second nature to me."

"I suppose we could say your skills with piloting a TSF has meshed together with handing a Knightmare Frame," Lelouch complimented, intrigued by this outcome.

"So what now?" Yui asked, stretching her arms.

"We can explore this Japan if you like, but I should warn you. You'll see a lot of things I have no doubt that will make you angry and offend you, even if this Japan isn't yours," Lelouch said, adopting a more serious expression.

"I know, I have no doubt there will be some things that will upset me. But to avoid complicating things for you and your sister, I'll try to keep my feelings in check."

"Alright, but if you need to go someplace private to vent, don't hesitate to ask," Lelouch said, to which Yui agreed with a nod.

Using the sewers passageways to quietly leave Ashford Academy, Lelouch and Yui began their exploration of the city. For a time they walked in silence, blending in with everyone else walking pass them, which Yui thought seemed no different than when she was attending the academy in Kyoto. As the silence became somewhat unbearable, Yui turned to Lelouch asking.

"I will say your school is different from the academy I went to. I didn't imagine it would have so many clubs like horseback riding, science, baking, chess and so much more. But whose idea was it to allow for the Fantasy Seduction Club?"

Lelouch merely gave Yui a knowing look.

"Oh right Milly was involved," Yui replied, which Lelouch nodded in confirmation.

"Her ideas for events are quite odd from what I've heard. I am not sure how the current council is handling it," Lelouch admitted.

"Should I ask?"

"No, I believe not," Lelouch replied. As they walked Yui saw something that drew her attention.

"Lelouch, what is that?"

"That would be an arcade?" Lelouch replied, as the pair stood outside a video game arcade with many machines visible through the windows.

"Uh, what's an arcade?"

"It's a place where usually young children or people around our age would go and play video games and other games such as basketball throwing, simulators, dancing games, and much more depending on the establishment and what they offer." Lelouch explained.

"I see," Yui said, clearly curious.

"Would you like to try some?"

"Uh I don't know, but I would like to observe," Yui said, uncertain if she could play any of them.

Lelouch grinned, "Very well."

The pair walked inside the arcade and looking around, Lelouch spotted an occupied game console, which was a shooting game involving zombies. After buying some tokens, Lelouch began his demonstration as he put in some tokens.

"Most games like these you just aim and shoot, then shoot away from the screen to reload. You win by keeping the enemies from getting too close until the end," Lelouch explained before demonstrating how the game was played.

Lelouch's training in firearms as part of his hellish training regime under Marimo was beneficial allowing him to perform very well at the game. By the time it was over, Lelouch had won, earning a high score.

"Well done, so there are other games like these?"

"Yes, some will have you be a cowboy from the Wild West fighting against bandits, or a soldier fighting on a battlefield. Sometimes aliens, but nothing like the BETA," Lelouch replied.

"I see, and the people are really enjoying themselves."

"Indeed, there is almost a game for everyone. Now, are you sure you don't want to try one?"

"Uh," Yui was hesitant, but she relented. "Is there a game we could play together?"

"Aside from the game I just played, there are racing games, simulator games and fighting games."

"What might be good for a first timer like me?"

"I would say a racing game is easy to learn, and we can both play one." Lelouch said, before noticing such a game. "This one seems easy enough and there are two seats available."

"Ok, let's try it."

Lelouch got into the player one seat, while Yui sat next to him in player two. The controls were straightforward enough, a steering wheel, an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal and a stick to shift gears if they chose manual over automatic.

Yui chose a yellow sports car to drive while Lelouch picked a purple one.

"Here we go," Lelouch said as the race began.

"There are other racers?"

"They are just computer controlled non-player characters, but they will make the race more difficult," Lelouch said, replying to Yui's question.

"I see," Yui said, putting her foot on the accelerator to speed up and try to get around them.

"Careful there are some sharp turns ahead," Lelouch cautioned.

"I see them."

The race was more intense than what Lelouch would have preferred for Yui's first time playing, but by the end, despite not winning, it was clear Yui was enjoying herself. The pair spent an hour in the arcade before finally leaving to explore more of the city. When the pair were passing through a park they saw a group of young Britannians, dressed up like some kind of delinquent gang. They were harassing and kicking a Japanese man by a mobile hotdog stand.

What stunned her even more was a pair of police officers who simply glanced at the scene before walking away.

"Why aren't they doing anything?" Yui asked, alarmed by the police officers' disregard.

"Because it's perfectly legal to discriminate against those who are not Britannian," Lelouch said, his voice barely hiding his bitterness at such a law. "Most Britannians believe that they are superior to those who are not so that allows them to exercise that belief in whatever way they believe proves it."

"That is ridiculous," Yui replied, mindful to avoid drawing anyone's attention.

"That is the kind of country Britannia is."

"And we can't do anything to help him can we?" Yui asked as she tried to keep her composure, but her outrage had slipped into her voice.

"That's right," Lelouch said regretfully. "You've noticed he runs that hotdog cart. If we help him, he'll likely be unable to sell another hotdog here again. That is the price you pay to be a Britannian Slave."

"Slave?"

"He likely became an Honorary Britannian to gain some rights and the ability to work in the city to make money. Unfortunately, despite being an Honorary Britannian, it's no better than being a slave. Most of them are given low wage paying jobs or high risk work that pays little because their Britannian bosses can get away with it."

"I can't imagine why anyone would accept it."

"I understand. Although I can't speak for anyone who chose to be an Honorary Britannian. I can only guess that some probably chose to escape life in the ghetto and are seeking money just to survive. Of course they are likely doing it to support their family and loved ones," Lelouch replied.

"The ghetto?"

"I'll show you," Lelouch said as he and Yui left the park. The latter casted a look of pity towards the poor man.

Sometime later the two went to the top of a nearby building with an observation deck. From there Yui could see another part of the city hidden by the towering clean and white buildings. Beyond them were the ruins of another city devastated by a combination of war and time. Looking around, Lelouch saw no one around, meaning they could talk freely.

"Those are the ghettos," Lelouch explained, after making sure no one was around.

"What happened?" Yui's eyes widened in horror at the sight, but felt her emotions ranging from shock, sorrow to barely contained outrage.

"It's what's left of the original city of Tokyo, I believe you are looking at what was once Shinjuku. Most Japanese people who don't become Honorary Britannians have to live in the ghettos where they barely have any electricity or running water. Even a healthy meal and medicine have become valuable and rare. It's those conditions that drive people to become Honorary Britannians or join a resistance group," Lelouch explained.

"Then those ruins were caused during Britannian's invasion of Japan?"

"That's right," Lelouch answered. "Japan fought hard, but it couldn't withstand Britannian's relentless onslaught. As I've said, they were badly outnumbered and outgunned."

Yui tried to envision what such a war for Japan would've been like, they didn't have TSFs like her Japan did so the Japan here fought with tanks and jets. Such battles with overwhelming force reminded her of the battles Japan had been having against the BETA recently.

"Did Japan win any of the battles?"

"One actually that I know of, it was called the Miracle of Itsukushima."

"Miracle of Itsukushima?"

"It was when the Britannians were invading Itsukushima aiming to wipe out the military base there. The base and its forces were led by Lieutenant Colonel Kyoshiro Tohdoh."

"What happened, did he manage to overwhelm them or gain an edge?"

Lelouch smiled knowingly. "He actually baited them into a well prepared trap."

Yui was surprised by this revelation.

"The Britannians had a huge advantage in numbers and resources, so they repeated the same blitzkrieg tactics in every corner of Japan they invaded. Tohdoh realized this and prepared in advance, using the one thing Japan had a lot of, Sakuradite."

"How was that useful?"

"Remember how I mentioned Sakuradite is a vital resource for the development of technology?" Lelouch asked, which Yui nodded. "In its raw form, especially liquefied, it's a powerful explosive. Tohdoh moved the entire base into a nearby mountain overlooking the bay and the battlefield while the base itself was rigged to blow. The base's defenses were likely using automated gun placements to keep the Britannians from realizing the ploy, but their successes in other parts of Japan left them overconfident."

"So they charged right in, and Tohdoh just blew the whole base up?"

"He likely did so once they drew the enemy deep into the base. But such an explosion would've been quite destructive, that even those outside the base were hit by the resulting pressure wave from the explosion. However, Tohdoh also had Sakuradite rigged mines in the waters within the bay, which were triggered by the blast, catching the invading Britannian navy off guard. Then Tohdoh and his men unleashed their counterattack from the mountain, picking off the confused and disoriented Britannians who survived."

"That sounds impressive, and he won Japan's only victory in that war."

"Yes unfortunately it was Japan's only victory, but I must commend Tohdoh for the advance preparation."

"So what happened to him?"

"Last I heard he managed to join the remains of Japan's military and went underground, joining them to form the Japan Liberation Front. I don't know if he leads them, but I imagine he is one of the group's leaders."

"I see. So has the Japan Liberation Front made any progress towards liberating Japan?"

"Nothing notable on that front. I've only heard about the occasional raids on military supply depots. Beyond that I have no information, but progress appears to be lacking."

"I see," Yui said, sounding understandably disappointed.

"Let's go," Lelouch suggested as he and Yui departed.

"I really hope you'll make a difference."

"Time will only tell, but I intend to," Lelouch said confidently, which impressed Yui.

Maybe he could, Yui thought.

"Anywhere else you wanted to go?"

"I suppose, could we visit Mt. Fuji?"

"Alright," Lelouch said, looking around one last time for eavesdroppers. "You won't like what you see."

"Could it be worse than the sight of these ghettos," Yui asked, but Lelouch decided not to answer that question.

By the time Lelouch and Yui arrived in the vicinity of Mt. Fuji, it was late afternoon. They rested by what was Lake Kawaguchi, where a massive hotel looked over with three large bridges connected. Since only Britnanians and foreign visitors entered the hotel from the three connecting bridges, Yui and Lelouch rested by the water. They sat on a bench overlooking the lake, choosing a spot where no one was around to eavesdrop on them.

Yui wished that viewing the wondrous mountain with its frozen top and surrounding forests would be a sight to see compared to the BETA. But it was not the regular mountain she expected but a corrupted form defiled by steel.

"Is that really Mount Fuji?" The sight gave Yui mixed feelings, which leaned towards insult.

"Hate to tell you it, but it is," Lelouch answered.

"What in the gods' name did they do to it?" Yui glared specifically at the artificial parts of it. She didn't know if the side of the mountain was still natural, but it was cybernatic with a massive installation built around one side. "Even the Training Corps back in our world is far more considerate."

"That's what happens when a natural wonder is home to eighty percent of the world's most valuable resource," Lelouch said deadpan. "Even before Japan fell, they had mining sites up to the top and down under the mountain. Only that Britannia made it more…explicit. Your anger towards the violation of both its sanctity and ecosystem is understandable."

"Then the Sakuradite mines are at Mt. Fuji?" Yui asked, which Lelouch confirmed with a nod.

"Yes, which was a big reason for the war in the first place, but it was likely only a matter of time since Sakuradite was invaluable to all of the major powers. Even if any of them came to Japan's aid, they likely would've made a puppet state out of Japan to control the mines themselves, who knows what could've happened then," Lelouch said, before giving Yui another truth. "It's probably why Japan surrendered in the end."

"I…I…understand, but I couldn't even conceive of Japan surrendering, even when you told me the first time it was difficult to accept."

"I don't blame you. I doubt fewer people would've taken it well," Lelouch acknowledged. "However, even in surrender, Japan hasn't given up the fight. They just realized a head-on confrontation wasn't possible with Britannia right now."

"What do you mean?"

"I am speculating on this, but when the war ended many of Japan's wealthy industrialist and influential politicians dodged the war tribunals by cooperating with the new government, officially opportunistic traitors in exchange they oversee all Japanese affairs in Area 11. They're probably using their new positions to support anti-Britannian efforts across Japan, especially the JLF to keep up the fight for seven years," Lelouch said, deducing why such figures would have cooperated with Britannia than aid in the resistance, at least not directly.

"They did that, to one day overthrow Britannia and liberate Japan," Yui asked, which Lelouch confirmed with a nod before continuing. "But working with the Britannians? Asking for cooperation from other nations is one thing, but actually collaborating with them. That's no better than selling out their country."

"In a pragmatic sense, it's quite the opposite," Lelouch countered. "While they are publicly kneeling to Britannia operating under the current government, they are collaborating to topple them using their positions to support those efforts. Progress is just…slow."

"Slow?"

"For one thing, they're obtaining Knightmares from overseas and salvaging whatever they could find to send to resistance groups. Another problem is giving the incompetent officials hush money to keep quiet on their actual operations. With my brother Clovis in charge, that was easy enough for them."

"Even so…"

"If you were thinking why not just fight to the bitter end rather than surrender, then that would bring in bigger problems," Lelouch shot her down. "The reason Area 11 is a hotbed for resistance movements is because Japan surrendered before exhausting its military strength. Do-or-die resistance would just waste that strength and far more manpower in Japan, in addition to causing more destruction to the local infrastructure. The indigenous species would have no effective means to resist if it was split in three either. The option of surrender was a miracle by itself, but I doubt it was an easy decision by no means."

"I can't even imagine how they could've done it?"

"They likely forced themselves, all banking on the hope that one day their actions can help Japan be free once more."

"Maybe you might make their efforts worth it in the end," Yui complimented.

"Perhaps, but only time can tell," Lelouch said as he and Yui sat together on the bench observing the sunset.

If there was one thing gained from this, Lelouch had only strengthen Yui's willingness to aid him in taking Britannia down when the time came.

Marimo was reviewing a checklist as she was walking towards a hanger where she would happen upon a group of men disembarking a plane. The majority were military engineers and other personnel, but Marimo went for the man who was overseeing their efforts standing near the newly arrived plane.

"Are all preparations ready?"

"Not yet," The civilian contractor replied, having expected Marimo's arrival. "Weather has hindered our work, but we need to replace some of the drones with new ones due to finding faults that made them too risky to use. I am also proposing we do system checks on them to ensure no malfunctions will occur."

"I suppose given the storms we've had in that region so its no surprise," Marimo replied, this was also expected. "How long before everything is ready? Will all preparations be complete on time?"

"As long as the new drones have no faults and the weather becomes more favorable, we should be ready on time in two weeks."

"Good, I'll be sure to accelerate training for the squad in question who must take this challenge to prepare them," Marimo said, accepting a file with all of the details behind the preparation work being carried out.

I can't believe so much effort is being put into such a CCSE exam, but if he succeeds this should silence anyone doubting his abilities, Marimo thought before adding. So long as it doesn't kill him first.

The Comprehensive Skill Evaluation would test Lelouch and his new friends, survival skills and working together would be key. Normally the evaluation would come before training in TSFs, due to the accelerated training track and the effort and preparations needed they were delayed.

Marimo hoped Lelouch would succeed, or at least not end up dead.

A/N: Well that chapter is done, and next is Lelouch and his new squad's CCSE exam, which has been broken up into three chapters. This was a tough chapter to write, partly because I've found few details on what daily life was like in Japan before the BETA invasion other than video games not being a thing and generally going towards efforts to fight the BETA and defend Japan. Gauging Yui's reactions to certain things in Area 11, while I had a general idea I was worried about her acting out of character so I did consult with Jameyofthemegacosmos and others since I had to portray her emotions just right too.

This is also a difference between her and Kallen, Yui feels the same about things as Kallen would, but having to keep up certain appearances due to her family status and reputation combined with the media and general public's negative view of the Takamura Family, not to give them anything they could use against her family (having endured slander and bullying growing up, something that will be touched upon in more detail in chapter 13). Overall I believed Yui would be more mindful and manage to keep her emotions more in check, for a time or unless alone with Lelouch or someone she trusts very much, which I wrote her reactions as such.

The Knightmare Frame battle was a tricky one to do as well, but those who pre-reviewed the chapter before its release didn't see notice any issues so I hope it was a good showcase of what Yui might be capable of once she gets her own Knightmare Frame later on.

"Lelouch and his squad, provided there are no unforeseen changes with the situation at Suez and here. I'll be overseeing the battle personally from the Takarabune as its temporary commander and observer. However I'll be arranging for Lieutenant Yamashiro to work with Lelouch as insurance. The US has reassured us they'll deploy four squads of TSF and send two cruisers to provide range support," Takatsugu said, interrupting Kyoko. - Also keep this statement in mind, because let's just say some unforeseen changes later in the story will force some changes XD.

Let's just say for all of her power Claude can't always stop fate from asserting itself, at least without carefully laying the ground work years in advance or while not trying to destroy reality. She knows what will happen, but she won't know which path things will take until it happens. Which keeps things interesting.

But those new ships are awhile away from completion due to a shortage of manpower especially on crewing the ships.

As for the upcoming CCSE exam, yeah its difficulty has been increased adding lots of traps and drones Lelouch will have to deal with like Takeru and gang in the original game would face.

The poll deciding Ichika from Infinite Stratos's fate is still ongoing with Ichika fleeing his world with Lelouch winning with five votes ahead of the other option, but his involvement with Lelouch's group or not won't affect my plans. Which I must comment this poll has been intriguing to watch as early on it was dead even until ten votes, before the option for Ichika to flee with Lelouch pulled ahead by five votes, but still holding at 15 as of this character. I'll leave the poll open until sufficient votes come in or until the story gets closer to IS's involvement in the story, which I might put down another poll (deciding Tabane's fate since that has been a...issue that has divided people let's just same) and if I should involve Gunbuster's sequel (Diebuster, which may be way too OP for me to use in this story or until the very end XD. When planets are getting used as weapons and destroyed, yeah its something to think hard on lol).

Thank you all for reading the chapter, and I appreciate any feedback, favorites and follows.

The last mecha specs until later, outwardly its appearance is based on the Type-94 Shiranui with a more streamlined appearance and placements for its MS-based weapons and defenses. The limited production models had the Coupling System and Beam Shields, but would be removed, the former for being unable to adapt the needed tech on a massive scale, and the beam shields were too power consuming, not badly, but were deemed not practical for mass production.

Model number: HXM-01A

Code name: Minamoto

Pilot(s): Yuzuka Sendo, Haruko Kashiwagi, Haruka Suzumiya, Marimo Jinguuji, Tsukiko Fujisawa, Michiru Isumi and others

Unit type: Prototype Test-Production Type MS/TSF hybrid

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Empire of Japan, Order of the Black Knights

First deployment: September 29th 2016 A.T.B.

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 17.7 meters

Weight: 53.2 metric tons

Armor: Trans-Phase Armor

Powerplant: Rechargeable Solar Energy Conductor. (draws power from the sun, but without it a full charge will allow it to operate for about a week)

Propulsion: Voiture Lumiere Propulsion System: A combat variant of the "Voiture Lumiere" propulsion system is mounted in the Strike Freedom's mobile weapon wings. Unlike the Voiture Lumiere used by GSX-401FW Stargazer Gundam, this combat variant uses an internal laser, instead of solar winds or an external power beam, and converts its energy into a strong light pressure which is then used as thrust. When activated, the system allows the suit to accelerate at incredible rates and to quickly dodge the most intense enemy beam barrages.

Equipment and Design Features

Quasi-Psycommu System: The Quasi-psycommu system was developed to extend the capabilities of remote control to non-Newtypes. This system can actively scan the pilot's brainwaves, no matter how weak they are, and then let the computer translate the thoughts into commands to be issued to remote weapons. Using the quasi-psycommu even non-Newtypes can control simple wire-guided remote weapons, such as INCOMs.

Coupling System (limited production models only)

Intention Automatic System

Fixed Armaments:

2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns, stored in the head.

2 X Beam Sabers, mounted in the Shoulder Armor for easy access.

2 X Butterfly Busters: Highly experimental weapons that can switch between gun mode and saber mode with a folding mechanic similar to its namesake mounted on the hip side.

2 x Beam Shield, mounted on forearms (limited production models only)

Beam Smart Gun: Also known as the Mega Beam Rifle, it is a high output beam cannon with an open mega particle compression-accelerator device. It is later put into mass-production and referred to as the "laundry-drying pole". Stored in the left sub-arm mounted rack on the backpack.

Beam Launcher: This large caliber beam weapon was developed as a replacement for the projectile firing bazooka, powered by a replaceable energy-pack, the beam launcher fires low-velocity beams with high destructive power. Mounted on the right sub-arm storage rack on the backpack.

2 x Sub-Arms: mounted alongside the flight unit, which can be equipped with different weapons as per the pilot's preferences or mission requirements. Usable are scatter missile pods, anti-aircraft machine guns, rail cannons, integrated beam rifles, beam sabers or physical blades.

StrifeHavoc · Jun 20, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story. I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

Well this begins the three chapters consisting of Lelouch and his new squad/friends Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation, which was decided to break up into three chapters since we're moving between three groups of characters over a couple days period, so this chapter will likely be the short end of the trio. Now I know the Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation tends to come before TSF training, but I covered that by the fact Lelouch and his squad are on a accelerated training track and because some of his opposition within the military want to ensure it was hard as possible, which those opposing parties allowed, in the hopes Lelouch and his squad would succeed to silence any lingering naysayers about Lelouch all because he's a foreigner.

Producing what became these chapters weren't easy, I had a hard time trying to decide what kind of challenges Lelouch could face while making them comparable to what Takeru and his friends would face, while making it challenging at the same since they aren't using mobile suits or TSFs. It took awhile for me to finally find an idea with the aid of the betas that could allowing me to finish the chapter, so that being said its a good thing I had pre-made a lot of these chapters including this one well in advance.

Anyway thanks to everyone who reviewed, favorited and followed the story, they are always appreciated and are always great at encouraging me to continuing the story.

Chapter 10

Graduation, Part I

(Two weeks later)

Lelouch got back on his bearing after a rough fall. He could hear Yuzuka's footsteps from behind, approaching him with her pack in hand.

Never expected a drill this suddenly, Lelouch thought. They must've prepared this while Yui and I were away, and kept the rest of us occupied.

Two weeks after returning from Area 11, Lelouch and his new friends endured more rigorous training with more of a focus on physical training and hand-to-hand combat. The night before he immediately went straight to his bed in the barracks, following a rather exhausting day of training. While he expected the exam to occur today, the airhorn caught him off guard. He, Yuzuka, Haruka, Tsukiko, Haruko, and Asagi were in a squad when they boarded the MH-53 Pave Low. Marimo ordered them to get out with parachutes and backpacks in hand. Lelouch and Yuzuka went out first per Marimo's instructions. As they descended, they saw the rest of their squadmates deploy elsewhere on the island.

After removing the parachute from his backpack, he went to Yuzuka and helped her with hers. A radio on Lelouch's belt had Marimo's voice cracking through, prompting him to pick it up.

"Attention, teams. Come in."

"I hear you, loud and clear," Lelouch gave a sharp reply. "That was quite a rough drop."

"Yeah, what's with that?" Asagi radioed elsewhere.

"We're all scattered all over the place," Tsukiko agreed.

"The Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation is about to begin," Marimo briefed, ignoring their complaints. "This will represent a survival mission and covert operation to put everything you have learned to use. Your mission is to complete all the objectives with your given items and equipment, then reach the designated extraction point marked on your map."

Yuzuka opened her pack, finding a piece of paper folded into quarters. She unfolded it to reveal a map of the island

"As you see on the map, your mission is to infiltrate the camp south of the island and complete the three objectives listed."

Lelouch saw the three locations marked one to three in red ink, as Marimo explained.

"Objective 1: Infiltrate the command center of the enemy base and disable or retrieve any electronics you find, including any radios and radar systems. Objective 2: Disable the motor pool and any vehicles stationed in the southeast. Objective 3: Infiltrate the underground missile base, which has been repurposed into a detention center. Intel reports there is a hostage inside. Rescue the hostage, and if he's already deceased, obtain any documents that you find that the enemy might find valuable. Once you complete your objectives, head to the extraction point on the island's east coast. Fire a green flare with the gun provided, and the chopper will come in to extract you."

"Uh, madam? There are two flare guns here." Asagi checked the bag. "And two of the rounds are red."

Seeing the flare guns and four rounds, Lelouch peeked into Yuzuka's pack to confirm. As Asagi stated, two of the rounds were labeled red.

"The green ones certainly mean mission success," Haurka could tell. "But those red ones are also to signal a mission failure."

"Commander, can you give us an explanation for the extra flares?" Lelouch inquired.

"Confirmed, those red flares are used to abort the mission," Marimo replied. "Fire one, and the chopper will come in for extraction. However, doing so will cause you to fail the exam. Do not get into an emergency where you must fire one."

In other words, don't injure yourself out there. Lelouch saw the extra meaning there, especially after remembering what happened to Haruka.

"You also have five days to complete the mission," Marimo added. "Finishing later than that will also mean automatic failure. After the completion of the exam, your team will be evaluated."

So we're on a time limit, huh? Lelouch thought. Makes sense for a covert operation.

"Now then, we shall maintain radio silence until you signal. The mission starts now."

With that, the radio went silent before any of the girls could respond. The radio silence would make sense since this was supposed to simulate an actual mission. Still, Lelouch could sense some agony from a few members.

"Well, five days, huh," Asagi tried to lighten the mood. "Well, that doesn't sound so bad, does it? I bet we could get this done before the day ends!"

"I doubt that," Lelouch argued. "We don't know the exact layout of the island, which includes topography. There's also the possibility of multiple obstructions blocking the way."

"Come on, don't be such a stick in the mud!"

"Asagi isn't entirely wrong," Haruka backed her teammate as she looked at the map herself. "If I'm seeing this right, this is supposed to be the island of Niijima."

"You know the place?" Lelouch asked.

"Niijima," Yuzuka explained with a noticeable tone of disapproval. "Yes, this is near the occupied Shikane Island. Initially, it was inhabited many decades ago, when a missile test facility was established. However, the island's population declined as many people were conscripted into the war against the BETA and later evacuated after a minor, short-lived nuclear accident. Even after the radiation that affected a very small section of the island subsided, there have been no attempts to re-inhabit the island due to having no strategic value for the war."

"Near Shikane Island," Lelouch spoke to himself as if he had heard that name before.

"Lelouch?" Yuzuka asked, curious about his thoughts.

"Nothing," Lelouch shook his head as he radioed to Haruka. "Suzumiya, since you recognize the island, what do you know about the place?"

"We're deployed at an old lighthouse here. We can reach the base that's been marked for us by entering the main settlement and taking the roads. That alone would be a few hours."

"Any back roads into the base?" Lelouch asked. "We seem to be on the other side of the island, near the motor pool. I feel this exercise would have the roads blocked off."

"There are forests and mountains along the sides of the base that act as natural barriers. The motor pool, specifically, is built by the Shiromama Cliff. It will take two more hours, but there's a path an enemy would least likely expect us to take."

"Better than spending extra time backtracking to take a detour," Lelouch formulated his plan. "Very well, Yuzuka and I will take the motor pool then. If possible, I can secure a ride for us and speed up the time. If not, I can at least map a path to the extraction point."

"Are you sure you can hijack a car?" Tsukiko raised an eyebrow at him.

"Don't worry, I've done it before," Lelouch assured Tsukiko as he gave the rest of his plan. "Asagi, Haruko, can you confirm your location?"

"Um, I think we're somewhere in the middle of the island?" Asagi answered with little confidence. "It's hard to tell from here."

"Very well, see if you can head south. You two will head to the underground prison and rescue the hostage, or retrieve any intelligence the enemy could use. Tsukiko, Haruka, I'd like you to head to the command center. Haruka's knowledge of computers will be better for the objective, but she'll probably need your help. "

"Understood, but," Haruko brought up a question. "Any idea where to meet after this?"

Lelouch looked at the map, pondering her question. He checked all the paths and found a very sharp curve north of the intersection to the base.

"Once we're finished, we rendezvous at the curve on the road north of the base. Considering the time, we'll stay there until the next day. Hopefully, everyone will familiarize themselves with the terrain enough to know the way by then."

"Understood," the girls called out before the radio went silent.

"So, what now?" Yuzuka asked.

"Let's locate our objective, then go from there," Lelouch suggested.

Leading the way, Lelouch found what appeared to be a trail. However, suspecting that the island had traps, Lelouch searched and found a long, broken tree branch. Holding it in one hand, Lelouch grabbed some rocks in the other.

"What are those for?" Yuzuka inquired.

"I expect there to be traps," Lelouch said. "We can toss some of these to any suspicious spots to see what happens."

Looking ahead on the path, Lelouch saw a patch of leaves that seemed out of place. He threw one of the heavier stones at the center of the suspicious area. Sure enough, the ground gave way to a small pit. Although it wouldn't cause any serious harm, it was enough to catch someone's leg and cause injury. Someone being unable to properly walk would be debilitating and possibly an instant mission failure..

"Wow, right off the bat," Yuzuka said, equally surprised they quickly encountered a trap.

"That was just a warning," Lelouch replied. "There are no doubt more traps that we will have to keep an eye out for."

"Well," Yuzuka stuttered while following Lelouch. "I hope the others won't fall for them."

"We can only hope," Lelouch replied, leading the way.

On another corner of the island, the second team started their own trek through the forest ahead. Haruka and Tsukiko had landed together on the coastline since neither wanted to risk being trapped in the trees. Thanks to the two having previously undergone similar evaluations, they had also picked up some rocks and a long stick to help them set off any traps along the way.

"You know, I am worried about the others," Tsukiko commented. Already they had come across a few different traps hidden in the forest.

"Lelouch will do fine," Haruka responded. "But I know what you mean."

"As long as Yuzuka can follow his instructions, for sure," Tsukiko explained. "It's just the last group is a bunch of newbies."

"But we spent those nights together talking and planning what might happen. I don't think there is any reason to worry," Haruka offered reassuringly.

"Maybe we should try to complete our objective as soon as possible, then regroup with the others," Tsukiko suggested.

"Good idea," Haruka said, as she led the way. "In the worst-case scenario, we can help anyone having trouble."

Elsewhere on the island at that moment, Haruko and Asagi were making their own way to their intended objective. Unlike the other two teams, the pair were off to a…difficult start.

Asagi nearly fell into a pitfall trap. It was large and at least a good ten feet deep. If Haruko hadn't grabbed her at the last second she could have ended up stuck down there for who knows how long.

"Careful. Haruka warned us that there would be traps." Haruko warned after pulling Asagi up by her arm.

"Yeah, but I didn't think we would run into one so soon."

"Let's avoid walking on direct trails for now, and find our objective to link up with the others."

Later that day, Lelouch and Yuzuka neared their destination. To confirm their location, Yuzuka climbed up a tree to get a bird's eye view of their location and hopefully their objective. Yuzuka was mindful to stay hidden before she climbed down to report to Lelouch.

"It looks like the motor pool is over there," Yuzuka informed once she was back on the ground. "I didn't notice any guards, but there are at least a dozen vehicles."

"They might have other forms of surveillance protecting the place that are hidden." Lelouch said with one hand on his chin. "It would be too easy otherwise."

"Hard to imagine that they go this far to prepare new recruits," Yuzuka remarked. "When my dad first told me, I thought he was joking or just trying to dissuade me from joining the army."

"It is extreme, but I know that TSF pilots face a frighteningly high mortality rate," Lelouch explained as he moved closer to the base with Yuzuka.

"As someone who faced the BETA, I'll take your word for it."

After a few minutes Lelouch and Yuzuka reached a high, ten-foot tall chain-linked fence surrounding the motor pool. There was barbed wire on top, but no signs of cameras or motion sensors. The pair cautiously approached. They kept to the cover of the forest. Even if there were no cameras, it would be foolish to assume that someone wasn't keeping a lookout for them.

"It can't be that easy, after what Haruka and Tsukiko said," Yuzuka pointed out as they stood before the fence.

"I agree, given that Haruka lost her legs attempting this evaluation the first time," Lelouch replied, but he had a sinking suspicion about the fence.

"You think this fence is electrified?"

"I was thinking the same, not that climbing over this fence would be easy, to begin with," Lelouch contemplated.

Following the fence to the cliff edge, the pair came to a lookout tower built along and atop of what Yuzuka recognized as Shiromama Cliff. The cliff hugged the shoreline and shielded the compound from one side and provided a position to overlook the ocean. They cautiously approached. At first glance, they saw nothing, but at the base of the lookout tower, they noticed an open window facing the ocean.

"It can't be that easy?" Yuzuka remarked. As they drew close they could see that there was enough space between the building and cliff for a person to shimmy up to the window.

"That is a steep drop," Lelouch pointed out as he peered over the edge. "We need to be cautious."

"Right," Yuzuka agreed. "So here comes the fun part," Yuzuka said nervously.

"No kidding. Are you ready for this?"

"I am if you are," Yuzuka said, sounding more nervous as she looked down at what would be a hundred-foot drop if they fell.

"Let's be thankful this motor pool wasn't built on the highest part of the cliff," Lelouch commented, trying to dismiss his nervousness. The land on this side of the island sloped upward until the cliff side reached heights of nearly nine-hundred-feet.

"Well," Yuzuka suggested. "How about I go first, then?"

"No, I should go."

"It really should be me. I am stronger than you physically. No offense."

"None taken, but," Lelouch paused with a sigh. "We're procrastinating out of fear, aren't we?"

"Why wouldn't we?"

"Good point," Lelouch said in agreement.

Lucky for them, thanks to the wear and tear of time on the tower's foundations, there were points for the hands and feet of a brave or crazy few to shimmy across the base of the tower.

Neither wanted to rush across as with the wear on the foundations that made it fragile and at risk of a break happening..

The pair were halfway across, and everything was going well. But that only raised their worries something would go wrong.

The winds blew against them, threatening to separate them from the wall they were hugging, which made it more difficult to find good places for their hands and feet.

"Ah," Yuzuka cried, as her grip slipped. Thankfully her reflexes were fast enough that she managed to regain it.

"Are you alright?" Lelouch asked, concerned.

"I am fine. Let's keep moving," Yuzuka replied.

Lelouch followed Yuzuka's lead, replicating her hands and feet placements. The strong gusts were cold and almost blinding if they tried to look toward its oncoming direction.

Minutes felt like hours, but the pair were eventually below the window. Unable to climb up further, Yuzuka and Lelouch realized they were short by only a foot or two since the tower walls offered no useful way to climb up.

"What do we do?" Lelouch asked.

"Get ready to grab the window frame," Yuzuka said, double checking her footing and grip.

"Huh!?"

Lelouch was caught off guard when Yuzuka grabbed him by the back of his belt before lifting Lelouch up with her right arm. Yuzuka grunted from the strain of lifting a sixteen-year-old boy with one arm.

"I got it," Lelouch said, grabbing the window frame before pulling himself up.

Once he was in, Lelouch didn't waste a moment to help Yuzuka.

"Give me your hand," Lelouch said, reaching for her.

Yuzuka grabbed Lelouch's hand, followed by the other.

Knowing the risks and his limited physical strength, Lelouch put all he had into pulling Yuzuka up. Lelouch struggled and grunted with the muscles in his arms burning from the strain.

However, thanks to his physical training, he was able to pull Yuzuka up enough for her to reach the window frame. From there, after getting a good grip, Yuzuka pulled herself in.

The pair collapsed onto the ground, beside each other, breathing heavily. Their breathing remained ragged for a minute or two until Yuzuka uttered.

"Thanks…huff…for…huff…not dropping…huff me."

"Likewise," Lelouch managed in between breaths.

After resting for a few more minutes, Lelouch and Yuzuka got up. Cautiously, they searched the lookout tower they were in for anything of use. They only found a military axe, which Yuzuka took possession of after feeling the sharp edge.

This place was stripped bare, Lelouch observed. Probably to keep us from gaining any potentially useful resources.

"Yuzuka, I am going to the top floor and see if I spot anything we should be concerned about," Lelouch said, ascending the circular stone stairs.

"What more could there still be after what it takes to get past that fence?"

"Remember how they raised the difficulty against us during the mock battle?" Lelouch reminded her as a counter-argument as he headed to the top.

Reaching the top floor, Lelouch approached a window and looked down. He carefully scanned the area for anything suspicious or out of place. Moments of peace were when sudden surprises were most likely to catch people off guard and could easily spell death on the battlefield.

"Take a look over there," Lelouch pointed.

"What is it?" Yuzuka called out as she stepped outside the tower. "I'm sure they wouldn't make the course super dangerous like…Oh."

Yuzuka trailed off as her eyes focused on the wire before her. She could then see multiple similar wires strewn across the ground and strung up between rocks and trees. Each wire connected to what looked like explosives. She froze in place as her heart stopped from the danger before her.

"Just like an actual booby trapped area," Lelouch remarked. "The instructors did a good job imitating what a competent enemy would do."

"Even so, this looks…overkill."

"But it's also good for us."

"Huh!?" Yuzuka jumped at his sudden statement. "Are you mad? We're in the middle of a death trap right here!"

"Yes, but if we're careful enough, we can deactivate and reuse these against them," Lelouch explained. "I'll guide you where to cut the wires. Afterward, we'll check to see if there's anything else that might trigger those charges. Once it's clear, you can retrieve the explosives for us to use."

"Me?" Yuzuka asked, understandably hesitant.

"You want to trade places?"

"Uh, I'll go," Yuzuka didn't take long to prefer disarming the tripwires. She had difficulty spotting them, while Lelouch could easily see where they were.

From above, Lelouch called out whenever Yuzuka got too close to a wire, and how to evade them. Thanks to Lelouch, Yuzuka drew close to the first of the bombs, which appeared simple to disarm. It only had one visible wire to cut. Using the ax blade as a makeshift wire cutter, Yuzuka cut the red wire that disabled the bomb.

"Got it," Yuzuka shouted.

"Good work. Now you have six more to disarm."

Yuzuka steeled herself, as Lelouch gave further instructions.

"Be careful. You have three wires low on the ground ahead of you," Lelouch cautioned.

"I see them," Yuzuka replied.

"Once you pass them, there are more ahead," Lelouch warned. "They are strung up between those trees, right in front of the next explosive."

"Got it," Yuzuka replied as she bent down to go under them and drew closer to the next bomb. After passing the next set of wires, Yuzuka reached the bomb and quickly disarmed it.

Thanks to Lelouch helping her, and the ample sunlight, Yuzuka successfully disarmed all the bombs. As she gathered them up, Lelouch came down from the lookout.

Yuzuka spoke, when Lelouch rejoined her. "Say, Lelouch…"

"What is it?" Lelouch listened.

"About that comment earlier, back at the start. Is it true? That you stole a car once?"

Yuzuka's question was not unexpected, but it still caught Lelouch off guard. Her voice sounded calm, but he could tell it was a facade. He had already been through this before with Nunnally so he decided to play up his audacity.

"I did."

"When exactly did you do such a thing?"

"About six years ago."

"Six years," Yuzuka was taken aback. Her face grew hot as she tightened her grip on her axe. "You stole a car when you were nine years old!? Do you know how dangerous it is!? What were you thinking back then!?"

"For a correction, I was ten years old," Lelouch replied despite knowing it would make her angrier. "For clarification, I only jump-started the car when we took it. My friend did the actual driving."

"Still, doing that isn't just crazy, that's just plain stupid! And I assume your friend was the same age? I hope you two were caught and got quite the spanking for it!"

"Sorry to get your hopes up, but we didn't," Lelouch smirked.

"How were you not caught?" Yuzuka inquired, raising her axe. "What happened back then? Was your friend that good of a driver?"

"You have no idea," Lelouch chuckled for the moment. "At the very least, he drove good enough to get us out of trouble."

"When did he even learn how to drive a car? Was he taught at that young of an age?"

"Sort of," Lelouch knew sharing would be a little complicated. "It's something we have back in my world called video games."

"Video games?" Yuzuka's confusion was expected. "What's that?"

"You know the TSF simulators that you have in this world? Well, video games are like that if they were for public use."

"For the public?" Yuzuka stated, surprised. "Huh, never thought of that."

"And I don't expect you to do so. My world had a little more peacetime, so it makes sense they were designed for civilians. One set of games was where even children could unconsciously learn how to drive vehicles."

"And your friend learned from that? Sounds a little reckless if you ask me."

"That's fair, but a war had just broken out," Lelouch pointed out. "We had to escape the coastline and the cities."

"And you had your crippled younger sister to worry about."

"That's right," Lelouch said as Yuzuka followed him. The pair entered the depot and approached one of the parked transports.

These look identical to trucks used by Britannia about thirty or forty years ago, Lelouch thought, recalling having seen similar vehicles from educational films.

His hopes for using the vehicle were dashed when he opened the hood to see the engine and saw its rusted, broken state..

"I can't say I am shocked, but it would've been nice to hotwire one of these for us to use," Lelouch sighed before closing the hood.

"You, of all people, should've known none of these are usable," Yuzuka lightly scolded Lelouch. "Even if these trucks weren't gutted, there is no way they would work after being neglected and left to the mercy of the elements for so long."

"No harm in trying," Lelouch argued.

"Why don't I do something about the fence so we can leave," Yuzuka suggested after nodding with both hands on her hips. "I'll let you repurpose these bombs to blow this place up."

"Good plan, I'll get to work."

Haruka and Tsukiko exited the forest to find the remains of a small town, much of which was overgrown as nature had reclaimed much of it. Some buildings had collapsed due to neglect or nature, such as trees or vines growing through the structures in such a way their structural integrity was compromised until they came apart.

Even the wood that made them had rotted away.

"This place has seen better days," Tsukiko remarked.

"We should be careful. Some of these buildings might have a basement that we could fall into if we aren't careful," Haruka warned, glancing at some abandoned homes.

"Right, although if these buildings have been abandoned for fifty years, I don't know what we could find that could be useful," Tsukiko commented, doubtful.

The pair walked in silence until, in the corner of her eye, Tsukiko noticed an abandoned jeep. Haruka cautiously stepped away from it, seemingly on instinct.

I wonder, Tsukiko thought.

Haruka and Tsukiko walked silently, but as they passed another abandoned vehicle, Haruka cautiously moved away. This time, Tsukiko didn't notice any sign of fright on her face; rather, it was almost instinctive.

Now that I think about it, Haruka didn't mention how she lost her legs. Did it have something to do with a vehicle?

Tsukiko decided against asking, not wanting to bring up any unpleasant memories. Considering how she had her own unpleasant memories, she understood not wanting to share those experiences.

Eventually, the two reached a small clearing, their destination about a hundred yards ahead.

Given how much nature had grown over much of the long-abandoned structures, it was hard to tell what it was. The rusting remains of a chain-link fence encircling it suggested it was once a government building. Automatically, based on the briefing, they knew this was a command center. Maybe it became both.

However, there was a problem.

"Are those..." Tsukiko noticed flying drones surrounding the command center. They were military-grade and armed with anti-personnel weaponry.

"Those are the kind used to attack enemy infantry," Haruka recognized.

"So how are we supposed to get past those?"

"Let's look around and see if we can't find an alternative path," Haruka suggested, knowing rushing the building would be suicide.

"Right. Let's hope there is something we can work with."

Sometime later, Lelouch and Yuzuka had managed to finish planting all the repurposed bombs. After retrieving their packs, Yuzuka and Lelouch didn't waste time getting as far away as possible. The timers were set for an hour to ensure they had enough time to put distance between themselves and the depot, but neither wanted to waste time being idle as both Lelouch and Yuzuka knew that nighttime would come soon. They needed to find shelter for the night since they lacked any reliable means of navigating through the dark, and since the island had its fair share of booby traps, that was a risk neither was willing to take.

"You think we can get far enough away?" Yuzuka asked as they hurried through the forest..

"Hopefully," Lelouch suggested in between breaths. "If this island has any hostiles on it, it would be best if we got further away."

"So what's next?"

"Let's start making our way towards the rendezvous point, but it's going to be dark soon," Lelouch said, glancing at the sun as it was nearing the horizon with the color of the sky changing to an orange hue.

"Are you suggesting finding shelter for the night?"

Lelouch nodded, "After today, I think we both need the rest."

"I agree, but where?"

"Let's head for the lighthouse. It's not too far away and we just have to stick close to the shoreline to reach it. That might be among the few places we can safely rest for the night."

"But didn't Marimo say we can't break any part of the lighthouse or take anything from it?"

"True, but she didn't say anything about breaking in," Lelouch said with a grin.

"You got some kind of plan?" Yuzuka inquired curiously.

"I do. Follow me."

Haruka and Tsukiko sought shelter for the night. They knew attempting to sneak by armed drones at night would be impossible, but unlike Yuzuka and Lelouch, the pair had few choices for where to sleep. The abandoned buildings were a possibility, but besides having questionable structural integrity, neither liked sleeping in a proximity that felt too close to the drones.

The pair decided to use an abandoned store, that a tree grew through, to sleep in. Haruka leaned against it in deep contemplation.

"I am back," Tsukiko returned with a bundle of firewood.

"Oh, need me to help?"

"No, I got it. Besides, you seem to be thinking about something. Care to share?"

"I've been thinking about how we would get to our destination," Haruka replied as Tsukiko created a makeshift fire pit..

"So, any idea for how we get past those drones?" Tsukiko asked as she stacked the sticks in the pit.

"Well, trying to find an alternative route has failed, so we'll need a diversion to get by them."

"How do you suggest we do that?"

"I'm not sure yet, but we need one since they've left no openings we can't exploit," Haruka said, recalling what they observed from the drones.

Knowing they couldn't remain in the air indefinitely, the pair watched to see how long the drones could fly. Unfortunately, before returning to recharge, a second set of drones would fly out to replace them before the first set would leave. The process would then repeat itself.

It was plain as day that their only option would be to distract the drones.

"So what will we do?"

"I have an idea," Haruka said, having an eureka moment.

Suddenly, an explosion sounded in the distance, startling the two.

"What the hell was that!?" Tsukiko said as she jumped to her feet.

"Someone accomplished their objective," Haruka replied with a bemused smile.

"In that case, let me get this fire going so we can celebrate with some dinner," Tsukiko said as she went back to working on lighting the campfire.

"Whew, I am glad we got far away from that," Yuzuka commented after hearing the explosion.

"Our repurposed bomb went off without problems then."

"So what's your follow-up plan?" Yuzuka asked.

"First, I need to see if my suspicions are right," Lelouch replied as he and Yuzuka approached the lighthouse.

Unlike the other structures on the island, the lighthouse was still well maintained. Connected was a two-story house made of brick with a wooden roof covered with solar panels. It was likely maintained by only one or two people who were likely sent out, periodically, for necessary maintenance.

"Originally, the lighthouse was overseen by someone who lived here, but when they converted it to be fully automated," Yuzuka explained as she looked around the lighthouse with Lelouch.

"There!" Lelouch pointed to where an open window could be seen. It was cracked open, and just large enough that if they could reach it, they could squeeze through and enter.

"Oh," Yuzuka said, realizing what Lelouch had in mind. "How about I handle the next part?"

"You sure?" Lelouch asked, trying to be a gentleman.

"I am. Here, give me a boost up." Yuzuka climbed onto Lelouch's shoulder and reached for the window. She managed to grab a hold and pull herself in.

Then, to Lelouch's relief, Yuzuka easily opened the window before crawling inside. Once Yuzuka was inside Lelouch went to the door and waited for her to open it.

I am glad that worked out, Lelouch thought, fearing he wasn't going to be able to support Yuzuka on his shoulders.

Lelouch didn't have to wait long for Yuzuka to make her way downstairs to unlock the door to let the young man inside.

"Care to come in," Yuzuka offered jokingly.

"Don't mind if I do," Lelouch replied with a smile.

Once inside, the pair locked the door before surveying the house. As expected, it was almost bare save for a few things, such as a radio, a sofa, and a simple coffee table. The dining room had a small table and a pair of chairs.

"I guess this place was set if maintenance ever has to stay the night," Yuzuka said, looking around.

"That is likely, or maybe if they travel by boat, they just stay the night before making the trip back to the mainland," Lelouch agreed.

"That would make sense."

Exploring the rest of the house, Lelouch and Yuzuka found the bedroom sparsely furnished beyond a pair of beds and a nightstand between them. But something on one of the beds caught their eye.

"What's that?" Yuzuka asked as she and Lelouch approached the gun case.

"Let's see what we got," Lelouch knelt down to open the case and revealed what appeared to be a breech-loading, single-shot, bolt-action sniper rifle.

It was forty-five inches long with a silver finish and an attached scope. The case held four large fifty-caliber bullets.

"There is a note," Yuzuka pointed out.

"Let's see…" Lelouch said, picking up the letter to read its contents.

If you are reading this, I assume you and Yuzuka noticed my choice of words, so you can have this bonus tool to aid you in the objectives. Remember you have only a few shots, use them well.

"Not many shots, but why give us such a gun?" Yuzuka picked up one of the bullets to inspect them. "These bullets look like they could punch through a tank."

"Good question, which I consider a worrying sign." Lelouch wondered what test or obstacle could demand the use of such a weapon. "We'll carry it with us in the morning, but let's eat something for now. This place likely has working water and a stove we can use."

"Sounds like a good idea."

Yuzuka and Lelouch headed downstairs, and after a while, they used a cooking pot they found to boil water from the sink. They then used the flameless heater with one of their provisions, MREs, also known as Meals Ready to Eat. Once they prepared the water, Yuzuka lit an old oil lamp to provide lightning for them to eat.

The pair made fruit drinks using the boiled water and mixing powder from their provisions. They located some glasses and other dishes that the pair decided to use.

"Mind if I ask you something?" Yuzuka said while eating her choice of fried rice and grilled chicken.

"Go ahead."

"If you don't mind me asking, why did Claude pick you for all this? I have nothing against you or anything but…uh," Yuzuka trailed off, not trying to offend Lelouch.

"Good question. I wonder that myself," Lelouch answered before sipping from his fruit drink. "I don't accept her reasons for choosing me. Even if some of them were true, given the places where some of our technology originated, I question why she didn't choose someone from those worlds directly."

"That's my question," Yuzuka inquired. "Given your world doesn't seem as advanced as others, why does it have to be you of all people?"

"I wish I had an answer, but I suspect it ties into her agenda," Lelouch said as he ate another forkful of his dinner. "I can only guess, but I can't say without further information."

"Maybe something special about you or your world?"

Lelouch considered that for a moment.

"Other than being a former prince and our world having Sakuradite, nothing else comes to mind."

"What is Sakuradite?"

"A superconductive material used in a lot of recent technology, especially for developing Knightmare Frames. They are key to making their power systems, so Sakuradite has become increasingly in demand. One of the key reasons why the Japan of my world was invaded was to gain control of its mines, which provided seventy percent of the world's supply."

"Knightmare Frames, basically a tiny version of a TSF?" Yuzuka reviewed as Lelouch replied with a nod.

"The general application for them, yes," Lelouch replied while Yuzuka ate another fork full of food. "Other than being used as potent explosives, detonating an enormous amount of Sakuradite can be very destructive."

"Wow, that sounds powerful," Yuzuka replied. She hesitated, but she has been wanting to ask this next question for a while. "So, a more personal question, if you don't mind. I've been curious since I learned about it. You were a prince of a nation?"

"One of many in line for the throne. When I was exiled, I lost all rights to the throne, which doesn't bother me, if I am honest."

"How many were there, competing for the throne?"

"Last I checked, there were at least fifteen contenders among the princes worth mentioning. I am one of many children the Emperor had, at least more than a hundred."

"How…how many wives did he have?" Yuzuka asked, shocked by the number of half-siblings.

"One hundred and eight consorts," Lelouch answered, causing Yuzuka's jaw to drop, silently wording the number he had just given her. "In case you wonder, yes, polygamy is legal in Britannia. It isn't solely dependent on your social rank in the nobility, but only if you have the needed wealth to support such a relationship."

"Competition for the throne must be crazy," Yuzuka said, reeling from that revelation. "I don't think the Emperor of Japan at any point in history had that many consorts."

"Yes, but the competition are also very bloody," Lelouch replied calmly while Yuzuka looked at him sympathetically. "Assassinations among the contenders are a regular occurrence. My mother was a victim of this, and my sister nearly lost her life during that same incident. After I was exiled, I heard another consort and one of her daughters was killed in a bombing, shortly before the war between Japan and Britannia erupted."

"And the Emperor just banished you and your sister to Japan just for speaking to him about the loss of your mother?"

"Not exactly, but that is generally what happened. All the more reason I chose not to return to Britannia, and accepted the Ashford Family's help in faking our deaths and taking new identities," Lelouch explained. "Even if they were allies of our mother, they only did so in order to have us as liability insurance."

"You know," Yuzuka paused to eat again. "I understand why you were willing to endure so much for Claude's deal."

"Given everything I've seen and come from, I understand. Coming here from my world must seem like an act of insanity."

"You have a good reason, don't you? You want revenge for yourself, your sister, and your mother?"

"It's more than that," Lelouch acknowledged. "The Ashford Family is looking after Nunnally and me, but we have some issues with being liability insurance. Who knows how long they'll continue to shelter us? Then there is…the fact I feel like I am dying a slow death."

"I…" Yuzuka stuttered, caught off guard and not knowing what to say.

"Imagine going through it daily, the fear of being cast aside or found, and ending up as another casualty of royal ambition. Imagine being unable to do anything about it and going through the motions of living. Each day is a routine where I must lie and hide who I am from others. It's what I call a slow death. Even if I don't trust her, I would take a gamble by accepting Claude's bargain if it means I no longer have to lie to myself."

"So we're seeing the real you more than what people in your world see?"

"That is right." Lelouch went back to his food, breaking eye contact.

"I even know what losing a mother and siblings is like." Yuzuka's response caused Lelouch to look up at her. "It's unfair you get to share something personal with me, so allow me to return the favor. My father, Sarutobi, owns Japan's biggest TSF production company. I was the youngest of three children my father had with my mother, Tomoko."

Lelouch listened silently. Although he wanted to say something, he allowed Yuzuka to continue.

"My older brother became a TSF pilot while my older sister, the middle child, became an engineer who worked for both my father's company and the military, acting as a liaison at times," Yuzuka said, before falling silent for a moment, adding. "They were both in Kyushu when the BETA invasion happened, and my mother was trying to help my dad's grandparents living in Kumamoto. She tried to escape, but her chance to evacuate was denied because members of the Royal Guard were prioritizing their own families and friends, hogging the much needed transports to escape. They were prioritizing protecting "politically important" places rather than strategic ones or the cities."

Lelouch observed Yuzuka's expression, noticing both sadness and anger mixed together. He now understood where Yuzuka's distrust of the elitists of the Royal Guard came from. He wondered if the demise of her siblings must've been tied to that as well, but opted against asking her.

"I am sorry for your loss," Lelouch said, with an expression of understanding.

"That's okay. It was unfair for you to share something personal with me, so we're even."

"It wasn't necessary, but thank you."

"Not at all," Yuzuka said, before deciding to change the subject. "So, what is the plan for tomorrow?"

"We should try to call the others and learn where they stand with their objectives," Lelouch suggested, accepting the change in subject.

"Do you think they accomplished their objectives?"

"I wish I knew, but our radios have limited use," Lelouch answered.

"Right, but I hope the others are doing alright."

"I am sure Haruka and Tsukiko are doing fine since they've both done the evaluation before, but…"

"But?" Yuzuka inquired as Lelouch looked to the side.

"I am worried about the other two."

A/N: Whew a short chapter, but the other two should make up for it with chapter 11 ready to go, but I'll be posting it in two weeks from today as normal.

Worthy of note is that I had to be creative with Yuzuka's backstory because while it was well out of my limited budget to the Day After visual novels there was a YouTube walkthrough I was able to watch, which I found no further details on how Yuzuka's mother, older brother and older sister had died. The wiki had nothing beyond the fact they were dead and her dad was still alive, which I also watched said walkthrough to see if he appeared so I could gauge what he is like, but no I didn't see him. So I had to be creative with it, making it in a way that matches her issues with the Royal Guard to keep her in character as much as possible since she is appearing much earlier than in canon. My experts in all things Muv Luv, and main beta Silkdreamweaver and Jameyofthemegacosmos, didn't seem to mind the idea, so I figured it was cool.

Lelouch and Yuzuka's challenge was tricky, since as I've said I did want to make it both challenging and demanding teamwork, so I hope it worked. Also the gun they found, it was based off of the anti-tank rifle used by Burt Gummer from Tremors 2, the Grizzly Single Shot .50 Caliber BMG, so yeah wonder WHY they would need something like that. As for Yuzuka's strength, she isn't super strong, but considering how in the Day After and outside of it (like in her summer variant from Muv Luv Dimensions where she has one in her hand) she has been shown with an ax which I thought could mean she was much stronger than she looks to have a preference for them and her finding a military ax was a shout out too.

As for Asagi and Haruko's test, let's just say there's will be more psychological in nature.

No new specs for this chapter, at least until chapter fourteen.

But I do look forward to chapter thirteen being posted, because its probably the best in character moments and development I have ever done.

Thank you all for reading this chapter and I thank you all in advance for your feedback, they are always encouraging and very much appreciated.

StrifeHavoc · Jul 4, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story. I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

Thanks to everyone who commented and left a like they are greatly appreciated and always encouraging.

Also the poll on my profile page is still ongoing with the vote still favoring Ichika going with Lelouch by 15 to 11.

Chapter 11

Graduation Part II

Just as the other two pairs dealt with their objectives, Asagi and Haruko faced their own. Unlike the other two teams, they had no prior experience with the Comprehensive Skill Evaluation beyond what Haruka and Tsukiko had told them. While helpful, they feared it wouldn't be enough. Especially given how much Marimo had increased the difficulty against them in the mock battle.

However, while Asagi and Haruko found their objective, they were troubled by what they were seeing, especially Asagi.

"What is this red stuff on the walls?" Asagi said, feeling uneasy.

"Ugh, I want to know what that smell is," Haruko replied.

"Is this blood or something? Can't be, but why is there so much of it at this old missile base?" Asagi questioned as her face slightly paled.

"It has to be some trick to mess with us. I mean, I don't see any guards to keep us out and that chain link fence looks easy enough to climb over," Haruko said, before using a running start to scale the fence.

Once on the other side, she gestured for Asagi to follow her.

Despite her unease and how nauseous the smell was, Asagi was able to easily climb over the fence.

"No guards, no cameras, no nothing," Asagi commented before she noticed more dried blood at the entrance of the facility. She couldn't shake her growing uneasiness.

"I don't like it either, but why all of this blood? Maybe it's all an effort to psyche us out or something," Haruko tried to explain. "If it makes you feel better, I can go first."

"Sure, I'll take up the rear," Asagi replied following Haruko as the pair journeyed to the entrance leading underground.

Still Haruko wasn't taking any chances, she found an old rusted pipe and still had some rocks on hand. However, unlike the forest where they could spot such traps with the sun's light, as they ventured deeper into the underground depths of the missile base the darkness would be far from accommodating. Thankfully, the two did have a flashlight on hand to help them to navigate the interior of the base.

"Did they have to smear that stuff all over the place?" Asagi complained, wanting to throw up from the smell.

"Let's just hurry through this place and get out, they are just trying to freak us out."

"Okay, but what are we supposed to find?"

"Probably in the base's control room or somewhere near it. That would seem like the most likely area to search," Haruko replied, while struggling to ignore the horrible stench.

Ahead their path was blocked by a collapsed platform that led out into an old missile silo that was empty, forcing the pair to head down a set of stairs leading further underground. Following the hallway, the group came across a row of lockers, which probably had equipment and tools for use in the silo. The lockers were quite large, so when Asagi decided to inspect one while Haruko was looking around, checking if any of them were boobytrapped, the one she opened had a body suddenly fall upon her.

"AHHHHHH!" Asagi screamed, shoving the body before backing away in fright until she hit the wall.

Then, unaware of her surroundings as her mind was occupied with thoughts of escape. Haruko had to put the flashlight down and grab the panicking blonde woman as she tried to calm her down.

"Asagi, get a hold off of yourself!" Haruko shouted trying to get through to Asagi, but when she kept hyperventilating, Haruko was forced to slap her to get her mind to focus. "Calm down and look at me. That isn't a dead body."

Haruko knelt next to the body while flashing a light upon the so-called corpse that fell on Asagi, at a glance it looked like a body dressed in an old military uniform with brown hair. However, the skin was a transparent yellow. Removing the brown hair, which was nothing more than a wig attached to the head, they could see a visible skull under the transparent skin.

"This is a ballistic gel dummy. They come complete with its own human-like skeleton and blood provided by fake organs placed inside. They use these as test dummies when gauging the durability and stress of TSF cockpits to make sure the pilot would be safe," Haruko said, calmingly assessing the situation. "If the dummy was damaged in any way, they could see how. Whether it was stress from the G-Forces while piloting or injuries from damage to the cockpit itself."

"Why the heck is one here!?"

"I don't know, but I suspect parts of this objective was made with you in mind?"

"Me," Asagi exclaimed, surprised.

"You seem to be the only one who isn't handling this place well, so you tell me?" Haruko replied, stepping away from the fallen dummy.

"I…I…"

"Maybe you should just wait outside, I can probably continue on my own," Haruko offered.

"Uh, are you sure?" Asagi asked, hesitant to let her friend and fellow squad mate continue alone despite her fear.

"You could stay, but I don't want to have to calm you down if we run into a trap or something," Haruko explained.

"But they'll probably make sure whatever is ahead would require both of us to complete," Asagi pointed out, something even Haruko had to acknowledge.

"You're probably right. Alright, keep a distance and let me go ahead."

"O-Okay," Asagi said, feeling ashamed of her fear.

They are doing this because they know about my accident in Kyoto.

Asagi recalled when she attended a specialized technical school in her last few years, studying to become an engineer. She still remembered it as if it were yesterday when the BETA had reached Kyoto. She had been reluctant to leave her roommate behind and had been trying to convince her to leave. But the woman refused to leave the city without her grandmother, who refused to leave her apartment in downtown Kyoto. The pair tried to reason with her when it happened.

Asagi would learn later that a Destroyer had rammed the building she and her roommate were in. The whole thing collapsed, but Asagi luckily survived as she was buried under the rubble.

Unfortunately, her roommate, her grandmother, and others still in the building were not lucky. Even worse, Asagi could see their corpses and their limbs sticking out from the debris due to the fires and barely working lights. Asagi desperately tried to escape, but her legs were pinned and she was trapped. For a while there she laid there, haunted by the knowledge that she was buried alive with the dead.

Thankfully, something had caused the rubble to give way, giving Asagi a chance to escape. She was later found by rescue teams searching Kyoto for survivors.

Once the draft called for her, Asagi accepted immediately, wanting to avenge her friend and family and having nowhere else to go. Despite the rough training, she could take it due to the images of the dead burned into her mind. Or at least that's what she thought back then. There was one other incident where a recruit injured herself and had to be taken to the infirmary, resulting in a sudden relapse on that day. Asagi managed to shrug it off afterward, thinking that she was okay.

She didn't tell anyone about it, but those in the infirmary departments probably knew otherwise. The instructor staff probably learned about it from the background check and psych test the military does.

They got the better of me there, figuring out that I had this condition. Asagi slowed her breathing and wiped the sweat off her head. I just…I just…

"Asagi, hang in there," Haruko patted Asagi's back, startling her.

"WHA-"

"Asagi! Asagi!" Haruko hugged her, afraid she would panic again. "Asagi, please…"

"Sorry. I just…"

"I'm not going anywhere, and it's not about the training," Haruko told her. "Look, I admit that I don't know about the death of a loved one or friends, so I have no right to say anything about that,. but I know that people are counting on us, especially Lelouch. I honestly don't know why he was chosen either, but I do know that we were picked for a reason, just like he was, and it was not to be cannon fodder."

"I…I…"

"Just breathe, Asagi," Haruko encouraged.

"You're…" Asagi's breathing slowed down. "You're right, Haruko. I'm…sorry that you had to see me in such a sorry state."

"Let's take it one step at a time then," Haruko said, encouragingly.

With Haruko taking the lead, she and Asagi made their way through the rest of the missile base. As they proceeded they found other dummies dressed up as military personnel and prisoners with weapons, ranging from handguns to knives.

"Looks like all of this was to simulate an escape attempt," Haruko said, kneeling down next to one of the bodies to inspect one of the handguns. "Of course none of these weapons are real."

"Then that means the guy we are supposed to save?"

"Is probably among the dead, but we should still look around for anything we can use," Haruko suggested as she began searching the bodies of the dead." Asagi, why don't you check out the desk in that office over there?"

"Uh…sure," Asagi replied, relieved she wasn't asked to search for anything on the bodies.

Even knowing the corpses were fake, she felt uneasy about all of it. It still felt like the dummies were staring at them.

Their searches were fruitless. Neither girl found anything useful, so the pair moved onto another part of the base. They repeated this while being mindful of traps. Neither had a watch, so it was hard to tell how much time had passed, but eventually their searching led Haruko and Asagi to find an interrogation room with a body inside.

It was slumped over, while the body was securely tied to a metal chair.

"I guess that was the guy we were meant to find," Haruko said, seeing their objective was a dummy. They clearly weren't meant to find a live person for their objective.

"So maybe what we're supposed to find is on him," Asagi said, as her face paled as she realized what the exercise for the exam may be.

"Maybe we don't have to go that far," Haruko replied, trying to dispel Asagi's worries. She was also feeling squeamish at the idea of cutting the dummy open to retrieve whatever they needed.

Pulling the chair with the dead dummy away, Haruko began turning out the dummy's pockets. Meanwhile, to distract herself, Asagi began searching the room next to the interrogation room. Checking the pocket, drawers and anything else within the room for anything that could be the intel they sought. Time passed as the pair continued their search, but neither had found anything.

Please be here. I really don't want to cut this dummy open, fake or not, Haruko thought as she removed the dummy's shoes, hoping whatever intel was hidden inside.

With a sigh Haruko removed the shirt of the dummy, and began trying to look through the transparent skin for signs of what they were looking for. There in the stomach, Haruko caught sight of a thin metal cylinder. Which was good as she found what they were looking for, but also it meant she would have to cut open the dummy to get it.

"The damn thing is going to spray all over the place, isn't it?" Haruko complained, putting on the jacket of the dummy and trying to cover herself as much as possible using other clothing articles nearby.

Reluctantly, Haruko cut into the transparent flesh. Sure enough once Haruko had cut deep enough, blood erupted from it, making a mess on her. Thankfully, the jacket protected her from much of the mess.

"I know it's fake, but damn this feels nasty and it smells bad too," Haruko complained, struggling not to gag on the horrible smell. Nearly throwing up in the effort, Haruko retrieved the cylinder.

"What the heck happened?" Asagi asked from the doorway, noticing the blood all over Haruko.

"I got what we needed, let's get out of here!"

"Right, but maybe once we're out, we should go to the shore so you can clean up," Asagi said, forced to cover her nose from the smell.

"No kidding, all the more reason to get the heck out of this place," Haruko said in agreement before noticing something in Asagi's hands. "What's that?"

"I am not sure," Asagi admitted, holding what appeared to be a case. "But given how new it looks compared to everything in this place, it might be useful so I took it."

"Good call. Haruka mentioned that these tests usually leave tools for the teams to find. Such tools are intended to help them through the final objective," Haruko explained, glad for Asagi's discovery. "We'll look at it once we're out."

Yuzuka and Lelouch awoke the following morning. After breakfast the two cleaned up and made sure to leave the place as they left it. Considering the building would still be in service after the exam, it was best not to leave it in a state that could get them in trouble. Lelouch and Yuzuka did take advantage of the fact the house had fresh running water to refill their canteens. They also used some plastic and duct tape they found to fashion some make-shift water skins to carry more water. Not just for themselves, but their fellow teammates.

Upon finishing their preparations Yuzuka and Lelouch left the house behind them. Should they or any of the others need it again, Lelouch left one of the first-floor windows open enough for someone to pry open with their fingers..

"So we're going to the missile silo first?" Yuzuka asked, wanting to confirm their plan.

And to break the silence that had become unbearable for her.

"Yes, but the quickest route would take us near the other team's objective. So we'll go by their objective to see if we can't get lucky and run into them," Lelouch answered.

"Alright, so it's onto the missile silo, then the last objective?"

"That's right," Lelouch wondered. I hope nothing has gone wrong for the others, Lelouch thought.

Haruka laid out her plan to Tsukiko after the two awoke after a difficult night of sleeping in the trees.

"I say we gather what metal and anything we can use for rope so we can set up distractions to draw them away. If it works we can make a run for the building then get inside before they come back," Haruka suggested. "These drones should respond to motion, so we just need to make a lot of motion they can't ignore."

"So how are we going to do this? I doubt that will draw them away for long?"

"I got an idea for that," Haruka replied

They worked on gathering supplies for the next two hours. They got lucky that they found some rope; old as it was, it would be enough to serve their purposes. Once they were finished, the pair readied their distraction and timer, consisting of a piece of rope slowly rubbing against a sharp, jagged piece of metal, allowing Haruka and Tsukiko to put some distance between them and their diversion.

"I hope this idea works," Tsukiko said, wiping sweat from her brow.

"Me too. Once the drones move away make for the building," Haruka said as she and Tsukiko got ready to run.

"Yeah and I am ready with our key to the building," Tsukiko said, checking that the brick she was carrying in one of her pouches was secured since they would need to scale the fence surrounding the building as quickly as possible.

Waiting for what felt like hours, the rope eventually snapped, releasing their distraction.

An old metal wagon, the kind a child would've owned with a crudely made metal scarecrow with a bell and metal hanging from its limbs to create as much noise and movement as possible. The road it was rolling down, brought it close to the building and within sight of the drones. Although parts of the asphalt road were in disrepair, it was still usable for the wagon to roll down the road.

"GO!" Haruka shouted as the drones were lured away.

Haruka and Tsukiko made a mad dash for the building, climbing over the fence before running for the entrance. The drones hadn't returned yet, but they could hear gunfire meaning their time was running out.

Only there was a problem, the brick Tsukiko had been carrying had fallen from the pouch she had it in.

"Tsukiko, the window!"

"I got it," Tsukiko said, sprinting towards the window.

She jumped up, using her arms as a shield as she dove through the window, shattering the glass. Tsukiko had managed to land on her feet after turning her body through the window, avoiding potential injury. Haruka followed behind her.

They could've tried the doors, but neither one wanted to risk a locked door.

"Tsukiko, are you alright?"

"I am fine," Tsukiko replied, noticing cuts on her arms.

The cuts were light with slight bleeding.

"Let's get further inside so I can take care of that," Haruka advised, offering a hand to help Tsukiko up.

Moving into the hallway beyond their room, Haruka pulled out the first aid kit. Despite their limited supplies, Haruka needed to take care of Tsukiko's injuries to prevent an infection.

"Okay, that should do it," Haruka stated as she finished tending to Tsukiko's injuries.

"Thanks," Tsukiko said, flexing her arms. "I hope there is a way to turn those drones off."

"The control center should have something to turn them off. If I can get there, I should be able to shut them off."

"And if we don't, we become big, fat targets for those drones."

"Not quite," Haruka shook her head. "While observing the drones, I recognized their patterns. It seems they don't go anywhere near the control room. In a real-life scenario, it would be to avoid collateral damage and destruction of the equipment that coordinates them properly."

"So, we have to be careful of any other drones out there, but once we're there we should be clear."

"For this part of the journey, yes," Haruka nodded in agreement.

While the drones outside were a threat, Haruka and Tsukiko knew that just getting into the building was step one. From past experience in the last evaluation they took part in, there would be drones inside. They likely wouldn't be armed with live rounds, which was to avoid damaging the building which was old and left to the mercy of the elements. Drones shooting around inside the building couldn't compromise its integrity or damage the power sources needed to keep them operating.

But that didn't mean the drones within the building wouldn't be a danger in their own way.

Cautiously Haruka tossed a small rock out into the hallway leading to their destination, checking if there were any drones or traps lying in wait.

When nothing happened Haruka gestured for Tsukiko to follow. The pair silently went through the building to avoid any potential noise base traps or drones. Hopefully, the drones would act like the drones on the outside.

With that in mind the pair cautiously advanced deeper into the building.

But as they progressed deeper, their path was blocked by new automated drones. This time, they were all land-based with four wheels meant for flat terrain..

How did they ever make things like that? Tsukiko wondered as she ran. They're small, so they shouldn't be too hard to take out.

Something shot from the center of the drone, which looked like a wire or cable. It barely missed her, but she could feel an electric current passing through it.

Looks like I spoke too soon.

Haruka and Tsukiko retreated and hid in an empty room after backtracking far enough so the drones didn't see them enter. Once inside the two women closed the door to talk strategy.

"Well, you were right about a few drones patrolling the hallways," Tuskiko remarked.

"Those machines are different from the ones we saw," Haruka remarked. "Those ground drones must be used for incapacitating and detaining intruders to cover for their inability to use lethal force."

"Right, because live rounds could cause too much collateral damage," Tsukiko said, nodding her head.

"They seem to react to motion and not noise, just like the drones outside," Haruka deduced, recalling how one of the drones attacked Tsukiko while they had avoided making any noise.

"Stay here, I think I got a way to handle this. First I need some way for them to follow me," Tsukiko said, an idea came to mind.

"What are you planning?"

"Trust me, just wait here," Tsukiko said, carrying out a quick survey of the room.

The room had likely been a supply room, judging by the empty storage cabinets, and broken crates and storage containers. Unsurprisingly, it had been stripped of any potential weapons, but Tsukiko found a few things to fashion some make-shift tools to help her.

Haruka didn't ask any questions, but only quietly observed.

Using what had been a mop, Tsukiko fashioned a make-shift spear using her knife to sharpen one end after breaking off the head. Then using said knife to cut some tarp she found sticking out of an old crate before attaching it to some old cans, using the cut pieces to tie them together. Finally she found an old broom, which broke off the broom end to make a second spear.

"Ok, just stay here," Tsukiko said, exiting the room with her weapons in hand.

"Tell me what are you doing!?"

Tsukiko had already left the room and soon found the stone she had seen earlier, it seemed it hadn't moved from its position.

If only I could've lured it down the hall, but I guess I'll make due, Tsukiko thought, waiting for the drone to fire its taser.

Tsukiko dodged and in response hurled the spear she crafted from a mop at the drone. The weapon struck where the launched wires were being drawn back into for another shot. Seizing the moment, Tsukiko hurried to the drone, delivering a kick hard enough it smashed it into the wall breaking it.

"One down, but there are probably more," Tsukiko said triumphantly.

Advancing down the hallway, Tsukiko found enough, but broken cables and wires hanging from the ceiling combined with vines made it difficult to use the second spear. So Tsukiko used the tarp, having attached a broken pipe she found to fashion a handle allowing her to hold it up in front of her. The moving cans caused the drone to target them while Tsukiko was hidden from view making her hard to target.

Once Tsukiko closed the distance, she destroyed the second drone with a kick, smashing it. Thankfully the drones weren't very durable

Two down, Tsukiko thought.

Turning a corner, Tsukiko found another drone patrolling a doorway, which Tsukiko noticed electronic lights on the other side of. Readying the second spear, Tsukiko threw it, after dodging its attack, and like before the spear found its mark, stunning the machine, allowing Tsukiko to close the distance to destroy using another kick.

"This must be the control room," Tsukiko said, breathing heavily from slight fatigue.

As she was about to open the door to investigate, Haruka's voice called out from the hall behind her.

"BEHIND YOU!"

Tsukiko reacted instantly, raising her makeshift shield. Had she been a second slower, she would've been tased by a fourth drone. Tsukiko didn't know how she missed it, but it must've been hiding nearby. Tsukiko threw her tarp upon it before breaking it with a drop kick.

But it wasn't over yet, a patrolling fifth drone had arrived, and it was closing in on Tsukiko.

With nothing left, Tsukiko's options seem limited, but…

It will be hard to do it with a slightly cut leg. Tsukiko shook her head at the thought. I can't let that bother me now. It's the only way to take down some of those drones.\

Running towards the dead end of a smaller hallway near the command center, Tsukiko kicked off the walls, bouncing between them. Turning around completely in mid-air, evading the taser attack from the last drone before delivering a kick to the drone, destroying it.

"So, how was that?" Tsukiko asked her teammate, who broke out of her stupor.

"You…you just did an Allbright Turn right there! Don't realize how hard it is to pull off that maneuver!?"

When she had prosthetics, Haruka might have performed the maneuver more accurately and safely. Seeing Tsukiko do it with normal legs almost made her heart stop. Even though they could grow new legs, she did not feel the courage to do such a feat herself.

"Yeah, that was it," Tsukiko confirmed before gesturing for Haruka to follow her into the control. "But why don't you get to work turning the drones off so I can take a break?"

"Good idea," Haruka said as she and Tsukiko entered the control room, after the latter used a part of the drone she broke to smash the see-through glass so she could unlock the door.

Once they were inside, Haruka found a computer linked to transmitters and wires going up into the ceiling and others going into a room behind the control room. It is likely where the recharge stations for the ground-based drones were.

"There doesn't seem to be any high-level encryptions protecting this system, so it should take me just a couple minutes to shut the drones down," Haruka said, using a keyboard at the station to access the control system.

"Then I'll look for our objective?"

"Actually, I think this computer operates the radar, once I unlock the system, I can shut it down completing our objective," Haruka said with a smile.

"Ok, in that case I'll look for anything we can use. The Evaluation always leaves some tool or weapon you can use," Tsukiko said, as she began searching the control center.

Surveying the room, Tsukiko found a handle electronic device. It was fairly large, being about the size of a toaster, with an antenna. Examining it, Tsukiko quickly deduced its function when she turned it on.

"I found something, it looks like a portable radar," Tsukiko said, inspecting the device.

"Good, we'll take it with us. It will likely be key to the final challenge ahead," Haruka said with approval.

"How is it coming along?"

Haruka sighed, "It has been barely a minute, give me some more time."

An hour later, Lelouch and Yuzuka arrived at the town, near the command center where Haruka and Tsukiko were, or at least where they knew the second group would be. Unaware of what kind of dangers lurked or guarded the objective, the pair were cautious as they approached. It had been roughly a few hours since they left the lighthouse, so Lelouch and Yuzuka were hoping the second group was still in the area otherwise they would have to use their radios which have a limited use.

"I am not seeing anything, are you?" Yuzuka asked, while looking around for a better vantage point to help them with their search.

"No, but I see you are looking for a higher vantage point, which I think that might help us," Lelouch commented.

"No need for that," Haruka said, as she and Tsukiko came into view, the latter carrying the portable radar.

"I knew I heard voices," Tsukiko said, smiling, glad they had found the other group.

"I take it you two were successful," Lelouch said, noticing the portable device Tsukiko was carrying.

"It wasn't easy for sure," Tsukiko replied with a sigh.

"Indeed we just finished not too long ago, but our objective is finished," Haruka said with a light smile, noticing the rifle Lelouch was carrying. "Any chance, were you two responsible for that explosion we heard yesterday?"

"That was us, after we got far away before the bomb went off," Yuzuka repiled.

"Then that means Asagi and Haruko have the missile silo then," Lelouch deduced by an easy process of elimination.

"It makes you wonder what they must be having to face?" Haruka questioned, wondering what they were facing. She was also curious as to what challenge Lelouch and Yuzuka had to face.

"Yes, but unlike you two, they had no prior experience of any previous Evaluation to work with," Lelouch explained, expressing his concern for them.

"You're right, we should rendezvous with them as soon as possible," Haruka agreed with a nod.

"What did you two face?" Tsukiko asked, as the group began walking towards their next destination.

The two pairings each recounted the tales behind the objectives they faced and how they overcame them. Marimo was in a control room of a nearby base hidden on the island, using GPS tracking devices in the dog tags of Lelouch's squad to track them, and indirectly monitor their progress. All they needed to do now was reunite, but even then the final objective they needed to clear would be difficult to put it mildly.

Looks like they accomplished their objectives sooner than expected, Marimo noted, unaware that someone approached behind her. Now, to see how they'll settle the twist of mission. If it's ever needed, that is.

"You've really made the exam dangerous indeed," a voice behind Marimo remarked, who turned around to see a familiar man.

"Sir," Marimo quickly turned around to offer a quick salute.

"At ease," Eiji replied, after returning the salute. "I am only here to check on the current progress of the squad."

"Of course, sir," Marimo reported as she turned around. "They have just about completed the first stretch of the operation. A bit more quickly than expected, even with the obstacles used to test their weaknesses."

"It seems they are doing well," Eiji remarked. "It appears the boy Miss Takamura has been working with for the past few months lives up to his reputation."

"Despite the increased difficulty, Lelouch is passing with flying colors," Marimo confirmed. "I was first concerned that he would be arrogant in a fight against the BETA, considering his previously poor physical performance prior to training. The power of the machine and his usual comfort in commanding an army behind the scenes didn't help much. However, it looks like the brutal training regimen is paying off."

"Then it seems that Miss Takamura has certainly fallen into the hands of a great man," Eiji commented. Marimo felt a tone of joy in his voice. Considering his relationship with Yui and her father, the designer of the Zuikaku TSFs, it wasn't surprising that the head of R&D would be concerned for her wellbeing. "I believe Her Majesty will be grateful you are going the extra mile to make it difficult."

Eiji's remark prompted Marimo to smile. However, that also brought a concern she has as well.

"Her Majesty will be pleased with his performance despite the challenges we've added. It will further prove the kind of man he is, showing how he's earned his right machine. However…"

"Yes," Eiji narrowed his eyes, anticipating something critical.

"I am worried, mindful of the politics surrounding Lelouch and his machine," Marimo said, with Eiji recognizing what she suspected. "Rumors have most certainly spread throughout the Japanese military and government. There is more to his machine and its technology than Lelouch himself, but I can imagine how everyone has been reacting to them. The most concerning part, though, is the fact the pilot we have is, by our world's standards, an American."

"That's another reason why I was here," Eiji sighed, knowing Marimo was right. She just didn't know exactly how the other nations had been reacting and how Japan was dealing with it. "But saying that it has taken the international community by storm would be an understatement. You can take the UN, for example, after what just happened in Kyoto."

"I have no doubt about that, sir," Marimo sighed with him as she turned her chair around. "To get to the point, how has the world and our nation reacted to it so far?"

"To start, you have the usual suspects," Eiji started.

"The United States." Marimo didn't have to guess who he inferred. "I doubt they know about Lelouch or his given nationality. But as the currently leading nation in the community, if you can still call them that, they certainly have been thrown for a loop. Of all of them, they are my reason for why I considered our newest tech to be more harmful than helpful."

"Even if we want to, sharing something we barely understand is beyond difficult," Eiji admitted. "Even with all of the technology and information Claude provided us, replicating it, yet alone reverse engineering it, is far from easy with our time and resources stretched thin."

"You intend to offer something to the UN?" Marimo realized his intentions. "A joint development project, I suppose?"

"There is also the issue of Lelouch being from another world. Even if the world doesn't know that, he could likely find and bring back new technologies on his journey, so having more resources and scientists who could help could quicken what Japan on its own could do," Eiji confirmed, glad Marimo picked up on that detail. "For the time being, we are keeping the US and Russia out of that agreement until we are in a better position to dictate terms with them."

"While the other countries who haven't been fond of US dominance within the UN are rallying around Japan as head of the opposition."

"The Shogun has been successful in negotiating with countries behind the US and Russia's back, and through the UN, she has been using it to put pressure on the US to keep to their treaty obligations if they want in on the new multinational project dubbed Project Unity. The other countries are already offering production facilities and scientists to enhance our efforts. Terms and agreements among other specifics just need to be worked out."

"It sounds like quite the political victory for Japan," Marimo noted.

"Yes, but negotiations are still in the early stages even if Japan is in a very favorable political bargaining position at the moment."

"Of course," Marimo said, before asking another question. "If I may sir, what about our people?"

"That is a slippery slope," Eiji admitted, while international bargaining efforts have been favorable for Japan so far, it seems opinions among the people and military are different. "From what we are gathering it seems people in the military are divided on the matter surrounding Lelouch."

"As expected I am sure."

"Indeed, despite his origins he is regarded as an American and there are many, despite his efforts in Kyoto, who don't really see him in a favorable light," Eiji replied. As Marimo said, neither Eiji nor she weren't surprised by this revelation. "All because he isn't Japanese."

"Proving himself to them won't be easy?"

"Yes and as if that wasn't a problem, already there are people who are rightfully angry over the incident involving Lieutenant-General Ayamine earlier this year before the invasion," Eiji said with a sigh, recalling that unfortunate incident.

"Given the outrage that caused among our people I can't say I am shocked it has remained in the minds of many in Japan," Marimo said, recalling that incident.

Early in the year in January, the Gwangju Operation was conducted jointly between the forces of the Japanese military, the UN, the United Front of China, and Consolidation of South-East Asian Nations, or COSEAN for short. Their goal was to support the UN and COSEAN forces withdrawal from the Korean peninsula, as the BETA were becoming too overwhelming for them to maintain the defense lines, which were expected to collapse within a month.

What became known as the Tragedy of the Gwangju Operation, Japanese forces began prioritizing rescuing local civilians who were denied refugee status and a chance to evacuate by COSEAN and the UN, an honorable and just action to be sure. Unfortunately while they were occupied with their rescue efforts the BETA launched a massive attack, but the Japanese Military occupied with saving the local civilians the UN base was overran resulting in its loss and the UN suffering considerable casualties.

Although no one could've predicted the BETA was going to attack, the incident became an international nightmare for the Japanese, as the UN demanded Lieutenant-General Shuukaku Ayamine to face an international military tribunal. Complicating the matter was the fact that many within the military and the Japanese people defended the Lieutenant General's actions. In the end, not wanting to risk international support, aware that the fall of the Korean Peninsula would mean Japan would face an invasion by the BETA in the future, and not to mention the lost of UN support for a project they were working with the Japanese on, the Prime Minister of Japan, Kurechika Sakaki reluctantly compiled and handed the man over to the UN leading to a lot of outrage in Japan.

To the surprise of no one Shuukaku Ayamine was found guilty of desertion, overlooking the civilians whose lives he had saved.

"Given how much Japan had been lost to the BETA in such a short time, I can't imagine this would add fuel to a growing fire of dissent within our ranks," Eiji said, and his expression suggested an unspoken concern Marimo noticed.

"Are you expecting a coup within the military might happen?"

"Considering all that has happened, it would be foolish to ignore the possibility. More so since the chain of command is in tatters right now as we work to rebuild it. All the more reason we need to win big in the coming battles, against both the BETA and in the political arena."

Meanwhile two hours later, Lelouch and his group arrived at the missile silo looking for Haruko and Asagi. Everyone hoped the two missing members of their squad had chosen to stay nearby. Lelouch and Haruka began searching while Tsukiko decided to use the radio to call out to them. They had been using them sparingly due to the limited battery each were intentionally left with, forcing them to converse their usage as much as possible.

Despite that, the drain on the battery was noticeable.

"Asagi and Haruko, do you copy?"

After a moment of silence there was a response from Haruko, "We hear you."

Tsukiko was relieved, "What is your status, we are approaching your objective?"

"We're fine, the objective was just more psychological in nature," Haruko replied.

"Understood, we're near the objective's fence coming up from the south, can you rendezvous with us?"

"We see you, we're coming," Haruko replied over the radio.

After spotting the group from a distance, Haruko and Asagi eagerly reunited with the rest of their squad. However, Yuzuka noticed the blood stains over Haruko's clothes.

"What happened to you?"

"I would rather…we not talk about it, but I will say I spent an hour trying to clean my clothes in the ocean with very limited success," Haruko said, mostly keeping quiet out of consideration for Asagi given what happened yesterday.

Not to mention the time she spent at the shore in a vain effort to try to get the blood stains out left her with being left in the nude for much of the day and into the night. Combined with being cold while waiting for her clothes to dry, although she could've taken clothes from one of the dummies, none of which unfortunately could fit her. She did wear them until her clothes dried the following morning.

"Understood, but I trust you were successful?" Lelouch questioned, no one minding if he moved the conversation along.

"Yeah," Asagi said, handing over a rolled up document that had been in the cylinder Haruko got from the dummy corpse. "It looks like a map of where the extraction point is."

"Good let's look it over then begin heading towards it," Lelouch said, as he began examining the map, Haruka looked over his shoulder as did Yuzuka.

"That location, it looks like the extraction point is at the old airfield at the eastern end of the island, just opposite of the lighthouse," Haruka said.

"How do you know?" Lelouch inquired.

"We found a map of the island in the command center, which we took with us," Tsukiko said, opening a pocket on her pants leg to pull out a folded up map of the island.

"I see, that is an unexpected boon," Lelouch said, growing suspicious of their good fortune.

A suspicion fueled by the items they've found, a powerful rifle, and a portable radar.

Wait, I'll need to ask if Asagi and Haruko found anything else, Lelouch thought, as it could be a clue in deducing what they could be facing as a final obstacle.

"So if we go this way, we should reach the airbase tomorrow morning," Haruka said, comparing the two maps looking at their current location and their destination.

"We could stop at this cluster of houses for the night, it would give us some shelter for the night," Yuzuka suggested, pointing to what seemed to be a structure along the way on the map Tsukiko held.

"Asagi, what are you carrying?" Lelouch asked, noticing the black case she was carrying.

"This, we're not sure?" Asagi replied, handing the case to Lelouch who opened it.

Upon inspecting the case's contents, Lelouch saw it was a kind of electronic device with an antenna that could be extended. Haruka joined in, but quickly recognized what it was.

"That's an electronic jamming device, when it's turned on it will disrupt nearby electronic devices especially remote control drones," Haruka replied.

"Now that would've been useful earlier," Tsukiko said sarcastically, folding her arms under her chest.

"Or it could mean that what we'll face as our final obstacle will be a drone operated machine," Lelouch pointed out.

"That could be true since my team and I faced an automated turret in our evaluation last year," Haruka suggested. An assessment Lelouch agreed with a nod.

"Either way we should get moving so we can cover as much ground as we can before it gets dark," Yuzuka mentioned. No one was opposed to her idea.

"Agreed, let's move out," Lelouch suggested before he and his squad headed for their destination.

A/N: After much debate I thought it would be interesting for Haruko and Asagi's test to be more psychological in nature as a challenge, since it was to test if they could keep their cool in such situations.

While her background before the Day After is unknown, I did work out a plausible backstory going off of her appearance (which I assume made her a few years older than Yuzuka and Hibiki at the time, so I assumed that put in her late high school years or just starting collage when the Invasion of Kyoto happened, with the specialized school she was going to being a preparatory school), and the story of being trapped in a collapsed building to better fit with what was known about her.

As for Tsukiko and Haruka's test I was worried when using drones, since while I wanted to make sure they could succeed, but also not make it impossible which was my biggest worry with it. Tsukiko using that move in the chapter was a nod to an event where she tried to use it in a TSF, but her first attempt to use it didn't end well for her let's just say. That will be elaborated more upon in chapter sixteen.

Including the bit about the chain of command being in shambles in more detail, but that will be touched at various points in the upcoming chapters.

The next chapter shall be the final test, after the group rest up, not knowing what they will face to complete their test.

Thank you for reading this chapter, and all comments and likes are always appreciated, and encouraging to see.

StrifeHavoc · Jul 18, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and our Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story. I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

Thanks to everyone who commented and left a like, they are greatly appreciated and always encouraging.

Anyway this chapter is regretfully short, but its the finale of the CCSE for Lelouch and his new squad with the next chapter being the best character focused chapter ever produced with Greatkingrat88 and Silkdreamweaver going to town on it in beta work, vastly helping me improve it greatly.

Also special thanks again to Jameyofthemegacosmos and Silkdreamweaver for helping me improve the dialogue with this chapter and other improvements.

Then it will be followed by the Battle of Sadogashima, which thanks to Greatkingrat88 has been augmented and heavily improved with Silkdreamweaver going over it to further refine and polish it, so expect good things ahead.

Now on with the chapter.

Chapter 12

Graduation Part III

The following afternoon, Lelouch and his squad found a transmission station used to relay communications and signals for the military. Like the lighthouse, Lelouch and Haruka found a way to sneak into the building.

The housing provided a comfortable amount of warmth from the cold outside. There were no beds or any comforts like those Lelouch and Yuzuka found in the lighthouse. However sleeping on a clean concrete floor was far better than sleeping in the dirt with snakes around or on a branch in a tree.

"Not as comfortable as the lighthouse," Yuzuka remarked. "But this should be better than sleeping outside at least."

"Lucky you," Tsukiko commented sarcastically, recalling her unpleasant experience sleeping in a tree .

"Come on now," Haruka said, raising hands trying to disguise a potential argument. "I doubt Yuzuka was bragging."

"We just got lucky. My suspicion about Mariko wording the rule around the Lighthouse just happened to be correct, that's all," Lelouch added.

"And you earned yourself a bonus weapon for your correct deduction," Haruka said enviously as she eyed the rifle Lelouch was carrying.

"Indeed and as a bonus we did obtain extra fresh water to replenish our own and yours as well," Lelouch explained as he turned the conversation to focus on the positives.

"I'd say it sounds like we got the rest of this exam in the bag then," Asagi exclaimed, hopeful they could finish the rest of the exam easily.

"Maybe, but we don't know what lies ahead. I think we should camp for the night and press on tomorrow," Haruka suggested, which Lelouch nodded.

"Then let's spend the night here," Lelouch said.

"I don't mind. How about we make a hot meal for tonight to celebrate our progress so far? A fire shouldn't be too much of a risk right now." Yuzuka added.

After spending a few minutes gathering the wood needed for a fire, the group had dinner. They sat under the night stars as they enjoyed their simple meal. The heat of the fire kept the night chill away.

Once everyone was full, they went to sleep…except for Lelouch.

He chose to sleep away from the girls, for the sake of common courtesy. His mind was not at ease as the possibility of what the final obstacle could be occupied his thoughts.

But he wasn't the only one who couldn't sleep.

"You can't sleep too huh," a voice said, interrupting Lelouch's thoughts.

"Haruko," Lelouch said as the blue haired woman brought her bedroll closer.

Now sitting on the floor with her back against the wall alongside Lelouch, but the two were mindful to not speak too loud to avoid waking their friends.

"Thinking about what we'll face tomorrow?"

"Yes, and seeing the tools we've found, it doesn't seem like it will be easy," Lelouch said, still wondering what kind of obstacle would require an anti-tank rifle.

"Maybe if we're careful enough we can maybe get the drop on it."

"I am just being realistic."

"You know, I've been thinking," Haruko observed the rifle. "If we had a pineapple or something, I would certainly be of better help."

"I doubt a piece of fruit will be able to…Aaah!" Lelouch was interrupted when he felt a pinch on his cheek.

"Silly, I'm talking about a hand grenade," Haruko corrected. "You don't know a lot of military slang words, do you? The point is, I have a great throwing arm. May as well put it to use."

"Yuzuka will do just as fine, so long as she's throwing an axe," Lelouch brushed off the comment. "If anything, I believe that they set up this course for a reason."

"Uhh…" Haruko was caught off guard on what to say.

"Haven't you noticed it yourself? Back at the motor pool, they set the pass as something that troubled us, while I needed to guide Yuzuka on disarming the traps she would've easily fallen into otherwise. Then, there's that instance with Asagi. I expected this to be pre-planned to test our skills, but I was careless to not think they would teach us to overcome our weaknesses as well."

"Okay, sure, but we overcame them all so far." Haruko stated..

"And that's not all," Lelouch continued. "The road to the extraction point is a short distance from here. There are no obstacles in our way, but there's an airport along the path."

"What are you getting at?"

"I'm saying that the final stretch feels too easy. The moment we let our guard down is when we're most vulnerable. What better way than to give you a speck of hope that things will wrap up sooner rather than later?"

"Okay, you win. Now you are starting to freak me out," Haruko threw up her arms in surrender. "What happens if you end up worrying over nothing?"

"Then I guess we'll laugh it off," Lelouch replied, which caused Haruko to try and suppress her laugh. "If nothing else I rather be ready and expecting the worst, and if it turns out to be nothing as you are hoping then we'll laugh it off. Does that sound better to you?"

"Yes it does, thank you for that," Haruko said with a relieved sigh. "See you can sound positive if you try."

"Just being honest, because as you said, my worries could be for nothing," Lelouch responded. He doubted the final stretch of the exam would be easy.

He just didn't want to freak Haruko out, but considering what she and Asagi endured he couldn't blame her for hoping the final stretch would be easier. Furthermore, Lelouch didn't want Haruko to go to sleep worried. If she ends up restless and left unable to sleep, she could end up tired and become a liability.. Suspecting how difficult the final stretch of the exam will likely be, Lelouch knew it was best not to allow that to happen.

"I suppose it could go both ways, either you're right or I am. Arguing would be pointless."

"I would be more than happy to welcome being wrong tomorrow."

"Tell me, Lelouch, and you don't have to answer if you don't want to," Haruko asked as she changed the subject, but she seemed more hesitant in her question. "Do you have a sibling? A younger brother…no, younger sister?"

"That's right," Lelouch admitted. He saw little reason to hide that.

"I envy you," Haruko mused. Lelouch noticed something in her eye, something he recognized. "I wouldn't have minded having a younger sister, but I got two younger brothers instead. Having helped my father raise them, I guess I grew into a tomboy."

"Your mother, you…lost her too?" Lelouch asked delicately, out of consideration.

"You can tell?" Haruko said, impressed by Lelouch picking up on that detail. "You really are sharp, but yeah, you're right. My mom was a TSF pilot, she was a squad leader fighting in Korea and China. She survived a couple battles, but…I guess her luck ran out."

"Sorry for bringing it up," Lelouch replied as Haruko seemed saddened by recalling the day she and her father received the news of her mother's death.

"Thank you," Haruko welcomed Lelouch's condolences. "I suppose we're both people who lost our mothers when we were young, so you can tell."

"You're right," Lelouch said, agreeing with her. "So you're following in her footsteps then?"

"More or less, but that is not the only reason," Haruko said, moving closer to Lelouch so he could better listen while the pair remained mindful to keep their conversation quiet to avoid waking the others. "I am proud of what my mother did, even if it meant she wasn't around much. But the BETA isn't a problem that will go away and BETA has been getting closer to Japan so…"

"You want to keep your younger siblings from being drafted as TSF pilots." Lelouch started to understand her motivation.

Haruko nodded, "Yeah, I mean I don't want to fault them for wanting to follow after mom, but as someone who helped care for them and raise them, I worry for them. It's not helped by the fact that most TSF pilots don't even survive their first sortie."

"I understand," Lelouch said, realizing he might've felt similar if he was in the same position as Nunnally.

He would've tried to find a way to keep her from fighting if he could, but somehow Lelouch suspected she wouldn't make it easy for him. Of course that would've depended on how his sister might've turned out if raised in this world. In a way that brought a level of discomfort to Lelouch just thinking about it. He was almost glad Nunnally was paralyzed.

He hated himself for even thinking that, but reasoned it would mean he didn't have to worry about Nunnally ever fighting.

But that has its own pros and cons too, The logical part of Lelouch's mind reminded himself.

"I still worry for them, but maybe these new machines we're trying out with you could change things. I heard about what you and Yui did in Kyoto makes the machines and the tech being them sound promising,"

"Yes compared to what Yui and I were using when compared to a TSF, the difference in firepower and performance was obvious. It's just a matter of producing those machines fast enough to supply them to everyone," Lelouch said, unsure of how fast Japan's industrial capabilities could produce more of the Minamoto units.

"I am hoping it will be done quickly, but my dad works at a TSF production factory. I wish I could say with confidence it would be, but that would be a lie.," Haruko said, disappointed.

"I see. Producing new weapons will take time. How long it will be, I can't say," Lelouch said.

"I hope for the sake of everyone it will be fast enough to turn the tide."

Marimo sat patiently within the control room, watching her students approach the destination. The instructor nearly fell asleep herself while watching the monitor. She was taken off duty when the others went to bed but given her schedule, she still felt exhausted herself.

I'm starting to wonder if it will be me who slips up before they do, Marimo thought. I just need to be ready for when they reach the final destination.

The destination was when the twist of the mission would begin. In the monitor, she watched something move on the radar console, an object that flew in a circular pattern several kilometers in the sky. The weather pattern showed clouds over Lelouch, but even then, it would be too small to see from the surface.

Tired of the presence spying on her, Marimo straightened herself and crossed her arms..

"You can come out now," Marimo called out like she was about to scold a student. "It's pointless to hide yourself, even if you're some time entity."

"Ooh, that ain't fair," a familiar young voice called out from behind as she flashed in with her power. She placed her hands on her hips in disappointment. "How did you know I was here in the first place?"

"Woman's intuition," Marimo declared as she turned her chair around. "And what would the time traveling goddess want with the boy trying to save the universe?"

"Lelouch? No, I was about to give out a surprise! And you just had to ruin it, did you?"

"That surprise was no doubt for Lelouch," Marimo suspected. "I am not the type to have those dancing around the truth. You better…Um!?"

Marimo had her eyes closed the entire time, trying to seem unphased. Somehow, despite noticing her initial presence, Claude was able to get near Marimo and stuff something into her mouth. It was a liquid, not as thick as syrup, that she was forced to swallow, but she still choked. If anything, it shared the same taste as medicine and made her queasy. Marimo coughed a bit before she turned her glare back to the trickster girl.

"Oh, dear, didn't expect the taste to be that horrible." Claude played with her spoon. "I thought making it a liquid would be better!"

"Khoff…You better state your reason for being here before I sound the alarm!"

"Nonsense, that wasn't poison at all, and it certainly wasn't an anesthetic," Claude grew annoyed at her. "In fact, that liquid was supposed to help you by the time it gets into your stomach."

"And what will that be, time traveler?"

"A special recipe of mine from another world," Claude tapped her spoon on her finger. "It's made from a world where resources are quite frugal yet make everything efficient. Originally, it was made in a pill form that allows one to have the energy needed to perform duties for at least 8 hours nonstop. That was mixed with at least several of those pills, so you should be able to operate for at least several days without side effects. Or…at least that's how it is in theory."

Claude contemplated that last part as Marimo recovered. For a moment, the instructor was actually distracted by the awful taste.

Whoever designed those pills should at least consider what the troops think of them. Taste may mean nothing in actual combat, but this can hamper the troops' morale more than it helps.

Marimo then shook her head as she stood up, only starting to feel some effects of the liquid…sludge that she had forced down her throat.

"Oh, were there any side effects?" Claude scratched her head. "Didn't think that food pills would cause that much of a problem."

"If I didn't know better, I'd think that you were trying to poison me," the Instructor glared at her. "As if you already caused enough trouble in this world."

"Oh?" Claude showed a dumbfounded face that angered Marimo more. "What do you mean?"

"The technology that you gave us," Marimo clarified. "You must have not seen the political repercussions of leaking out advanced technology to states that are not on top otherwise."

"What does that have to do with me?" Claude placed her hands on her hips. "If anything, I think that would be a boon to Japan, wouldn't it?"

"If we didn't have every superpower crawling all over us," Marimo reacted. "You're lucky there were more than enough states backing us, so that the US and USSR would not be pointing their guns at us by now instead of the BETA."

"Well, if it helps get what you want, do you have any right to complain?"

Marimo tisked as she thought over Claude's statement as Claude continued.

"As for my purpose here, that's less of their concern. What's really a concern here is how much you and the others are going to put Lelouch through for all of this. If anything, I'm the one who's very concerned here!"

"Says the one who has the ability to travel to any time, any place."

"Hmph, you seem to underestimate your capability. Even worse, you overestimate mine, even though I have my own limits."

"Oh," Marimo crossed her arms again. "Define that."

"To start, for something an expert like you know very well, or at least will know very well, time travel is little more than jumping to another world that's slightly similar to ours but with notable differences. Well…okay, okay, there are many worlds out there with even bigger differences. Like other creatures running this planet, or humanity being on another world. Some have neither the Earth nor humanity existing in the first place. The point is, any normal human can only go into a similar timeline and create something new inspired by the original."

"That still leaves you as an unknown entity," Marimo points out. "You, on the other hand, seem to do whatever you please."

"Oh, please. Did you listen to me?" Claude once again huffed in annoyance. "Even with unlimited time power, doing whatever you please with it can be a major headache. If there weren't any consequences, I would've solved the crisis by now without getting anyone involved. Even then, just one big nudge…one major mishap, and even I could vanish from existence. And that's the absolute worst case scenario that I'm trying to prevent here!"

"In other words, even time is not on your side," Marimo concluded. "Well, all you have to do is to be patient then. The more impatient you get, the more likely you'll fail due to haste."

"Isn't that why you made your exam this long?" Claude inquired as she walked up to the radar. "You know, this feels like quite a cheap move, even for me."

"As I said, time isn't always on your side, sometimes you have to be hasty."

"Yet, it looks like he's doing more than fine here." Claude tapped her foot. "Are you absolutely sure that you calculated your ETA properly?"

"We incorporated all factors, including environmental and physical ones." Marimo approached the controls. "But despite giving him something beyond his limitations, this test looks too easy for him. It's to the point that it might make it just below minimum expectations. I can now see why you made him one of your seven candidates."

"Yeah, that's the problem…"

"You think it's not enough, or rather…" Marimo glanced at Claude. "You favor others far more than Cadet Lamprouge?"

"Boy, you're perceptive," Claude fumed. "The serious problem I have can wait. A long time, if you ask. But the other candidates…there are those who will fight and want to coerce him to their side. Of course, and Lelouch conversely will want to fight or coerce them as well. If I were to answer at the bottom of my heart, I only give one space whale about it since there are at least two of them I can't stand at all! Yet, even with my refusal to give special treatment, I have no choice but to accept them."

"Nonetheless, it sounds more like favoritism on your part," Marimo once again faced the monitor. "Very well, it looks like all we can do is play our role and see if Cadet Lamperouge succeeds at the end."

"Speaking of coming out, I have a big question for you," Claude's voice changed into something more sly.

"Just spit it out," Marimo sighed to Claude's goading.

"Don't you have any fantasies about Lelouch?"

Marimo's eyebrow twitched in annoyance and there was a part of her that wanted to slug the woman. However, any overt reaction, no matter how deserving, would be giving Claude what she wants. Lelouch was undoubtedly a highly intelligent and capable leader, for sure, but for Claude to presume she had some kind of attraction was very presumptuous of her.

"If you don't drop this conversation now, I will report you for sexual harassment."

"Oi, oi! I was just asking a mere question, that's all!"

"Entertaining personal hobbies and desires is not in my job description."

"Well, you're no fun. I swear you'd look a lot better if you were the sweet and kind motherly type instead of the gruff, rough and tough instructor you display."

"Perhaps if you started wearing a lab coat and behaved more appropriately like a top scientist, I could treat you better," Marimo retained her demeanor as she shot back at Claude.

"I'll keep that in mind," Claude said before making her leave. "By the way, something else I also came here for. Did you ever have any thoughts on how to get there without the team noticing?"

"Without notice?"

"I mean, a helicopter by air seems a bit too expected. Why not play with them a little bit by appearing right before them, like you were there the whole time?"

"That was the plan all along," Marimo sharply answered. "I will be traveling there by boat instead."

"Boat? Uuuuh, that might take too long, considering the speed Lelouch is going," Claude raised a finger. "Say, since you'll be needed anyway, I can give you a taste of what it's like to be traveling through spacetime. Shall we?"

Claude's cat smile made Marimo clench a fist. However, she was correct about Lelouch's unusual rate. If anything, she wasn't so sure that she would get there in time at this rate. Therefore, she gazed at the hand that time traveler offered.

Following a filling breakfast, Lelouch and his group had continued on their way and after avoiding a few simple traps, the group had arrived at their destination. Or so they thought.

"Well, this looks like the place." Tsukiko bent backward upon stopping at their destination.

Their destination was an old airfield, like a lot of the buildings they had seen many of the structures had become overgrown with nature. But the runways remained clear. No-one moved onto the airfield yet, especially since they didn't know if there wasn't one last challenge for them to overcome.

Fueling these worries was the lack of finding any live turrets guarding the only route to this area, which put Haruka and Tsukiko on high alert.

I could still be wrong, but… Lelouch decided to push ahead.

"Let's keep to the trees and use the buildings as cover in case this is some kind of trap," Lelouch suggested as the rest of his squad agreed.

The group moved closer, reaching one of the hangers on the far side of the airport. As they neared the site where they were meant to use a flare to call for pick up Lelouch decided to play it safe.

"Alright, which one of you is the fastest runner?" Lelouch inquired, before Yuzuka spoke up.

"I am," Yuzuka stated, as she seemed aware of Lelouch's plan.

"Yuzuka, I am going to have you fire the flare, but once you do retreat to where we are just in case it triggers some kind of trap," Lelouch asked.

"I understand," Yuzuka said, opening her pack to retrieve her flare gun.

"Now then," Lelouch went to Yuzuka. "Ready?"

"Uh, r-right," his requested companion complied.

While Lelouch and the others hung back a safe distance away, Yuzuka ran through the hanger, exiting from the back where its door was long gone. Once she reached the other side Yuzuka aimed the flare gun skyward before she pulled the trigger.

Once the flare was fired, Yuzuka hurried back through the hangar and quickly rendezvoused with Lelouch and the others.

The green flash hung in the air as it slowly fell towards the ground, but after five minutes of waiting, nothing happened. Feeling something was amiss, Lelouch brought his radio and decided to use it to contact command.

"Command, what's going on there?" Lelouch called out.

"It appears that we have a miscalculation," Marimo addressed. "The enemy has a UAV operating in the area, confirmed to be armed with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. With that drone operational, the extraction point has been relocated."

Lelouch heard silence coming from his other teammates. Their faces showed shock and despair after realizing what their final obstacle was.

"That drone is no doubt automated. Is there any way you can disable it?"

"That's a negative. Unless we figure out the appropriate security codes, we cannot shut it down."

"So where is the next point of extraction?"

"The map should show a shrine north of the island. Head over there and fire another green flare. A chopper will approach for exfil."

"Understood. We'll meet you there shortly."

"One last mention," Marimo interjected. "I assume that you obtained a GPS scrambler along the way. Keep that on you as it will disrupt the UAV's targeting system. Remember to stay within its range of effectiveness and traverse carefully. That is all."

The radio went silent afterward. As Lelouch expected, most of the girls around him exclaimed the exact same reaction.

"EEEEEEHHH!?"

"What is that woman thinking!?" Yuzuka snapped.

"We already struggled to make it here. Now we have to make another hike!?" Asagi complained.

"It's not like this was going to be easy," Tsukiko remained the only one to remain calm. "Not everything goes according to plan, you know."

Lelouch maintained a stone-faced expression. He had actually suspected something like this would happen. He wouldn't have minded being wrong, but Lelouch suspected correctly it wasn't just going to end just like that.

"Yuzuka, bring out the map again," Lelouch ordered. He looked at the map and noticed the shrine up top. "As I figured, there was definitely going to be far more than what appeared."

Contemplating their options, Lelouch considered the rifle he and Yuzuka had found. Thanks to his recent training and Yui's skills with firearms he gained when using the Coupling System, Lelouch believed he could handle the rifle well enough, but he recalled their marksmanship scores and remembered that Haruko scored the highest.

"Haruka, I want you to take the rifle," Lelouch stated. "Will you have any issues?"

"None. Not a model I've used often, but I can handle it well enough," Haruko said, prompting Lelouch to give her the rifle.

"Very well," Lelouch put everything into place. "I want you to take place at that cliff over there."

"Got it," Haruko replied as she checked the rifle.

"When we came in, I noticed a radar dish that was fully active. That is probably what's guiding the drone. We need you to head to that cliff edge, where you can get a clear shot and take it out. Once that's done, we'll regroup here to reach our destination," Lelouch pointed out on the map of the island.

"What about that UAV? What happens if it spots her?" Asagi asked, worried for Haruko.

"It's likely not to take to the air until we draw close to the area," Tsukiko began in a matter of fact tone. "Like the other drones we've seen it cannot stay in the air indefinitely, to save on fuel it likely won't take to the air until we near the area it's supposed to patrol."

"Which is why you should go on ahead of us, so you can be in position. Since they are tracking our progress they'll use our estimated position to time when to launch the helicopter against us. You will likely only have one or two chances to shoot it down, so it will be in your hands," Lelouch said, while trying to not put pressure on the young woman.

The success or failure of this exam was now in Haruko's hands.

Haruko went off towards her destination while Lelouch and the others began making their way towards the shrine. Lelouch and the others took their time to ensure Haruko had sufficient time to reach her destination to get into position.

Meanwhile, alone on her way to the cliff to get the best vantage possible, Haruko could feel the weight of the situation upon her.

"You got to do this." Haurko spoke to herself. "After all, we have reasons beyond ourselves to fight for. For those relying on us we can not afford to fail here."

Observing their movements, Yui and her friends were gathered around as Yui sat before a computer looking at the latest positions of Lelouch and his squad. Thanks to Yui's uncle they were able to observe what was happening.

"You're kidding right," Aki asked. "Our exam never had THAT! Ours was just fighting one another in a maze of shipping containers."

"Yes, a fully prepared, drone-controlled gunship," Eiji said with a straight face, causing Aki to sweat in worry for Lelouch while Kazusa and Izumi looked at the older man wide eyed.

"That can't be serious though. People barely survive the automated turret," Shimako said, reflecting the worry and concern Yui had for Lelouch. "Why did they feel it was necessary for such an escalation?"

"It's mostly because Lelouch is a foreigner. Regardless if he's from another world or not, he is seen as an American and relations between our countries haven't been the best, especially with the Tragedy of the Gwangju Operation that happened months ago," Kazusa stated, calmly deducing the reason.

"That's right," Eiji confirmed.

"But that's crazy, especially after what he and Yui did in Kyoto," Aki said in disbelief. "Heck, he and his squad took down a force twice their size in the mock battle. What more does he have to prove?"

"A lot, because even for his accomplishments, the fact remains he piloted a powerful new machine Japan produced while being perceived as an American. Many will not like that regardless of his accomplishments so far," Kazusa mentioned calmly, but her expression displayed her disagreement with her own statement.

Izumi and Yui, who had been quiet, were in silent agreement with Aki, but they also understood the reasons why, as much as they may hate them.

"No one here disagrees with you," Eiji said. "But that's the minefield called politics."

"Damn. I'm just glad I chose to stay out of politics," Aki said and no one disagreed with her.

Meanwhile Yui was still quiet, focused on watching the movements of Lelouch's group. Lelouch no doubt was aware of the final challenge ahead, so the question on her mind was how would he succeed?

Huh!?

Yui noticed one person breaking away from Lelouch's group, causing a confident smile to grace Yui's face. Kazusa noticed it as well, and she quickly deduced what Lelouch was planning.

Lelouch is sending someone to cliffs overlooking the area to give them a better vantage point. Up till now they kept the drone in reserve to conserve fuel and to avoid potentially alerting Lelouch's group prematurely. Kazusa thought.

It will come down to how good the one they picked to take the shot.

Later that day, Haruko reached the cliffs, finding an ideal spot to set up in a small clearing. She set up the rifle. Being an anti-tank rifle, she knew the recoil and shot itself would be monstrous. Haruko hesitated over wearing the earplugs as she wouldn't be able to hear the UAV if it came after her, but considering there was nothing she could do if she was discovered, Haruko pushed aside her concerns.

I just hope I don't break my shoulder with this, Haruko thought as she loaded the rifle.

Meanwhile around the same time, after looking at his watch Lelouch got up from the tree stump he was sitting on.

"Alright, Haruko should be in position, let's move forward," Lelouch ordered as Yuzuka, Tsukiko, Asagi and Haruka moved for the shrine.

They advanced towards the shrine, keeping the scrambler in the middle of them. In the distance the group could hear a drone beginning to approach. As it drew near, Lelouch and company kept to the trees, avoiding any places that could allow them to be spotted from the air.

But something went wrong, the helicopter-style medium-sized multi-payload UAV began firing its weapons, using its mini-guns to begin razing much of the area surrounding the shrine.

"What the hell! It shouldn't do that right?" Tsukiko said, hearing the sound of the UAV's mounted minigun firing.

"Something is wrong, we should pull back." Lelouch stated.

"Well, it's firing on an area that is nowhere near us. It will run out of bullets soon right?" Asagi asked, hopefully.

"Maybe, but what about its missiles? They don't need to hit us to hurt us with the shrapnel they'd turn the trees into.," Yuzuka pointed out.

Is this intentional or some kind of malfunction? Haruka wondered. Lelouch was thinking the same as he and the others hurried to get away from the area.

Seeing the situation from the cliff, Haruko was horrified. Fearing for her friends that were potentially in serious danger, she took aim. Using the scope to line up her shot, aiming for the UAV itself. She was hesitant at first, but hardening her resolve, Haruko pulled the trigger.

The bullet was fired with the force of a small cannon as a sudden burst of fire cut through the air, hitting its mark despite the considerable distance. The bullet, due to its immense penetrating power, went clean through the UAV's engine block. Fire and smoke erupted from the UAV as it veered off to the side before crashing somewhere in the forest in a fireball.

"I don't think it's a good idea for them to go to the shrine now," Haruko remarked.

Meanwhile, after hearing the sound of the UAV going down, Lelouch brought out his radio.

"Enemy UAV eliminated proceeding to the shrine," Lelouch reported.

"Belay that, head for the beach near it. Use your flare then we'll recover you, consider your mission accomplished once you rendezvous," Marimo replied over the radio.

Lelouch took notice of the change of tone, wondering if what had happened was either a malfunction or intentional sabotage.

"Let's go find Haruko then rendezvous on the beach near the shrine," Lelouch said.

"What the heck happened? Drones aren't supposed to attack unless they have a target lock." Aki stated, having just seen what happened with Yui, and the others.

"You're right, that wasn't meant to happen. Either there was a malfunction or someone sabotaged it, but we won't know until we can investigate the wreck," Eiji said, disturbed by the UAV acting outside its orders.

"Hopefully they came out ok. Looks like their signals are moving away." Kazusa pointed to the screen, causing Aki to breathe a sigh of relief.

"Geez, talk about a close call. Good thing Lelouch had a teammate take up a sniping position on a cliff beforehand," Aki remarked.

"Yes, it was a good idea," Shimako agreed. Yui remained silent, but she was also relieved.

The sun was setting when Lelouch and his group arrived on the beach to call for pick up after they rendezvous with Haruko. They had found an area of the beach marked for a helicopter to land.

"It looks like we're here," Lelouch declared as he stopped at the center of the LZ.

"What's wrong?" Asagi pressed. "Just fire the flare and be done with it!"

"This is odd," Lelouch noticed. "Ever since we neutralized the threat of the gunship, we should've expected the helicopter to approach us."

"Maybe they already chickened out or something?" Tsukiko questioned.

"There's no such thing as being too careful." Lelouch was aware of his words. "They should have still seen the initial flare."

"Very perceptive, as usual," a familiar voice came in. Marimo walked out from behind some boulders in her usual uniform.

"Madam," Lelouch greeted Marimo as she walked into the scene.

"The CCSE is now finished," Marimo announced. "Form up, cadets!"

"R-Right!" Everyone followed suit and lined up along Lelouch.

Lelouch and the rest of his squad stood straight as a mixture of anticipation and unease filled the air.

"Now, for your evaluation," Marimo reviewed. "The time spent to complete all objectives was most certainly below the minimum requirements, exceeding expectations from the course. Despite the increased difficulty, you made it look easy. There is also your capture and use of tools that also get you all well earned marks."

There was a sense of relief from Asagi, but everyone else knew better than to get their hopes up so they remained stoically silent.

"For the drone, I must apologize that a malfunction caused it to indiscriminately attack. However, that being said, I must commend Cadet Kashiwagi for her swiftness in shooting it down and you Cadet Lamperouge deserve credit for sending her to the cliff to take up sniper position to provide cover. A good show of cautious and well-thought out preparation," Marimo said, seemingly annoyed and embarrassed by the malfunctioning drone going wild.

No one said a word, remaining quiet, but the part Lelouch knew was coming was next.

"However," Marimo said sharply, which shook all of the cadets. "Despite your quick time, each and every one of you completed your objectives in broad daylight against standard procedure. Would you care to explain that?"

"The objective of the goal is to complete our objectives as fast as possible," Lelouch explained. "There are times where time and the weather will not be on our side. Our means of infiltration were also ill-suited to conduct at nighttime. Therefore, it was imperative to complete our objective and leave ASAP."

"Then, as commander, perhaps you could have ordered the others to scout the area as well before conducting their own operations," Marimo said as a counterpoint.

"That was an oversight," Lelouch admitted. "I simply issued the teams to reach the nearest destination on my insistence."

"Unfortunately, that has penalized your team for each objective by a lot of points overall," Marimo said, causing looks of concern on the faces of Asagi, Haruko, Tsukiko and Haruka. But Marimo's expression did soften before she added in a reassuring tone. "However, despite the demerit, you all managed to pass the evaluation anyway."

Everyone was visibly relieved, except Lelouch, as he was being careful not to show any emotion. Something that caused Marimo to give him a faint smile of approval.

"As Lamperouge stated, the purpose of a mission is to complete it as timely and efficiently as possible. Standard operating procedures mean nothing in an actual firefight. Cadet Lamperouge knew that well when faced with an obstruction to the mission, and he'll certainly lead you with absolute patience, even in a heated situation, or am I wrong?"

"Yes, he was willing to take some of the same risks with us," Yuzuka said, speaking in his defense.

"And he trusted us with tasks we were best suited for," Haruko added, in Lelouch's defense.

"I believe Lelouch is the most capable commander here," Haruka added in a show of support "I have no problems continuing to serve under him."

"I wasn't sure how good I would be against the BETA, but with someone like him leading us I feel like we're in good hands," Asagi said, giving her support.

"Thank you, I appreciate it," Lelouch replied.

"How he led us during that mock battle, I think dispelled any doubts I had about him. He has guts and a good head on his shoulder. A good combination, wouldn't you agree ma'am?" Tsukiko said, folding her arms under her chest, giving Marimo a knowing smile.

"Absolutely," Marimo said, smiling in approval as well. "Now then, I suppose that we get the celebration underway?"

In the distance a helicopter could be seen approaching, Lelouch and his group came to the island as rookies, but now they would leave as full fledged members of the same unit.

I've taken one step forward towards taking down Britannia, Lelouch thought to himself, cherishing how he now had his own unit of professionally trained soldiers. Now, I just need to see where this goes.

A/N: Despite the UAV going haywire, which could've been an act of sabotage or something did just go wrong, but thankfully due to Lelouch taking Haruka's story about the dangers of the CCSE exam serious from the start and correctly guessing they had one final dangerous challenge to face. Then sending Haruko who had the best marksman skills of the group to a vantage point to take it out.

Not only has Lelouch taken the first steps to building what will be his army to take down Britannia and become the Black Knights, but he did something else, he learned the trust of his squad which would be vital for having those with military training willing to follow him anywhere. He'll have more members added to it in chapter sixteen bringing it to a full squad.

And after making this chapter and playing "The Imperial Capital Burns" I saw the CCSE exam Yui and her friends went through were team on team battles in a changing maze of cargo containers, judged on your overall performance, more so if you win against the other side or run out the clock. Outside of the Royal Guard the CCSE is more difficult and involves a full on survival challenge from what I've seen at least, which led to some additions and enhancements for chapter.

Lastly I've made a google document keeping track of the potential candidates for Lelouch's harem/polygamy relationships, keeping notes on those who should stay in the running and get kicked out. If any are interested in looking it over or offering their own comments on a candidate they are welcomed to offer their own two cents if they wish, its not required, but I am trying to kick start more serious discussions with Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, and Silkdreamweaver to narrow down the candidate pool, which my efforts to do so have, because for those who have seen it the possible candidate list is HUGE, especially for the Muv Luv folks and I want to do something about it. I am out of ideas on who to boot and who to keep. So if you are interested in offering comments to defend a candidate or see them removed you can comment Here.

Next chapter, its time for celebrate, so see you guys in two weeks from today.

StrifeHavoc · Aug 1, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Darklord331, and our Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8. Greatkingrat88, and Seerking have also contributed to the development of this story. I had begun in-between projects since early last year.

For this chapter a REALLY big special thanks to Greatkingrat88 and Silkdreamweaver for their double beta work on this chapter to polish what I feel is probably one of my best character interaction chapters I've made. And I owe it to them for really polishing and enhancing it, since my biggest worry with this chapter it be too dull and I worried some might find Lelouch and some of the characters out of character, so I took no chances and went the extra with the double beta work. So this character should see some interesting developments for Lelouch and Yui.

Thanks to everyone who reviewed, left a favorite and a couple follows, they are greatly appreciated and always encouraging.

Now on with the chapter.

Chapter 13

Beached

It was September 19th, two days after Lelouch and his newly formed squadron had successfully passed their Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation. Following this, Lelouch had been informed of a tradition regarding the successful passing of the exam, and it had him wishing he was still on that island.

"Come on Lelouch, everyone is waiting for you," Aki said, knocking on the door to the wooden hut Lelouch was inside of. "No need to be shy. Most guys would kill to be in your position, you know."

"Maybe, but…"

"No buts. You are changed, right?"

"Yes. I am," Lelouch said, taking a deep breath. There was just no hiding from it. With a sigh of resignation, Lelouch stepped out with a blue towel draped over his shoulder. He used one hand to shield his eyes from the bright sunlight. Before him was a clear blue sky, water and sand. As it turned out, when a training class completed their exam successfully, they celebrated with a day at the beach.

The beach was located on Hachijo Island, south of the island they were on for the exam. Yui and her friends had been brought to the island to take part in the celebration, taking a break from training with their Gundams and aiding the Japanese Effort to keep the BETA in check.

"About time he joined," Tsukiko said as she watched her superior emerge from the changing hut. She sat under an umbrella, wearing a white two-piece swimsuit. "What is it, sir? Do we ladies make you nervous?"

"Well, he is the only guy, so maybe he is just feeling like the odd man out," Yuzuka said. She herself was wearing a two-piece swimsuit with black straps and reflective colors. Aki grinned, seemingly enjoying his nervousness as he could feel the eyes of the women surrounding him. Lelouch was just thankful that Milly Ashford wasn't around. She would never have allowed Lelouch to live it down, no doubt delighting in his misery. All these women, teasing him…

For her swimsuit, Aki was wearing a simple black swimming bra with matching swim shorts.

"Come on Lelouch, let's race. This is a good chance to see how much tougher you've become since basic training." Aki took Lelouch's hands and tried to drag him towards the water.

"May I join you?" Kazusa asked, approaching them in a dark blue one-piece swimsuit.

"Sure, the more the merrier," Aki replied, still dragging an unwilling Lelouch. Yuzuka followed, her expression a mixture of worry and annoyance.

Marimo watched Lelouch be pulled into a swimming contest. She was wearing a light green two-piece swimsuit. Next to her was Michiru Isumi, who wore her own black two-piece swimsuit, which like her former instructor didn't leave much to the imagination.

"These celebrations never get old," Marimo commented. She was smiling, quietly enjoying Lelouch's awkwardness.

"At least this one is likely to be more tame than ours," Michiru remarked.

"Oh, yes, I recall Tsukiko being more of a handful back then," Marimo said. "It seems she still has a bit of that aggressive streak in her, but she has mellowed out more."

"Yes. In a strange way, I am glad she came back. I know the loss of Sonoko hit her pretty hard, given how close they were," Michru said, recalling when Tsukiko dropped out of the military.

Tsukiko and Sonoko had been close; in fact Michiru had noticed the two spent a fair number of nights together. One night, she thought that she had caught the two in a very intimate moment with one another, but it wasn't what she thought it was to her embarrassment. Instead she had caught them with smuggled rations. The two played it off as nothing more was happening between them, but their closeness was obvious. Michiru, for a while, suspected something was happening behind closed doors. Such things were hardly uncommon among TSF pilots, given the stress and trauma they endured. Seeking comfort in one another was one of many coping mechanisms, something their superiors would turn a blind eye to as long as they were still fit to fight. Given how strongly Tsukiko grieved when Sonoko passed, it became clear to Michiru that the two had been romantically involved.

I guess that makes these traditional celebrations more precious, she thought. Haruka, Asagi, Yuzuka and Haruko will be going into real combat soon. I just hope Lelouch and their new machines will break the cycle of new squadrons never surviving their first sortie, Michiru hoped that the new pilots in Lelouch's squad wouldn't suffer through the same sorrows.

This gave the exam completion celebrations a dark undercurrent: congratulations on passing and becoming true pilots as your first battle could be your last.

Unaware of the pessimistic thoughts swirling in the mind of Michiru, Lelouch, Yuzuka, Aki and Kazusa finished their race. Lelouch had actually managed to finish ahead of Aki, while Kazusa had beaten both of them. Yuzuka had been following Lelouch, beating Aki as well, leaving the girl in shock.

"Kazusa I could understand, but how did I lose to Lelouch? He was so skinny," Aki pouted before turning to the man in question. "No offense."

"None taken," Lelouch replied.

"You can probably thank the Major for the improvement," Yuzuka said matter-of-factly. "A woman who can knock you flat on your face with one punch and threatens you with an electric cattle prod would motivate anyone to be the very best they can be during training."

"Her efforts do show," Kazusa said, placing her hand on her chin as she eyed Lelouch.

Lelouch was still relatively lean and scrawny, but now bore more visible muscular definition as he had filled out. He no longer looked quite like a human noodle. Claude's concoctions and Marimo's intense and hellish training had clearly worked.

"I suppose you can't really tell when he is wearing clothes," Aki replied, suddenly feeling better about losing to Lelouch and Yuzuka.

Yui sat off to the side on a towel, watching Lelouch, Yuzuka, Aki, and Kazusa. She wore a two piece yellow swimsuit. Izumi sat next to her, reading a book as she wore a white one-piece swimsuit.

"If you are worried about Lelouch, why not join them?" Izumi did not even look up from her book, but noticed Yui's concern.

"Huh? What do you mean?" Yui said, caught off guard.

"Don't think I didn't notice." Izumi finally looked up from her book, giving Yui an exasperated look.

"I-" Yui stuttered, surprised. "What are you implying!?"

"Stop lying. It's obvious that you have a crush on Lelouch. Can't blame you for it, though. He's a nice enough guy."

Yui opened her mouth to protest, but had no words. She closed it again, embarrassed.

"I don't know if it's because you are afraid of your own feelings, but if you are bothered by him being with other girls, then you need to speak up. If you don't do anything, he might slip away," Izumi explained as she shrugged.

Kasuza, standing a couple yards off, noticed their conversation and wondered what they were talking about. She had her suspicions, especially given Yui's expression, and she wondered if she shouldn't go speak with her.

"Hey Kazusa, how about a new race?" It was Aki, interrupting her train of thought.

"Uh sure," Kazusa replied, noticing a reluctant Lelouch once again being dragged into it.

As Michiru went over to check on the preparation of the grill for lunch, Michiru noticed that Marimo, her former instructor, had the beginnings of bags forming under her eyes.

"Are you sure that you're getting enough sleep?" Michiru asked worriedly. "It looks like you've been doing all nighters."

"I appreciate the concern," Marimo assured. "Whatever sludge that woman stuffed in me sure works its magic so there's nothing for you to worry about."

"Sludge?" Michiru questioned. Knowing her former instructor won't divulge anything, she decided to let it slide. She faced the parasol topwise once more. "Just don't blame me if you end up in the infirmary due to insomnia. Speaking of which, I understand that there is a new ship waiting for Lelouch when he sets off with our fellow Eishi to other worlds."

"That's a problem," Marimo sighed, closing her eyes.

"What is? Is it about our people leaving our world?"

"Perhaps. If they are needed at a critical time we can easily report them as being assigned abroad until that becomes a concern. Like all ships and military units, Lelouch will need personnel who can cover various roles. Maintenance crews for the TSFs, navigators, engineers, doctors."

"Doctors, that's going to be the difficult one to fill," Michiru agreed, which didn't surprise Marimo. "So far, we haven't found anyone available- or rather, no one is willing to volunteer. The invasion and the damage it has done to Japan has left hospitals overwhelmed. Any doctor we could ask has had their hands full."

"That busty woman of a time traveler claims she has a medical license," Marimo muttered grudgingly. "Though I hope we can find someone more… compatible with the crew's tastes."

An unexpected, ear-splitting shout came from above everyone.

"BIG, FANSERVICEY, TIME-TRAVELLING GODDESS COMING THROUGH!"

Falling from the sky was Claude. She seemed naked at first, but as she neared the ground she slowed down before she gracefully landed on her feet in the water near the shore. With the water only coming up to her thighs everyone could now see the swimsuit she was wearing. Everyone internally groaned from Claude's arrival and the swimsuit she chose to wear, if it could even be called one. It was a two piece swimsuit that was a size too small, as the straps looked on the verge of snapping and the fabric barely covered anything.

That woman has no modesty or any sense of shame, does she? Marimo sighed, unphased by her attempt at a theatrical entry.

"Speak of the devil."

"Uuuuh…" Claude rose from the water. "That was quite anticlimactic. I thought I'd scare at least one or two of you."

"I… think your presence is becoming more of a common occurrence here," Yui looked at some of her friends. She found Shamiko shaking, Kasuza facepalming herself, and Aki throwing her arms up.

You just killed the festive mood everyone had, Lelouch thought.

"Perhaps we should go elsewhere for now," Haruka suggested approaching Lelouch and his group with Yuzuka and Haruko behind her.

Haruka wore a white, flirrely, two piece swimsuit. It stood in contrast to Haruko's strapless, blue, two piece.

"I get the feeling this is going to get messy," Haruko commented, something that everyone within earshot silently agreed with.

"Right, let's go before-" Lelouch began before Claude appeared behind him and threw an arm over his shoulder. Inwardly, he cursed her supernatural speed.

"Well, well, congratulations are indeed in order," Claude said pridefully. "You know, I was worried you weren't going to make it through training even with my support. When I first picked you up, you couldn't fight your way out of a paper bag, but you not only pulled it off, you even overcame the heightened difficulty thrown at you."

"No need to compliment me," Lelouch looked to the side.

"Oh, you should be happier than that. Especially since you are the only guy on a beach with beautiful girls all around you," Claude patted Lelouch's shoulder. "If you were a couple years older, I would do something special for you, but instead I suppose I got some good news… along with some bad news to share with you."

"What's the good news?" Lelouch asked hesitantly.

"Good news is, the Shogun and I have solved the crew problem for your new ship," Claude replied cheerfully. "There was a problem finding people to fill the necessary positions for running it. With the invasion and the heavy casualties, the Empire has been very short handed on people they can spare."

"Understandable," Lelouch said.

"We had to outsource a chief engineer from another country to complete the staffing of the ship. Thankfully the Shogun has reached an agreement with Australia, who is sending a prodigy engineer from the Australian Defence Forces. It's part of a united defense deal," Claude explained.

"Okay, so what's the bad news?"

"Bad news, you will have to take a different ship!"

"What?" Lelouch blinked with surprise.

"Yup, I am afraid I had to give your ship for Yui's cousin Kyoko to use. You see, there was a BETA invasion happening at the Suez Canal, and if they invade Africa then the vast majority of the food supplied for Earth is at serious risk," Claude answered.

"Why Africa? She's still needed in Japan," Kazusa stated, shocked by the news.

"Because the United States has been planning to pull their forces out," Claude started to explain. "They've been influenced by their worries about the loss of Africia to the BETA, which currently is still home to millions of refugees from across Europe and Asia. Losing Africa would be seen as a far bigger blow than losing Japan would. Fortunately, the Shogun has proven to be quite sly. Given how effective the Gundams have been against the BETA, Kyoko was sent with her own forces using the new Minamoto units and the Takarabune; she has already slain a few of the BETA's formations since arriving," Claude said with a big grin. "I think the crew really love using the Positron Blaster Cannon against the BETA. The armor combined with its shields have reduced damage from the Laser-class BETA so much, they might as well be throwing ping-pong balls at it."

"Just how much of a kill count are we talking about?" Aki asked, listening in awe.

"Hundreds at least. I don't have an update to date on the kill count of what Lady Kyoko and her group has racked up, but I will say it stunned everyone on the international stage and guilt tripped the Americans. Their continued help per the treaty is ensured and they were being… convinced to be nicer to Japan since they got so many nice new weapons, thanks to me," Claude replied with a smug grin.

"The Shogun is taking full advantage of the situation," Lelouch deduced with one hand on his chin.

"You bet she is. The Shogun has other countries throwing themselves at her feet, completely ignoring the Prime Minister who is supposed to be the official leader of Japan. In fact, I'd say the Shogun is no longer a figurehead. She now has political influence on par with the Prime Minister since he was originally against developing the Gundams. Boy is he feeling ashamed right now," Claude laughed.

Lelouch sighed. This would complicate things.

"Come, Lelouch," Kazusa said, taking hold of his right arm. "Perhaps we should move away from Claude."

"Yes please," Lelouch accepted Kazusa's offer.

"Man, how did Lelouch and Yui survive months in some space alone with that woman?" Aki said, watching Claude as she was lost in her own world.

Moving further down the beach, Kazusa and Lelouch stopped when they were far enough away from Claude, where the two could talk in peace.

"I hope you don't mind, but I wanted to take this chance to speak to you more privately," said Kazusa.

"Not at all. What is on your mind?" Lelouch asked as Kazusa led him under the shade of a palm tree. She took a seat on the ground and leaned her back against its trunk. Lelouch sat to Kazusa's right, both facing towards the sea.

"I wanted to apologize about what happened in Kyoto. I helped you perform a mercy kill for our commanding officer," Kazusa said with a saddened expression.

"There's nothing to apologize for. If anything, I should apologize for being unable to do it myself," Lelouch admitted.

"There is nothing wrong with that. Taking the life of an ally, even to spare them from suffering, is not something easily done." Kazusa placed a hand on Lelouch's shoulder. "My father once told me how he had to kill his best friend to prevent him from being eaten alive. It simply wasn't possible to save him. It was the best thing he could have done for him, but it still haunts his nightmares. To hesitate on pulling the trigger… it only makes you human, Lelouch."

"Is that why he was so strict with preparing you for life as a pilot?"

"Yes. It was a good decision," Kazusa said with a smile. "He prayed I would never be faced with something that horrible, so he made me take my training seriously and ensured I would demand the same from my fellow teammates."

"I take it that doesn't happen a lot?"

"Thankfully, no, as far as I am aware," Kazusa admitted. "I can't even imagine Yui being able to do it, especially if she lost everyone else before my own death came for me."

"There is simply no way she could've done it. She sees you as her best friend."

"I suppose," Kazusa commented, deep in thought.

"What do you mean, 'I suppose'?"

"Yui told you we became friends after she bested me, right?"

"She did mention that, yes."

"What else did she say?"

"Not much, but she holds you in very high regard. She admires you."

Kazusa smiled, "Is that so? I guess I had viewed her with a level of disdain when we first met. How much did she tell you about her own House?"

"Very little," Lelouch admitted.

"Are you aware of how ranks among the Samurai Families were chosen?"

"Not too much?"

"Well," Kazusa began, speaking with confidence of a teacher, "First, I should explain that the ranks of the Royal Guard belonging to the households that make it up are decided by those who sided with Tokugawa before and during the Battle of Sekigahara. Those families who didn't join, but were spared by Tokugawa afterwards, became Tozama ranked families, the lowest ranked. Others who joined Tokugawa and were related to him would become Fudai ranked households, below the Regent Families with only the Shogun, chosen among the five regent families above them."

"I see. So you, Aki, Izumi, and Shimako's families are from Tozama Families?"

Nobility. Hierarchy. Positioning. It's all too familiar, isn't it? Lelouch thought. Something must have shown on Lelouch's face, as she replied, "Correct. You take issue with this?"

"You could say that. Is it safe for me to assume that the ranks are fixed with no way of advancement, over something your ancestors did a long time ago?" Lelouch asked. Kazusa nodded in confirmation. "It is… outdated. Medieval. At least in Britannia you could strive for a higher rank, but in this system? It's a waste of talent. It's unfair and ineffective."

Kazusa shrugged, and sighed. "I guess it is. I mean- yes, of course it is. It's just… it is what it is, you know? I can't change it. I can only make the best of what I've got. Besides, it's not all that bad. There was a system for advancement in place until the end of the Second World War. Although, only a few families had the opportunity to advance their rank. One of them was the Takamura Family. They were a family of skilled swordsmiths who in generations since became engineers developing weapons. Japan was losing such talented families frustrated by being restrained by such rules left to strike out on their own, so to prevent the loss of any more of them, the Takamura Family was elevated to a Fudai house," Kazusa explained.

"I see, so it had nothing to do with the work of Yui's father," Lelouch commented. He remembered that Yui's father was the main developer behind the Zuikaku and is implied to have been one of the creators of the Type-74 PB Blade.

"No, but his work certainly improved the family's standing. This rise did cause some discontent among the lower-classed samurai families, which persisted until Takamura Masatada became the new head of the family. Even then, some unpleasant rumors and slander continued, which worsened when Yui was made the next heir to the family name," Kazusa said.

"Because males are usually successors instead of women. Barring a few obvious exceptions," Lelouch deduced, thinking of Kyoko and Yuuhi.

"That's right. Lady Takatsukasa was first to defy tradition by becoming the new head of the Takatsukasa Family. She faced a lot of hardship for it, but she has managed to keep defying everyone's expectations," Kazusa said, admiration filling her voice.

"I can't even begin to imagine what she endured. It only makes her accomplishments all the more impressive. I can see why both you and Yui look up to her." Lelouch nodded. "My own mother was born a commoner and she would be the first of non-noble birth to obtain the rank of the Knight of the Round and then she would become Empress, all before she was eighteen."

"I take it she too faced slander, resentment and envy?"

"Naturally. Even my sister and I weren't exempt from it. I remember one of the Emperor's other consorts harassed my sister, breaking a new doll our mother gave her." Lelouch began smiling. "Of course, our mother showed up and threatened that consort with violence in the sweetest way possible, while carrying a sword at her hip. The woman quickly folded and ran away like a coward."

Kazusa couldn't help but chuckle. "It seems like she handled it well," Kazusa complimented.

"Yes, she did," Lelouch said wistfully, but suddenly he looked down at the ground.

"I suppose it just means Yui and I can relate," Kazusa commented, gazing out to sea. "Now that you know more about the households and their rankings, I can explain our houses and why Yui admired me as much as she did. As I told you, House Takamura faced slander and accusations from the lower houses because of their ascension in rank."

"I would expect no less."

"My house also faced similar slander," Kazusa began. "We have a very dedicated military background. Every member has served in the Royal Guard in one form or another. We also enjoyed wealth from our family businesses, both the manufacture of TSF parts and the mining of the raw materials to make them. This also Includes weapons, from pistols to assault rifles used by the army. Our long generations of military experience, as you can imagine, has made my family distinguished as pilots and consultants."

"Why was this a problem?"

"My family was not the most wealthy by noble standards. Not any more. The mines we drew from have long run dry and the weapons we produce have been surpassed by other competing families. We lacked the resources to pivot to other means and most of the known mineral veins have already been claimed by other families. Most now earn whatever little wealth they can from military service for the Royal Guard in one shape or another. Their living conditions were no different from your traditional middle class family."

"That isn't the only problem, is it? I recall hearing about there being trouble between the Royal Guard and the local populace," Lelouch said, thinking back to Yuzuka's animosity towards the Royal Guard.

Kazusa nodded. "Correct. Relations between the people of Japan and much of the regular military have become strained. Many of the people see us as remnants of an outdated system and look upon us with contempt."

"Compared to the higher ranked houses, you would be more exposed to the public's abuse. You would have to endure it, while putting up a front to protect the image of your house." Lelouch couldn't keep the frown off his face.

She gave him a sad smile. "For families such as mine and Yui's, it has been an unpleasant experience, even when we attended academies that allowed students from outside of the noble households like mine. We always had to be kind and dutiful girls. Always putting up the most polite front," Kazusa explained. Lelouch could relate.

"It must've been torture. Having to be something you aren't, all to meet some arbitrary expectation set by someone else…"

"I know you've also been wearing a mask. In the end, we're not so different."

While Kazusa and Yui had endured slander and unpleasant remarks while having to present an ideal image of themselves to the public, Lelouch had been living in fear that should his true identity ever be discovered, he and his sister would most likely be put to death by their own royal court.

You were worse off than us, Kazusa thought.

"There you two are," Aki called out as she approached the pair. "Come on. We're playing a game of volleyball, and we need one more for our team!" She grabbed each of their arms and started dragging them behind her before either could protest.

"What are the teams?" Lelouch asked, noticing Kazusa's annoyance at their interruption. "I don't think there are enough of us for full teams. Unless Michiru and Marimo take part, both teams are one short."

"Lelouch, as leader of our squad you should be on our team," Yuzuka said, as soon as they drew near.

Yuzuka was joined by Haruko and Asagi who had a pair of sunglasses on her head."But who will be on the other team to even them out?" Haruko asked before she pointed to the other team. "It's not fair the way it is right now." "Then just go with five person teams. The people in the back will have to pull double duty. This will be a fun test of teamwork," Marimo said, stepping in with both hands on her hips. "That should keep things fair, and that way you don't have to worry about Lelouch giving one side an unfair advantage, regardless of which side he joins."

"In that case we'll show them as his new squad, that Lelouch will be in good hands," Haruko said, cracking her knuckles.

"Is that some kind of challenge," Aki asked, one eyebrow twitching.

"Maybe. Worried you girls might lose to us in front of Lelouch?"

"Bring it," Aki challenged, raising a fist in defiance.

Shimako could only sigh, "Please Aki, this is just a game. No need to make a war out of it."

"Yes, please try to be more mature about this," Izumi added.

"Oh come on, this is a matter of honor for the Royal Guard," Aki proclaimed, pumping her clenched fist into the air dramatically.

"I apologize for her overzealousness," Kazusa sighed to Lelouch.

"Oh it's fine, I wouldn't worry," Tsukiko said with a dismissive hand wave.

Free to sit out the game, Lelouch sat down in one of the unoccupied beach chairs, with Michiru joining him, while Marimo acted as a referee, with Claude keeping score. Following a coin toss, Yui's side started with Kazusa serving the ball. With a powerful strike she sent the ball into the air, flying over the net where Haruko intercepted it, passing it to Tsukiko who spiked it back over. Aki tried to intercept it, but Tsukiko's spiking of the ball was too fast, giving Lelouch's squad a point.

"Score for Lelouch's squadmates," Claude announced, flipping the cards on the scoreboard to reflect where the teams stood on points.

Now Asagi was serving the ball, sending it flying over the net.

"I got it!" Shimako intercepted it, passing it to Yui who sent it to Izumi to spike it.

Unfortunately Haruko was there to intercept it. "Haruka!" she called out as she passed it. Haruka managed to send it back over the net.

Shimako dived in and prevented it from hitting the ground.

"Someone, catch it," Shimako called out.

"I got it." Yui caught it and sent it back over.

However Tsukiko was ready and spiked it back towards Aki.

"Look out!"

Caught off guard, Aki barely intercepted the ball. Her interception was sloppy and forced Asagi out of place to try and spike it back. . This time, Kazusa was waiting to intercept it and spiked it over and into the ground, scoring her team a point.

"Nice one," Haruko complimented.

"You might have gotten the first score, but we're not letting you win without a fight," Kazusa said, clearly taking this game seriously.

Asagi served the ball for the third time, but Izumi intercepted it and bounced it to Shimako, who quickly spiked it before anyone on the other side could react.

"Point!" Claude called out.

Watching from the sidelines, Lelouch found his mind unfocused and a growing annoyance taking root. Throughout the game he couldn't help but notice the way swimsuits fitted onto the forms of his friends, the way their bodies moved, the way certain things bounced… it both annoyed and distressed him. It wasn't like him. He hadn't paid that much attention to girls before. It wasn't that he wasn't aware of girls, or rather their sexuality, but it was something he didn't really bother, busy with all his planning for the future. But it was natural, wasn't it?

Don't be a creep, he reminded himself. Even so, he couldn't help, but look. He tried to think of something else, but he kept finding himself in the same loop of thoughts, his eyes drawn to the girls… especially Yui. No matter how hard he tried his best to not focus, he couldn't help but give Shimako, Kazusa, Yuzuka, Haruko, and the other girls an appreciative glance or two, before he would avert his gaze.

To his horror, Lelouch felt a stirring in his groin. Shit, shit, shit! He grit his teeth, crossing his legs in embarrassment to hide his growing arousal.

"Hormones causing you trouble?" Michiru said with a smirk, sitting next to him.

"It's nothing," Lelouch said, trying his best to keep a solid poker face.

"It's nothing, eh? Your face says otherwise," Michiru chuckled. Lelouch's cheeks started to fill with red, a look of flustered annoyance on his face. Lelouch was mortified. Had she noticed his… condition? Clearly she did, but, thankfully, didn't seem to judge him for it. Luckily the girls were too caught up in their game to notice Lelouch's trouble or overhear his conversation with Michiru.

"It's nothing to be ashamed about," Michiru tried to reassure. "You're a teenager. Being interested in the opposite sex is extremely normal for guys your age. It's something that happens to everyone as you get older."

"I know," Lelouch said awkwardly. He desperately wanted not to have the talk about the birds and the bees. He knew about that… sort of. "It's just I shouldn't be looking at them like some creep, but…"

"But you can't help it. Especially with what is happening in front of you. It's not really fair, huh. You are the only guy here. You mustn't be used to being surrounded by so many women. And if I recall correctly, you always had to hide who you really were, so you couldn't have had too many people you were close to, right?"

"I…I suppose that is true," Lelouch admitted.

"Well, it's different here. You don't have to hide. You're free to… try things. It's not wrong to have these feelings. Maybe try talking to one of the girls; see if they're interested. You might not have thought about it, but here you can be sort of… liberated? You can be you, and these girls you've become friends with know who you are. You don't have to pretend to be something you're not. Wearing whatever mask you wore back in your world must've been suffocating."

Lelouch went silent in reflection. In a way, she's right. I… can do all of that. But… how? I don't know the first thing about talking to girls…Can I even afford such a distraction?

"Not just liberated, but strangely more alive," Lelouch began hesitantly. "Having to hide my real self behind a mask was suffocating. I was always worried that the Ashford Family who sheltered us would decide to sell us out. We had no real value besides liability insurance. And of course there was also the fear of our identities being revealed. I always had to be mindful of what I said to others. I couldn't trust anyone with my secret."

"But you don't have to worry about that here," Michiru said reassuringly.

"Yeah, here it's different," Lelouch said before smiling. "It's ironic. Despite the danger the BETA poses to humanity, I actually feel safer here."

"The life you must have led to feel like that…" Michiru sighed as she shook her head.

"I suppose it's all a matter of perspective."

"You've gone through a lot. And the thing is, you're still young. You're very capable, but…"

"But?"

"You're not very experienced in a leadership role. You may be tactically brilliant, but leading people requires a certain skill set that only time can give you."

"You're afraid I will let them down?"

Michiru shook her head. "Failure is always a possibility. But think of this more as a… concern. A warning."

"I'm all ears," Lelouch said curiously.

"It'll sound very simple, but it's not. These girls will trust you with their very lives. Your decisions could get them all killed. To be given that trust is an immense responsibility. The burden of leadership means you will do everything in your power not to let them down, and even so, sometimes you will still fail despite all your efforts. But you must do your utmost not to. Never betray them, never let them down, even in a small way. If you can do that, if you can get them to trust your judgment, you could move mountains."

Lelouch nodded. "I… yes. I know that. Sometimes… It's easy to think of units on a display board as just numbers, a calculation for me to solve, like a game of chess. It makes winning easier, but I know they're not. I hope… no, I won't let them down."

Michiru smiled. "That's the right attitude. Chin up, will you?"

"Hard to after hearing something that serious," Lelouch muttered.

"Sorry about that. Today was supposed to be all leisure and fun, after all, but some things need to be said."

"Just save the world from an alien invasion and never let your troops down. No pressure," Lelouch said dryly.

"That's the spirit," Michiru laughed.

Later that same night, Lelouch decided to slip away for some time alone with his thoughts. They'd had a barbecue for dinner and everyone was chatting it up, while Claude was being a nuisance. While no one was looking, Lelouch managed to quietly slip away, taking a stroll down the beach by himself, but it wasn't long before he realized he was followed.

"That seemed to be a little much for you, huh?"

Lelouch looked over his shoulder to see Yui, wearing a black jacket over her swimsuit, a contrast to his white jacket.

"I should ask you," Lelouch replied, prompting a smile from Yui. "How have you been holding up?"

"I've been fine. If there is anyone who should worry, it was me. You know, I was observing you and your friends on that island when that UAV went out of control," Yui explained..

"What about it?"

"You sound awfully casual about that, don't you think?"

Lelouch shrugged. "It wasn't exactly a fun situation, but… I've been in combat situations. You get used to having to deal with dangerous things and how to keep your nerve. Compared to some other things I've been through, it wasn't all that bad."

"I wish I had your calm," she sighed. "When I had to take my Combat Skill Evaluation, my nerves were completely shot.

"Was the test that difficult for you and your friends?" Lelouch asked as they walked along the beach together.

"Ours was easy compared to yours. It was just a four on four battle in a maze of shipping containers. We fought one another using Armored Fencing until either time ran out or one team was defeated. Beyond that, we never attempted any kind of survival training like the UN and the Army does," Yui explained.

"They must have gone the extra mile then."

"They did for sure, but even then I doubt it's going to silence all of the naysayers against you," Yui commented, disappointed.

"I can't say that would surprise me," Lelouch said knowingly. Even though he had accomplished a lot, he wasn't stupid enough to think the Japanese would easily accept him, even after Kyoto. No matter what he accomplished, he would have to deal with such fools while working with the Empire of Japan. "All because I am not Japanese."

"Yes, as stupid as I think that is."

"Agreed. But that is just human nature. I have seen similar mindsets from both the Japanese of my world and the Britannians especially." Lelouch said with open disgust.

"It sounds like you can't wait to put that country to the sword." Yui nodded along.

"Yes, although this isn't how I had planned for it to happen. This way will, no doubt, accelerate my plans by decades compared to if I had tried to do this on my own. I have no doubt I would have eventually been successful. It just would've taken much longer to gather the necessary manpower and resources to make the first move," Lelouch stated. Yui couldn't help, but be impressed by his confidence.

There might be a hint of arrogance to that, but he has given it serious thought, She thought. Suddenly a chill wind passed by. The two shivered, but neither wanted to return to the chaos unfolding at the main cabin. The pair noticed an empty, smaller cabin, a short distance ahead.

"Let's head over there. At the very least the building will break the wind," Lelouch suggested.

"Sounds good to me."

The pair made their way to the unused cabin. The door was locked, but they noticed an open window allowing the two to slip inside. It was deserted, sparsely furnished, and looked like it had gone unused for some time. There was some old firewood left behind and a used box of matches by the fireplace.

"We're out of the wind, but it's still pretty cold," Yui commented.

"Well, we're in luck then," Lelouch said, shaking the box of matches, the sound of a few, leftover matchsticks bouncing around.. Once they had a fire going, Lelouch managed to locate some blankets, grabbing one for himself and one for Yui.

"Thank you." Yui accepted the white blanket handed to her.

"I didn't think it would get this cold this quickly."

"Well, October is just a few weeks away. Summer is finally giving way to fall, and winter won't be far off. The nights are only going to get colder," Yui said, sitting on the couch in front of the fireplace.

"It's still quite the drop compared to earlier."

"I know," Yui said as Lelouch joined her on the couch, wrapping another blanket around himself.

"At least it's a lot quieter here," Lelouch commented, earning a chuckle from Yui.

"Yes, and best of all, no Claude."

"I completely agree." Lelouch chuckled back in return.

"There was one thing I was wondering about. The whole exiled prince thing… if it's not too sensitive."

"Go ahead," Lelouch replied.

"What are you going to do when you get what you want? When your mother is avenged and your father is overthrown?"

Lelouch was momentarily taken aback. He'd made many plans to make that happen, to reach his goals, but as for what came after… it seemed so distant, so impossible. What would a future where he won even look like?

"That is hard to say. Too much is unknown," Lelouch admitted. "But I suppose depending on how things play out, I would like to slip away into quiet obscurity with Nunnally. Maybe we could find her a nurse, let her live independently from me. Have our own lives…"

Lelouch sighed.

"Nunnally may be my first priority, but I am no fool. My duties would keep me from seeing her more and more. That's why I know she'll need someone she can trust by her side."

"Sounds to me like you want to set her up with a boy," Yui said jokingly.

Lelouch laughed, "Not really, but as long as this person has Nunnally's complete trust, protection and happiness in mind then that's enough for me."

"The aspiring general, slinking back into a quiet life? That's hard to imagine," Yui smiled, teasingly.

"I suppose, but I'll figure something out. What about you?"

"Me?" Yui hesitated. It was fair for him to ask, she supposed. "I'll likely follow my father and become a TSF developer, and take over the Takamura Household. I am in no hurry to succeed him, but I know sooner or later he'll step down and pass it to me," Yui replied.

"You sound… worried. Or is that my imagination?"

"I suppose no harm in telling you. My father's decision to make me successor to our house was met with a lot of controversy," Yui answered. "Seeing all my father had to endure, I wonder if I can do it. I think part of the reason he buries himself in work is as an escape to put the stress of it behind him."

"Women don't typically get to be the head of a samurai household," Lelouch stated. Yui nodded.

"My mother nearly died giving birth to me, and the strain of it all has ruined her health. She cannot bear a second child, so my relatives tried to push my father towards adopting a son to be the next heir to House Takamura, which is why I became a surface pilot to prove I am up for it."

"Some people can't let go of traditions, I suppose," Lelouch commented with some disdain in his voice.

"I suppose that is why Kazusa and I got along as well as we did, once we understood we shared similar burdens," Yui admitted.

"I see," Lelouch replied.

"Yeah. It's… a lot. Life can be pretty unfair, huh?"

Lelouch felt a pang of sympathy. Demanding parents, an outdated and judgmental nobility, forcing your children to be something they didn't want… They weren't so different from each other. Without thinking, he placed a hand on Yui's shoulder, to comfort her. Yui moved closer; leaning her head close to his.

"Proving your worth through deeds and accomplishments is a worthy goal," Lelouch praised, feeling awkward. He admired her. Just like him, she was of noble birth and just like him, she was willing to prove her worth by action, not by superiority of birth.

"Thank you," she said, smiling. "My friends, I guess because of the families they come from always seemed to walk on eggshells around me, but with you, status and history doesn't seem to matter," Yui said leaning even closer to Lelouch. "You treat me like an equal. I feel very comfortable around you."

Yui edged closer to Lelouch, until her thigh rubbed up against his through the blankets. Their faces were so close to each other now. She hadn't thought about it; it just seemed natural. Neither of them seemed to notice it, think about it.

"You two seem to be enjoying your time together," a voice said, catching the two by surprise before the lights came on.

Turning, the pair looked to the stairs where they caught sight of Marimo wearing a green jacket over her swimsuit. She smiled amusedly as Yui's face turned beet red.

"M-Major Jinguuji!?" Yui jumped.

"This is your cabin, isn't it," Lelouch asked calmly. He was surprised, but not flustered like Yui.

"It is. You have your own cabin after all, and so do I. I am surprised you two didn't go to his," Marimo suggested with a bemused smile.

"We're sort of hiding from Claude," Lelouch replied.

"Ah. Understandable," Marimo conceded with a nod before joining them by the fire, sitting on the cushioned bed next to the sofa. "Since you two are here, there is something I've been meaning to talk to you about."

"What do you mean?" Yui asked.

"Well, there's a problem I want to discuss," Marimo confessed. "As you know, the CCSE is a mandatory requirement of the course. But even after that, trainees are still not fully graduated. While you are an exception, the rest of your team will still have to undergo TSF training, which normally will last until December before they are ready for military service."

"Something that will change, I take it," Lelouch realized. Marimo nodded in confirmation.

"They've spent plenty of time in the simulators, but they still need actual training in their intended machines," Yui exclaimed. "The mock battle they did earlier was part of it, but they still need practice in many more mock battles and training missions."

"Exactly," Marimo said.

"The needs are greater, since they are also dealing with brand new machines," Lelouch deduced sagely. "Right now, Japan has a limited production capacity, and will want to use them conservatively. Japan has much riding on them, both for their clashes against the BETA and politically with other countries, so they must perform beyond expectations in combat."

"I am glad you both understand." Marimo said.

"There is something else, isn't there?" Yui asked. Marimo nodded.

"Yes. These new technologies have become very effective in combating the BETA, including the airborne warship Lady Kyoko has been using to deal with the Laser-class BETA. I am sure Claude told you of how effective it has been against them. However, as you've no doubt heard, they're not going to give you one so easily."

"It's the problem of trust, isn't it? I also know finding sufficient people to crew them is an issue, which was another factor for my intended ship being given to Lady Kyoko," Lelouch said.

To his surprise, Marimo shook her head. "No, it's the problem of rank. The government and IJA agreed that the authority over such vessels will be established similar to that of the old Imperial Japanese Navy. So even if you were to receive a new vessel to replace the one Lady Kyoko has commandeered, you will need the appropriate rank to command it."

"Meaning I still have a long way to go before it's rightfully mine," Lelouch said irritably. He wasn't too surprised, but it didn't make it less annoying.

"I'm afraid so. As you believe, it will be very much the same kind of command that you likely have back in your world. You'd have to be a Major, the equivalent of a Lieutenant Commander, for you to have the slightest chance to make it yours as early as possible. Otherwise, you'll have to be at least one rank above that, a Lieutenant Colonel, or a Commander in Navy terms."

"But the coming battles should give him plenty of opportunities, right?" Yui asked. In her eyes, Lelouch deserved the promotion for what he had already accomplished.

"Yes. I trust you've heard about what the Shogun has been trying to do following our losses to the BETA invasion?" Marimo asked. Lelouch nodded.

"The merging of the Royal Guard and the Imperial Army has been far from a smooth transition. Aside from trying to rebuild our command structure and place the right people in the best positions to restore order and stability to our forces, there have been some commanders acting independently, causing problems," Marimo explained, her face a mix of anger and annoyance. "The most common issue we've seen is officers and soldiers taking issue with the Royal Guard and the privileges they have. Others believe with their superiors dead or having left the army out of shame, they have command and want to prioritize taking back Japan from the BETA."

"But we lost so many during the last invasion. If we try to take it back now, we would stretch ourselves dangerously thin," Yui protested.

Marimo smiled at Yui. From what she had heard about Yui, she was a nationalist, but thankfully not as radical as many hardliners. Clearly her time with Lelouch had been good for her, or perhaps it was something she got from him while using the Coupling System.

"That is exactly the problem and why the Shogun has made it a priority to rebuild our command structure to put those fools in line before they do something stupid that jeopardizes our efforts to keep the BETA at bay. Even now Lord Ikaruga has been struggling against the enemy and against those who would defy his orders and pull men from the defensive line for their own foolhardy efforts to retake lost lands," Marimo said grimly. "We had actually known that another BETA invasion force would hit Sadogashima and it was planned for Lord Ikaruga to oversee the defense, but with all of the problems we've been facing, he's been forced to remain and secure the defensive line to keep the enemy back. These unfortunate setbacks have forced us to change our original plans."

Lelouch's eyes narrowed as he realized something. "I assume that someone managed to pull men away from a key place."

"As you deduced, a foolish general managed to convince the garrisons at Sadogashima to join his efforts," Marimo admitted. "We tried to stop this by sending orders for the base commander to stop it, but unfortunately the man meant to deliver those orders was sympathetic to the fool's cause and ensured the base's commander didn't receive them. He was forced to concede due to the fool's higher rank."

"Didn't anyone try to stop them and get them to return to base?"

Marimo had a grim expression, "Sadly by the time we realized what had happened that idiot had taken those Garrisons into occupied BETA land. They were initially successful, but once they were far enough away from the defensive line, they were overwhelmed. They idiotically walked into a valley pass which had Laser-class BETA lying in ambush. It was a slaughter followed by a hidden regiment of BETA surrounding them, cutting off any escape."

Yui looked horrified, while Lelouch was angered by the stupidity of the general.

"The only good thing that came out of it was that it exposed a large gathering of BETA for our long range artillery to wipe out. They were likely intended to strike at points in our defensive lines away from Kyoto to probe for a weakness to exploit," Marimo said before looking towards the ground sadly. "It's just a damn shame those poor men who got dragged along had to die for it."

"What about Sadogashima? This would mean that it has been left undefended," Lelouch stated.

"Yes," Marimo admitted, frowning. "Only two squads of TSFs remain to defend it, and we've confirmed the BETA are massing a new invasion force in Asia. According to our tracking, they will hit Sadogashima in six days."

"Six days? We barely have the men to spare!" Yui exclaimed with growing alarm, knowing what the loss of Sadogashima would mean for Japan.

"If Sadogashima falls, we could lose much of Central Japan, especially with most of our men tied up trying to hold the line against them at Kyoto. That is why we're going to send you two, along with Kazusa, Izumi, Aki and Shimako in your Gundams, to defend Sadogashima. We're hoping their advanced capabilities and firepower can hold back the tide."

"Just us?" Yui asked.

"No. Cadet Tsukiko Fujisawa will join you. She is fully trained, but needs the experience. Lieutenant Mariko Amemiya has volunteered to join you as well. Apparently, she was impressed by how you led the cadets in the mock battle against her and expressed her willingness to work with you. Furthermore, since the leaders of the reserve squad of TSFs that remained at Sadogashima are seasoned pilots, we are arranging for them to be given Minamoto units. We're trying to produce more for the rest of their squads, but we don't know if they will be finished in time. But we have already begun replacing the tanks there with railgun batteries and linear tanks while updating the rest of the defenses as best as we can," Marimo informed. Although she tried to sound hopeful, the seriousness of the situation was written on her face.

"That means just a small battle group against an invasion force similar in size to the one that overran Kyushu, right?" Lelouch asked, remaining calm.

"Yes, unfortunately. But the new ship Claude had arranged for you will be joining the fight, captained by one of the Shogun's retainers. It should make it easier for Lelouch to issue tactical instructions and strategies as the battlefield changes. With his Gundam's tactical computer linked to both the ship and the island's base to keep all three updated on the battlefield," Marimo revealed.

"So it'll be like what we did at Kyoto," Lelouch said, already understanding that the arrangement was to minimize any grumbling or issues brought about from a foreigner taking command. "Yui will officially be in command, but I'll direct the battle."

"Correct. I am grateful you are understanding of the situation. Unity will be critical for this battle, and you'll have the support of the Americans. They are sending a few battleships with a cruiser escort to provide support, along with a few squads of their own TSFs," Marimo said.

"No doubt enticed by the fact the Gundams will be involved in the battle," Lelouch said with a knowing smile.

"Yes, that certainly helped convince them," Marimo replied with a grin. "Which makes this battle even more important for us to win. Do this, Lelouch, and you are sure to be promoted high enough to captain your own ship."

"And all we have to do is pull off a miracle, huh?"

"More or less. I'm hoping the advanced capabilities and firepower of your Gundams can even the odds," Marimo shrugged.

"Very well," Lelouch said.

I suppose even messiahs need to perform miracles if they are to be acknowledged. We have to produce our own miracle, don't we? Lelouch thought. This would be key for him. If he played his cards right, it would be a major step forward for his long term goals.

Meanwhile, in a secure location in Tokyo, Yuuhi was seated at a table with Mana standing behind her. Men in black suits stood present as bodyguards. Sitting across from Yuuhi was a man in his late thirties with brown hair and glasses over green eyes. He wore a light brown suit with a red tie, and had a serious expression. Between them sitting to Yuuhi's right was an older Japanese man with short white hair and a mustache, dressed in a gray business suit with a red tie.

"I have to say you have proven far more adept at politics than I would've imagined, going behind my back," The old man grumbled, both impressed and irate at the same time.

"Thank you, Prime Minister Sakaki," Yuuhi replied.

"Even I have to admit you have proven to be the most capable Shogun we've seen in a decade. For someone meant to be only a ceremonial figurehead, pardon my saying, your handling of the situation has been key to the survival of our nation," said the other man.

"Thank you for your compliments, Under-Secretary-General Tamase," Yuuhi said. The Under-Secretary of the United Nations had arrived only a short time ago via an emergency flight from UN headquarters.

"I see now it was you that allowed the Shogun to strike her deals with Australia and other countries," Sakaki said. "Quite the power play."

"Hardly. While your administration has been grappling with the fallout of the loss of Kyoto, thirty percent of our population, and the resulting refugee crisis, I've been doing all I can to save our country. The new technologies and weapons we were offered have proven highly effective beyond our expectations," Yuuhi said sternly.

"Indeed they have," Sakaki said, reluctantly. "I just distrusted that woman."

"I think we can all agree on that one, but given our situation we can't be picky. Things could've been far worse," Tamase said, trying to ease tensions between the Shogun and the Prime Minister. "We've lost most of southern Japan and Kyoto is a battleground. Right now, we need to do what we can to stabilize and bring the army back under control."

Sakaki sighed, not so much in defeat, but frustration as he had to agree that they had bigger problems to contend with.

"Yes and since the Shogun did well with damage control, we'll elevate her to acting military Commander-in-Chief of the whole Imperial Army and the Navy." Sakaki said, "Your time as a figurehead is done. Hopefully the Royal Guard and the other families can restore some stability and order to the army so we can maintain our defense against the BETA until we are ready to mount a counterattack."

"I agree. But there are those in the army who harbor ill-will and suspicion towards the Royal Guard. We need to elevate capable men and women to the necessary posts as soon as possible," Yuuhi suggested.

"We are already screening potential candidates, but given the chaos following the rapid collapse of our defenses during the invasion, we're having a hard time determining if the candidates in question are still alive. We can't bring them in to promote them to their new roles until we confirm otherwise, but my cabinet and I are working as fast as we can."

"Lady Kyoko's actions in the Suez Canal has stopped the BETA advance there. The performance of her and the men under her command along with the new ship Japan has launched has stopped the BETA in their tracks," Genjyousai praised. "Most importantly it has ensured America will honor their treaty obligations. We'll need their support until we can get the army back in order."

"Well, thanks to that idiot, General Tojo, we don't have enough men to defend Sadogashima," Korechika complained, shaking his head angrily. "As if we didn't have enough problems already. I would have shot him myself, if he hadn't gotten himself killed"

"All the more reason we need to bring the army back under control before it happens again," Yuuhi said with a sense of urgency. "We can't afford these kinds of mistakes."

"I know," Sakaki said, his expression grim. "But what of Sadogashima? We don't have the forces to spare to reinforce it."

"I've reallocated some new resources there. New gundams, new pilots, along with some promising prototypes."

"You think that will be enough?" Tamase asked.

"It will have to be. We've done what we can, gentlemen. The rest will be up to our soldiers. Let's not forget that just two of them, with a few TSFs, halted the enemy advance in Kyoto long enough that we could form a new defense line. Sadogashima is getting six of them. The situation is dire, I won't deny that, but we are far from finished."

"Then for all of our sakes, we better hope you're right," Sakaki said grimly. "Because right now, more than anything, we need a miracle."

By the following morning, everyone had been given the news about the situation with Sadogashima, with Marimo and Michiru taking a very reluctant Yuzuka, Haruka, Asagi, and Haruko back for further training. Marimo had reassured Lelouch she had found someone to assist her and Michiru and put them on a more accelerated learning track so they could be ready sooner.

Both knew the time the rest of Lelouch's squad had for training would be short, so it was best for them to make the most of it while they could.

Meanwhile Lelouch, Yui, Kazusa, Izumi, Shimako, and Aki were met by one of Yuuhi's retainers in the underground depths of the Fukushima Military Base. She wore the same red uniform Mana did, looking nearly identical to the retainer, having the same turquoise hair and green eyes. The only difference between them was their facial features, seemingly younger and looking less stern, wearing glasses with egg-shaped lenses.

"So that must be the ship we're taking?" Aki remarked, whispering to Shimako.

"Yes it seems…smaller than the Takarabune."

Their new ship was three-hundred and sixty meters in length, with a dark blue hull. It was thinner than the Takarabune. It had a launch and landing ramp upon the bow of the ship leading to the hangar where it could carry sixteen machines. On the sides were a trio of dual Automatic Multi-barrel turrets, with an extra set on the underside of the ship. It hovered in the air, thanks to the same propulsion systems it shared with the Takarabune. Along the sides of the ship, near its large engines, were dual barrel energy cannons on rotating turrets for a wider range of fire. Alongside the bridge were another pair of 75mm defensive turrets. A single powerful energy cannon stood on the bow. Along the main body of the ship were retractable, dual-linked 110cm Linear Cannons. Sleek and futuristic, the ship towered over them in its enormity. It was a terrifying weapon of war, that when looked at, made one feel small while awed by its size. They couldn't help, but to marvel at its guns… it made the war feel winnable.

Upon approaching Yuuhi's retainer, everyone saluted. The woman returned the gesture.

"At ease. I am Major Maya Tsukuyomi, primary retainer of Lady Yuuhi. I have been entrusted with command of this vessel. If you follow me, I'll give you a tour of the vessel," Maya said, beckoning for everyone to follow.

She wears the same red uniform as Mana did. Aside from being clearly related, she must be an elite soldier and bodyguard as well, Lelouch noted.

Maya took them around the ship, first making a stop to where their cabins would be. Lelouch and Yui were given officer quarters. Yui was the squad leader, so it made sense for her. For Lelouch's case he was the only male pilot aboard; he obviously couldn't sleep with the other pilots, who were all female. Once their belongings had been dropped off, they continued the tour.

"We'll skip the hangar for the time being. Let's start with the engine room before heading to the bridge," Maya said. They passed through a door taking them to the engine room, which doubled as the ship's engineering section for the rest of the ship.

"First allow me to introduce you all to the ship's chief engineer, loaned to us from the Royal Australian Naval Academy: Cadet Melvina Vidya Advani."

"Where is she?" Aki asked, before a voice spoke up from behind her.

"Right here. Hi ladies… and guy."

Everyone spun around to see a young girl of sixteen with cyan eyes and long purple hair, wearing a Japanese Imperial Army uniform. She offered a friendly wave, amused by their expressions.

"Is she some kind of ninja?" Shimako asked aloud.

"No, I just happen to be very talented in engineering. My parents had me learning it since I was a kid," Melvina explained, tilting her head to one side in confusion.

"She intuitively grasped many of the new technologies much faster than our own engineers could, so it was quickly decided to make her chief engineer of the ship," Maya explained. "We hope in time she could teach others."

"She must be really good then," Kazusa commented, surprised. Sixteen years old- not even old enough to drink, but already chief engineer?

"I do what I can. It's no big deal," Melvina said, shrugging her shoulders.

"She'll also oversee maintenance work on your machines, so I believed it was best for you all to be familiar with her," Maya explained.

"Makes sense," Lelouch replied.

"Just pay me a visit if something isn't working. The engineering crew and I will take care of you," Melvina replied.

"Quite. As you were Melvina. I'll see you later," Maya said.

"Sure thing, Major. I'll see the rest of you around. I need to complete these final system checks before we leave," Melvina said, bidding everyone farewell.

"She isn't a ninja, right?" Aki asked.

"No, she just has a habit of doing that," Maya shrugged.

The next destination closest to them was the medical bay, which was spacious with several beds and two cylinder capsules filled with a nanomachine solution reserved for critically injured pilots. Inside was a woman with black hair and blue eyes wearing a lab coat over a Japanese military uniform. Unlike Melvina hers had a skirt, black leggings and black heel shoes.

She stood up as she noticed Maya and the group entering the sick bay.

"Everyone this is Dr. Hikari Megumi, the ship's doctor," Maya said, providing introductions.

"Greetings, everyone. Although the technology I am surrounded with is impressive, rest assured I am just as capable of a doctor without it," Hikari stated, reassuringly to everyone. "That being said, I hope I won't have to see you here too often beyond required check ups."

"She was appointed by the Shogun herself. Rest assured, you will be in good hands with her," Maya explained.

"Thank you kindly for those words," Hikari replied.

"Not at all. We'll leave you to your duties now. I still have much of the ship to show them."

"Of course. Farewell, everyone."

Moving the tour headed for the mess hall. It looked like something from a submarine, only more spacious. It looked able to house over twenty people. There were plenty of tables and chairs, along with a cafeteria-style counter.

"Master Chief Petty Officer Azuma, are you back there?" Maya called out from the counter.

Within moments, a man in his late twenties stepped out from the kitchen. He had some fuzz growing on his chin, wearing military attire, with a white shirt and matching apron over.

"Sorry Major, I was just doing a final inventory check on our supplies," Azuma said.

"It's fine, I just thought it was best that our pilots should be familiar with the head of our mess hall and chef," Maya replied.

"Oh I see. Well, welcome to the mess hall, pilots. We are usually open most of the time except for during the overnight hours where the mess hall will be closed for cleaning. Otherwise outside of breakfast, lunch and dinner hours, you can come back and grab a snack. Me and my kitchen crew always make sure to have some food and drinks at the ready, including coffee and tea," Azuma said quite friendly.

"Sounds good," Aki said before smelling something. "And it smells good too."

"We'll have dinner ready later, but we are double checking our supplies. So far everything looks good."

"Excellent. Inform me once you are finished. I should be done with the tour by then," Maya replied.

"Of course," Azuma said before turning to the pilots. "I'll see you all at dinner."

Leaving the mess hall, everyone headed to the hangar, where they saw their Gundams already loaded onto the ship. Also on the ship were Minamoto units, filling the last four spots. One unit belonged to Tsukiko, while the other two were unowned for the moment, but the last one was notably yellow painted.

"Ah I see you have all arrived. It's nice to see you again," Mariko said, approaching the group.

"Lieutenant Amemiya," Yui greeted, as she and some of the others recognized her.

"At ease, everyone. I am just glad to be able to help you all with this."

"Even if the odds are stiff?" Aki chimed in, but a glare from Maya caused her to back away and silence herself.

"They are, but I do have high hopes your new impressive machines can turn the tide, given what Lelouch and Yui accomplished during Kyoto. I am looking forward to working with you Lieutenant Lamperouge," Mariko said, offering her hand to Lelouch, who shook it.

"Likewise. You did give us quite the trouble taking you down during the mock battle," Lelouch replied.

Tsukiko noticed Yui's expression as she watched the two. Although the girl tried to hide it, her feelings slipped through and caused Tsukiko to smile in amusement.

Oh, is someone feeling jealous?

"Anyway you seem busy right now, I am sure we can all talk more during dinner, I'll see you all later tonight," Mariko said, deciding not to impede the tour any longer than needed.

"Now then, let's continue our tour. Sadogashima awaits us, soldiers!"

A/N: So I can safely say that things between Lelouch and Yui are gradually progressing, slow, but progressing nevertheless.

I was a little worried about Lelouch's taking note of women in this chapter, worried it might seem out of character if not handled right. His eyes are firmly on Yui, but considering the other women I imagine it be hard for him to ignore the others as he experiences attraction to the opposite sex due to his growing feelings for Yui.

This is has led him to become much more aware of the fact he is the only guy in the group, but part of this is due to the fact that unlike in canon Code Geass, Lelouch is able to be "himself", no mask needed, which is also a factor in being more comfortable around Yui and the others thus more open and trusting to them, thanks to all they've been through so far, especially with Lelouch's new squad given the trust that has been built between them too.

Although I will say an actual relationship will take time, partly because I feel they are a tad too young at the moment and I don't want to rush it.

Of course aside from Lelouch and company getting time in the spotlight, was Yuuhi as more politics and deal making are happening behind the scenes. But we are shown Lelouch's replacement ship which has no name (yet, it is named in chapter sixteen), since Kyoko needed to use his to handle things in Suez so America wouldn't have a reason to pull out of Japan.

Next chapter shall be the Battle for Sadogashima, coming in two weeks and I have to say with all of the work done for it, it is a 14,000-word chapter easily with also a short battle showing Kyoko and her group are doing at Suez with the Demon Princess fighting in her own Gundam, one of the prototypes built and intended for Regent House leaders like her.

Thanks for checking out the chapter, and any feedback as always is welcomed.

Next are the specs for Lelouch's ship, its twin drive system is a Lost Technology from the Sunrider games using fusion cores rather than GN Drives, which I used only because traveling between galaxies needs a lot of power for its warp drive. And the torpedoes listed, beyond your generic torpedoes the ship will be carrying, it does have any of those potent ones yet, but its merely an example of what it could carry.

Class: N/A

Name: Unnamed (until chapter sixteen)

Unit type: Combat Carrier

Captain: Maya Tsukuyomi

Manufacturer: Empire of Japan

Operator: Empire of Japan, Order of the Black Knights

First deployment: September 20tht 2016 A.T.B./1998

Dimensions: overall length 360 meters

Powerplant: Gemini Fusion Reactor (Twin fusion reactors, a Lost Technology from Ancient Ryuvia in which two fusion cores could resonate with each other to theoretically produce a reactor output equivalent to four cores, making intergalactic travel possible.)

Wingspan: unknown

Weight: unknown

Propulsion: Sunlight Engines

Equipment and design features: sensors, range unknown; ablative armor; Artificial Gravity, and an Anti-Gravity Craft System, Warp Drive, FTL Communications array, Shield Generator, and Sensor Buoys (deployable from the ship to expand sensor and observation ranges),

Fixed armaments:

14 x Dual 75mm Automatic Multi-barrel CIWS, three mounted on the sides of the ship, and a third set below the ship, and two near the bridge

4 x Dual barrel energy cannons on rotating turrets, one mounted on each side of the main engines, one behind the bridge, and one below it on the underside of the ship

1 x High-powered mulit-phase beam cannon mounted below the launching ramp for mobile suits

2 x Dual-linked 150mm Linear Cannons, mounted along the sides of the hanger, which could be retracted when not in use and could be used on a rotating base

18 x Missile launchers, six on the sides of the ship near the engines, and six more below the ship, can use a variety of missiles types

2 x Torpedo launchers, could be used in space or underwater, mounted on the front of the ship above the mobile suit hanger launch platform, torpedo types include (Quantum torpedoes (for use in space), Tactical Thermonuclear Torpedoes, Graviton Torpedo (for use in space only), Heat Seeking Torpedo and High Explosive Torpedoes (for both use in space and in the ocean))

Mobile suits: (max carry capacity 16)

Mobile Weapons: TMP-01X Izanami, TMP-02X Izanagi, TMP-03X Tsuna, TMP-04X Suetake, TMP-05X Sadamitsu, TMP-06X Kintoki, and HXM-01A Minamoto

Technical and Historical Notes

Originally created as a training ship with much of the technology and resources necessary provided by Claude Triello, especially the power source to ensure that travel between galaxies could be possible as most warp drives even from modern Ryuvian Galaxy lacked sufficient power for such a journey that would require the warp drive to be in operational for more than a week. It is well armed, possessing ablative armor and a shield generator giving it potent defense against energy-based weapons and its thick armor gives it decent protection against kinetic weapons as well.

It also has submersible capabilities in conjunction with the Anti-Gravity Craft System to easily move around on a planet surface and able to move back into space combined with its powerful sunlight engines.

The Empire of Japan would use their experience and time studying the unnamed training ship to design the Takarabune-class of ship while training the future crews for the ship. However, when the first ship of the class had to be used by Lady Kyoko Takatsukasa to assist UN and allied forces at Suez Canal to keep the BETA from invading Aricia, its loss would've been catastrophic for humanity and it would ensure America would honor its treaty obligations.

Instead, the training vessel is repurposed for Lelouch's use while officially it's under the command of Major Maya Tsukuyomi with a crew which was also supplemented by volunteers from Australia recommended by the Shogun of Japan, ensuring the ship was properly crewed.

StrifeHavoc · Aug 18, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for the massive beta work and chapter enhancements.

Whew I am going to reserve whatever I would say for the end for the chapter, but (holds up a soft drink), here's to this chapter hopefully being worth the hype that matches the effort put into my first written endurance battle ever.

So let us begin.

Chapter 14

The Battle for Sadogashima

The following morning the currently nameless ship arrived at Sadogashima, having departed from Fukushima Military Base. It received much fanfare as troopers showed up to cheer for it as it pulled into port. Morale hung on by a thread and any sign that Japan was not yet out of the fight was welcome.

Lelouch, Yui and the others were up early, scheduled to meet with the base's commander and the two leaders of the TSF reserve squads left to guard the island. Lelouch wore his Royal Guard uniform, as did Yui, the duo walking behind Maya to meet their guests in the harbor.

First out was a man in his early thirties with black hair and blue eyes, wearing a crisp dark green military uniform. He was followed by two young women who seemed to be in their early twenties. Both wore identical uniforms composed of a green shirt, black skirt, brown leggings, and black heeled shoes. One had short light brown hair and brown eyes while the other had medium-length reddish brown hair and gray eyes.

"Welcome aboard, Commander Tachibana," Maya said, saluting sharply.

"Likewise. Welcome to Sadogashima, Captain. On behalf of my command staff, allow me to offer my apologies for letting that fool take our TSF garrisons," Masakiyo Tachibana apologized, bowing, his voice filled with regret.

"You were following orders, sir. It's not your fault you were sabotaged," Maya reassured.

"I am grateful for your and the Shogun's understanding," Masakiyo stated, somewhat relieved, but feeling no less guilty. "Allow me to introduce the remaining TSF squadron commanders." He gestured to the woman with short light brown hair, "This is Commander Kaoru Sakazaki, the leader of the 3rd reserve of Alpha Squadron."

"Ma'am," Kaoru saluted, which Maya returned.

"And this is Commander Suzuno Ogura, the leader of the 3rd reserve of Bravo Squadron."

"Ma'am," Suzuno replied.

"These are Lieutenants Yui Takamura, Mariko Amemiya and Lelouch Lamperouge of the Royal Guard. Lieutenants Lamperouge and Takamura are the pilots of the Izanagi and the Izanami respectively, while Lieutenant Amemiya is the pilot of our experimental mass production model, the Minamoto," Maya introduced, pointing out the machines in the hangar and back to each respective pilot. "Its performance exceeds that of any previous TSFs and should serve you well in the battle ahead. I've brought two spare units for Commanders Sakazaki and Ogura to use in the coming battle. If you have any questions, Lieutenant Amemiya can assist you, she has the most experience so far in using it in battle."

"Thank you, but what about the rest of our squadron?" Kaoru asked after exchanging a look with Suzuno.

"We're trying to produce more, but I cannot make any promises that they'll be ready before the battle." Maya said regretfully.

"Understood. Shame, given Commander Sakazaki is already missing a pilot," Masakiyo stated. "We'll need every advantage we can gain if we hope to halt the BETA onslaught."

"Quite. The forces the Americans have promised should be arriving tomorrow, along with reinforcements from the navy. A detachment of the northern fleet will be moving to intercept the BETA invasion force. They've promised to do all they can to thin their numbers now that a typhoon is not impeding their efforts. The Americans are providing us with a squadron of destroyers that will provide us naval support," Maya explained.

"If you don't mind, can you provide us with a brief tour of your ship so we can understand its capabilities, then we can begin talking strategy." Masakiyo was stern and professional, but it was hard not to notice the worry written on his face. There was a lot at stake here; more than their lives, defeat could be disastrous for Japan's entire military campaign.

"Yes, let us begin," Maya replied. As they began the tour of the ship, Yui wondered how her cousin Kyoko was doing.

On the other side of the world, littered all along the barren, eastern bank of the Suez Canal was the debris of tanks and TSFs. The signs of the long fight to keep the BETA from invading Africa which had become home to millions of refugees displaced from the loss of Europe and Middle Eastern countries and where most of the world's food was grown. Now, once barren fields were littered with the broken and bleeding carcass of BETA aliens.

Thanks to the flight capabilities of the Takarabune, Kyoko was quick to arrive at the Suez Canal from Japan. Using its space flight capabilities, the Takarabune went into orbit before descending over Egypt, making a beeline for the battlefield and accomplishing it all within a few hours.

Upon arriving on the battlefield, Kyoko and her volunteers engaged the BETA. Their new models were outdoing the struggling TSFs. Kyoko's machine, the Benkei Gundam, was notable in this regard. Standing at an imposing nineteen meters tall, the black, blue and gold trim Gundam stood facing the waves of BETA. Kyoko's Gundam activated one of its unique features, the beam cloak. A cape made of energy materialized around the Gundam. The mouth of the Gundam opened as a yellow flash could be seen, venting energy before launching itself at the BETA with a burst of speed never seen from any TSF.

A short distance behind where Gundam Benkei had been standing, ten Minamoto units were standing in single file, armed with Beam Launchers as they opened fire upon the charging enemy. Their beams tore through the ranks of the Destroyer-class BETA, as the pilots spread out their shots for more effective damage against the thirty thousand monsters charging at them. Further back, long range artillery and unguided missiles were unleashed, raining down upon the aliens to eliminate any that might've survived the Minamoto's initial volley. The allied TSFs, a combination of United Kingdom F5E Tornadoes and Mirage 2000s, were providing support from the sides, staying close to the Minamoto's line.

Operating mixed units in a battle was deemed dangerous due to the difficulty in synergizing the different capabilities of TSF models, but the defenders couldn't be picky. The BETA invasion of Africa had diminished their numbers to dangerous lows. The intervention of the Empire of Japan's newer machines and their advanced warship had given the defenders a much needed reprieve. TSFs that could be spared were sent out to support them, consisting of pilots from Britain, France, Germany and Italy.

A French pilot behind the controls of a purple Mirage 2000, marked with a rose emblem on its shoulder, asked a question on an open communication channel.

"Where did that Japanese woman go with her fancy machine?" They couldn't keep the jealousy out of their voice.

"Behind the enemy's main lines to eliminate the enemy Fort and Laser-class," A Japanese Minamoto pilot replied.

"WHAT?! That's insane." The French pilot was a young woman with medium-length blonde hair and light blue eyes, wearing a standard issue purple and black pilot suit.

"Not for her," The Japanese pilot replied, trying to suppress his amused smile.

Behind the BETA's lines the Benkei Gundam struck, using its forearm mounted mega particle cannons to fire upon the Fort-class aliens. Thanks to the Gundam's power output, a single powerful beam was all that was needed to blow off the heads of each monster, killing them before they could respond. The Laser-class on the ground tried to retaliate, but the beam cloak protected Kyoko as she zoomed around the battlefield.. She decimated their rearlines with hit and run tactics, while her mobility made it difficult for the Laser-class to land a direct hit on her. The Benkei Gundam had a special feature, Heat Radiation Face Open; in which heat was vented through a special vent on the "mouth" of the Gundam, causing energy to surge through the machine, vastly increasing speed, and agility to levels that would almost impossible for most current machines to achieve.

Even with the Benkei Gundam's specialized G-force dampers in place, Kyoko could feel the G-forces being pressed upon her body, especially during tight maneuvers. She only smiled at this. The machine was like a wild horse, but she was mastering it and playing it like a deadly instrument.

Best not to ignore the laser-class, though, Kyoko thought. They could still get lucky.

Changing the settings on the forearm cannons, Kyoko opened fire. What was once a beam turned into a spray as dozens of Laser-class aliens fell as her cannons roared out with fully automatic fire. She used the large corpses of Fort-class BETA as cover when her guns overheated. She released a heavy white fog from a dispenser built into the machine. Coated with anti-laser chaff it helped to diminish the effectiveness of the Laser-class BETA's attacks. A surviving Fort-class, in an effort to protect the fragile Laser-class, swiped out with its stinger tail into the fog.

Acting quickly, Kyoko not only dodged it, but the fingertips on the right hand of her Gundam lit up revealing built-in beam claws. With just a single swipe she cut off the Fort-class's stinger. Using the head mounted vulcans on her Gundam, Kyoko cut down the last of the Lasers before adjusting the firing setting of the mega particle cannons to target another Fort-class.

"Laser-class BETA have been eliminated. I repeat, Laser-class BETA eliminated," Kyoko stated through the comms channel.

"Roger that. Elimination of Laser-class confirmed, retreating from the area. Aerial bombardment will commence within five minutes," a female operator replied.

"Copy that. Retreating. Major Takatsuka out," Kyoko said as she made her escape.

Without the Laser-class BETA for protection, bombers began dropping heavy ordnance to mop up the swarm. Kyoko watched the blips on the screen with satisfaction as they devastated the BETA lines. What few managed to reach the defense line were easily cut down. Cheers went out across the battlefield. The soldiers had come dangerously close to being overwhelmed, but the Gundam had turned the tides entirely. Not all were so content. Bernadette Le Tigre stared out from the cockpit of her Mirage, enviously glaring at the Gundam.

"Where did they get such machines?" Bernadette muttered out loud, not realizing she left her comm channel open. An Italian pilot, a seventeen-year-old girl with long wavy black hair, green eyes, responded,

"Someone sounds jealous."

"Must be jealous of those guns they got," Another, older, Italian pilot remarked. The girl's older brother from what Bernadette knew of the two. "I mean, that Japanese woman taking the fight to the BETA is bold. She's my kind of woman and she's hot too."

"Brother, not now. Not on an open channel too," The girl replied, embarrassedly.

"Easy, Monica. I meant it as a compliment."

"Uh-huh. Just count yourself lucky that a lot of people outside of our unit don't understand Italian. Flirt outside of battle," Monica Giacosa warned, exasperated with her brother Valerio.

"Sure thing sis," Valerio replied with a chuckle. He was in a good mood. The Battle of the Suez Canal was a major victory for humanity. Africa was secure, for now.

Elsewhere in Japan; Yuzuka, Asagi, Haruko and Haruka were busy practicing in their own Minamoto units. They were in a forest north of Fukushima Military Base, conducting maneuvers through an obstacle the course they had to avoid "enemy" fire while eliminating targets set out for them. Marimo watched their progress from an overlooking hill.

"Good work, but you can be five seconds faster," she called out into the comms.

Marimo ignored the grumbling from the pilots. Hearing footsteps, she turned around to see a twenty-one year old woman walk up toward her. She had long black-hair tied into a ponytail with a set of glasses placed over deep blue eyes, and wore a standard military uniform.

"Lieutenant Sayoko Komaki reporting for duty," Sayoko said, introducing herself with a salute.

"Welcome Lieutenant. Thank you for coming," Marimo replied, returning the salute. "I hope you'll be helpful in developing these rookies into capable pilots."

"I assume they've completed their Comprehensive Skills Evaluation Exams?"

"They have. We've been focusing more on preparing them for battle by conducting daily mock battles and practice in TFS and the new machines. Their training would've been finished by December, but given the situation I believe command may call for them to join the fight before then," Marimo explained, her expression grim. "I understand the situation, but with the cadets being as they are, an early deployment will just get them killed."

"I understand," Sayoko said with an equally grim expression. "I'll help in any way I can to get them up to standard."

"Thank you. I just hope time can stay on our side for a little while longer," Marimo said. If Sadogashima fell, it would leave Northern Japan open to BETA invasion. As advanced as the new machines were, as much as Marimo hoped she could make a difference, she knew an act of god would be needed to give the Japanese victory.

It was the night of September 23rd. Two days had passed since Lelouch had arrived. He'd joined Kazusa and Yui on the ground. They were walking around the fields behind the defensive walls of the Sadogashima. The island had been fortified early on as more of Asia became lost to the BETA. Enormous walls had been erected, pointed towards mainland Asia and the ocean floor around the island and beyond had been turned into a minefield.

The US forces had arrived, consisting of a carrier, the USS John F. Kennedy, two Iowa-class Battleships- the New Jersey and the Missouri- and six Zumwalt-class destroyers. Each of them had brought as many TSFs they could carry, with the Kennedy carrying the bulk for a total of thirty six Tomcat TSFs.

This was more than doubled the amount of TSFs that had been left for the island's garrison, a mere sixteen Gekishin units, with the two new Minamoto units for the squadron leaders. There were plans to try and field the rest of the island's garrison with them, but there was no guarantee that sufficient numbers could be produced in time. Six more had arrived yesterday, fresh off the assembly line. As for Japan's own naval power, Japan had dispatched two of their own battleships. Two Yamato-class Battleships named the Musashi and the Nagato, and six Mogami-class Cruisers.

Submarines were also deployed, deploying new mines and depth charges to weaken the oncoming horde. They couldn't approach the Asian coast due to the presence of Heavy Laser-class BETA watching the ocean. Despite their efforts, the BETA force traveling underwater showed no signs of breaking away, continuing in a straight line.

So far I guess Claude's advance warning and tech has allowed them to muster a proper defense, Lelouch thought, his expression grim.

This advance warning was provided by the new satellites Japan had launched from the Takarabune from its brief time in orbit while it was heading for Africa. The satellites were able to track and pick up more potential incursions by the BETA compared to their counterparts, thanks to tech provided by Claude.

The BETA seems to be planning to hit the island's defenses like a battering ram. The secondary concern would be if a group of them break off to attack other parts of the island or make a run for the Japanese mainland, Lelouch thought. They still lacked the proper defenses to protect the mainland. The US and Japanese Naval Forces would try to spread out their ships to both provide artillery fire against the main horde and any BETA attempting to get around their defenses. A job the American TSFs would be ready for; while some would aid the defenders, some would be held back as a rapid response force in case any BETA tried to circumvent them.

Lelouch had studied the tactical map of Sadogashima, examining it as he contemplated a battle plan to aid in the defense. Something the Shogun had encouraged him to do. He didn't back down. Was this what Hannibal Barca felt like when planning ways to counter the Roman Army who had greater numbers on their side? Or Julius Caesar, or Alexander? Those are big shoes to fill, Lelouch thought.

The sea floor should funnel the BETA to me and Yui at Mano Bay, where the island's defenses and fortifications are the most concentrated. He still worried incursions from the north and south could pose a danger if they were not mindful. We have mountains to the north and south, but they won't stop the BETA if they choose to borrow through them. At least any attempt to do so would be slow and easily detectable.

The island was split into three parts. The Ōsado mountain range to the north, a natural barrier against the BETA. To the south was the Kosado mountain range. With their flanks covered, the enemy would have to focus on Mano Bay as their easiest option for a breakthrough in the defensive line.

Kazusa's Gundam will allow her to intercept any enemy groups that try to breach the northern side of the island and she will have Aki as back up, Lelouch thought. He went over the defense plan he had devised with Maya, who had presented it to the island command as her own to ensure they would accept it. Shimako and Izumi will cover the southern corner with the island's two remaining TSF battalions split between them to assist. Even so, we're stretched dangerously thin. Even with Mariko and Tsukiko, who were experienced pilots, their overall numbers were small. Laughably so for the size of the BETA army marching towards them, even with the US backing them up.

An estimated thirty-thousand BETA were bearing down on them from the Cheorwon Hive in Korea. They aimed to seize Sado Island as part of a larger pincer move, opening the mainland up to invasion. Although they could travel the sea floor, they too had their limits. They would funnel toward the center of the island due to its accessibility. The BETA preferred taking pathways with fewer natural barriers. As they approached the bay, they would face an absolutely hellish crossfire, with bunkers and heavy gun emplacements set up in a wide firing arc. The whole of Mano bay had been heavily fortified over the years. If its garrison had been at full strength, they could have held back a force like this with relative ease. The walls' defensive guns and tanks had been replaced with railgun technology and the bay itself was riddled with mines left adrift with proximity fuses.

The aliens would doubtless burn past the mines, but it would slow their advance and thin their ranks. Once they surfaced, they would immediately face a massive barrage of the heaviest guns humanity could bring to bear. This would not stop them, unfortunately. The hellish firepower will barely be enough for a force of the size heading for them. Their destroyers will try to break through the defensive walls of the bay, and if they can't break through the walls, they will try to climb over them.

A head-first assault would tax their defensive capabilities to the maximum, but they can hold. The death toll would be brutal for the invaders, and in the right circumstances it might prove too much.

As long as we can contain the BETA to the bay and keep the defensive walls from being breached and suppress any Laser-class before they can set up on the beach, we can turn the bay into a killing field. All we would need to do is protect the northern and southern areas of the island from incursion, so they can't flank us, Lelouch thought. In theory this was a winnable battle.

"Lelouch," Yui called, shaking Lelouch from his thoughts.

"Sorry, what?" Lelouch said, looking at Yui who was walking beside him on his left. Kazusa was walking alongside to his right, looking at him with a concerned expression.

"Are you worried about the battle?" Yui asked, concerned.

"More like… anxious. I am surprised and impressed that the residents of the island chose to stay," Lelouch.

"I know. Many of them have been assisting with preparations for the invasion by helping the men at the base in whatever ways they could," Yui said.

"Indeed," Kazusa said, "They're making food, moving things around, all the little things. It's been quite the help."

"And helping the medical wing prepare for wounded and injured soldiers," Lelouch commented. "These people are quite brave. Most would have run. I wouldn't have blamed them if they did."

"They are stockpiling the shelters with food and weapons. Hopefully it won't come to that, but best to be prepared for the worst I suppose," Yui said.

With so much of Japan lost to the BETA, these people don't have anywhere else to go. They're fighting for their homes, Lelouch thought. He couldn't let them down.

"All the more reason we must succeed," Lelouch said.

Meanwhile, Shimako watched them from a distance, hiding behind a warehouse. Her own thoughts were a mess. Part of it was because of Claude. She fully understood why the pink-haired woman earned so much ire from Yui. It made it all the more impressive how she endured months in Claude's pocket dimension with Lelouch while dealing with Claude.

Lelouch…

Ever since Kyoto, Shimako's mind had been clouded, which had only worsened with the revelation that she had originally died. Lelouch had saved her life as well as the lives of the others, with only the loss of their superior. He was… something else. There was emotion there that she did not understand. Seeing Lelouch's growing closeness with Yui felt weird- wrong, somehow.

Why couldn't she understand what was going on with her?

What am I going to do about this?

"Say Shimako, what are you doing?" Aki asked, appearing behind her with Izumi in tow.

Shimako nearly jumped out of her own skin, putting her own hand over her mouth to keep her yelp silent. Thankfully neither Kazusa, Lelouch or Yui noticed anything. The trio had continued on conversing as if nothing was amiss.

"What are you two doing?" Shimako demanded, her face bright red.

"We might ask you the same," Izumi said, as she and Aki eyed Shimako suspiciously whose face was a mix of panic and embarrassment. "Looks to us like you've been spying on them. Care to explain why?"

"I… I… I… don't know how to explain it," Shimako said, on the verge of tears. She was so confused, and so deeply embarrassed.

"I could," a familiar voice said, causing a feeling of dread to creep down Shimako's spine.

Sure enough Claude was there, behind Izumi and Aki wearing a pink camouflage battle dress uniform.

"No, don't say anything," Shimako pleaded.

Ignoring her pleas, Claude shrugged.

"Shimako is in love with Yui, but ever since Lelouch saved her, she has been just as interested in Lelouch as she is in Yui," Claude revealed, much to Shimako's distress. "I caught her red handed ogling Lelouch and Yui in their swimsuits. So I suggested, why not just do a threesome with them? Oh, you should've seen how red her face turned then."

"Hey, our friend's feelings aren't something to joke about!" Aki said angrily, trying to sucker punch Claude with her fist. Suddenly, a full size balloon blow-up doll of Claude stood where she had been. As Aki punched it, the ball fell back before it suddenly came forward, smacking Aki in the face, knocking her back. Grunting, she rubbed her forehead.

"Damn it. No wonder Yui hasn't tried strangling her more often."

"Don't enable her," Izumi warned sagely. "Calm down, Shimako. It's nothing to be upset about. You and Yui have known each other since you were children. It's not shocking you'd like her."

"Thank you," Shimako sniffed, "but you know our families wouldn't accept it, right?"

"I know, but they don't decide your life, do they?"

Same-sex relationships were not uncommon among TSF pilots, while Japan was not the most accepting, it was something the military preferred to look the other way for. The situation was worse under the Royal Guard families whose first concern was continuing their lineage.

"Thank you for understanding," Shimako said as she calmed down.

"Lelouch saving your life complicated things, seeing how Yui and Lelouch have been together. You don't want to get between them?" Izumi asked.

"Yes… maybe? I'm just so confused," Shimako groaned frustratedly. "I don't know what I'm really feeling, if it's a real thing or if I'm just screwed up from… the whole having been dead thing. I just don't know."

"I may not be able to relate, but I can still sympathize with you. Being thrown into a war we weren't fully prepared for didn't help any of us. TSF pilots don't see combat until seventeen or eighteen after training, outside of special exceptions such as us."

"Yeah, didn't they just reduce the draft age to sixteen recently?" Aki asked, done rubbing her forehead.

"I doubt anything will happen with them. They all know they're too young for a serious relationship. Meanwhile, you still have some time to work out your feelings. There's probably no rush. Yui doesn't seem willing to make a move yet, and Lelouch is oblivious," Izumi said reassuringly.

"I suppose," Shimako said, seemingly more at ease.

"And look at the bright side- we might all be dead in a few days, and then it won't be a problem anymore," Izumi said with a smirk.

"Gee, now I feel much better," Shimako muttered, unable to suppress her growing amusement.

"Now, why don't we go back to the ship. Maybe get a calming cup of tea?" Izumi suggested, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"Okay," Shimako said, as Izumi and Aki led her back to the ship.

Claude looked on from the roof. No thanks for helping out, huh? That girl needed to vent. Going into battle with her head all messed up would have gotten her killed.

Two days later, on the dawn of the twenty-fifth of September, the day had arrived. The BETA were expected to reach Sadogashima in mere hours. Lelouch, Yui, Kazusa, Shimako, Izumi, and Aki were stationed in their Gundams, ready for battle. Tsukiko and Mariko positioned themselves on the launch platform of the nameless ship that had brought them. Standing with Lelouch, ready to launch within the hangar of the mountain-side base was Izumi along with the base's defenders. Half of the garrison's TSFs had been replaced with Minamoto units along with those of the squadron commanders; thanks to Mariko who helped train the pilots how to use them.

Kazusa, Shimako and Aki were placed on standby behind the wall. The old tanks that once lined the defensive walls had been replaced with brand new and powerful Linear tanks.

Even the weather was on their side; it was a clear sunny day.

The wait is becoming unbearable, but sooner or later…

Tapping a screen in his cockpit, Lelouch brought up a tactical display map of the island.

Based on all he knew about the BETA and previous battles he had researched, they should funnel into the bay as expected. Thanks to its natural geography providing an ideal path for their forces. Most strains of the BETA have difficulties scaling cliffs and mountains, hence their preference for low-land paths. Their inability to swim would ensure they would enter the bay. Unfortunately, he couldn't count on things to be that predictable. War was chaotic by nature, and it would be foolish to expect his enemies to never adapt.

In past battles the aliens had shown that when they were unable to break through strong defenses, they found other ways. They would sometimes burrow underground, or find an alternative route to flank the defenders. Taking this into account, Lelouch laid out his strategy to Maya, accounting for potential alternative routes of attack.

The American destroyers and their submarines can monitor the northern and southern points of the island. If the submarines detect any hostiles, they will be fired upon with torpedoes while the destroyers will drop depth charges in tandem with the navy ships, Lelouch thought. The other outposts and defense bunkers dotted around the island will monitor for any attempts at incursions from underground.

There were beaches near the southern and northern ends of the island, areas the BETA could make landfall if they chose to make the longer journey around the island.

Kazusa would be ideal to send out to intercept them and Aki could be sent to back her up if needed with reinforcements. If the BETA appear on the southern end of the island, Izumi and Shimako could engage them with the support of the island's TSF garrison with additional support by the American TSFs.

Maya had signed off on the plan. It was solid, simple, and in theory quite doable- but you could never predict how a battle would turn out.

Should the BETA breach the first defensive walls, they had a second defensive wall, protecting the city of Sado, they could fall back to. The second wall was more heavily fortified and the land beyond the first wall was open farmland, so the BETA would have no cover.

Lelouch's thoughts were interrupted by sirens sounding throughout the area. In the distance were explosions from the minefield.

"It has begun," Lelouch said, gripping his control sticks tightly. He felt his heart beating faster. This was it. This is what we prepared for. And if we fail…

He shook the thought off. He couldn't let that sort of doubt creep in, not now.

"We have a faint reading at sector 1905 and it's growing stronger. We have confirmed detonation of some of the first line of proximity mines," a female operator announced from her station.

On Lelouch's screen, a mass of red was heading for the harbor.

"I want increased observations on Areas A-15 through A-20," a male operator said, speaking to another soldier.

"Hurry and clear up the noise from those explosions. We need a clear environmental picture. We must be able to monitor for if any BETA break away from the main group," another older sounding operator ordered.

"A corps-size force of BETA is approaching the first alert line," A female operator announced. "It has cleared the first minefield!"

"All defensive lines, prepare for battle. All artillery, hold fire until targets are within effective range," Masakiyo commanded.

"Yes sir," Masakiyo's adjutant replied, relaying the orders.

"The BETA have entered the final minefield. Minefields four through nine are gone," a female operator announced. "They are barely being slowed down."

"Have our TSFs ready to sortie," Masakiyo commanded, his eyes glued to the screen as the BETA force drew nearer.

Outside, more underwater explosions drew close to the mouth of the bay. The only visible sign of the approaching invaders. Despite their losses they mindlessly pushed forward, unimpeded by their losses. Lelouch listened on in silence to the chatter from the command center. Maya oversaw the battle from the bridge of the nameless ship she commanded.

"The first wave has passed the second alert line," an operator announced.

"Prepare all weapons. I want shields on full power," Maya commanded. "Target the area where the BETA will surface with the main linear guns. Be ready to fire!"

"Yes ma'am!" A female gunner operator replied.

Commander Masakiyo gave similar orders.

"I want all guns on fixed coordinates. Do not fire until the enemy emerges from the water. I want a clean shot on them!"

The tension had grown thick enough to cut with a knife. Lelouch couldn't hear everything going through the comm channels, but it wasn't hard to imagine the feelings going through everyone right now as the BETA drew closer to them.

These men and women know what will happen if the BETA establishes a new hive here, Lelouch thought, knowing that despite the tension, there was a determination. A fire within them to protect their homes and deny the BETA any further gains. For the Japanese military this was a chance for redemption and to truly halt the BETA from claiming more lives.

The first of the aliens began to break the surface. There was a moment of quiet, as the invading horde surged forward, the water frothing white as they burst up from the depths.

Then, in an instant, all hell rained down upon them. The Linear tanks opened fire. It was hard to miss the writhing mass of alien flesh. A Destroyer was hit straight on, erupting in a fountain of gore as it was killed in an instant. There was the whine of railguns firing into the horde, cutting huge, red swathes of gore at the advancing monstrosities. The water began to dye red as dozens died in the opening volley alone.

In the distance, the whine of missiles could be heard. As they impacted, the whole bay erupted in a shower of watery gore. It was a brutal killing field, tearing the aliens limb from limb with every volley.

And yet, despite the carnage, they kept on coming, mindlessly ignoring their casualties.

The invading aliens showed no signs of self-preservation as they kept charging forward. Soon artillery from the warships on the other side of the island began raining down. The destroyers fired volley after volley to slow down the advancing aliens.

Things seem to be going well so far, but this is only the vanguard. The main force has yet to arrive, Lelouch thought. As if on cue, more and more of the aliens began emerging from the ocean. The Destroyer-class creatures seemed oddly spread out.

Is it because of the losses they sustained crossing the minefield? It couldn't be; the mines had all been spent by now.

"Observation posts have noticed Tank-class and Destroyer-class BETA coming ashore on the northern side of the island," an operator from the base announced. "They've been spotted at Futatsugame Beach."

That was fast, Lelouch thought, alarmed by how the BETA had managed to send a part of their invasion force to another area of the island. This was not unexpected, but the smaller force had managed to reach the location undetected.

"Lieutenant Yamashiro, move to intercept," Major Tsukuyomi ordered through the shared open communication line.

"I'm on it," Kazusa announced, as the Suetake Gundam sortied with Bravo Squadron.

Her role in the battle was to be a hit-and-run interceptor, a role her machine was well suited for. Its wings of light not only doubled as a powerful propulsion system, but could manipulate the energy, allowing the wings to be used offensively- or defensively, to create a shield. That speed meant she'd function as the first responder, tying the alien forces down until further reinforcements could arrive. The northern mountain ranges would contain them for now, but they could still proceed deep inland if left unimpeded

"Kazusa, tell me how spread out the BETA are when you arrive," Lelouch asked, hoping what he was seeing was just a fluke.

"Roger that," Kazusa replied.

The Suetake Gundam's wings of light erupted to life as the Gundam flew over the mountain with a blinding speed that rocked and uprooted the nearby trees as it flew over the mountain. Upon arriving at the Northern beach of the island, the Naval vessels had already launched a bombardment of the area to stem the tide of enemies.

Targeting, Kazusa thought, as the special electronic eyepatch she wore, part of the Gundam's advanced targeting systems, marked the BETA emerging from the water.

Flipping over its shoulders were its railguns, which fired upon the Destroyer-class BETA. She tore into their ranks, shredding multiple rows of Destroyers before changing to the Variable-Speed Beam Rifles mounted onto the sides of the Gundam's hips to begin mowing down the Tank-class BETA. Zipping back and forth in the air, always aiming for the optimal firing position, Kazusa rained hell on the aliens, tearing scores of them to shreds. Moments later Bravo Squadron arrived, led by Suzunoa Ogura, providing support in mopping up any BETA that managed to make it through Kazusa's onslaught.

"Lieutenant Yashishiro, we're ready to back you up," Suzuno said, vaporizing a Tank-class with her beam rifle.

"Thank you," Kazusa replied without taking her eyes off the task before her. "Don't let a single one escape!"

"Roger that," the members of Bravo Squadron confirmed. But as more BETA emerged from the ocean, Kazusa noticed the same pattern Lelouch had spotted. She opened a comms channel.

"Lieutenant Lamperouge, the BETA are spreading their forces out."

"Then we have a problem," Lelouch replied, analyzing the formation of the approaching forces. It was becoming clear that the wave of aliens far exceeded the number of a traditional corps division size, which explained how they had the numbers to spread their forces out. Kazusa's report on the BETA attacking from the north confirmed his fears, the BETA were already adapting to reduce their casualties. Despite their superior numbers the BETA suddenly didn't want to fight a battle of attrition. "This looks way beyond your normal BETA force."

"What do you mean?" Mariko asked, having listened in.

"How many could they be?" Maya asked.

"I can't be sure, but from what sensors have picked up, forty thousand so far. Looking at how they are spread out… if there are that many, then they shouldn't be concerned with preserving their numbers. They are already fighting cautiously. We can expect the south to be facing a major attack," Lelouch warned.

"That's not all is it?" Yui said, realizing something else.

"Take a look at how they are widely spaced," Lelouch brought up, realizing something as his machine has been keeping track of the number of confirmed kills collected. "The Tanks and Destroyers now coming on shore are spacing themselves apart from one another instead of condensing together. The thirty thousand are just the main assault force, but they're sending god knows how many more in these landing parties."

"Will that be a problem?" Tsukiko asked.

"It's a problem when it comes to using our Beam Magnums," Lelouch replied. "It will minimize casualties from our wide effect weaponry. Not just our weapons, but our artillery won't be as effective. If we try to spread out to counter them, the defensive lines won't be as effective and we will be risking a breach."

"But the Beam Magnums aren't our only weapons." Yui chimed in.

"The main issue is that it'll make our Beam Magnums ineffective. With the limited ammo we have, it won't even take out a significant percentage of the enemy force if they're spread out like this. Even the regular ammunition reserves will be depleted at a much faster rate," Lelouch said, which led to Maya adding her own thoughts to the discussion.

"Then clearly the BETA are up to something, we'll need to be on guard," Maya said, understanding Lelouch's concern. "Commander Tachibana, has there been any signs of the BETA attempting to strike at other areas of the island?"

"So far, they have been emerging from the North and by the bay, but I share that young man's concern. I suggest Lieutenant Noto and Alpha Squadron prepare to sortie to defend the southern edge of the island," Masakiyo advised. "There are areas along the southwestern end of the island the BETA could make landfall on."

"I agree. Lieutenant Noto and Commander Sakazaki, did you hear that?"

"Yes, I am ready," Izumi replied.

"So is my squadron," Kaoru replied as she and her squadron were ready to launch.

From the water, a Fort-class BETA emerged near the walls, having stayed in the deep water closest to the shoreline while the Destroyer-class BETA drew their attention. Soon enough, two more began to surface.

"Even the Fort-class BETA are spreading out too," Tsukiko remarked.

"We're going in. We need to eliminate them and keep them from deploying any Laser-class BETA," Lelouch said, as he launched from the deck of the ship, followed by Mariko and Tsukiko.

"Command, permission to sortie to assist them," Yui asked, preparing to launch.

"Granted. Take out the Fort-class closest to the base, there will likely be more following it," Commander Sakazaki said.

"Roger that. I am launching," Yui said, launching in her Izanagi. "I'll take out the closest one. Lelouch, you get the other one."

"Got it," Lelouch replied, as the Izanami flew to intercept the second Fort-class.

"We'll take care of the third one. Lieutenant Fujisawa, with me," Mariko said.

"Roger that." Tsukiko followed Mariko to engage the third Fort-class.

Using her Beam Magnum, Yui shot the enormous creature. The beam impacted directly, the intense heat of the ray making it burst like a balloon. Lelouch followed suit, using a focused charge shot from the Izanami's chest mounted mega-particle cannon, blowing off the head of the other. Mariko and Tsukiko in turn made short work of the last Fort-class, using their beam rifles. The three gargantuan creatures had been destroyed quickly. Unfortunately, they were just the beginning. Already more were beginning to emerge from the ocean.

"We need to send Izumi and Alpha Squad to the south," Lelouch said, suspecting more Fort-class BETA would try to land on the southern end of the island.

"I agree," Commander Tachibana stated, while Maya offered no objections. "Alpha Squadron head for the southern edge of the island, intercept the BETA."

"Understood," Kaoru replied as she and Izumi launched from the base.

"Lieutenants Kai and Iwami, prepare to launch," Maya commanded. "Lieutenant Iwami will head north to support our forces. Lieutenant Kai, stay near the ship and stand by to provide support."

"Roger," Shimako and Aki replied as Shimako's Gundam, then the Sadamitsu stepped onto the linear catapult. "Shimako Kai, Sadamitsu, launching!"

After the Sadamitsu was launched, Aki and her Gundam stepped onto the catapult.

"Aki Iwami, Kintoki, taking off!"

Once in the air, the Kintoki headed north while Shimako stood by, preparing to kill the growing number of Fort-class BETA emerging from the ocean. The linear tanks had so far been able to keep the Destroyer-class to a manageable number, but they might need backup any moment now. The beam cannons from the nameless ship floating above the defensive wall joined in, bombarding the attacking BETA.

Firing from the wing mounted Dual-Linked Variable Speed Beam Rifles on the Izanami, Lelouch exterminated as many Fort-class as he could. If they unloaded their Laser-class cargo, they could pin down the island's defenders. He also couldn't ignore the other BETA, emerging from the sea. Some had made it to the first defensive wall. Tsukiko and Mariko quickly moved to eliminate them, while Lelouch followed behind.

They are stretching our forces too thin, Lelouch said. They were handling the bigger creatures well enough, but smaller BETA like the Tank-class were slipping through the fire-screens and could reach their defenses. As much as he didn't want to spread their forces any thinner than they already were…

"Tsukiko and Mariko, check the areas around the mouth of the bay. I need confirmation the enemy isn't attempting to scale the mountains and hills surrounding the bay," Lelouch ordered.

"Understood," Mariko said, the two pilots departing immediately.

"Just be mindful of the water. A Fort-class could ambush you near the shoreline," Lelouch warned.

"Roger that," The two women said, speeding away.

Suddenly the tactical computer of the Izanami picked up an energy spike from the water near the shore. The computer zoomed in. Lelouch saw a black eye peeking out of the water, and then he saw a flash. His blood ran cold when he realized what it was. Quickly, Lelouch raised a shield and placed himself in the expected path of the laser, which was aimed at the linear tanks on top of the wall. There was a flash as the weapon fired, and Lelouch's machine shook and trembled from the impact. Glaring warning signals echoed in the cockpit as several systems shorted out momentarily from the power overload. Lelouch felt an intense heat overtake the cockpit that felt like he would be boiled alive. The machine went dead for a second, and for a horrible moment Lelouch wondered if he would fall into the sea. Then, mercifully, the screens flickered back to life, the systems quickly rebooting and bringing his machine back up to speed. The Gundam had taken the hit head on and survived, leaving both him and the vital tank battery still alive.

"Lelouch are you alright?!" Cried Yui over the comms.

"Don't worry about me, we have bigger problems. There are Heavy Laser-class BETA among them," Lelouch warned, leveling his beam rifle at the Heavy Laser-class he shot, exploding its head. "They are hiding in the water and trying to snipe us from the sea while the Fort-class BETA draws our attention. Aki and Shimako, use your I-fields and Panzer Deflection systems to protect your allies, monitor the water's surface for signs of them!"

"Sneaky bastards," Aki snapped upon hearing Lelouch's warning.

The Kintoki Gundam moved to the front, its I-field generators functioning. When one Heavy Laser-class poked its head out from the water and took a shot at Aki, the field redirected it to hit the hills behind the Gundam.

"You want to get some? Well, come and get it!" Aki shouted defiantly, but six more Heavy Laser-class BETA began poking their heads out from the water. A dozen Fort-class rose from the sea to protect them.

"Lieutenant Iwani, pull back," Suzuno called, worried that Aki might've been biting off more than she can chew.

"I got this," Aki said, as her Gundam switched to Burst Mode, its plasma cannons in its wings unfolded, ready to fire, along with its hip-mounted railguns.

Its Multi-purpose Assault Weapon "Kujaku" took aim, as did one of its combat shields, which had a mega-particle cannon mounted onto it. In the cockpit, her screen showed one display after another of Target Locked. With a toothy smile, Aki pulled the trigger unleashing a barrage of well-aimed plasma, railgun, and particle beams from the Kintoki Gundam. To an outside observer it might have looked like the Gundam was just firing wildly into the approaching ranks of the enemy, but thanks to the Gundam's targeting systems each shot struck its intended mark, the Laser-class that tried to hide under the Fort-class' shadows. The Kujaku weapon alone, its only hand-held weapon, ensured no enemy could escape the Kintoki's assault.

The Fort-class fell like dominos and the Heavy Laser-class were taken out before they could threaten Bravo Squadron or Kazusa. The waters off the shore quickly turned red, the shredded remains of the battle group floating limply in the water before sinking.

Before Aki could celebrate, a new herd of Destroyer-class erupted from the water, intent on running her down while her weapons were cooling off. Before Aki could open fire with her remaining weapons, Kazusa intervened, shooting the Destroyers with her mega beam rifle, and her back mounted railguns. Aki joined in, using her Kujaku and her Gundam's railguns to finish off those Kazusa's attack had missed.

"Don't let your guard down, Aki," Kazusa lightly scolded her friend.

"Geez, I know," Aki replied, slightly exasperated. Grumbling, she added, "Maybe you should get that huge stick out of your ass."

"I heard that," Kazusa said. Aki froze up momentarily. Shit. But despite Kazusa feeling slightly annoyed, they both had bigger problems. The battle was still raging. Flying overhead, she could now see that the bulk of their invasion force had diverted their attention so a smaller contingent of BETA could reach the island and launch surprise attacks on the defender's flanks. Lelouch's concerns were soon proven true, as she spotted a group of Tank-classes scaling the cliffs a distance away from the shore. The cliffs were likely too steep for the Destroyers to swiftly dealt with them, and those she had detected had already made it into the forests. She shot them from the safety of the air.

Leaving her no time to breathe, more Forts emerged from the water. Kazusa calmly killed them, using a sudden burst of acceleration to fly past the giant BETA. The wings of light erupting from her machine's wings doubled as blades, cutting two of the Fort-class in half. Her mega-beam rifle did the rest.

Just how many are we dealing with? Kazusa wondered as she continued searching the area for any BETA attempting to circumvent past their defenses. No matter their losses they kept coming, even climbing over the piles of corpses of their fallen.

"American Tomcats are launching to search for any BETA that might've slipped by," Maya announced.

But even as she spoke, her ship took a direct hit from a Laser-class. The ship shook under the assault, but it had been designed to withstand such hits. Its shields flared as it absorbed the hit. Its hull, protected by a thick layer of Laminated Armor, could harmlessly disperse the thermal energy.

"Status report!" Maya demanded.

"Shields are holding steady and the armor is holding up," a bridge operator announced.

"Good. Return fire. Target those Heavy Laser-class. We should return the favor," Maya commanded. "Then get this ship moving. Let's give them something to focus on so the base defenders can do their job."

"Yes ma'am," the helmsman replied as the nameless ship continued their retaliatory strikes against the Heavy Laser-class BETA attacking them.

Meanwhile, Yui downed another Fort-class using her machine's beam sabers, splitting the creature's head in two. Laser-classes sprung from the corpse. While not many made it to shore, even a few could pose a danger if left alone. They would not make it far, though. Once Lelouch noticed them, he didn't just deal with them himself, he also fed the tactical data of their locations to Maya's ship allowing the vessel's beam cannons and missiles to dispatch them before they could begin attacking.

"Lieutenant Lamperouge, requesting that you back up Shimako. She and Alpha Squadron are struggling," Yui asked.

"Understood. Can you hold down the fort here?" Lelouch asked.

"I can for now. Mariko and Tsukiko have been busy dispatching landing parties from other points near the mouth of the bay," Yui replied. In the distance,Mariko and Tsukiko were working together, eliminating any Tank-class and Fort-class they found attempting to scale the mountains along the edge of the bay.

"I'll try not to take too long," Lelouch said, flying off to aid Shimako and Alpha Squadron.

While en route, Lelouch switched to auto pilot, using the time to quickly take the BETA's latest actions in the battle to devise counter strategies.

I can't say I expected Heavy-Lasers to be part of this invasion. It's unprecedented, Lelouch thought, sharing the data his Gundam collected to aid their allies. What else are they planning?

Lelouch sent a message to Maya, recommending the submarines should expand their sonar search. Thanks to the American and Japanese naval forces gathered, much of the waters around the island were covered. However, the unexpected appearance of Heavy Laser-class was deeply concerning. He only hoped there were no more nasty surprises.

He sent counter tactics for dealing the Heavy Laser-class with his message. It didn't take him long to reach the southern side of the island, where he found Shimako pinned down, using the panzer deflection system of her Gundam to shield the members of Alpha Squadron from attacks from the Heavy-Laser class. They were holding for now, but unless something changed, it was only a matter of time before Shimako was overwhelmed. Lelouch had an idea to turn this around. He just had to hope it could work.

Izumi was also busy fending off other groups of BETA, trying to take pressure off of Shimako. The Tsuna Gundam, despite lacking the defensive capabilities of the Sadamitsu, could perform physics-defying feats of agility. Its GN fangs were causing disruptions among the BETA ranks. They fired upon the aliens and thanks to their blade-like design, the projectiles could fly through the ranks of the Tank-class, shredding them to pieces.

Without a word, Izumi activated the defensive system of her Tsuna Gundam. Its GN field projected a spheric shield around her machine. It intercepted fire from the Heavy Laser-class. None of their attacks could get past the field; even the stinger tail of a Fort-class was deflected.

With a look of hardened determination, Izumi sped her Gundam forward, ramming a Fort-class. The GN field and the force of the impact knocked the alien over. That the Heavy Laser-classes would not fire on their own also worked in her favor, as she used the other Fort-class BETA spread out as cover. Dropping the GN shield so she could attack, Izumi finished off the knocked down Fort-class. Then she sped away before the other BETA could retaliate, her GN Rifle transforming into its GN Buster Sword as it lowered into the Gundam's right hand.

Another Fort-class tried to strike the Tsuna Gundam with its stinger tail, but Izumi cut its stinger off before promptly cutting the Fort-class in half. The blade's energy and physical blade combined with GN particles increased the blade's cutting power enormously and so she carved through it like a hot knife through butter.

"Izumi, can you continue to keep the Fort-classes occupied?" Lelouch asked, arriving on the scene.

"They are already being handled, but Shimako needs help," Izumi repiled, sounding relieved.

"Understood," Lelouch said, switching communications. "Shimako, do you read me?"

"Yes I read you, I am trying to keep Alpha Squad safe, but there are too many Heavy Laser-class."

"Understood. I am going to help you use the deflector system of your Gundam to redirect their fire to create an opening so we can work together to eliminate them," Lelouch replied.

"Ok, but how?"

"Well, I am hoping this can work for that purpose," Lelouch said, activating the Coupling System. "Do you know how to use the Coupling System?"

"Uh, yes," Shimako replied, realizing his intentions. "Connective, Lieutenant!"

"Acception!" Lelouch replied, triggering the coupling.

For what seemed like forever, Shimako felt like she was in freefall feeling her thoughts becoming synced with those of Lelouch's. In the exchange of knowledge at that moment, not only did Shimako experience crystal clarity of mind, but she understood what to do. Like it was second nature to her, Shimako adjusted her shields according to the new knowledge she obtained from Lelouch. Assisted further by the tactical data the Izanami was feeding to her Gundam, Shiamko moved the shields into key spots to redirect them.

The first redirected beam hit one Heavy Laser-class in the eye, killing it instantly. A second struck down a Fort-class, followed by another Heavy Laser-class going down. Thanks to the Coupling System's future prediction, it was that much easier for Shimako to predict and position herself just right to redirect the incoming lasers. Lelouch was far from idle for his part, using the mega-particle scatter cannon to rain down death upon the Tank-class and Destroyer-class BETA trying to storm the beach. Soon, Alpha Squadron were safe to rejoin the fight, with most of the Heavy Lasers now eliminated.

The number of Heavy Lasers involved had disturbing implications. They were rarely seen in BETA attacks, typically relegated to defending their hives or reinforcing captured territory. Having them hide in the ocean and attacking from the water, showed a new level of deception and aggression. They were rapidly adapting.

Could it be possible that they are learning from us? No, it's way too soon for them. Granted, adaptation is a must, even for alien creatures like them, but even if they are able to adopt human tactics, they shouldn't be able to generate a strategy against us and our Gundams so fast.

The battle dragged on. Hour upon hour. Lelouch and the officer corps putting out one fire after another. It was grimy and brutal with the casualties racking up by the minute, but the line was held as BETA corpses piled up in their thousands. Then in the late afternoon, a new problem emerged from the sea.

To the north and south of the island, new waves of attackers revealed themselves. Lasers stuck their eyes out, targeting the missiles and rockets coming towards them. In between the Laser-class BETA were Grapplers, acting as some sort of defensive meat shield Some even taking hits from Shimako's redirection effort, dying in the Laser-class' place. Already they were striking at whatever patrolling gunships within range, which up to this point had managed to avoid being targeted by the BETA. It wasn't long before several more Forts emerged from the back, all of them evenly spaced out like those in the main force. The aliens had taken utterly gruesome casualties, the likes of which would have broken any human army, but they still kept coming, heedless of their own slaughter.

"There are so many of them!" Shimako cried out, returning fire against the Lasers.

With the approach of Grappler-class, she began attacking with the Sadamitsu Gundam's Hresvelgr Plasma Induction Cannon. Now more comfortable and at ease with redirecting the enemy's laser attacks, she was ready to add onto it. Firing the plasma cannon, she tore into the oncoming horde. It didn't stop there, however; she began aiming the railguns mounted onto the shields and unleashing a hailstorm of absolutely brutal firepower.

"Good job, Lieutenant Shimako," Lelouch said encouragingly.

"Yes, I won't let them pass!" Shimako said, confidently. Together with Izumi, she continued laying down punishing fire.

While the Tsuna Gundam still dealt with any Grapplers and Destroyers in its range, Alpha Squadron pressed their attack, seizing on the opportunity. Izumi was wielding her Gundam's buster sword in one hand and her GN pistols in the other. She did her best to trim down the number of enemies to keep them at a manageable level.

"Let's pick up the slack people. We can't let these kids do all the work," Kaoru said, rallying her squad to start pushing back against the BETA.

"Yes, ma'am!" The members of Alpha Squad shouted together in unison, their morale high.

Meanwhile, Yui was helping the defenders hold the bay. Parts of the wall had sustained damage from some of the Heavy Laser-class BETA, but they, thankfully, held. Now Grapplers were joining the fight en masse, but Yui had no problem dispatching them. Neither did the nameless ship and the linear tanks upon the wall. A few were close to breaching the wall, but Yui and missiles from the nameless ship stopped them. But as the corpses of the BETA slain at the wall and the bay began to pile up, they effectively formed a ramp for their comrades to march over, putting them closer and closer to the wall's edge. Yui considered using her Beam Magnum to clear some of these piles.

If I use the beam magnum, I could damage the walls, maybe even accidentally create a breach, Yui thought.

The lack of other ranged options was becoming a noticeable problem, but Yui still had her Gundam's beam sabers. Her mobile suit had a pair of sub-arms that could grasp and wield the Gerbera Straight Katana and the Tiger Pierce Katana, physical blades stored on its waist. Using them in tandem with her beam sabers in her hands, she engaged the BETA in melee, trying to stop those who were using the corpses of their dead to climb up.

Igniting the beam sabers built into the feet of her Gundam, Yui cut down a pair of Destroyers from behind. She turned around to engage another pair of Grapplers with the physical blades, before counter attacking with the beam sabers, cutting off their arms before dealing a fatal blow to them.

Whenever the number of enemies were becoming too much, or beginning to surround her, Yui retreated to the air, looking for more enemies to attack from behind. Using its feet mounted beam sabers, she cleaved them apart before attacking the remaining aliens before they could counterattack and retreat when needed. Whenever the aliens attempted to flank her, the Grappler-class aliens found themselves facing Yui's beam sabers; even a kick when activating one of the beam sabers mounted on her feet, which at the right angle could decapitate an enemy.

Controlling four arms is difficult, Yui thought. The Gundam was far more complex to pilot than a TSF.

"Lieutenant Takamura," came Lelouch's voice over the comms, "I am going to stay with Lieutenants Notou and Kai for a bit. Alpha Squadron's TSFs need to return for a resupply," Lelouch informed via their communication line.

"Roger that. I can handle things here until they are done. I think Bravo Squadron's TSFs are also returning to resupply their machines," Yui said, noticing in the corner of her eye a group of TSFs heading back.

"The Amercians are sending a squad of TSFs to help support our units in the north, until Alpha Squadron returns," Maya reported. "They've deployed one of their reserve squads to switch out with their units supporting us to resupply as well."

"Understood," Yui replied, returning to focusing on defending the bay until Lelouch returned.

On the bridge of the nameless ship, Maya was observing the battle, despite their forces being stretched dangerously thin, more so than she was comfortable with. The battle was going well for them. But she felt a growing unease in the pit of her stomach, a bad feeling that wouldn't leave her alone. Using the console on her chair, she opened a channel to the base commander.

"Captain Tsukuyomi," Masakiyo greeted.

"Commander, are there any signs of the BETA's numbers slowing, or…?" Maya began.

"Concerned that something else might be coming?"

"It seems we are of the same mind."

"Yes, you and Lieutenant Lamperouge as well. Heavy Laser-class, are rare, especially in these numbers. They're usually on hive defense duty. They've never been a part of any invasion forces before," Masakiyo explained.

"Something's changed. We're up against something new. We need to be ready for anything."

"I concur. I have already asked our lookouts to double their efforts and our operators are keeping a close eye on our listening posts in the sea to look for anything that could be unusual," Masakiyo reassured.

Sadly, both Commander Masakiyo and Maya would be proven right.

"Commander!" A panicked operator at her station shouted. "I am getting a reading from one of our listening buoys! It's unlike anything I've ever seen.."

"We're picking up something large approaching the bay among the latest wave of BETA!" Another operator exclaimed in alarm.

Near the bay's entrance, a small head poked up from the water. It had the three sets of eyes common to the Heavy Laser-class. Taking aim, the new BETA fired. The laser beam was indiscriminate, cutting a swathe through its own ranks before searing a giantantic hole into the wall. It tore through it with ease, tearing all the way into the hills behind it.

As it drew nearer, a second similar head emerged, this time taking aim at the nameless ship.

"BRACE FOR IMPACT!" Maya roared. The laser fired, its wildly destructive beam rocking the entire ship. Alarms went out, the power surged, but its protective shielding and armor held against the blast. For all aboard, it felt like a calamity; smoke and fires were breaking out all over the ship.

"Damage report! Damage report!" Maya ordered as emergency power kicked in, bathing the command bridge in red light.

"Shields holding firm, Captain!" A technician cried out.

"Minor hull damage, leaks currently being contained in sectors four and five, Captain!" Another called out.

"Are our weapons systems operational?" Maya demanded.

"Confirmed, Captain," her gunnery officer replied.

"Then return fire!"

"Aye-aye, Captain!" The officer replied, saluting sharply. The ship's guns took aim.

Meanwhile, as a third head tried to repeat the process, Yui attacked, hitting it with her beam magnum. The head exploded like an overinflated balloon. The other two heads retreated back into the water. Suddenly a dark green stinger erupted from the water, trying to impale Yui's Gundam, but she was quick enough to dodge it.

What was that? It couldn't have been a Heavy-Laser class, Yui thought, pulling back to assess the new threat.

Rising from the water as it drew nearer to shore was a BETA strain Yui and Lelouch had seen during simulated battles. It was missing one head, but its appearance was unmistakable. Yui's blood ran cold.

Before anyone could register the monstrous alien's appearance, it towered over the remaining Fort-class BETA. One of its two heads began releasing a bombardment of smaller laser beams, targeting the defenders on the wall and Yui. The second head began charging up for a much more powerful shot. As it fired, it blew another large hole in the wall. The mighty structure ruptured and cracked, slabs of concrete tumbling into the bay along with dozens of the defenders- those were the ones who had not been evaporated by the blast.

"Laser Fort-class!" A horrified member of the nameless ship's bridge crew announced as the ship's computer identified it. Alarms went off, blaring across the base. "It appeared among the main force. It blasted a hole in two of Sadogashima's walls! The BETA are breaking through!"

Using the distraction provided by the Laser-Fort Class, the smaller strains of BETA were rushing towards the opening. Yui couldn't stop them; she had a much larger threat to deal with. Thankfully, Tsukiko and Mariko were moving in to intercept them.

"Massive breaches on the shore wall!" Lelouch heard an operator shout from the command center, as an image provided by Yui on the state of the wall was transmitted to him. Aliens were pouring through the breach, even as railguns and artillery continued to rain hell upon them. Seeing the melted walls and everything in a straight line turned to black ash, he felt nervous. In one go their battle was now on the brink of defeat.

"We have signs of severe damage from the attacks of those beam weapons! All units are currently reporting other damage," the operator relayed.

"Lelouch." Yui grabbed his attention. "Is that what I think it is?"

"Yes," he answered begrudgingly. "It's the same creature we fought in the simulator."

"What are you talking about?" Izumi asked.

"That thing is not like any other Laser-class out there," Lelouch said, opening a communication channel. "Keep moving as much as possible! That thing doesn't care if its allies are in the way."

"Lieutenant Lamperouge, you and Lieutenant Kai should go and back Takamura up. Me and the others can hold the line," Izumi said.

"I'll ask the Americans to reinforce your position," Commander Masakiyo informed, before adding with urgency. "Hurry and stop that monster before they overrun our beach defenses!"

"We'll handle the breach," Mariko stated as she and Tsukiko hurried over. "Just hurry and take down that BETA!"

"Roger that," Lelouch replied as he and Shimako hurried to Yui.

Meanwhile, after narrowly avoiding the Laser Fort-class BETA's stinger, the massive alien followed up its attack with dozens of smaller stingers, firing from cone-like protrusions on the front of its body. The Izanagi narrowly dodged the attack, using a beam saber in one hand to cut apart those that got too close. Focusing its guns at Yui with a less focused scattershot of lasers, her gundam was bombarded, and her Beam Magnum was damaged beyond repair.

The wall's surviving defenses unleashed all they had on it. There was the characteristic whine of railgun fire, the batteries running hot as they concentrated all fire on the Fort-class in front of them. Under their relentless barrage, the Laser Fort-class went down fast, but a second Laser-Fort class BETA emerged from the ocean not far behind it. Before the railguns could reload, the creature opened fire, unleashing a barrage of lasers. The I-field of Yui's Gundam protected her, but the same couldn't be said for the various tanks and gun placements upon the wall. They were vaporized instantly.

With her guns exhausted, Yui had to make do with the Izanagi Gundam's melee weapons. Equipping one of its beam sabers and readying the beam shield Yui charged at the gigantic monster. Yui dodged a flash, as its three heads continued their bombardment of the area around the bay. It missed her, striking the hills in the distance. The wall was crumbling and the aliens were swarming through. Yui needed to take this monster down, now.

It fired its stinger again, but Yui was one with her machine as she weaved and dodged elegantly. Unfortunately, as she closed in, all three heads were ready to fire, point blank.

How could she have known that they could recharge this quickly?

"YUI!" Shimako cried out, her machine slamming into Yui's, forcefully shoving it out of the way. Her Sadamitsu's armor and shields took the full blunt of the laser head on. The world went red as muzzles flashed. As Yui's screens cleared up she saw the remnants of an explosion.

"SHIMAKO!"

The smoke cleared. The Sadamitsu Gundam had survived, just barely. Its shield mounted arms had been destroyed in the blast. While the machinery had overloaded from trying to withstand such an intense blast, she had still managed to redirect it into a Fort-class BETA heading for the shore. The Sadamitsu Gundam and its pilot were on their last legs. Firing its remaining plasma cannon, Shimako retaliated by blowing its left head off.

But there were still two heads remaining, and they both took aim at her. Shimako could see the glow of their lasers from her barely functioning screen, and grunted.

I can't move away. Sadamitsu can barely even fly anymore. This is it.

But then, both heads erupted in a sudden flash. Looking behind her, she saw Lelouch, the magnum of his Gundam smoking from its last shot.

He had made it in time, and Shimako breathed a shaky sigh of relief.

"Shimako, are you okay?!" he cried out over the comms. Her Sadamitsu wasn't down yet, but that didn't mean she was unharmed.

She tried to redirect that hit at the last second. The power of that shot must've caused a system overload.

"I am fine, just deal with the Heavy Laser. I got this," Shimako said boldly and with a hint of anger. "This time I'll protect you two, instead of being the one protected."

She readied its beam glaive and aimed her remaining weapons systems.

"Roger that. Lieutenant Takamura, return to the ship and rearm. Get a beam rifle. Your combat options are too limited. Your Gundam should be able to use it as a replacement."

"I… understand," Yui conceded, reluctantly retreating to grab a new weapon. She knew Lelouch was right, but hated moving off the battlefield while her comrades still fought. "Just don't let them gain an inch while I am gone."

"We won't," Lelouch said with a smile.

"We're not out of the fight either," Maya said over the open comms. Green beams tore through the air, hitting the Laser Fort-class dead center, turning its hulking body into a bloody mass, gore showering over the sea's surface. "We took damage, but this ship can still fight!"

"This is Lieutenant Lamperouge," Lelouch called out across the comms. "If another Laser Fort-class appears, call it in immediately. Absolute priority is to be given to these targets!"

"Come on!" Tsukiko snapped defiantly as she took down another Grappler-class with a well-aimed beam rifle shot.

The aliens continued to crawl over the bodies of their dead, careless of their own lives. Mariko was right behind her, firing her beam rifle; a monster falling with each shot. They were creating constant new piles of corpses all on their own. As the nameless ship opened fire in return, the piles only grew larger.

"Geez, how many are there?" Tsukiko spat frustratedly.

"I wasn't keeping track. Stay focused. We can't let them past this point," Mariko replied matter-of-factly.

"No kidding. I'm just getting kind of exhausted doing this…"

The pilot suits were designed with measures to help them keep fighting for hours, even days at a time if conditions were favorable, but it was a hellish experience, and the stress would take a toll on even the strongest of soldiers.

"Just hang in there."

"I can do this all day if I have to," Tsukiko said firmly.

Following the Laser-forts destroying much of the first wall and leaving a hole in the second, Tsukiko and Mariko had positioned themselves in between to halt the BETA from getting further inland. Although Lelouch, Shimako and Yui had dealt with the larger creatures, hordes of smaller ones were still pouring through the gap. They were successful so far, but the corpse piles were getting taller and taller, even when their beam weapons vaporized the smaller strains easily. So far, the pair were holding fast, keeping the invaders from getting into the residential area beyond the second wall.

The fight continued to drag on, even as the sun began to set. With most of the bigger beasts slain, the BETA's lack of firepower began to turn the tide. Thrown against the brutal defenses and the gun emplacements, the battle turned from a desperate struggle to a methodical extermination. The whole sea around the wall ran red with alien blood. By nightfall the last of the Heavy Laser-class were slain, and no more appeared. The entire rest of the night was spent wiping out the thinning lines of aliens; only when the sun began to rise was the last BETA eliminated. Exhausted, the Gundam pilots could breathe a sigh of relief. They had done what seemed impossible. They had repelled a direct BETA invasion, something the Imperial Army at Kyushu had failed to do.

This battle would be remembered as the Miracle of Sadogashima.

The Gundams and other machines returned to the ship for repairs and resupplying, while fresh American support units would keep watch, allowing the base's exhausted defenders a chance to rest.

Even as the battle wound down, assessments were already being made. Their losses had been shockingly light in comparison to the army they just fought. They had only lost six TSFs between the two island's defense squads, while the Americans only suffered a few casualties among their own pilots. The worst of the casualties were among those stationed on the wall which only racked up to a few dozen. Many attributed their success to the firepower and advances of both the Gundams and the nameless vessel that had supported them. There were others who also praised the tactics of one Lelouch Lamperouge, directing the battle and allocating the Gundams to where they were needed had also been a boon to the defenders.

Within the Sadogashima Base headquarters, Maya, Masakiyo, a Japanese Admiral and an American Admiral were meeting. The American was an older man with graying hair, a mustache, and wore a crisp, white uniform with his hat sitting on the table of the meeting room. It wasn't an official meeting; rather, the leading commanders were celebrating the miracle, one both Japan and the world sorely needed. The three were sharing a toast, already drunk on victory.

"I must congratulate you, Commander Tachibana. And you too, Captain Tsukuyomi," The admiral cheered, raising his glass. "The odds were stacked against us, but you gave them absolute hell."

"Thank you. The assistance of the navy and your forces was invaluable, Admiral Walken. If not for your men helping cover any gaps in our defenses when our pilots were resupplying, our casualties could've been much higher.

"Of course. And I should thank Admiral Taira. The naval operation was a team effort," Admiral Walken replied, looking at the Japanese Admiral. He was an older man with graying hair and blue eyes, wearing a white uniform.

"I am glad we were able to work together. I hate to think how it might have gone, had we not done so," Taira remarked. "But that… Laser Fort-class, as they called it… what a monster that was."

"I am glad no more than two of them showed up. Just one completely destroyed two of the bay's defensive walls and the second wiped out our defensive weapons." Masakiyo said, still feeling chills.

"Perhaps the BETA cannot produce such strains in bulk," Admiral Taira commented.

"Yes, we should count ourselves lucky. I have already shared what we have on it with Admiral Walken to pass along to America," Maya said.

"Much appreciated. In turn, I'll share with you something headquarters shared with me. Since the BETA committed a large number of Heavy Laser-class to this battle, satellite images shows that the Cheorwon Hive had depleted much of what they had, most notably the aforementioned Heavy-Laser Class, so we decided to seize upon it," the American Admiral said with a knowing grin.

"A nuclear assault?" Maya said. Nukes had always been deterred by the defenses of the Heavy Lasers shooting them down before they could land. Without those defenses, they would have been wide open.

Admiral Walken nodded.

"We managed to rapidly dispatch forces via orbital drop to the Hive after using a nuclear bombardment to clear the area. That kind of opportunity doesn't come often. As of right now, that area is under US control. They should be arriving in the area soon, but they won't stay around. Just long enough to investigate the hive and find anything useful from it before leaving a nuclear bomb within to destroy it."

"It cannot be captured?" Maya remarked.

"Regrettably we just don't have the forces to hold the area, but with its destruction, it should give Japan some breathing room to rebuild their defenses," Admiral Walken explained. "My fleet will be sent to pick them up at the shoreline once they've finished their mission. I'll leave some TSFs and ships behind to support the garrison here until I return."

"Then I hope their mission is a success," Masakiyo said before adding, "We'll take care of your troops until you return."

"My ships will work with those who stay behind. With the hives responsible eradicated, we shouldn't see any further attacks from Asia for the time being," Admiral Taira stated.

"Thank you for your words, Admiral. My men have been ordered to be on their best behavior in the meantime. This is a critical time for our alliance," Admiral Walken replied.

"Agreed," Maya said before adding. "The Shogun and the Prime Minister are formally working out details to share the new technology we have with America publicly. Our victory here will assure the people of Japan of the value of our alliance with America. In turn, we will work together to rapidly develop the new anti-BETA technology demonstrated today."

"Our production facilities will no doubt be available to aid Japan in upgrading their forces as swiftly as possible," Admiral Walken replied, seeming relieved. "Those Gundams performed impressively well, but I suppose they are not invincible."

"True. But a small force of them still accomplished what our armies of TSFs couldn't accomplish. But those flanking maneuvers mid battle… It proves the BETA can adapt to our tactics. We must do the same, and develop this technology even further," Masakiyo said calmly.

"Agreed. This was a great victory, but it's only a first step toward ending this war. We have many battles yet ahead of us," Admiral Walken agreed. "In the meantime, if you don't mind me asking, how are the pilots of those Gundams?"

"They are exhausted, but they are doing well. Promotions are expected for all of them, along with commendations," Maya said while giving them praise at the same time.

"Yes. First Lieutenant Lamperouge in particular ought to be promoted for his skillful defense, his role in planning the defense and quick response to these unexpected attacks," Maya said.

"Well deserved, from what I've heard," Admiral Taria added.

"Indeed. Perhaps eventually a Major, but he'll likely be a Captain until he properly graduates," Maya revealed.

"Is that really necessary, given his accomplishments?" Admiral Walken said with an amused smile.

"No. I suppose it's only a formality at this point. Speaking of promotions, for your handling of the situation, Commander Tachibana has been promoted by the Shogun to Brigadier General effective immediately," Maya revealed, stunning Masakiyo. "You'll have complete command over the defenders of this island and much of the surrounding area. That should prevent anyone from pulling rank to press you into giving up men."

"I… I am… at a loss for words. I humbly accept," Masakiyo said, stunned.

"Things seem to be moving quicker now," Admiral Walken commented.

"Yes, and with a war against the BETA to still win, let's keep up the momentum," Admiral Taria commented.

They toasted once again and drank deep, knowing the joy would only be fleeting. The war was only getting started.

A/N: Whew I hope the battle was worth the wait, and I am hoping I can post chapter 15 on time in the next two weeks. It along with chapters 15 through 17 are done, just awaiting the beta work to be done on them.

And I did want to make the battle difficult and still show the BETA can be a threat, because they can adapt and the Laser Fort-class being unleashed is proof of that. Expect new BETA strains to appear in the future including some from the other games. Still this was hard fought victory with some close calls and Lelouch likely to see a promotion for his efforts, and thanks to Kyoko helping in Suez, America didn't need to leave Japan, which provided the defenders some good support.

Next chapter our heroes will take a well deserved break, with Lelouch beginning to understand the pros and cons to come with his new fame.

Finally in response to some surprising responses I got when I inquired on what the fate of a certain character from Infinite Stratos should be, I was so taken aback by some of the suggestions I got, I decided to do a new poll on my profile page to see if anyone else felt the same. It won't alter my overall plans very much, but it might affect the end game slightly.

Thank you all for reading, so I'll see you all next chapter.

Kyoko's Gundam, the Benkei, for its appearance it uses the Crossbone Gundam X-2 as a base, but with parts from the main body of the Amakusa/Jupiter Gundam and its weapons and EZM-S01 Midas's Beam Manteau.

Model number: TMP-00X (This was the first Gundam model produced too)

Code name: Benkei

Unit type: Prototype Psycho-Frame Close Quarter Combat Mobile Suit

Pilot: Kyoko Takatsuka

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Order of the Black Knights, Empire of Japan ("sponsors" of the Black Knights)

First deployment: September 29th 2016 A.T.B

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 19.10 meters

Weight: 57.5 metric tons

Powerplant: Ultracompact Fusion Reactor

Sensor Range: 23,700

Psycho-Frame

Intention Automatic System

Coupling System

Fog Dispenser: The Benkai apparently has the ability to release a thick fog to engulf the battlefield or to hide its location. This serves to obstruct the vision of other mobile suits and their pilots.

Heat Radiation Face Open: It can temporarily "Open Face" to release Heat and increase performance. This allows the the Gundam to perform otherwise extremely demanding maneuvers or attacks that would normally be considered impossible.

Fixed Armaments

2 X 60mm Vulcan Guns

4 X Beam Sabers, two are stored in the shoulder armor for easy access and the final two can be found in the knee armor

10 X Beam Claws: Beam Emitters mounted on the nail of each Mobile Suit Finger, they are powerful enough to shred through beam Shields with ease.

1 X Beam Manteau: A cloak-like beam shield that is powerful enough to defend against the Crossbone Gundam X-0 's "Kujaku" at close-range.

1 X Electric Shock Whip: An electric shock whip that can wielded as a handheld weapon in MS mode. The segments are connected by lines of magnetic force that can operate even under dispersed Minovsky Particles , which disrupt electromagnetic waves. The magnetic lines can be extended to increase the whip's reach, allowing attacks at a considerable distance to compensate for the lack of ranged weaponry stored in the rear skirt armor.

2 X Mega Particle Cannons: A fixed armament mounted on the forearms, they are the suit's only ranged weapon and are power rated at 4.7 MW. By adjusting the relevant parameters/settings of the particle cannons, such as its output, the weapon can have a variety of firing modes, including a beam machine gun-like mode that have a high rate of fire at the expense of penetrating power. Despite being set at automatic fire, they carry enough power to tear through most Mobile Suits with ease.

2 X Cold Blades: Also known as "Nacht Blade," the Cold Blade is a ninjato-style physical blade. As its name suggests, it is not heated in order to avoid heat detection. It appeared to have been treated with anti-beam coating, as it was capable of clashing with beam sabers. They are stored in the side hip armor.

StrifeHavoc · Oct 10, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for the massive beta work and chapter enhancements.

I am very sorry this chapter has come out so much later than intended, and from this moment forth new chapters will be posted as soon as the beta work is done.

But its almost funny considering the worries I had for the last chapter, THIS chapter ended up needing the most re-working, edits and making a whole new scenes my betas picked up, and personal sickness on my part only delayed things, among other things.

I'll explain more in detail at the end of the chapter.

Chapter 15

In the shadow of miracles

It had been three days since the Battle for Sadogashima. There had been a million things to see— evacuating the wounded, numbering the casualties, resupplying his unit, and so on. But Lelouch finally got the chance to get a full night's sleep. With the situation under control, he decided to tour the island to see the impact the battle had.

Yui, Mariko, Aki, and Tsukiko accompanied Lelouch. They were all in battle dress pants, a black shirt, a brown jacket, and black combat boots.

"Where are we headed?" Yui asked.

"Strictly speaking, we're supposed to tour the island's defenses, but I feel we earned ourselves a little rest and recreation, don't you think?" Lelouch said.

"You can say that again," Yui said, breathing out. "I… I can't believe we did it, you know? That we actually beat them. And… that we're all alive. I… I tried not to think about it, but… I didn't expect all of us to make it."

"I know how you feel." Lelouch nodded. "Wars inevitably mean sacrifices."

"I guess we got lucky," Mariko said. "But… yeah. Not everyone was so lucky."

Despite their success, they still took casualties in the hundreds, mainly from the troops stationed at the wall. It was a staggeringly low number compared to the tens of thousands of aliens they had killed, but every life lost was one not easily replaced.

"We weren't lucky," Lelouch said firmly. "We were strong, and we were smart. We knew what we were up against and prepared accordingly. When they threw a curve ball our way, we responded quickly. You all made us proud. You made me proud."

Lelouch fell quiet, a little surprised at the emotion that had come over him. He'd pushed it aside for the battle, but he'd been afraid for all of them. They all mattered to him, and that they were all here, still alive… it made him feel things he did not quite understand.

"We're proud of you, too," Yui said softly. The others nodded, vocalizing their assent.

There was a moment of profound silence between them. The group shared looks, and they all knew and understood- there was a bond between them now, one that nobody but soldiers could understand. They'd had their backs against the wall, risked life and limb, and gone through hell together, and they had come out of it stronger. It felt different between them now, in a way none could deny. Lelouch felt as if he'd give his life for any of them, and they for him. It was… new. Unexpected, but not unwelcome.

"Well," said Mariko, finally breaking the silence. "Yeah. That's… true. But right now, let's try and think of something other than the war, yeah? There'll be plenty more battles to come. For now, we're all alive and together, and I'd like us to do something with the little time we have that isn't just preparing for another battle."

"Sure," Lelouch nodded, glad to move on. "I am just grateful we got a break." He stretched his arms above his head.

"I hear you on that one," Aki said, with both hands behind her head. "I could barely drag myself out of my cockpit when it was finally over."

"I would've suggested a swim at the beach, but the island has nothing but rotting corpses as far as the eye can see. Heck, the waters around the island are still red," Tsukiko complained with a sigh, her hands on her hips.

"Well, that could take days to disperse, and that won't happen until they remove the carcasses, which can take much longer," Mariko remarked.

"All the worse for the people on this island. They can't leave until the corpses are cleared away," Tsukiko complained with a sour expression.

"Because of the human-like heads and faces on some of them?" Lelouch commented in passing, knowing the reason why.

Due to the human-like features of the BETA, many governments feared morale for the war would decline if people started assuming the aliens were some kind of biological weapon out of control. It didn't help that some of the smaller strains looked like humans, possibly recycled DNA from unfortunate prisoners.

Lelouch couldn't say this was a good idea, but perhaps it was for the best. In war, if desperation and fear set in with the public against a foe they couldn't stop, it could escalate into panic and chaos that could potentially damage the war effort.

"Yeah, command fears that too many people would assume the BETA are some bio-weapon gone nuts, which could be bad for unity and morale," Tsukiko replied, shrugging her shoulders. "I know it sounds stupid, but that's just how it is."

"Morale and discipline in an army has broken down for more trivial reasons," Lelouch said sagely. "I don't agree with their reasoning, but I understand the thought process behind it."

"So where should we go?" Aki asked with both hands behind her head, clearly not wanting to continue the depressing line of conversation.

"Let's try some food places or bars. Maybe some have reopened," Mariko suggested.

"Aren't we minors?" Yui asked, noticing the mention of the bar.

"We just beat back a horde of aliens coming to kill them all, and you think they'll turn us down over our age?" Mariko scoffed.

"Fair point," Yui shrugged.

Walking down the island road, they saw people out and about, tending to their fields, working as if nothing had happened despite the signs around them of the recent battle. There were more people in the fields, which had been devastated by the BETA after the first wall had fallen. Beyond the second city, towards the opposite side of the island, were more fields.

Life went on, even in the face of an alien invasion.

Lelouch's musings were cut short as Tsukiko spoke up.

"Hey, what's with the stalkers behind us," she asked, glancing over her shoulder.

"Huh?" Lelouch said.

Everyone turned around. Two young girls, one was around Lelouch and Yui's age, were following behind them at some distance. The first of them had shoulder-length brown hair and amber eyes. The second girl had long black hair and green eyes, but seemed to be a few years older.

"Uh," The first girl said timidly, caught like a deer in headlights. "Hello… are you guys the pilots of those machines? Like the one with the gun that vaporized the monsters with a cannon on its stomach?"

"They probably are. Wasn't one of the pilots an American or something?" The other girl with black hair pointed out.

"Well, that narrows it down," Tsukiko said, nudging Lelouch with a grin. "I guess you got yourself a couple of stalkers."

"Wait, hold on," Lelouch protested.

"It's nothing like that," the brown-haired girl exclaimed quickly. Tsukiko laughed, and both the girls and Lelouch glared at her.

"Sorry, but you were following us for a bit," Tsukiko stated, trying to calm tensions. "What I meant to say is, it sounds like Lelouch has some fans now."

"I suppose that's not surprising," Yui said, eyeing Tsukiko suspiciously with a hint of anger.

"So he is the pilot. I heard he was a foreigner," the brown-haired girl said. "N-No offense."

"None taken," Lelouch replied.

"I told you," the black-haired girl said excitedly, looking at her friend.

"And you are?" Mariko asked, feeling introductions were in order.

"Right. Sorry. My name is Akeno Shikimori," the black-haired girl introduced.

"And my name is Sakura Usuki," the other girl said, bowing politely. "I wanted to thank you for your efforts. Everyone defending this island deserves thanks, but they say you're the one who held it all together and gave us this victory."

"Me?" Lelouch asked, confused.

"I've heard you have the favor of the Shogun herself despite not being born in Japan. People think you are special somehow," Sakura answered. "Some are calling you the Shogun's Knight."

"The Shogun's Knight?" Yui asked.

So I am already getting a cognomen, like my mother did? Lelouch thought. Like Marianne the Flash…

Lelouch didn't notice it earlier, but as they walked through the farmland area, people pointed, stared, and whispered in hushed tones. Had they not been busy with work, he suspected they would have approached; they had a curious energy.

"I am just so glad we got to meet you first. Hey Sakura, get a picture of me with him!" Akeno exclaimed, throwing an arm over Lelouch's shoulder.

"I don't have my camera on me. I didn't know we would be running into him," Sakura replied.

"Okay," Akemi said, not easily discouraged. "How about your Unit ID number? We could send letters to you instead!"

"I, uh-" Lelouch said, a little stunned. He didn't really want a ton of fan mail. How could he decline politely?

"I can help with that," Aki replied, smiling.

"Aki, shouldn't Lelouch be the one to decide that!?" Yui said with an annoyed look.

"What's the harm in it?" Aki replied, shrugging her shoulders. "He clearly has fans, and if they become friends, the more the merrier, right?"

"Maybe," Yui said. She was suspicious of the two girls, or at least of Akeno.

"Someone is feeling threatened," Tsukiko snickered, causing Mariko to elbow her lightly.

"What!?"

"I don't think Lelouch has been assigned a proper unit ID yet. Why don't I take your information instead? That way, I can give you the proper information once it's available," Mariko offered diplomatically.

Just like that, Mariko had averted a possible crisis, at least for Lelouch, who wasn't quite used to his newfound fame. After Kyoto and Sadogashima, he had expected some recognition, but this was a little more than he was prepared for.

All the more reason I should keep my identity a secret, Lelouch thought amusedly.

Meanwhile, Yuuhi met with Claude at the Shogun's Tokyo residence. Mana stood beside the Shogun herself, with Yuuhi and Claude seated at a wooden round table across from one another. Claude was smiling, but Yuuhi was serious. Dark rings under her eyes denoted the recent stresses of her work.

"I have good news," Claude said with a grin. "I've made arrangements with the Mining Union. They are more than interested in working with Lieutenant Lamperouge and Major Tsukuyomi. They rarely work with warships and the kind of machines they will have, so some mercenary work should help ensure a stable flow of credits and access to necessary resources for both the ship and your country."

"And the training for Lelouch's new squad in space combat? I trust the pirates won't be too much for them?"

Claude began laughing. Seeing Mana begin to draw a kunai from her sleeve, she abruptly stopped herself. "Oh, my apologies, Lady Shogun. That was just too funny."

"Could you elaborate?" The Shogun asked.

"Of course. Space pirates use whatever Ryders they can find from junkyards or on the black market. Those machines are at least around a hundred years old. All old-fashioned and run-of-the-mill."

"Ryders?" Yuuhi asked while Mana paid close attention.

"Since you're all familiar with different worlds besides our own, you should know that they all have their names for humanoid mechanical weapons," Claude explained, displaying a Takemazuchi using a handheld holo-device. Next was the Izanagi Gundam, then what Lelouch would identify as a Glasgow, and finally, a flashy pink robot with panels and a mechanical claw, "In your world, you call them Tactical Surface Fighters. The world where Gundams are known to them as Mobile Suits. Lelouch's homeworld has a similar weapon called a Knightmare Frame, and in the world where I'll be sending Lelouch, they refer to their machines as Ryders. If you want to simplify the terms, we can classify them all as 'Mecha' or 'robots.'"

"I see. What are their strengths and limitations?" Yuuhi asked.

"Good question. Ryders are built specifically to operate in space. Let's just say attempts to use them on a planet's surface with gravity have ended… badly," Claude replied with a chuckle. "But depending on their weapons and the technology behind them, they can be quite dangerous with a skilled pilot behind the controls."

"In other words, as long as no one gets careless, they should have no problem with them," Yuuhi noted.

"Pretty much. Space pirates in the Ryuvian Galaxy use anything they get off a junk heap or the black market. But as I said, the New Empire models are hopelessly outdated. They use a metal shield and a laser weapon. Their ships are more of a threat, but even then, they just slap whatever weapons they can onto it. Overall, it should be easy money for Lelouch and his Gundam, which gives him a massive advantage. As for his squad, it will be good training for space combat," Claude replied confidently.

"Obtaining the rewards from the bounties should be an easy task, then?"

"Uh-huh. It also means access to resources for your country, and Lelouch will gain the supplies the ship will need, so logistics shouldn't be an issue," Claude replied reassuringly.

"Yes, but the crew we have may not be properly trained. Especially the engineers we had to put together on such short notice," Yuuhi said.

On the one hand, it was impressive how they could train and crew another advanced warship, but it was a skeleton crew at best. The crew meant for Lelouch and the Takarabune had gone to Lady Kyoko instead. She was to assist their allies at the Suez Canal to ensure America wouldn't abandon its treaty obligations while cementing new deals and political arrangements she made with America, the UN, and Australia.

On the flip side, this left Lelouch- the man they were supposed to sponsor- without a ship. Claude had given them the nameless ship as a training vessel sufficient for Lelouch's current needs. The bigger problem was ensuring it had a capable crew, which meant finding suitable people- engineers, technicians, sailors, gunners, navigators- and vetting them all in a timely manner.

Yuuhi had heard the recent rumors about Lelouch. Most were positive; some were not, but there were just almost as many not-so-positive rumors about her. It didn't surprise her, but she had hoped his accomplishments at Kyoto and Sadogashima would overshadow the prejudices, but it seemed to have only barely diminished them. She'd had little choice but to outsource to foreign nations like Australia, ensuring both sides got a good deal out of it to avoid political backlash.

They had scraped together enough people to crew the ship, but besides finding those willing to work under a foreigner in command, having those with the needed skills was just as much of a headache.

"As for training, I did make arrangements with the Mining Union. In return for payment, their engineers will teach the engineering crew of his ship and those needing it. That should help both Lelouch and Japan since they need more engineers," Claude added. "I also made additional arrangements with the Asticassia School of Technology from Ad Stella Earth in the Parallel Galaxy."

"I see," Yuuhi said, uneasy about the arrangement.

The Parallel Galaxy, as Claude called it, was once a normal galaxy, but someone of Claude's similar capabilities had recklessly used their new abilities. Over time, it caused reality-destroying paradoxes. Claude and another were able to repair the damage by patching the damage by basically copying and pasting their Earth from a different time to replace much of the destroyed patches of reality, which had seemed the only way to restore the galaxy.

Some, like Mana, assumed Claude and her partners thought it a quicker solution. To prevent these Earths from becoming too similar, each one had subtle changes introduced, such as a rare resource or something else, to ensure they would diverge at some point in their history, avoiding any chances for further reality-destroying paradoxes. Yuuhi suspected Claude and her fellows had probably used their creation of multiple Earths to conduct experiments on their powers to study them further while avoiding further repeats of what happened. Thus, many alternative Earths were created, such as Lelouch's world and others.

Of course, it was questionable whether Claude was being honest about whether their Earth was indeed the original.

"Can this Benerit Group be really trusted?" Yuuhi asked, taking a sip of tea before her.

"Heck no," Claude replied, waving a hand dismissively. "But their drive for profits and desire to one-up each other can be useful."

Yuuhi didn't disagree with Claude's point, but the danger was still there, and she felt uneasy sending Lelouch and others to such a dangerous snake pit, even if it was just a school.

"I've spoken to Delling Rembran and the Burion Company and made all the arrangements. Don't worry. As long as nothing bad happens to Lelouch and the others, I won't punish them as a goddess," Claude stated with a wink.

"But aren't you prevented from using your abilities in such a way?"

"There are ways I can punish them using only small applications of my powers, and I've made sure they know I am the one girl they don't want on their bad side," Claude said, grinning. Yuuhi wondered what threats she had used to get them to comply.

"But of course, the Burion Company wants Lelouch to collect and bring them any mobile suits they find. In return, they'll support him and cover his entry into the school along with anyone else. Furthermore, they'll offer resources and support for his ship and whatever they can for the Empire of Japan. All of the necessary cover stories for Lelouch and those attending with him are taken care of, with special exceptions in place to cover their absences."

"But you can't do this for Lelouch everywhere, can you?"

"Nope, the rest he'll have to do on his own. I'll keep supplying replacement parts for his and the Gundam as needed until you can handle them on your own," Claude said, wagging her right index finger to remind Yuuhi.

"Of course. I can only hope he'll be able to do his best then."

"Respectfully, ma'am, I must ask if it's alright to allow a child, no matter how capable, to handle such matters?" Mana protested calmly.

"I understand your worries, but I have faith in Lelouch. He's intelligent and driven, like me. The upcoming dinner I intend to host with him and others will allow me to demonstrate that," Yuuhi reassured.

"I think you got it all figured out. Very impressive," Claude complimented. "Tell me, do you expect you can really solve all of this as our Shogun? Not that I am questioning your abilities…"

Yuuhi gave her a look. "It's not a matter of 'expecting to.' I have to. There is no other choice. I finally have the authority to do what is needed and give it all I've got. It will have to be enough. The alternative does not bear thinking about."

"Hear, hear," Claude said firmly. Even with their recent victory, they had a long road ahead.

Elsewhere, on Sadogashima, Lelouch and the gang had found an Izakaya restaurant for lunch. The place was called Shiratsuyu. It was small but had available seating, with only two other patrons at one of the other tables.

Sakura was allowed to come along after obtaining permission from her grandfather, who wanted her to learn more about Lelouch.

"How about I take care of the orders? Just tell me what you want. It'll be my treat," Mariko offered.

"If you're sure, I'll take some Teishoku with beef," Aki said, first to accept Mariko's offer.

"If you don't mind, I'll take some udon with soy sauce," Yui said humbly, not wanting to take advantage of Mariko's kindness.

"I'll go for some Teishoku with beef myself," Lelouch ordered.

"Yakitori with a side of rice," Tsukiko decided after deliberation.

"Sushi with some miso soup," Sakura said after hesitating.

"I'll take what Lelouch is having," Akeno answered.

After making their orders, the group sat down at a table. Lelouch sat with Yui on his left and Sakura on his right.

"Thank you for lunch, Lieutenant Amemiya," Lelouch said gratefully.

"Not at all. Please, call me Mariko. We're all off duty," Mariko replied politely.

Oh, do we have a new challenger? Aki thought with an amused grin.

Yui wasn't too concerned. Mariko normally didn't care much about maintaining proper formalities when off duty. Seeing how she had been quietly following them, Sakura's curiosity about Lelouch and his machine seemed innocent enough. "So, Lelouch, have you been living in Japan for a long time?"

"I suppose I have been living in Japan since I was nine," Lelouch replied. It was technically true, although it had been a different Japan.

"That explains why your Japanese is so impressive," Mariko observed.

"Thank you. It was mostly self-taught, but I got better with time," Lelouch replied.

"That reminds me, I heard you were meant to join Lady Kyoko's White Fang, Mariko," Yui asked.

"You're wondering why I'm here and not in Suez?" Mariko said. "You can blame our treaty and our latest technological advancement for that."

From what I understand, most of the world's food production currently comes from Africa, Lelouch recalled. Despite Japan's own food production, it pales in comparison to what Africa provides. I doubt Japan or most other nations can feed their populations and obtain the required materials for weapons against the BETA should the continent fall.

"Look at Lelouch; he knows what's up. Africa is the breadbasket of the world. It also houses millions of displaced refugees from Europe. If Africa falls to the BETA, it would be a disaster," Aki explained.

"But why would Japan be called to defend Suez?" Akeno inquired.

"For one, it is the best path for the BETA to pour into Africa," Yui explained. "It might sound cold, but Africa is worth more to America than Japan."

"Which means the Americans considered pulling their forces out of Japan to defend Suez," Mariko explained. "It's not just to feed their people but also protect the refugees who have flooded the continent. Even the Russians no longer have the means to grow their own food with their government operating from a portion of Alaska being rented to them by America."

"I get it. So with the new weapons and battleship, Lady Kyoko took them to go and relieve Africa, allowing the Americans to continue supporting us without worrying about Suez," Aki pieced together.

"That's right," Mariko said with a nod. "As powerful as the new machines are, there are still too few to drive back the BETA. Given our recent losses against the invaders, we just don't have sufficient manpower or weapons at the moment to begin pushing them back."

"The real problem is that defenders will become fatigued. The lack of manpower means many will have to hold the lines for hours without rotation. Not many opportunities for rest," Lelouch deduced.

"Correct," Mariko confirmed. "With the Americans supporting us, they can give our defenders much-needed rest and relief, easing the burdens of war. At the same time, America has promised its production capabilities to help mass produce the new weapons even faster so we can get them to our soldiers as soon as possible."

"I'm just a bit more worried about Japan's new position thanks to our new weaponry," Yui remarked. "At this moment, Japan has an over-abundance of military firepower, which is surely attracting the world's attention."

"Come on," Aki patted Yui. "Sounds like more of a relief than you're making it out to be."

"Actually," Mariko said in a matter-of-fact tone. "All members of the Royal Guard assigned to the Shogun and as guards to other Regent Household heads are trained as shinobi."

Tsukiko's eye twitched in annoyance. Even worse, Mariko had made it sound like this was a commonly known fact.

"Well, to think the pilots of those super machines are here," a voice said.

Turning around, the group found that the occupants at the other table were Commanders Kaoru Sakazaki and Suzuno Ogura. The pair, having finished their meal, walked over to meet the group. They were dressed in the same uniform as Mariko.

"Funny, I didn't think to run to you two here too," Yui stated, surprised to see the base's squadron commanders.

"Suzuno and I like to come here. The food is good and usually quiet," Kaoru replied before looking at Lelouch. "I'm glad you had no problem making it through town."

"Why is that?" Aki inquired.

"You know how some of our people feel about foreigners, especially Americans," Suzuno said before expressing understanding to Lelouch. "Don't misunderstand. We are not ungrateful for your help in defending this island."

"I understand. It wouldn't be the first time for me. I lived in Japan since I was ten years old. I'd get hassled trying to buy groceries, and I couldn't fight back, or it'd get worse for me. You get used to it."

Thinking back on that, I am grateful for Suzaku's intervention. Without him, I doubt Nunnally and I would've survived that month Britannia fought against Japan for their nation, Lelouch recalled the invasion.

"Still, thanks for the help," Kaoru said.

"Pleasure to be of service," Lelouch replied.

Aki couldn't help but smile, which earned her a disapproving glare from Yui.

"What's so funny?" Tsukiko asked, eyeing Aki suspiciously.

"Nothing much. But aren't you worried, Yui?" Aki grinned mischievously at Yui.

"Worried about what?"

"You are so dense," Aki replied, shaking her head.

"About what?" Lelouch asked.

Although Yui eyed Aki with annoyance, the feelings underneath were quite different.

Of course, I do. Look at them surrounding Lelouch… I can't believe he doesn't notice. He's the dense one. No, wait- I shouldn't think that about him. Besides, he is too focused on his goals even to consider them, but…what does that mean for me?

Unaware of Yui's thoughts and Aki's implications, Lelouch was left to his own, much calmer thoughts.

Now that I think about it, was Michiru really assigned to our training unit just to protect me from Marimo's harsh methods, or was she there to ensure no one from within the unit would try to harm me?

Lelouch's thoughts were interrupted by Suzuno.

"By the way, did you see that ship the other day?"

"I saw it myself," Kaoru commented. "It looked like it was touching down on Ogi when they cleared a spot on the docks."

"It's one of the main ports for ferrying to the mainland," Mariko asked.

"The other one is Ryotsu, which is on the other side of the island." Suzuno said, "From what I've heard from reports, the ports at Ogi were better suited for that ship."

"I see," Lelouch said.

"So… Lelouch?" asked Akeno.

"Hm?" the exiled prince replied.

"I have to go soon, but… well, I was wondering- I was wondering if- if er, if…" She was blushing. Lelouch stared at her, nonplussed. What was her deal exactly? Did everyone get this flustered around a war hero or something?

"If what?" He said, genuinely confused.

"Well, I was thinking- I was thinking-" She trailed off, a frustrated look. She took a deep breath, her face growing red as a tomato, and a strange look of determination came across her face.

"I was thinking that I know you probably won't be stationed here forever, but while you are… you could, maybe take my number." She quickly handed over a small scrap of paper, taken from her pocket. A bit perplexed, Lelouch took it.

"Er. Thanks?"

"I was thinking we could… meet up," Akeno squealed, sounding a little desperate. "We could spend some time together. And… get to know each other."

"Like what?"

"...you know, things. Use your imagination." He hadn't thought it'd be possible for her to get redder, but she did.

"Like… going out to lunch?"

"Like- like that, yes. And… other things."

"Like what?" Lelouch was genuinely confused.

"You- you're just impossible! I'm-" Frustrated she stood up, marching away in a huff. She walked away from them, pausing a few meters down the line to call out, "Call me, okay?" before continuing to storm off. Lelouch looked over to his friends, utterly confused. A grin spread across Akeno's face, and along with Tsukiko, she burst out laughing. Even Yui smiled, ever so slightly.

"...will somebody tell me what's going on?" Lelouch demanded, a little irritated.

"Oh man, I know men can be dense… but you're a special case, aren't you?" Tsukiko laughed, wiping a tear from her eye.

"Be nice," Yui said firmly. "The thing of it is… how do I say this…"

"She wanted to sleep with you," Tsukiko said bluntly, "she was practically throwing herself at you. All you had to say was yes, I'll see you later, and you'd be guaranteed a lay."

"That- that can't- really?" Lelouch stuttered.

"You can't be surprised, can you?" Tsukiko chuckled. "You're an officer. Some girls will go for that alone. You've got a nice uniform, and you just helped win a major battle. You could have almost any girl you want, I think."

"I hadn't- I'm not that type of…"

"We know you're not," Yui said, reassuringly patting his arm. "But um. Yes. Tsukiko has a point. There's a certain type of girl, or guy too, who would do anything for someone in uniform."

"...huh," Lelouch said. He was a bit floored. He couldn't fault the girls' logic, but…

He'd never really considered it. Sex had always seemed so… distant, secondary. The idea that he- Lelouch Lamperouge, scrawny and weak- could be considered attractive. That would take some getting used to. But it was not an…unpleasant thought.

At Ogi, Mana had just returned to check on the docked ship as repairs were underway. She walked along the docks, originally one of the ferry ports that transported passengers from Sadogashima to the mainland. While the crew made repairs on the outside hull, the island's garrison was busy using forklifts and bulldozers to clean up the remains of the battle. It had taken a good while to clear off all the alien carcasses before the ship could land.

It seems the damage to the ship isn't crippling, so we should be ready in a couple of days if all goes well, Maya thought before noticing someone approaching her from behind.

"It's you. I suppose we have you to thank for the supplies to repair the ship?" She said.

"Oh, is that how you greet me? How cold. Would it kill you to loosen up a little?" Claude said playfully, with both hands on her hips.

"What is it that you want?" Mana asked with a sigh.

"If only you could tell them about the BETA and let the people on this island go, you could've bought yourself some more time."

"You know why we can't do that," Mana glared, annoyed as Claude sidestepped her question.

"Well, with the mess that the Laser Fort made with its fight with the Gundams out in the open, it would be impossible to explain all that feasibly, given your ridiculous self-imposed conditions."

The Laser Fort had torn huge holes in its coastal walls, and it was hard for people to not see even miles away. Even now, its blasts' molten glass and charred half pipes were impossible to cover up. Many homes were obliterated, and many personnel outside the TSFs had been disintegrated as well. Explaining that incident would be tough, and they could only delay reporting what was happening.

"Speak no more of it. If you do, it will not matter if you're a time traveler," Maya raised a kunai at Claude. An instant later, though, Claude had teleported behind her.

"There's so much I'm doing for you, and that's your response?" Claude fumed. "You should be lucky I chose you girls. I'm giving you a chance to survive. Without me, within the next few years, your next enemy will be an enemy fleet of several hundred thousand spaceships. With each and every one of them larger, faster, more armored, and far more armed than the largest battleship you have. What were they called… the Yamato?" Claude scratched her head.

Maya was familiar with that class of ships. The Yamato was the largest ship class in the Imperial Japanese Navy. Arguably, they were some of the largest ships made in the world ever since their construction in World War II. The Yamato Kai was constructed shortly after, with their effectiveness proven against the BETA following their invasion.

"What do you mean?"

"That the Yamato-class Battleship is considered insignificant to them."

"Insignificant?" Maya raised an eyebrow.

"Imagine said vessel plus all of its guns being armed with weapons similar to those Laser-class BETA that's giving you trouble, plus shielding with the same science. Couple that with a compliment equivalent to six TFSs, and what you have there is a mere cruiser of the enemy fleet."

"You're saying a battleship like the Yamato is no more than a cruiser to them?" Maya's eyes narrowed.

"Then, besides considering they're all piloted by humans, multiply that firepower by the scale I just gave you…"

The Royal Guardswoman shuddered to think of an enemy on such a large scale.

If Lamperouge's enemy is that large, then yes, fighting them alone will be impossible.

"And that's just one kind of you'll be facing, too," Claude said. "For one thing, there are machines that can bend space-time like I can. Even smaller powered armor can be compacted into swords and necklaces, each capable of taking on an entire military superpower. There is even a space version of the BETA, attacking other life forms that look like cancer cells to them."

"And will this technology you are offering as a prize in your game help us against them?" Maya asked.

"Yes, provided no one beats him for it first."

Elsewhere...

"The answer is no!" General Takigahara snarled, slamming his fist onto his desk. A gaggle of junior officers had forced him into this meeting, protesting their passivity and demanding action. There was a worrying amount of them, a dozen or so men, all troublemakers with more patriotic feelings than brains.

"General, we have to act. Japan is under occupation by alien scum. Our people are suffering. Did our forefathers sacrifice so much only for these beasts to take it all from us?" Demanded Major Kigami. He was too young for his rank, in Takigahara's. A result of the dire situation the army was in.

There was a murmur of agreement running through the ranks. Takigahara surveyed the crowd, scanning through the command tent. The nerve of these people.

"You know we are stretched too thin," Takigahara hissed. "You know a single misstep could cost us not just Japan but the world. The Shogun gave us an order, damn it!"

"The Shogun sits in her palace without caring a dime for the soldiers whose blood she sheds," scoffed Kigami. Again, a murmur of growing approval.

"What would you do, exactly? Disobey orders?" The General demanded.

"I would have us act, General! I would have us take back what is rightfully ours instead of dallying."

"Officers have been executed for exactly the kind of insubordination that you're suggesting," Takigahara said, his voice low. "You will know your place and follow orders. That's final!"

"So you're telling me all we can expect from our leadership is more inaction?" Kigami questioned judgmentally.

"I expect you to do your duty and obey! I expect you to-"

Mid-sentence, Kigami pulled out his sidearm and fired. The shot rang out, and Takigahara choked on his own words as he collapsed in his chair. There was silence among the officers for a moment until Kigami spoke up.

"Thus to all cowards. Now, prepare to move out. It's time to retake our lands from the invaders. We don't need foreign help or their weapons!" There was a loud cheer this time. They would make their own destiny, Shogun be damned.

Later that afternoon, Mana and Claude entered the hangar of the nameless ship. The Gundams were standing in single file on one side. Claude looked upon the war machines: the Izanami, Izanagi, Tsuna, Suetake, and the Kintoki. Of course, none of them were perfect in anything other than the line they were in. The Izanami had suffered serious damage, especially to its right arm, but it could be repaired easily. The Sadamitsu had suffered heavier damage, and though repairs were underway, the Gundams' state caused Claude to frown.

Nearby, Shimako and Kasuza were having a conversation by some crates.

"It seems surprising the BETA could adapt to our new weapons during the battle. The tactics they used indicate as much. But how could they have learned about our weapons so quickly?" Shimako contemplated before being lightly tapped on the shoulder by Kasuza.

"Kyoto! Where else would they have seen all of our tech in action!?"

"But it seems too quick," Shimako said, rubbing her head.

"Muuu," Claude pouted as she and Mana approached the pair. "To think that you would already put your toys in this condition! Don't you know how much time and money it will cost to bring these back to full spec!?"

"Aren't you providing all the spare parts and materials needed?" Kazusa asked.

"Yes, but only until you obtain your own source for them. Even then, I won't keep doing it indefinitely, so I would advise you to avoid damaging your toys too much," Claude warned.

"Maybe you should have given us some warning then," Lelouch said, walking in with Aki, Mariko, Tsukiko, and Yui in tow.

"What do you mean?" Claude asked coyly.

"You could've warned us about the Laser-Fort class," Yui stated, thinking about how Shimako was nearly killed.

"Did you seriously think after Kyoto, the BETA wouldn't adapt? Why, I didn't expect them to bring the Laser-Fort class into play so soon, but my point stands." Claude grinned and waved her right index finger. "Besides, no one you knew died, and you won anyway, right?"

"I suppose," Yui said resignedly, shooting her a sour look.

"Is there anything else we should know? Now is the time to share if you do," Lelouch said.

"No. Given the BETA you killed, the only ones left are still wandering around in areas Japan had lost," Claude replied. "With the loss of the hive in Korea, they should either return to the nearest hive or attempt to make a new one themselves."

"Then the focus should be preventing them from doing so," Yui said.

"The only problem would be where they could attempt to establish a hive with the forces they have left. Depending on its location, our ability to attack it could be hindered by the Laser-class roaming the countryside," Kazusa pointed out.

"They have no shortage of places to build a new hive," Shimako said sadly. Much of Japan's territory south of Kyoto had been lost to the aliens.

"Our saving grace might be that their limited numbers will be insufficient for building a new Hive," Lelouch pointed out.

"Depends on how many BETA are still roaming Japan and not throwing themselves at the Kyoto Defensive Line," Kazusa added.

"Too bad we just can't steamroll them already," Aki remarked, with both hands behind her head.

"The problem is we just don't have the manpower. If we send out men from the defense line to retake parts of Japan, it could open us up to an attack. Japan's losses and its chain of command being a mess left their forces stretched thin. They'll need to reorganize before attempting such operations," Lelouch pointed out.

"It might be safer to demolish cities like Kyoto," Tsukiko suggested. "You've got lots of smaller BETA strains roaming the buildings and tunnels running below it."

"Some might not agree with you on that," Mariko countered with a sad smile. "That being said, it would be safer to do so since the fighting badly damaged many buildings and structures. It may have to be demolished and rebuilt from scratch anyway."

"There are a lot of towns and cities that are a huge mess from the BETA surging through them," Tsukiko agreed as she folded her arms around her stomach. "It would be easier than trying to repair the buildings and risk more lives trying to clean out the smaller BETA strains,"

Without voicing it, Lelouch also agreed. In the decades since the invasion, reclaiming land lost to the BETA was a rare occurrence and sometimes short-lived. Even land currently held onto was constantly threatened with being overrun. Regardless, it was clear that for Japan to retake its lost land, it would need to clean out the lingering aliens in Japan.

Yui had invited Lelouch to the hangar the following day. Apparently, someone special had arrived this morning.

Curious, Lelouch stepped out of his room, heading for the hangar. Upon arriving, Lelouch quickly spotted Yui speaking to someone wearing the same yellow-colored uniform as her. He was an older man in his late thirties with short brown hair and amber eyes. Lelouch approached slowly, not wanting to interrupt their conversation, but Yui noticed his arrival.

"Lelouch, thank you for coming," she greeted.

"So this is the young man you've spoken so highly about," the man replied with a smile.

"Good day, sir," Lelouch said, bowing in the traditional Japanese fashion. "I am Lieutenant Lelouch Lamperouge. And you are?"

"Lelouch, this is my father, Takamura Masatada," Yui introduced.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Lelouch Lamperouge finally," Masatada greeted Lelouch as he offered his hand.

"Likewise. Your daughter said you were behind the Type-82 Zuikaku and the new melee weapons they used. A most impressive feat."

"Actually," Masatada began with a knowing smile, "I was involved with creating the Gundams and the Minamoto Units."

"Huh. I thought Cumpa Rusita had designed those machines," Yui said.

"He did, for the most part. However, while he handled many of the technical details and adapted the various technologies used by the Gundams, someone familiar with Tactical Surface Fighters and the aliens had to be involved. Otherwise, the Gundams, especially the Mimnaoto, wouldn't be as user-friendly as they are," Masatade explained. "I laid out concept designs and design aims for what would be needed for them to face the BETA and other enemies, while Rustia handled the rest."

"That does make sense," Lelouch said. "It seems to have borne fruit."

"Remember, Yui, our family were swordsmiths in the past, famous for our craft. Creating something like TSFs and mobile suits can now be considered simply a new kind of sword for Japan," Masatada explained with a proud smile. "Most importantly, I am glad they performed beyond expectation with you two as pilots." The older man seemed moved, tears in his eyes.

"Father…" Yui said, taken aback.

"You have no idea how relieved I was to hear you protected your friends and survived your first battle against the enemy. Now you and all of your friends have stopped a second BETA invasion force in its tracks," Masatada said, taking a deep breath and composing himself. "As head of the Takamura Family, I am proud and honored you chose to be a pilot to defend our nation as part of the Royal Guard, but as your father, I was deeply worried for your well-being. Many who fight the aliens never survive their first battle."

"I understand, father. Although I don't regret my choice, I am sorry for the worry it has caused you and Mother," Yui apologized, an understanding expression on her face.

"It's fine. I am proud of you, but let's continue this conversation in your room. There is much I would like to hear," Masatada said, eager to catch up with his daughter.

Aki, Izumi, and Shimako watched from behind some crates. Tsukiko noticed them as she walked by, entered the hangar, and quietly walked up behind them.

"What the heck are you three doing? What are you, children?" She demanded loudly.

Aki, startled, turned around to see the older woman with both hands on her hips, giving them a look of disapproval.

"I was just here to make sure she didn't cause a scene," Shimako said fearfully, shying away.

"This is not uncommon for her to do. I can only apologize for her childlessness," Izumi said with a straight face.

"Oh, come on," Aki complained, snapping at her friends. "You turncoats, neither of you hesitated to join me in investigating Yui's love life!"

"Love life?" Tsukiko said before realizing what was going on. "Oh, I see- spying on your own friend to see how far she and Lelouch are as a couple."

"We're just trying to look after our friend," Aki lied.

"And this surely wouldn't be used as teasing material against Yui, would it?" Tsukiko pointed out.

"I think she got you there," Shimako said.

"You've always poked your nose into other people's love lives, especially mine," Izumi stated, looking at Aki with irritation.

"Maybe you're jealous," Tsukiko teased with a grin.

"Jealous?" Aki said with a flash of anger. Tsukiko had touched a nerve. "Come on! Lelouch is already being introduced to Yui's dad. That's a clear sign something is going on between them."

Good deflection, Tsukiko thought.

"He's just visiting Yui. He almost never gets to see her due to his work. Given how much time they've spent together, he probably wanted to meet Lelouch too," Shimako explained, trying to defuse the situation.

"Which means there is nothing to suggest Lelouch is Yui's boyfriend. It's too soon for that. Relationships take time. Trust me, I know," Izumi pointed out.

"Okay, sure, but aren't you curious? I mean, aren't you interested in him?" Aki said before a look of dread appeared on her own face as Izumi's eyes flashed with anger.

Oh crap, Aki thought, realizing her mistake.

"You think I would just drop the boy I cared for and loved so quickly? You are a big idiot, Aki," Izumi said with barely restrained anger.

"Izumi, you know Aki just runs her mouth without thinking most of the time," Shimako said, intervening before Izumi could lash out at Aki. "Right, Aki?"

"Uh yeah. I am sorry, I didn't mean it like that. I mean, you both lost someone dear, so I just assumed you two would be close because of that." Aki cowarded under Izumi's angry gaze.

And what do you mean by 'most of the time,' Shimako? Aki thought, taking care not to redraw Izumi's anger. Thankfully, Izumi calmed herself down, much to Aki's relief.

"I suppose you are not wrong there. Our shared losses made it easy for us to become friends," Izumi admitted before warning Aki with a glare. "But next time, you better be mindful of what you say."

"Right, no problem," Aki said, feeling nervous.

Whew, I am glad that didn't escalate, Tsukiko thought. It was a thought also shared by Shimako. They hoped things would remain quiet, but neither knew that was impossible.

Inside Yui's cabin aboard the ship, Lelouch and Masatada were left alone while Yui went to get something from the mess hall. The air was tense, at least for Lelouch; he didn't know what to discuss. Was he supposed to initiate conversation?

"Well, from what I've heard, you and Yui spent a lot of time together," Masatada said, breaking the ice.

"Yes, sir," Lelouch answered.

"No need to be stiff around me," Masatada sighed. "It's bad enough Yui acts this formal at home when I've told her she could unwind a little. I guess Senya was too successful in raising her."

Very well, Lelouch had heard from Kazusa, Yui, and others how members of the Royal Guard's samurai families had to conduct themselves like the influential households back in his world's Japan. Yui and Kazusa's families especially seemed to be the favorite targets of the media, looking for the slightest thing they could twist into a story.

"Right. Is Yui's mother doing well?"

"Yes. Senya has been relocated to a safer location north of Tokyo," Masatada answered. "But let's talk about you. Over a game if you don't mind."

Masatada gestured to the shogi board that lay set up on the table.

Is this why Yui had this board set up? Lelouch thought. Had Yui left just to get them to interact alone for a while?

"Certainly," Lelouch said, taking the silent gesture to go first, opening by moving the king.

"Interesting move." Said Masatada skeptically.

"If the king doesn't move, how can he expect his subjects to follow?" Lelouch answered.

"You are a curious young man, Lelouch. Very well then; let's have a game."

Around the same time, Yui was waiting in the mess hall, seated at a table. She sighed, feeling ridiculous. This was her excuse? It made her increasingly anxious.

What if Father doesn't approve of Lelouch? What if some disagreement happens between them? Yui thought as various scenarios filled her mind, causing her anxiety to grow. Before it could get worse, Kazusa broke her train of thought.

"Troubled?"

"Huh?!" Yui sputtered. She hadn't even noticed the other girl coming.

"What is going on?"

"I'm- it's silly. My father is here, and I made an excuse to get out so they could… talk."

"I see. Well, I would take it as a good thing."

"How?"

"Don't try to lie to me, Yui. You have a crush on him. So, you want to make sure your father approves," Kazusa questioned. Yui's cheeks reddened.

"I don't! It's, uh-" Yui began, but she trailed off under Kazusa's steely gaze.

"Then you won't mind if I or someone else claims him?" Kazusa asked with a smirk.

"You can't!" Yui cried, her anxiety spiking.

"Yui, the more successful Lelouch is, the more women will be drawn to him. Sooner or later, one of them will make a move. Either me or someone else." Kazusa warned.

"I…"

"Something to mull on while you wait for your father to finish his talk with Lelouch," Kazusa stated, taking her leave.

It was thirty minutes before an anxious Yui returned. She felt nervous as she approached the room.

What if her father didn't like him? What if he forbade her from seeing him? What if-

Despite her fears, she needn't have worried. As she approached, she could hear a spirited conversation.

"Knightmare Frames have a simplified control system, which doesn't use an indirect brainwave interface used by a TSF," Lelouch explained enthusiastically. "This makes them quick and versatile, although less powerful."

"I see. So the pilot suits are nothing like Fortified Suits either?" Masatada inquired.

"That's right. Just basic suits with limited protection and temperature regulation."

Yui, pausing by the door, found herself not wanting to interrupt. It was a great relief to hear them getting along. Looking at the table between them, Yui's eyes widened to see her father had lost to Lelouch in a game of shogi.

It doesn't look like his defeat was too crushing, so it must have been a hard-fought match, Yui thought, disappointed she missed their game. Judging by the pieces lost to either side, he had at least put up a fight.

"Oh! Welcome back, Yui. I trust you brought our drinks," Masatada called out. Yui froze like a deer in headlights for a moment before recovering.

"Uh, yes. Here you go…" Yui replied, handing the drinks over..

"Thank you. And you didn't mention you tried a Knightmare Frame simulator?" Masatada said, intrigued. "I'll have to ask that you tell me about that."

"Of course, father," Yui replied. "You see, the first principle in piloting a Knightmare Frame comes down to the cockpit layout, which differs from model to model…"

Her father listened with rapt attention as she began describing her experience.

Meanwhile, Yuzuka, Asagi, Haruka, and Haruko were in their Minamoto Units, inside an old cityscape training area. The training arena was filled with old, abandoned, derelict buildings, repurposed for live TSF combat. Despite signs of abuse from the many training sessions, many of the old buildings were still standing. Signs of various wear and tear from time and past training matches could be seen littering the landscape, much like the arena they had used for their mock battle against Mariko and her team. This time they were engaged in a live mock battle against their instructors, Marimo, Michiru and her new assistant Sayoko.

The training arena was an old city filled with old decaying buildings, repurposed into a training area for live TSF combat. Despite signs of use for training, many of the old buildings were still standing, signs of various wear and tear from time and past training matches could be seen much like the arena they had used for their mock battle against Mariko and her team.

"The four of us against three veteran pilots… uh, I don't think we're going to win this," Asagi said hesitantly.

"The point isn't to win," Haruka retorted .

"Yeah. It's about how long we last against them and how we do. That's what they will judge us on," Haruko said.

"So basically we're going to get our asses kicked, and we need to look good doing it. Got it," Asagi accepted with a nervous laugh.

"We just need to give it our all." Yuzuka was determined to make the best of it. "It's an opportunity as it's not every day that you can get feedback from veterans like them."

"That's the spirit," Haruka said encouragingly.

"Let's do this then," Haruko said. The group split up, traveling in pairs. They intended to operate in teams of two, keeping close enough that they could retreat or assist one another. It was just a matter of figuring out where Marimo, Sayoko and Michiru were. Their answer came swiftly, when the head of Asagi's machine got snipped with disabling paint from the right, knocking it out of battle as the upper chest was littered with shots in rapid succession.

"SHIT!" Haruko cursed. "Asagi is down, I repeat, Asagi is down!"

"Everyone shatter," Haruka commanded quickly, but Yuzuka had already gone after the source of the attack,, intending to avenge Asagi.

"No, Yuzuka! You're walking into a trap." Haruka snapped. Yuzuka ignored her, boldly charging forward.

Unfortunately her attacker had already abandoned her sniper position. By the time Yuzuka reached it, there was no one there. Not a moment later Michiru ambushed her, cutting into her machine with a practice blade. Yuzuka, caught off guard, didn't stand a chance and became the second to go down.

"Damn it, we lost Yuzuka!" Haruka cursed, seeing the signal loss on her screen.

"That means the last two will be on us," Haruko stated. They were so, so screwed…

They had maybe a minute or so before Michiru was upon them- or so Haruka thought, but even as she weighed her options, Marimo and Sayoko began their attack. They opened fire on Haruka and Haruko from opposite directions, catching the two in between them. The instructors had launched a pincer against them, having used the buildings around them as cover to sneak up on the two cadets. Haruko and Haruka quickly retreated, knowing that staying would be foolish, mindful to use the buildings as shields, while aware that Marimo and Sayoko were in pursuit.

"We have maybe minutes before Michiru joins them, so instead of just running… Haruko, how confident are you about doing an Allbright Turn?" Haruka called out. She heard Haruko gasp in surprise, but she said nothing, being entirely focused on avoiding being shot down. With two pursuing TSFs hot on their heels, stopping to turn around to engage them, even with the surrounding cover, was risky.

In such a situation, an Allbright Turn was the ideal counter maneuver. It was designed for going against a pursuing TSF in tight quarters. However, they both knew it was a risky maneuver to pull off given the level of skill demanded and strain it put on the pilot. Usually it was a tactic executed by veteran pilots, not recently graduated cadets. The TSF would need to kick off the hard surface of a building for a considerable vector change, allowing them to surprise their enemy with the sudden turn around and immediately perform a counterattack. If they pulled it off without crashing into a building or one another, they had a shot.

"Let's do it," Haruko called out. They were not about to lose without a fight.

With everything on the line, the pair began the maneuver. The oncoming buildings ahead, as old and damaged as they were, looked sturdy enough for them. Rushing forward and kicking off the surface of the buildings, both cadets felt the G-forces of the significant vector change. Their TSFs turned around, now facing their surprised pursuers. Without sparing a moment to feel triumphant, they opened fire upon Marimo and Sayoko.

Although Sayoko and Marimo were stunned by the pair succeeding in performing an Allbright Turn, they weren't caught off guard as much as Haruka and Haruko had hoped. Their shots did force the two instructors to split up to evade, as each one went down a different street. However, they had been struck, taking hits to the shoulders and lower torso. Glancing, but close enough that another hit would count as fatal. Invigorated by this reversal, Haruko and Haruka went from prey to hunter, pursuing the instructors. Haruka went after Marimo, while Haruko went after Sayoko, heading down the opposite street.

Or so they thought.

By the time they turned the corner in pursuit of their respective target, both were attacked, riddled with paintball bullets, causing their machines to shut down. The exercise was over. The machines headed back to the staging area and all pilots dismounted, assembling before the paint-smeared mechas.

"Not bad. You two performed an Allbright Turn without crashing and in your situation it was the right idea," Marimo complimented. "It could've worked, had you two been faster in executing it, as myself and assistant instructor Komaki did when you pursued us. Nevertheless you two performed better than Cadets Sendou and Minori and most of your fellow cadets. Your squad passes."

"Thank you, ma'am," all four squad members said together.

"That being said, Cadets Sendou and Minori will run six miles," Marimo said, causing Yuzuka and Asagi to freeze up. "For their poor performance, and for Cadet Sendou trying to play the lone wolf where these battles are meant to encourage teamwork."

"Yes, ma'am," Asagi and Yuzuka said in resignation.

Haruka and Haruko both sighed in relief. Avoiding a punishing six mile run was an added bonus.

"We've passed. We'll be an actual squad under Lelouch," Haruko said, feeling pleased.

"I can't believe you tried to go after one of the instructors on your own, Yuzuka. What were you thinking?" Haruka asked in disbelief rather than scolding her. Yuzuka should've known she was out of her league, taking a veteran pilot on alone.

"I…"

"Come on, go easy on Yuzuka," Asagi intervened. "She was just eager to prove herself as I was."

"Right," Yuzuka agreed.

"Come on, we better get our machines to the hangar. I don't know when the Major is going to come after us if we don't get to our punishment run," Asagi complained, but she knew not showing up would make it a lot worse.

Maybe I won't do anything like that again to impress Lelouch. I'll find a better way, Yuzuka thought.

It was late by the time Masatada left. Yui was exhausted from the questions her father had asked, mainly about her experiences piloting a Knightmare Frame. Of course, Lelouch wasn't spared from questions either, having been interrogated on the specifics in great detail.

Once everything was said and done they waved him off, leaving the two teens alone in the room.

"Your father is a good man," Lelouch said.

"Thank you."

"I am surprised there are considerations from the Empire for creating a Knightmare Frame," Lelouch mused.

"Well, the TSF might need replacing eventually. If we're going to reclaim lost territory, we'll need any edge we can get. If they stay for too long…"

Lelouch nodded. "I know. All ground near their hives becomes inhospitable. They just consume everything around them. Much of Europe will never be the same, even after we push them all out. It'd be decades before they're suitable for human habitation again."

"Given the current situation, who knows how many of the aliens could be lurking in the number of underground tunnels, buildings, bases, including those built into the mountains? We don't know if any of the aliens are still within any of those places, although buildings could be demolished and rebuilt," Lelouch noted. Larger BETA strains liked to use buildings as makeshift hovels to hide and ambush unsuspecting enemies. Something Lelouch and Yui had seen first hand in Kyoto.

"I think Knightmare Frames could be good for interior defense against the smaller strains," Yui pointed out.

"It'll be some time before any progress could be made to introduce Knightmare frames," Lelouch pointed out.

"Right," Yui said, joining Lelouch as he sat on the sofa, both taking a moment to relax and letting the topic rest.

"You should have more faith in yourself, Yui. don't be so hard on yourself." Lelouch said, suddenly.

"What? Where did that come from?"

"It's something I've noticed. Even when we were training, you tend to always hold a low opinion of yourself despite your efforts and accomplishments. You judge yourself too harshly," Lelouch said.

"I…" Yui trailed off, her voice growing soft.

"Is this because of your upbringing?" Lelouch asked. Yui nodded.

"I was raised by my mother to be what was expected of me, the next heir of my house, even as my relatives fought my father to convince him to adopt a son to be the heir instead. Slander and issues with my family name plagued me growing up, while I struggled to maintain the image everyone expected of me. Even during my first battle against the BETA I struggled with this, and it was only thanks to the hard training I was put through that it was possible until…"

Yui's voice trailed off. Lelouch knew what it was- the death of her friends from the previous timeline still weighed upon her.

"I see. As a leader, you question whether you can bear the burden of the weight from the lives under your command," Lelouch said, having come to better understand that burden himself. "More so if they are people you care about."

"Yes," Yui admitted, causing Lelouch to put a hand on her shoulder.

"Yet you managed to return to piloting a TSF, not just to save them but to keep fighting," Lelouch stated, impressed.

I am not sure I could've done the same, Lelouch thought, recalling his own experiences against the aliens. If their roles were reversed, he couldn't even imagine how he would've fared, had he lost Nunnally. It would have broken him.

"You're not so bad yourself. For someone who had trust issues, you've adapted well to commanding a squad and gaining, not only their respect, but their friendships too," Yui smiled back at him.

"I suppose so. Maybe it's because I don't have to hide who I am in this world, that probably helped," Lelouch admitted. "I've come to realize the value of trust. To beat an enemy like this, you need trust, collaboration and teamwork. Kyoto was a reminder of that."

"So pragmatism helped ease you into working with others too?" Yui teased.

"I suppose."

Leaning back on the sofa, Lelouch's hand moved from Yui's shoulder to his side. A moment later, it was joined by Yui's hand on top of it.

"Thank you," Yui said, grasping Lelouch's hand.

"For what?"

"For helping me save my friends, I know I said it before, but…"

"I understand. It's not something you would ever have the chance to undo. I don't fully trust Claude, but I can't imagine anyone else would've said no to such an opportunity," Lelouch said. Yui leaned back, resting her head against his shoulder without realizing it. Lelouch noticed, but said nothing. In fact, a part of him welcomed it.

Her body was warm and presence was comforting. He enjoyed it. Lelouch had only ever felt such comforting warmth around his sister. Yui wasn't like other girls he'd dealt with. He felt… comfortable around her. He was always on guard, so used to keeping his walls up, so used to having to lie… but with her, he didn't feel the need.

Oh…

Realization struck. The reason he was drawn to Yui, at least in part, was that she was nothing like the girls he was used to being around at Ashford Academy. Not as flamboyant and over the top as Milly, nor too bashful like Shirley. He'd been surrounded by people who were never quite the right fit for his personality, in no small part because he'd been forced to hide his true self. Yui, by contrast, was just herself, didn't hide herself under a mask and was trying to do her best with the hand life dealt her. His inability to trust others did complicate things, and so he had always been unwilling to get to know them better.

Yui, despite being too harsh on herself, was capable, brave and willing to lead by example, a motto of her own family no less. She had proven herself worthy of her position as the next head of the Takamura Family despite the many obstacles placed in her way. Even after the horrific loss of her friends, she was still able to get back into a machine to battle the aliens once more and change their fate.

Could that be why I am drawn to you? No, that isn't it. I've been attracted to you for a while now. I was trying to deny it, because it could interfere with my goals, Lelouch thought.

It was why he had made so few connections; keeping people at arm's length had become second nature to him. Opening up to her felt… strange. Difficult. Both wrong and right at the same time. But his feelings had grown too much to let that get in the way. Even though he had never intended to, he had started to feel something for her.

Yui, for her part, struggled to put words or even definitions to what she felt for Lelouch. He was on her mind constantly, but whatever was there- and something was there, undeniably- but she wasn't sure what it was yet. It was still taking form, still becoming. It was exciting, and more than a little scary. Either one of them could die in this war before too long, and yet she did not find herself wanting to pull away.

Just like him, she had an epiphany.

Just like Kazusa, he understands me better than anyone else. Our experiences in life were different, yet he could see me for who I was, not what everyone believed and wanted me to be.

None of her friends had been able to make her feel that. Not Izumi or Aki, and especially not Shimako.

Like Kazusa, he is driven by a sense of vengeance and a desire for justice for the wrongs made against him, his sister and his mother, Yui thought. But unlike Kazusa, Lelouch lacked an outlet for had been forced to live a false life, constantly looking over his shoulder growing up. Thinking on it, she had been more open with Lelouch than almost anyone in her circle of friends and family. In turn, Lelouch became more open with her as they spent time together. Yui could only imagine it was like some kind of release for him.

Is this the reason why I feel like this when I am near him? Is that why I get upset when he is around other girls?

Yui didn't know the answer, but the effect he had on her was undeniable. What her mind and heart wanted was to be closer to Lelouch. She wanted to be more than friends.

They sat like that in silence for a while, until exhaustion took them and they fell asleep, leaned on one another.

Elsewhere in Japan, along the shoreline just outside of Wakayama, near Awaji Island, a fleeing group of Tactical Surface Fighters- specifically Japanese Type-77/F-4J Gekishin- sped away in retreat. They had murdered their commanding officers along with anyone else who didn't want to join their righteous cause of retaking the lands stolen from them by the BETA. Had they been sane they'd have realized how foolhardy their efforts were, but they were driven by madness, desperation, and a patriotic drive that blinded them to the obvious danger. What had begun with four squads boldly moving to retake Japanese land from the BETA had been reduced to a single squad.

The aliens had been more numerous than they had thought, nor had they expected them to be lying in ambush. Now on the outskirts of the city, the treasonous pilots had a moment to breathe- or so they thought.

"I can't reach anyone else. I think we're all that's left," one pilot said, feebly trying the comms channel.

"There is no one left. Respectfully sir, I think we should fall back," another pilot said, addressing the ringleader of their coup.

"No, we… we… can't let these invaders have our homes," The ringleader argued. His body was shaking and his eyes were losing focus, on the verge of a complete mental breakdown.

"But sir, we just-" a pilot began to argue before an alert sounded in his cockpit. "Contact, we have an unknown unit coming at us from the northeast, it's…it's fast!"

"What? Who is the pilot?!"

In the distance, rapidly closing in on the squad of traitors, was a war machine. Although at first glance similar to the Minamoto TSF and MS hybrid machines, it had a GN drive similar to the Tsuna on its back, allowing it to fly across the ground. Its colors were blue with gold highlights, a Gundam-like face, but armed with a katana-like weapon in one hand and a small pistol-like weapon in the other.

"So you are the ones who betrayed Commander Nagasa and went rogue," Ikagura said coldly. "I guess the BETA saved me the trouble of having to hunt down the rest of your conspirators."

"Betrayed? You-" The maddened mastermind of the coup began to say, but was silenced as a beam shot from Ikagura's pistol struck his cockpit.

The other men panicked, firing their weapons at the approaching Gundam. Ikagura merely smiled as his machine was surrounded by a sphere of condensed GN particles, reflecting all of the bullets fired at him. Ikagura rammed one of the enemy TSFs, knocking it back before dropping his shield to finish the downed TSF off.

Another unit tried to strike him with its sword, but Ikagura effortlessly deflected it, using the forearm mounted beam shield. His counterattack saw his Gundam drive its sword into the chest of the attacking TSF, killing its pilot. The rest of the traitorous TSF pilots were shot by the Gundam's beam smart gun as they tried to flee.

"Foolish and cowardly, all of you," Ikagura stated, once he was sure all enemy TSFs were eliminated.

"Major, did you locate the enemy?" A communication asked.

"I did. They've all been eliminated. I must say, this Miyamoto is truly a marvel," Ikagura said, amazed by the combat capabilities of his machine.

Suddenly, a proximity alert in his cockpit warned him of BETA near his position. Spotting them in the distance, he saw something that was both interesting and alarming. Judging by the direction and speed in which they were moving, the aliens were entering the bay and out to sea.

"Headquarters, I've spotted a large group of BETA heading into the bay and out to sea. Do we have any monitoring stations still operational for eastern Japan? I want to know if there is another group of BETA attempting to flank our defenses, or…" Ikagura said as a horrible realization dawned on him. "They are trying to get around our defenses!"

"Yes sir, we're checking right now," an operator at headquarters replied, but Ikagura had a terrible feeling in his gut.

Could the BETA have been planning this in response to our change in tactics? Ikagura wondered. He couldn't tell if this was something the BETA had only started doing in light of their failure to invade Japan from the north through Sadogashima. Or maybe even before their attempt to overrun Sadogashima failed, they were already sending BETA into the sea to hit both their defenses from the north and south at the same time. The Major didn't know and that worried him greatly.

At that moment, off the coast of the city of Yokohama, the BETA emerged. With most military forces diverted to holding back the BETA advance at Kyoto and Sadogashima. There was nothing to stop them, not helped by the fact there were fewer sensors on that side of Japan with most focus on the other side. They rampaged through the city as if evening the score with a vengeance; the civilians were caught unaware of the danger until it was too late. Millions of lives were lost in hours. Few, if any, were able to escape the onslaught. The only fortune Japan would find in this sudden tragedy would be that the BETA wouldn't go beyond Yokohama, as they chose it as a location for a hive. In light of the threat of the Gundams, the alien creatures began fortifying themselves as more kept emerging from the sea to secure and reinforce the area.

In a few short hours, the city had been reduced to rubble, painted with numerous human bodies. Unfortunately, it would still be hours before word of the city's fall was heard due to the chaos of the latest insurrection. Distracted, Japan failed to notice the BETA, using the sea to bypass their defenses and flank them. If the destruction had been discovered sooner, there would've been at least some kind of scouting party searching for survivors.

Well, there was someone around looking for survivors, but not just any. Amid the setting sun that reflected her hopes, she gazed out over the ruins..

"Looks like there aren't any survivors around here." the time traveler appeared out in the distance, placing her hand on her forehead.

The pink-haired woman pranced around, observing the corpses of whoever was left. Most were already stains on the floor or dismembered to various degrees that would make any normal person puke. Yet, Claude quickly looked around them to scan every single one.

"Oh," Claude pouted once more. "I thought with Lelouch around, some things could be smoothed out a bit, but it can't be helped."

A certain individual was on her mind that she needed to survive the attack on the city. With how…different things ended up with Lelouch's interference, she hoped the changes could prevent this from happening. When it didn't change, her second option was confirming that a survivor made it out. Her dancing within the ruins was to keep the priority of this person's fate to the side, but from her findings, either that person was indeed dead or just missing. Maybe a different outcome awaited.

"Looks like I'm just gonna have to rely on the canon story now to clean this mess up," she grumbled. "But that means, there's going to be even worse things happening from here on out."

A/N: It seems despite Claude's best efforts, Yokohama still fell to the BETA, which sadly means certain events will still happen and allow for a certain someone to appear in the ruins in a couple years.

Anyone who knows the plot of Muv-Luv Alternative, I think they can guess what Claude was trying to prevent.

Now to explain the time it took to get this chapter out, a lot of it was due to a LOT of rewrites that I had to do when my betas noticed some issues with the chapter and there were some disagreements on ideas for scenes that took place too. One of which I should discuss is the character Akeno trying to get into Lelouch's pants, which the scene itself was presented as an idea to further highlighting the pros and cons of the new fame Lelouch now had. And Akeno was an OC created for this chapter, since none of the other characters around him seemed like the type that would do that, there are a few yes but none of them were around.

But this was also met with some concerns among the betas, so some changes were made, but a full agreement wasn't quite reach given that Lelouch begins to notice he had fallen in love with Yui while reasoning why he did so despite having not wanted a relationship not wanting it to get in the way of his goals, but that was no doubt easier to do when the girl in question didn't know the real him causing him to become drawn to Yui without realizing it initially.

And of course I tried to reflect this in Yui who is a tsundere, but different from Kallen in that she is can hide it well while her inner thoughts are a different story.

In this chapter was also meant to give some of the characters a chance to showcase their characters a bit more while wrapping up any last details before Lelouch and company will leave next chapter, make a pitstop along the way to their first world, but it will also introduce the new squad members a newly promoted Lelouch will command giving him a full squadron and a few new crew members to help take care of things.

That being said I've decided to close the poll on my profile page with Tabane's fate decided, which given the number of those calling for her demise the number wasn't higher.

For now I got no new polls to replace with, expect for one, but I thought nah.

Anyway that is all I got, and I do apologize for the delays with this chapter. Hopefully the next one, which is finished just in need of beta work will be out much sooner than this one. At the moment I don't have a timeframe on when it will be ready, but rest assured it will be out as soon as possible.

Thank you all for your patience and I hope you enjoyed the new chapter, and in chapter seventeen Lelouch and company will arrive at the world of Gundam Seed Destiny.

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

Also the specs for Major Takatsugu Ikaruga's machine which was the prototype for the Minamoto TSF/Mobile Suit hybrids, so they are similar which means generally it looks like a Type-94 Shiranui yet possessing the head of a Gundam.

Model number: TMP-07X

Code name: Miyamoto

Unit type: Test Model Prototype

Pilot: Takatsugu Ikaruga

Manufacturer: Unknown

Operator: Empire of Japan

First deployment: September 29th 2016 A.T.B.

Accommodation: pilot only, in panoramic monitor/linear seat cockpit in torso

Dimensions: head height 17.7 meters

Weight: 53.2 metric tons

Armor: Trans-Phase Armor

Powerplant: Rechargeable Solar Energy Conductor.

Propulsion: Voiture Lumiere Propulsion System: A combat variant of the "Voiture Lumiere" propulsion system is mounted in the Strike Freedom's mobile weapon wings. Unlike the Voiture Lumiere used by GSX-401FW Stargazer Gundam, this combat variant uses an internal laser, instead of solar winds or an external power beam, and converts its energy into a strong light pressure which is then used as thrust. When activated, the system allows the suit to accelerate at incredible rates and to quickly dodge the most intense enemy beam barrages.

Equipment and Design Features

Quasi-Psycommu System: The Quasi-psycommu system was developed to extend the capabilities of remote control to non-Newtypes. This system can actively scan the pilot's brainwaves, no matter how weak they are, and then let the computer translate the thoughts into commands to be issued to remote weapons. Using the quasi-psycommu even non-Newtypes can control simple wire-guided remote weapons, such as INCOMs.

Coupling System

Intention Automatic System

Fixed Armaments

2 x Musarsuma anti-unit blades (combination beam and physical blade), mounted on hard points on the waist, hand-carry in use

2 x Beam sabers, mounted on the waist

2 x Rail Cannons, mounted on backunit, fold under the arms from behind when in use

2 x Anti-unit blade, combination physical blade with an energy beam surrounding the edge, attached to sub-arms

2 x Beam Shields, mounted on forearms

2 x beam gun, mounted on upper torso

2 x 75 mm CIWS, mounted on the head, dual-linked

Optional Armaments:

Beam Smart Gun, Rail Rifle prototype

StrifeHavoc · Dec 22, 2024

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for the massive beta work and chapter enhancements.

The beta work for the chapter has at last been completed, allowing me to post the chapter.

I won't delay things so you guys can get right into it, so enjoy.

Chapter 16

Leaving for the stars

It has been three days since the BETA had taken Yokohama. Casualties were enormous, with the sole silver lining that the BETA did not attempt to advance beyond the city limits. They were focusing their numbers to reinforce the city as they built a new hive. Fears of more BETA attacking the eastern coast of Japan left the country unable to risk mounting a full attack against the BETA and leaving themselves open to another attack.

The necessary monitoring equipment was under repair, and efforts are being made to track down any BETA lying in wait along the coast. So far, they have gathered in Yokohama to defend the new Hive being built. A contingent of TSFs and nearby Navy ships took positions to ensure the BETA remained contained.

The Gundams remained on standby in case of more surprise BETA incursions. However, this situation saw Lelouch and Yui oppose what the Shogun wanted. They returned to Fukushima Military Base while Kazusa's Gundam allowed her to respond to any new BETA incursions. Aki and Mariko would stay on Sadogashima before moving to the Kyoto Defense line.

Yui, Lelouch, and a few others had their missions as the still-nameless ship was preparing to depart Earth to begin its missions with Maya as its acting Captain.

"Respectfully, Lady Koubuin, wouldn't it be better if we stayed here," Yui argued.

"Perhaps. We are still bleeding men and women, and we've already drafted all we can, but it will mean nothing if we cannot field more Minamoto Units. Unfortunately, we lack key materials and supplies even with the Americans helping us," Yuuhi explained, understanding Yui's concern. "Lelouch seems to recognize the problem."

"I understand Yui's worries well enough," Lelouch said. "We must rebuild the means for them to produce the weapons to fight."

Yui knew both Lelouch and Yuuhi were right as a defeated look formed on her face.

However, Lelouch suspected there was another reason.

She's worried for her friends despite them having powerful new machines. Given what she had to go through to save them, I can't imagine it would be easy for her to leave them behind, Lelouch thought.

Considering what happened before he and Yui changed things, Lelouch couldn't blame her.

"However, your squad alone won't be going with you two," Yuuhi began as she gestured for Lelouch and Yui to follow her to the hangar. A watchful newly-promoted Major Tsukuyomi was not too far behind.

"I thought the squad was chosen for Lelouch, was it?" Yui asked, confused, causing Yuuhi to chuckle. "Are there others?"

"I am disappointed, Captain Takamura. Surely, you should've known that a traditional TSF squadron consists of six units," Yuuhi said, referring to Yui by her newly promoted rank. For his recent accomplishments, Lelouch was promoted to the rank of Captain. "Yet a single squad wouldn't be enough for a task of this scale."

"So we'll both command seasoned pilots mixed with rookies who trained with us," Lelouch said, trying to keep the conversation on the subject and spare Yui any further teasing.

"It was part of our efforts to see if we can use the Coupling System en masse to accelerate training," Yuuhi sighed. "Regrettably, our inability to reproduce the Psychoframe technology has impeded our efforts since the Coupling System becomes more difficult to find a compatible pair by itself."

"I see. So the Psychoframe technology and the Coupling System make that much of a difference, then," Lelouch said, and Yuuhi nodded in confirmation.

"Indeed. The Mimaoto Units Claude helped us build will have them, making them a limited production model. The pilots on your ship will have access to them, allowing you, Captain Takamura, First Lieutenant Kai, or First Lieutenant Noto to link with them if necessary," Yuuhi replied. Still, the mention of Izumi drew Yui's attention.

"But, I thought they were staying behind?"

"Given the importance of your work with the Mining Union ahead of you, we decided on sending First Lieutenant Noto and First Lieutenant Kai with you for extra firepower since out of all of the Gundams, they were among those whose performance was exceptional," Yuuhi answered. "Unfortunately, First Lieutenant Kai's Gundam is still damaged, so it will be a few more days before it's combat-worthy again. Many are also interested in the Geschmeidig Panzer Energy Deflection Armor, but we only have the means to replenish First Lieutenant Kai's Gundam. So, we must obtain what we need from the source. Claude has already made the arrangements."

I guess this means Izumi and Shimako were promoted as well, Lelouch thought.

"I thought Claude provided us with all the replacement parts needed until we could produce them ourselves?" Yui asked, confused.

"Yes, but it will be among a few stops you will make. Outside of restoring the Sadamitsu to full functionality, we need more Colloid Gas. Both for it and our developers who want to experiment with the technology," Yuuhi answered.

It's not hard to imagine that there is a fair share of interested parties in the technology. Lelouch admitted that the advantage Japan will gain as the sole exporter.

"Before you obtain the Colloid Gas and the needed means for us to refine it, you'll have to make a pit stop along the way," Yuuhi explained as the group continued down the hallway.

"Pit Stop?" Yui inquired.

"Yes, this one is at the insistence of the UN and the United States, or rather, I should say those who support the Alternate V plan," Yuuhi explained. "You'll be dropping them off on the way to your first destination for safety."

"Alternate V plan?" Lelouch inquired.

"It's the latest in a series of counter-BETA plans. The Alternate V plan calls for abandoning the Earth and colonizing a world that can support human life." Yuuhi couldn't prevent her disdain from leaking into her voice. "I can understand their reasoning for it, but considering there is no promise the BETA would not be a danger in the future to this new world, there are those who are against it."

"I see, so this is more of an appeasement effort to keep the supporters of the plan off your back, as it were," Lelouch deduced, causing Yuuhi to smile.

"Exactly, and since we have a ship capable of traveling to the planet they found, which will fit all of humanity's needs. It has been agreed you and your ship will head to the planet in question, located in the Barnard's Star system, which is found in the constellation of Ophiuchus. You'll be escorting a ship carrying workers, supplies, and everything needed to establish a colony and a research station where they can survey the planet and ensure it is habitable to prepare it for human colonization. Even if the need doesn't arise for humanity to abandon the Earth for that world, it can serve as a colony for Earth," Yuuhi explained.

"I see, so that was part of the reason you wanted me to find a habitable world. It's not just for Japan, but also to appease supporters of the Alternate V plan and win their backing at least," Lelouch deduced.

"That's right, and you will look for other planets that might favor colonization. The US will begin building its ships to send out to the colony after you drop them off, so unless called, you shouldn't need to worry about them once you've escorted them safely," Yuuhi reassured.

"Considering our meeting with the Mining Guild, it sounds like we shouldn't have much trouble," Yui remarked, welcoming the chance for a quiet couple of days.

"If I may ask Lady Koubuin, is there anything I should know about these new pilots joining us," Lelouch said.

"To get straight to the point, Captain," Yuuhi addressed. "You should already be aware of what public knowledge is about to call Project Unity, are you not?"

"An R program designed for nations weakened or fallen to improve their technology with assistance from Japan," Lelouch recalled. "For the Japanese and the others, it is also a means of counterbalancing the political advantage the USA and USSR have against them."

"Exactly, so these pilots come from those nations that are a part of the program," Yuuhi said as they arrived at the hangar. "Here they are right now."

"Attention on deck," Sayoko Komaki called out. The assembled ten pilots snapped to attention, standing in a single line.

Lelouch's squad was among them, clearly relieved to see him.

"First, let me introduce you to Second Lieutenant Sayoko Komaki. She's been working with Major Jinguuji on preparing your original squad and the other cadets for combat," Yuuhi said as Sayoko saluted them. Lelouch and Yui saluted in return. "She's been assigned to your unit as your platoon leader, while Captain Takamura will be your temporary second in command until we find new pilots to rebuild the White Fang Platoon."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Captain Lamperouge. I've heard about your performance in Kyoto and Sadogashima. Your performance has been impressive," Sayoko complimented, shaking Lelouch's hand.

"Thank you. I look forward to working with you," Lelouch said as Yuuhi was poised to introduce the new members of Lelouch's platoon.

At the end of the row was a young woman who seemed around Lelouch's age, but she might've been older than him. She had short blonde hair that hung above her shoulders and blue eyes. She wore a dark blue uniform with the rank of Second Lieutenant, but her attire showed she was a very well-endowed woman.

"First, we have Andre Löjtnant, or Second Lieutenant, Stella Bremer. From the Kingdom of Sweden, she is one of their finest long-range marksmen and a support fighter," Yuuhi introduced, turning to Lelouch. "Given that the majority of the pilots currently under your command are skilled at close-quarters to medium-ranged combat, she came highly recommended."

"Thank you kindly, Lady Shogun, but I am simply good at what I do," Stella said, being rather modest. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Captain Lamperouge, sir."

"Likewise, I think your skills at ranged combat will be a useful asset to us," Lelouch said, returning the greeting.

"Thank you kindly, sir."

Now she feels like a new face, Yui thought. Yet, she still feels awfully familiar.

"Next, we have Second Lieutenant Cui Yifei from the Unified Front of China." Yuuhi introduced the next pilot to the lineup.

The young woman appeared to be around Lelouch's age. She was no doubt drafted due to China being overrun by the BETA, with only the island of Taiwan left to them. She had long green hair styled into pigtails held in place by hair ties with golden bells and cyan eyes. She wore a dark green uniform with a skirt, black leggings, and black shoes.

"She has quite the record so far. More kills than most people who start piloting at her age. She is a ferocious fighter who gets the job done," Yuuhi explained.

Cui merely smiled, "I do get the job done, ma'am, and I have to say I am very interested in giving these new machines of yours a spin."

"One has already been assigned to you. During the errands you'll be running, as explained to Captain Lamperouge, you'll be conducting simulators and mock battles to get you all prepared for when you all meet the Mining Union," Yuuhi replied.

"Mock battles," Cui muttered before she started grinning and looking at Lelouch. "Then I hope my superior will grace me with a mock battle. I heard a lot about the guy from the other Earth, so I want to see if he is as good a pilot as his ability to lead is."

Lelouch was about to answer when he realized something Cui had said.

"You know I am from another Earth?" Lelouch asked, to which Cui nodded with her arms crossed.

"I believed it was best they should know since you no doubt want to return to your Earth," Yuuhi revealed.

"I see. Well. I suppose it was inevitable at some point." Lelouch accepted the reasoning, even if some part of him wished he had been told beforehand.

"This is Second Lieutenant Mitsuki Hayase." Yuuhi introduced a young woman, the same age as Lelouch, with long blue hair tied into an up-knot ponytail, matching eyes, and a confident smirk on her face.

"Thank you for the introduction, my lady," Mitsuki replied respectfully.

"She has a good record and was originally invited to join a new special task force the UN was forming for one of the Alternative Plans, but I selected her to join your squad since you had an opening," Yuuhi explained. Lelouch noticed a slight change in expression, suggesting there was perhaps more to that story.

"I'll be expecting good things from you then, Second Lieutenant," Lelouch said.

"Thank you, sir. I won't let you down."

"Good to hear," Lelouch replied.

He and Yuuhi moved on to a group of three officers. All of them had olive green uniforms, forest-green ties, and black shoes.

"These three are the representatives from the United States, all hailing from the TSF Academy Preparatory School. While they have not graduated yet, they have already completed the ten-month training course in half the time and have top marks at the Academy." Yuuhi introduced a man, a year older than Lelouch with short spiky blue hair and blue eyes. "This one here is Warrant Officer Leon Kuze."

"That is impressive," Lelouch remarked. "I look forward to working with you, Officer Kuze."

"Thank you, sir," Leon replied.

"This is Warrant Officer Sharon Heim." Yuuhi gestured to a young woman the same age as her fellow officer. Sharon's uniform forgo the plants for a skirt with black leggings. Sharon had long wavy pink-blonde hair with dark blue eyes. "She hails from the same class as Warrant Officer Kuze and excels in all areas."

"Welcome aboard, Second Lieutenant Heim," Lelouch saluted Sharon.

"Thank you, sir," Sharon replied.

"And the last one, Warrant Officer Yuuya Bridges," Yuuhi introduced a young man, like Leon and Sharon, being a year older than Lelouch. Yuuya had short brown hair and brown eyes and seemed just as serious as his fellow academy student.

"Welcome aboard, Officer Bridges," Lelouch greeted with a salute.

"He has been noted to be very diligent in his work and his instructors recommended him to accompany you," Yuuhi described.

Yuuya before he saluted Lelouch said, "I look forward to working with you, sir."

Lelouch noticed how forced his tone was. He swore he also heard some sort of grunt coming from him following his introduction. Not only that, but it was towards Yuuhi rather than Lelouch.

There is definitely something he doesn't like about his posting here, Lelouch thought. While I don't doubt his abilities, with Officer Heim and Kuze being genuine, I get the feeling the instructors recommended this guy just to get rid of him. Maybe I should check into his file.

"Alright, all of you are dismissed to get settled in," Lelouch stated at a silent signal from Yuuhi, as his new squadmates saluted him. "I believe the rest of the squad should also be in the process of such so you all should be able to meet up with your fellow squadmates."

"Yes, they should be, but you and I have others you need to welcome aboard," Yuuhi stated as she gestured for Yui and Lelouch to follow her. "And before I forget, your unit is now recognized officially as Ronin Squadron, otherwise called the Zero Independant Central Squadron."

"Ronin Squad. An ironic choice of name, my lady," Lelouch commented with a smile that Yuuhi returned.

Meanwhile, Shamiko and Izumi had finished settling in their cabins as officers. They still had some time before the ship departed, so they stopped by the mess hall for drinks. With soft drinks in hand, the pair found a table to sit at to chat.

"So, did you hear that this was supposed to be Lady Takatsukasa's ship before she commandeered Lelouch's intended vessel to help battle the BETA at the Suez Canal?"

"Lelouch's ship?" Izumi inquired after taking a sip from her soft drink. "Isn't this supposed to be Major Tsukuyomi's ship? Last time I heard, Lelouch was only promoted to Captain. An IJA Captain, at that."

"I don't understand it too much either," Shamiko confessed with a shrug. "Major Tsukuyomi qualifies far more in rank. But I was told IJA authority won't mean anything outside our world, leaving Lelouch more in charge."

"So it comes down to how much Lelouch can achieve outside our world then," Izumi lamented. "But would they accept those achievements? What if they are considered too easy, or they use the excuse of him not being in their world as an excuse to keep him down?"

"I think that's why the Major is the leading officer, to witness those achievements as part of the Royal Guard and closest to the Shogun."

"You know as well as I that will never satisfy everyone."

"True," Shimako replied, sipping from her soft drink. "If you don't mind me asking, Izumi, why did you stay? I don't mind you coming along, but…"

"Why am I not staying to avenge Tadamichi?"

Shimako tensed up, feeling she might've offended Izumi.

"Calm down, and that is a fair question," Izumi admitted, looking at her soft drink. "I think it's because I realized no matter how many BETA I kill, it won't be enough. I don't feel that killing the lesser BETA is enough for me. I want the head of the creature controlling them."

Izumi had reflected on this. For all of the BETA she killed during the Battle of Sadogashima, she felt no satisfaction from killing them. Izumi realized that only killing the BETA commanders would bring her the fulfillment she sought and complete her vengeance.

"What about you, Shamiko? Why did you choose to come? Never mind that your Gundam is still in bad shape. Aki seems more fitting than you. You even volunteered before she got the chance."

"W-Why do you say that?" Shamiko asked.

"You heard her," Izumi recalled. "She seems to want to beat up those Kings that time traveler spoke of. At least the most twisted one of them all."

"That's not why I wanted to join before she did," Shamiko protested with red cheeks. "Besides, I didn't think they would let her join in such a large expedition, considering how she has recently gotten over her issues."

"I'm surprised Kazusa didn't get there before me either," Izumi noticed. "Knowing her, she would've volunteered first."

"Maybe her Gundam being better suited to Japan's defense while we are gone is the reason?" Shimako suggested.

"Perhaps, but..." Izumi started before letting her sentence trail off for a moment. "Considering the staggering losses among the Royal Guard, specifically the Tozama and Fudai households, many family lines have possibly ended with the many deaths from the defense of Kyoto. I know Aki lost her twin brother while he was deployed to Asia, and Kazusa lost both of her older brothers to the BETA in Asia as well."

"Kazusa and Aki are the only children left of their respective families. Therefore, they are next in line to be the heads of their families," Shimako realized.

"Yes, while many households are supposed to be succeeded by a male heir, the war and the losses endured will now force them to accept female heirs just like Lady Kyoko and Lady Yuuhi. Unfortunately, other families have no other children to carry on their family line, and it's uncertain if their Heads can bear and raise new children to preserve their family lines," Izumi explained with a grim expression.

"They must be panicking."

"Yes, I can just imagine, but I think there was another reason Kazusa was asked to stay. I believe the Shogun plans to remove the ban on samurai households' ascension in rank. At the same time, there are other talks to enable either the head of a family or an intended successor to marry more than one wife to help ensure the survival of their family lines," Izumi explained, surprising Shimako.

"Really? That seems a bit much."

"As you said, the families who lost their children have no one to carry on their family lines, and those that do are fearing their children will die during Japan's defense. Furthermore, we lost a considerable portion of our population due to the BETA. Still, I believe this is also partly to ensure the support of the other families behind the Shogun and to ease their panic at their situations."

"What will that mean for us?"

"I wish I knew," Izumi replied, having no answer.

After leaving Sayoko to oversee the new arrivals, Lelouch and Yui were led by Yuuhi and Maya to the captain's cabin, which Maya was using. Following the pair inside, Lelouch and Yui were unable to contain their curiosity. Inside the captain's office, two young women were waiting for them, intriguing both Yui and Lelouch.

"I apologize for making you two wait, but given the special circumstances surrounding you two, I felt introductions and questions should be conducted more privately," Yuuhi explained, gesturing her left hand to introduce the two women, who seemed to be as old as Lelouch and Yui were.

The two were identical in appearance, having pale skin, violet eyes and silver hair. However the one had shoulder-length silver hair, while the other had slightly shorter hair hanging around the base of her neck and styled differently. Both wore dark brown uniforms with red trim and matching skirts with black leggings and dress shoes.

"Allow me to introduce Second Lieutenant Cryska Barchenowa," Yuuhi introduced the shoulder-length haired girl. "And this is her twin sister Second Lieutenant Martica Barchenowa."

"Pleasure to meet you both," Lelouch said as he and Yui saluted them, and the pair in turn returned their salute.

"Thank you sir," Cryska and Martica announced together, before Lelouch noticed a third occupant hiding behind Cryska.

She had the same hair color as Cryska and Martica, but hers was very long and she was younger than the two. She didn't wear a uniform like them, but wore a yellow coat with brown fur around the ledges. She wore matching gloves, black pants and matching yellow boots while holding a teddy bear in her arms.

"The young one is Second Lieutenant Inia Sestina, the younger sister to both women here."

"She's a pilot at that age?" Yui exclaimed.

"Not quite, she is being trained, and it was requested by the Soviet Government that she remain paired with Second Lieutenant Barchenowa and her sister, As a superior candidate of the Alternative III project she can help keep her sisters' minds steady," Yuuhi answered. The last part drew Lelouch's notice.

"Alternative III?," Yui inquired, a slip of the tongue. Yuuhi looked to Cryska and Martica who silently nodded their approval to explain.

"All three of them are products of the UN Alternative III project which was carried out by the Soviet Union. The goal of the project was to create a means to understand the BETA through the use of individuals with Extra-Sensorial Perception in the hopes of communicating with them," Yuuhi began. "Created using a complex breeding program and genetic engineering. "

The questions of morality behind the Barchenowa Generation of espers creation aside, Lelouch deduced something.

"The younger sister here is a newer generation," Lelouch stated.

"Yes, Inia is from a new generation of espers. They have stronger abilities in sensing the surface thoughts of others," Yuuhi replied, smiling that Lelouch noticed that. "She is here to support her sisters and aid them when needed, but given that you'll be dealing with aliens beyond Earth her mind reading abilities could be helpful to minimize any unknowns during any negotiations."

"That would be useful." Lelouch acknowledged the advantages of having such beings aiding him. However he did feel uneasy at the idea of using someone so young. Something about Inia reminded him about Nunnally, there was just something so innocent about her.

Inia in turn, stepped out from behind Cryska, looking up at both Yui and Lelouch, curious.

"Inia please," Cryska lightly chastised as she motioned for Inia to step back behind them.

"Did you have a question," Yui asked.

"I like your colors," Inia replied with a smile.

"Thank you," Lelouch replied, slightly confused.

Yuuhi spoke up, interrupting the awkward moment. "Rest assured their superiors have ordered them to aid you in any way they can as long as it doesn't put them against their motherland."

"So you can be at ease sir," Maritca replied.

"Very well. I hope to observe your combat performance during the upcoming mock battles to help the others adjust to space combat," Lelouch said.

"Sir," Cryska and Martica replied with a salute.

Leaving the twins and Inia, Yuuhi directed Lelouch and Yui to follow her; there was another person that needed a private introduction. After the esper twins, the pair were very curious to see who this next person was.

Arriving at one of the crew cabins, a young woman wearing a BDU entered. She had long brown hair tied into long braided pigtails, round glasses framed by green eyes, and a pair of sunglasses. Upon seeing Yuuhi, she quickly snapped to attention and saluted the Shogun.

"At ease, Cadet," Yuuhi said before providing introductions. "This is Chizuru Sakaki, a new cadet aiming to become a TSF pilot."

"Sakaki," Yui muttered before realization dawned on her. "Sakaki, as in the Prime Minister's daughter?"

Yuuhi nodded in confirmation, "Yes, she wished to enlist in the military, but due to recent concerns regarding the ongoing political fallout for members of the Japanese Diet. We were worried for her safety so we assigned her to be trained aboard this ship with the fresh cadets from America."

"Understandable." Lelouch suspected there was more to the story. "Who will be overseeing her training?"

"I'll be introducing you to her soon, but as someone who aspires to be a leader, I feel she could learn much from you as well," Yuuhi said smiling.

"It will be an honor to learn from you sir," Chizuru said with a salute. "I've much about your capabilities."

"Thank you and I hope to live up to them."

Yui's expression was stoic, but in her thoughts she couldn't help but feel this woman could be a rival to her.

Meanwhile, around the same time aboard the ship, Haruka had finished setting into her new shared cabin with the other pilots. Each shared cabin for pilots included two sets of bunk beds built into the walls, with curtains that could be closed for privacy and a wall panel with instruments including a communication device. There were lockers and trunks for spare pilot suits, personal items and clothing. Each cabin also had two bathrooms with a shower and toilet. There was a window, but it was actually a holographic screen of the outside. Lastly there was a central table with four chairs.

Haruka was alone resting on the top bunk. Her cabin mates, Haruko and Tsukiko went off to the mess hall for a snack and drinks.

I wonder who our last occupant will be? Haruka mused while reading a book.

As if on cue the door opened, and Mitsuki walked in with a duffle bag in hand.

Peeking out from her bed, Haruka's eyes went wide, recognizing Mitsuki. The blue haired woman in turn went wide-eyed, being just as surprised before a small appeared on her face.

"Well, well," Mitsuki said smiling, "I didn't think you and I would be in the same squad after what happened during… well you know."

"I am just as surprised as you are," Haruka stated. Mitsuki had been in the same training unit years ago when they did the Comprehensive Combat Skill Evaluation, which ended in the loss of Haruka's legs. "I was worried about you, Takayuki, and Taria. Especially when the invasion happened."

"Tell me about it," Mitsuki said, placing her duffle bag on the table before sitting in a chair with a sigh. "We were assigned to rear lines protecting Osaka in case the BETA attempted to enter the sea and try a pincer to get around Kyoto. We did encounter a battalion-size herd of them, but luckily we managed to contain them. We took losses, but Takayuki, Taria and the rest of our cadet class made it."

Haruka was relieved to hear her friends had survived. "Thank goodness, but not that I am ungrateful for a friend I know joining…"

"How did I end up with your squad?" Mitsuki asked, looking as if she bit into a sour lemon. Haruka nodded her head.

"After it was over and we got reinforcements, the UN wanted to recruit all of us for a new Special Task Force. Apparently it involved some big shot scientist of ours from what I heard was behind it. Everyone signed up. It was a chance to use better machines and the commission is also better, but I got screwed over."

"How?"

"Do you remember that spoiled bitch, with the black hair who had a daddy with connections she bragged about, who had eyes for Takayuki?" Mitsuki asked, as anger flashed in her eyes. Haruka nodded as she recalled said person in question.

It was that idiot who was supposed to help us watch for mines that led to me losing my legs, Haruka thought bitterly.

"Turns out her father was a general in the UN army and was able to use his connections to bar me from joining that task force with the others, probably so I wouldn't stop her from getting to Takayuki. That damn slut," Mitsuki growled out. "They called me confrontational with no sense of teamwork. What bullshit. I should've let those Grappler-class BETA who surrounded her beat that bitch to death instead of saving her."

"We all know what she was like and I doubt Takayuki would fall for someone so shallow. He's much better than that," Haruka said reassuringly.

"I know, but it still pisses me off."

"I don't disagree," Haruka said in agreement, joining Mitsuki at the table, sitting opposite of her.

"If nothing else I don't mind being in the same squad. It's good to see the new legs you got worked out," Mitsuki commented.

"Thanks. I didn't believe it at first when they said they could regrow my legs, but here we are. Unfortunately, I had to endure basic training again to help get used to them. I redid the CCSE again, but this time it was more difficult than the one we did."

"Wow. So what else did I miss?" Mitsuki asked, curious.

"Sure, I'll tell you everything."

Yuuhi led Lelouch to another cabin, where upon entering Claude was waiting for them, but there were two other women with her. One looked to be older than Lelouch by a few years with long black hair, a butterfly-like hair clip on one-side, blue eyes, and wearing a gray jacket, black pants, boots and a gray side cap. The other was a woman who seemed to be of a similar age with long black hair, glasses, her purple eyes and wearing a dark grey uniform with black boots.

"Oh, look who is here. Congrats on finally moving beyond the prologue stage," Claude congratulated, clapping her hands upon seeing Lelouch.

"Please treat this a little more seriously," Lelouch said with a sigh.

"Ok, ok, no need to be a mood killer," Claude repiled, waving a hand dismissively.

Yuuhi coughed, so she could provide introductions.

"Allow me to introduce 1st Lieutenant Circe Steinhoff, formerly of the Bundeswehr 51st Tactical Armored Battalion Huckebein, from West Germany," Yuuhi said, gesturing to the girl with a butterfly clip on her hair. "And this is 1st Lieutenant Gretel Jeckein, her assistant, who is to serve as your advisor in political matters, especially in regards to what you might encounter out there."

"It's a pleasure to meet you sir. Both the Shogun and Claude have spoken very highly of you," Circe greeted, saluting Lelouch who returned it in kind.

"Likewise sir, your recent performances in battle were most impressive," Gretel said, saluting too.

"Welcome aboard, but if I may ask, why weren't you with the other pilots at the line up?"

"It is because these two are a special case, people recruited by Claude herself," Yuuhi answered.

"Really?" Lelouch asked, intrigued, yet concerned.

"Yes," Claude was smiling. "These two actually come from the early eighties. And yes that means about fifteen years in the past."

Lelouch blinked in surprise. "May I ask why you brought someone fifteen years into the future to serve aboard this ship?"

"It's part of a bargain the two of us made with Claude. There is going to be an event later on and you'll need our help," Circe answered, much to Lelouch's confusion and interest

"I understand that you have a lot of questions, but Lieutenant Steinhoff will be here to assist you with managing your squad as their training supervisor. I'll be working with you and Lieutenant Komaki, since you have a mixed unit of different nationalities, and I have been well versed in the politics and general knowledge of the likely places you'll visit," Gretel explained.

"Rest assured, you'll thank me later," Claude interjected. "Besides these two fought in Operation Neptune, one of the biggest BETA culling operations. Something that might intrigue you since you have been studying all previous battles against the BETA."

"It would be informative to have a first hand account," Lelouch said with one hand on his chin, a discussion for later.

Operation Neptune was a massive joint BETA culling operation with the combined forces of the UN-sponsored European Union, the United States of America, and the Warsaw Pact nations of Eastern Europe. The objective was to reduce the number of the BETA to take the pressure off of defenders along the Oder-Neisse Defence Line. It was feared the collapse of the defense line would result in the loss of Europe to the BETA.

Even with difficulties among the alliance the operation was a success, but the amount of time it bought for the defenders was short, once the Minsk Hive in Belarus was finished the BETA launched a new offensive spearheaded by Heavy-Laser Class.

"Considering some of the new members of your squad come from different places, having her could be helpful when it comes to training the rookies from the UN," Yui suggested, but she was secretly concerned about the fact Claude added more women to the roster.

"That's true," Lelouch admitted. Every nation was different in how they trained and treated their pilots, and that was before culture differences could be considered, even when they didn't exist in his world. It was best to avoid any misunderstandings that could impede his goals because of a lack of knowledge. "All the same, we're glad to have you Lieutenant Steinhoff and Lieutenant Jeckeln aboard."

"Thank you sir," the two said together.

An hour later the newly named Vortigern was ready to launch. Maya was on the bridge overlooking the crew as final preparations were being completed.

"Engines online and ready," another crewman reported from his station. "Life support systems online and operating at satisfactory rating. CIC, weapon systems and warp core line and ready."

"All systems are green., Everything is ready for launch," the helmsman said.

"Very well, begin take off procedures and get us into orbit," Maya commanded. The Vortigern disembarked from the base before ascending skyward, heading west towards the United States airspace to avoid attacks from the BETA.

There was a nervous air on the bridge as the ship ascended towards space, but the ship sailed smoothly towards space. It took several minutes for the ship to reach orbit as the blue skies of Earth gave way to the black void of space.

Lelouch was in his cabin, looking upon that same dark void, his thoughts and emotions were currently mixed. A part of him felt a sense of exhilaration, but another part, he couldn't call it nervousness or uneasiness, maybe more of a sense of caution.

Who knows what we're going to find out there, Lelouch thought.

He had spent the last twenty minutes making sure all of his belongings were properly secured. This was because the rooms aboard the ship had a control panel to shut off the artificial gravity in each room, which could be used in emergency situations to move through the ship or move someone critically injured easily..

At his desk he was reviewing the files of the people joining his squad, but was interrupted by a beeping sound, signaling someone was outside his door.

Using the control panel built into his desk, Lelouch saw it was Sayoko Komaki. Using the panel, Leouch opened the door, allowing his new adjutant inside.

Lelouch stood to salute her, as she saluted in greeting.

"Permission to enter sir," Sayoko asked.

"Granted, you can take a seat." Lelouch gestured to the chair on the opposite side of his desk.

"Thank you," Sayoko said, noticing the files on Lelouch's desk. "I see you've been reviewing the new members of the squad."

"Yes, I believed since I had the time it was best to do so," Lelouch explained, before inquiring, "I was going to suggest that we should hold some test flights for the new squad members once we arrive at our first destination. It will give them time to get accustomed to the Minamotos. Especially those from America."

"Because of the different design philosophies in their TSFs," Sayoko deduced, which Lelouch confirmed with a nod.

Lelouch was no engineer, but as he did his research on their TSFs and tactics during basic training, he did notice something between American TSFs and those built by Japan. As the pioneer that first created the Tactical Surface Fighter, American TSFs were advanced and efficient in both ranged and close quarters combat. Japanese TSFs, while not as advanced, were focused on high speed, maneuverability, and close-combat tactics especially now that hive capture operations were being planned. Being able to fight in enclosed spaces was becoming a must.

But looking further, key differences in design began to emerge, such as American TSFs weren't designed for long combat operations compared to a Japanese TSF. Furthermore to save on fuel consumption and to be more efficient and easier to handle, Japanese TSFs heads were designed to help in maneuverability during combat operations. America intended to avoid direct engagements with the BETA as much as possible, something that hasn't just been reflected in their own tactics, but their TSF design as well.

"Pilot Bridges, I worry might react the most negatively to this. Did you see his file?"

"I did," Sayoko said, her expression indicating that she shared Lelouch's concerns. "A half-Japanese and half-American, who was raised by his American mother in the US. His father's identity is unknown, apparently his mother refused to reveal his identity for reasons unknown, but judging by the reports of his attitude problem it's obvious he harbors unresolved resentments about him. Then there is the discrimination he would've endured due to his mixed-race and the scrutiny over why his mother kept it a secret."

"I noticed that too. His skills are those of a born prodigy for TSF piloting, but his attitude has been a serious problem," Lelouch admitted. Although Yuuya Bridges had high praise for his piloting skills, it was offset by just as much criticism for his attitude. Pulling up a deeper background check of his record revealed a fair amount of marks against him for just that.

These reports show someone who is arrogant, prideful and with a big chip on their shoulder, which has made it difficult for anyone working with him. Many of his colleagues have chosen to ignore him or shun him in turn, Lelouch thought.

"He does however have a friend, a Second Lieutenant Vincent Howell who joined the crew and is assigned with the mechanics crew. He is credited as one of the few who can keep Bridge's attitude restrained." Lelouch elaborated. The United States provided some mechanics and engineers to both help with operation of the ship and its upkeep while at the same time learning more about the technologies behind it and the new machines. "Bridge's file mentions that Vincent has been the mediator in such conflicts and they've known each other for a long time. Perhaps we should speak with him when time allows so we can devise a way to address this issue."

"Agreed. I'll make a note to call him in for a meeting when we are next able to," Sayoko said with a nod.

"Thank you. The sooner we can address it the better," Lelouch replied. "The last thing we need."

"I concur, we should both have a talk with Specialist Vincent soon."

"Right now we should give everyone a chance to settle in," Sayoko noted, reading Lelouch's mind in a sense.

"Indeed, perhaps while everyone is distracted in the simulators will be a good opportunity," Lelouch suggested.

"Very well," Sayoko said, having no issue. Sayoko noticeably hesitated before she spoke up. "Permission to speak freely sir."

"Granted," Lelouch replied.

"Forgive me for speaking out of turn sir, but why must we leave Japan?" Sayoko began.

"Captain Takamura asked the Shogun the same question," Lelouch said as a matter of fact. "Given the BETA's ability to adapt, we must secure the raw materials needed to mass produce the Miminoto before BETA adapts to counter the new technology Japan has. Aside from lacking pilots, Japan can't produce the new machines fast enough."

"Moving our production areas overseas hasn't done any favors for speedy production either, but at least they were saved from the BETA onslaught," Sayoko remarked with a frustrated sigh.

"Yes, probably the only thing the Sakaki Administration did right," Lelouch commented as his mind reviewed what he would personally call an internal disaster at how woefully unprepared Japan was against the BETA. "The oceanic trade network he created has ensured a steady supply of weapons and other materials and moved Japan's industrial capabilities out of range of the front. However, it wasn't prepared for a rapid rearmament of a whole new machine, even with the US supporting them."

"I'm still going over the details of the full report of the BETA invasion of Japan that the Shogun shared with me," Lelouch admitted.

"She gave you that?" Sayoko said, surprised.

"I was curious as to why she would, but maybe she wanted me to learn something from it. I have it, if you are interested in reading it yourself. It contains a complete assessment and report of the defensive failures and what happened to the defenders," Lelouch said, as he opened his drawer to retrieve a file.

Sayoko was curious and was tempted to read the file, but decided to hold back for now.

"Perhaps another time when time allows for it. Thank you for your willingness to share something like that."

"Not at all," Lelouch replied, putting the file away. "It was truly a disaster. The typhoon the BETA hid behind did the most damage."

"Yes I've heard as much. Forgive me,but I have to say; I still feel we shouldn't be leaving Japan even if it is to acquire more materials for its defense."

"True, but the Shogun has another reason for this; combat data against human opponents. One of our tasks to obtain the raw materials we need is by combating space pirates, which allows our pilots to gain experience against human enemies," Lelouch explained.

"Combat data against humans?"

"Think about it. We now have weapons that can contend with the BETA. What do you suppose will happen once the BETA are no longer a threat?" Lelouch asked, giving Sayoko a knowing glance.

"Grudges from the Cold War will resurface among the nations themselves who had to endure working hand in hand with nations once hostile to them," Sayoko said, realizing what the Shogun was quietly intending.

"Yes. The arrival of the BETA only put those conflicts and grudges aside for now, but once the BETA is no longer a threat, the Shogun is certain those grudges will resurface," Lelouch said, sharing Yuuhi's concern about the likely aftermath should the BETA be beaten.

While he doubted it would be instantaneous, the state of the world would determine what happened next. It was a possibility that couldn't be overlooked.

"That is why in preparation for an upcoming world conflict, one that Japan could be dragged into, she wants to develop new TSFs using the new technologies. They would need to be more than capable of facing both the BETA and future human foes." Lelouch understood Yuuhi's mindset in wanting to be prepared for such a conflict should it happen.

Rather, it would be better to say when it happens.

"Am I to understand that is one of the true purposes of this trip then?"

"And to gauge and document other alien threats along the way," Lelouch added.

"Then I shall hope to return to Earth once our mission is accomplished," Sayoko said as she offered her hand. "In that case, sir, I shall be on my way. It was good speaking with you,"

"Likewise," Lelouch complimented as he shook Sayoko's hand. "My door is open when you wish to speak with me. I value your insights as you still hold seniority over me."

"Thank you sir. I'll do my best not to disappoint you."

After finishing his discussion with Sayoko, it wasn't even ten minutes before Lelouch had another visitor. Using the control panel built into his desk, he saw Tsukiko standing outside on the holographic monitor.

"Sir, it's me, Tsukiko. Can we talk?"

"You can drop the formalities with me. I've had enough of them for one day," Lelouch said through the intercom before using a switch to open the door. "Besides, I feel you are looking for a more casual conversation, are you not?"

"I am," Tsukiko said with a smile, glad for Lelouch's understanding.

"What's on your mind?" Lelouch asked, gesturing for Tsukiko to sit in a chair opposite him.

"Well, how much do you know about me?"

"Huh? What brought that on?"

"Simply because just about everyone in the squad except for Asagi and I, have shared their stories with you, so I thought I would share mine," Tsukiko explained. Lelouch noticed the hesitation, but he suspected there was more to this conversation.

I'll see where this goes, Lelouch thought, deciding to play along.

"To answer your initial question, I know that you were involved in some kind of training accident and were dropped from the program taking place at the Imperial Army's Hakuryou Base. Your instructors hail from the Fuji Tactical Fighter Training Group, overseen by Sergeant Jinguuji, the most notorious among them from what I've read and seen for myself."

Lelouch stopped to give Tsukiko a chance to correct anything.

"That is the general gist of it, but much of what happened was covered up by the top brass and the UN who was involved as I found out later," Tsukiko revealed, intriguing Lelouch. "You see, unlike other cadets enlisting to be TSF pilots, we were cherry picked across the country. They did pick those who had potential, but they had people like me who weren't comparable to the prodigies they gathered. The intention was to pit those who had potential in with different people to see how they would adapt, as another test."

"I see. So as a result the training regime you received was harsher compared to other academies for new pilots?"

"Harsh doesn't even describe it. You thought what you and the others endured under Major Jinguuji was harsh. She was full on drill sergeant nasty from the fucking tenth circle of hell. No matter what we did, every morning would start with a ten-kilometer run in the morning and another in the evening. Sometimes she would add more laps or more exercises whenever she felt like it," Tsukiko said, her eyes growing a bit dull.

Probably explains why during training Tsukiko was among the top cadets, Lelouch thought, recalling how Tsukiko was during physical training.

It seemed her prior experience with Marimo stuck with her.

"Michiru actually mentioned that, which if I recall, you were part of the same training squad," Lelouch said, keeping the conversation going.

"Oh, I see," Tsukiko said, grinning. "She has barely changed since those days when we were squad F of the 16th training squad of the 207th Training Unit. Annoyingly pragmatic and stoic as hell most of the time. I swear she had a huge stick up her ass, and what a glutton for punishment she was."

"You don't say," Lelouch said, lettingTsukiko vent.

"You could pass Michiru off for a goddamn robot. Always speaking like she pulled her answers from a textbook. It got annoying to listen to her. In comparison your personality is much better," Tsukiko commented as her eyebrow twitched in annoyance. "There was times I couldn't fucking stand her talk like she was on some damn soap box, so I began tuning her out."

"I see," Lelouch said, while trying to imagine what Tsukiko described.

Why am I envisioning Tsukiko shouting nonsense while ignoring what Michiru was saying, Lelouch thought.

Little did he realize how close he was to being right.

Tsukiko sighed before continuing her story, "Anyway, despite a rough start, we started making progress in our training, especially when we moved to live training in TSFs. Then came our live test exam when we faced Sergeant Jinguuji and her assistant sergeant Nirasawa in a mock battle, they were creaming the other cadets."

"So four against two, but correct me if I am wrong, the point wasn't to win against them; your performance and how long you lasted would determine if you passed or not?" Lelouch asked.

"Yeah that is pretty much it, but me and Sonoko were more…ambitious and," Tsukiko said as she looked away, her expression was one of sadness and regret. "Sonoko and I wanted to thank Michiru and Chinatsu for sticking with a pair of low performers like us through thick and thin despite both of them being annoying as hell most times."

Lelouch wanted to ask about the low performer part, but decided to avoid unintentionally offending her.

"Michiru, as much of an annoying pragmatic robot as she was, came from a well-to-do family and could've avoided military service by going to college instead. However, she was pretty hell bent on enlisting despite having a chance for something better," Tsukiko explained, suspecting what Lelouch picked up on.

"I see, and what of Chinatsu?"

"She came from Kyushu, until she and a lot of people there were forced to relocate due to the military fortifying the place against BETA invasion. She had a good family who supported her and was a high school judo champion. Very friendly, one of those supporting and annoyingly cheerful girls," Tsukiko replied before saying, "Me, I came from a run down home. Dad abandoned mom and when she died I got sent to an orphanage. I was a punk as a kid growing up, but as soon as I was old enough I enlisted. I intended to serve for a few years then get a job at a TSF manufacturing company so I could be set for life."

"Did Sonoko also come from a difficult family?"

"Yeah. She was as sweet and kind as they come. She enlisted to help her struggling family. Her dad was sick and unable to work with her mother trying to take care of both her, him, and Sonoko's five younger siblings all on her own," Tsukiko explained as her expression saddened. "Despite being driven, Sonoko was always struggling, yet she still managed to keep going."

"I can sympathize. So both of you decided to concoct a battle plan of your own for that exam, while excluding the other two?"

"Yeah. Sonoko and I studied together. We used our time to prepare for the mock battle exam. Sonoko actually figured out how to disable the limiters and other safeties of our TSFs while I got one of the mechanics to help us. We even got a virus into our machines to prevent the instructors from noticing our actions," Tsukiko admitted, the regret written all over her face. Lelouch could already see how this was going to end. "We had our chance; Michiru and Chinatsu teamed up to draw assistant sergeant Nirasawa while we would draw Marimo's attention to split them up, turning it into a two on one battle. We figured that beating one of them would be enough of an accomplishment, so we executed our plan. Once we drew Marimo in, both Sonoko and I tried an Albright Turn to get the jump on her."

In an instant, Lelouch realized what likely went wrong.

"But after performing it, I crashed head-on into Marimo's TSF, while Sonoko slammed into a building," Tsukiko said as her eyes became downcast. "I was out cold from the crash, but from what I was told I crashed into a supply depot nearby after my impact with Marimo since we had unknowingly left the exam area. I was badly injured with multiple bone fractures, most of my upper body covered in second-degree burns, a ruptured spleen, a cracked rib or two, and a heavy concussion that put me into a coma for the next six months,."

"Sonoko, didn't survive her impact," Lelouch stated quietly.

Tsukiko shook her head. "Miraculously, she was relatively unharmed from her crash. She defied orders to stay in her TSF. The assistant instructor couldn't take control of it to stop her due to the virus we implanted. When she got to my cockpit the supply depot exploded, killing her instantly, while my cockpit protected me. Marimo got out of it with only minor injuries because she had tried to evade. Only her TSF's right arm was destroyed when I slammed into it."

"I see, and six months later you recovered? I assume that's when you learned what happened?"

"Yeah. I was in no condition physically or mentally to pilot a TSF anymore thanks to all of the trauma," Tsukiko admitted with her eyes filled with guilt. "But the UN who sponsored our training had an offer for me. You know how Haruka had her legs restored right? I was put into a UN and Japanese sponsored project to test medical tech. They told me that if it worked it could help other pilots who suffered career ending injuries, so feeling responsible for Sonoko's death, I agreed. I spent the next year and a half having what was basically my body being rebuilt from the inside out. All of the lingering damage left over from the accident was healed and I endured a lengthy physical recovery program and I had therapy to help with my mental trauma."

"It sounds like it was quite the recovery period," Lelouch remarked.

"It wasn't bad because it was free as long as I agreed to be a guinea pig," Tsukiko said, shrugging her shoulders. "It did and I was able to pilot a TSF again, but by the time I was mentally ready to do so, the BETA invaded Japan. You know the rest."

"You were more or less fresh from recovery when you joined Marimo's new cadet class," Lelouch realized.

"That's right, since I never graduated I had to do the course all over again. Thank god the training wasn't as hellish this time outside of the mock battle and the Comprehensive Skill Evaluation," Tsukiko added.

"I understand," Lelouch said, but he could see the shadow that hovered over her.

Her guilt over the death of Sonoko Miura is written all over her face.

It wasn't surprising, but what was surprising was how Tsukiko managed to get back into a TSF after such traumatic events and injuries. Even if Sonoko's death wasn't caused directly by her, their combined actions had created the situation for it to happen.

Tragically, her death could've been avoided had they not been so desperate to prove themselves to their colleges.

"I can't imagine sharing this with me was easy," Lelouch broke the silence.

"It never is, nor was it for the others," Tsukiko admitted. "I even heard that Chinatsu withdrew from the program afterward, since…well…"

Tsukiko trailed off, but Lelouch had an idea what she would say.

"The incident became too much for her, didn't it? Considering your relationship with her and Sonoko that I heard from Michru, you girls were a lot closer than mere friends."

Tsukiko shook her head a bit while her cheeks turned red. "Well, what do you expect from a military where most of the men fit for age have all been killed off?"

"Fair enough," Lelouch accepted. "As for Chinatsu, I was told that she left the Fuji Training Corps willingly. I wouldn't be surprised if she's no longer in the military."

"It will be for the best," Tsukiko said. "Probably better if she didn't know I'm already recovered."

"For her, maybe, but there's still you," Lelouch offered. "Don't be afraid to come to me or Major Tsukuyomi if you feel uneasy. We might be facing bigger horrors out there than the BETA. And no, that doesn't just mean that we might have to deal with other humans. More…eldritch beings, for example."

"Eldritch," Tsukiko questioned the term but shook her head. "I get it. Thank you very much for looking out for me."

"It's my pleasure to do so. If there is nothing else, you may go now."

Tsukiko took her leave, feeling in a better mood. At least, that's what Lelouch wanted to think. The last thing he needed was one of his own pilots distracted, never mind have them break down, by mental stress they've been bottling up this whole time.

That seems to settle everyone's issues for now, Lelouch thought. Mental and emotional ones, at least. There should be no pressing issues for the time being.

Another ring on his room's door said otherwise.

Guess I spoke too soon.

This time, it was Yui, accompanied by Shamiko and Izumi. Seeing them outside, Lelouch pushed the button on his desk to allow them in.

"Did you three need something?" Lelouch asked.

"Yes, since we have time, we wanted to talk. Just a chat really," Shimako answered, gesturing for Lelouch to follow them. "There's something a bit important we wanted to go over."

"How important?" Lelouch raised an eyebrow.

"It's…about our first destination," Yui reluctantly answered. "They were asking about our experiences with space. Or rather, your experiences with space."

"Why me?"

"Because the only 'space' I've been to was that place, which I couldn't describe anything else other than a pocket space, as Claude calls it," Yui got flustered as Shamiko and Izumi grew red cheeks. "And when they asked me to describe that place we were in, well…"

"I agree that, besides not being what you would call space, it was a very… pleasant place despite how it sounds," Lelouch sympathized.

"You said that we're in a, what? A love hotel?" Shamiko searched her head, dumbstruck over the term.

"A place meant for couples." Izumi's face burned red. "Tell me, what exactly did you two do in that place before you saved our hides?"

"It's…not something I want to go over myself either," Lelouch confessed. "That's best kept a secret, but I can at least say that it was nothing that could besmirch Yui's honor."

"Hmph, if you're not willing to tell us, then fine. But still, what about you?" Izumi asked again, her cheeks still red. "Any experience with space yourself?"

"Well, the closest I have to it is the fictional cartoons Japan used to create before its fall," Lelouch responded.

"Cartoons?" Shamiko drew a blank.

"Pieces of handwritten animation, composed of numerous slides," Lelouch described as he suppressed the poor thoughts on this universe's lack of recreational culture thanks to the war. "One company made this series involving mecha similar to Knightmare Frames and TSFs, using mass-produced robots with real-life applications. It didn't really sell well. At least they started making model kits of them, along with toy designs of Knightmare Frames like the Ganymede. You can see how the series took off pretty well after that just by the merchandise alone. Of all things, even after Japan fell, it's still pretty popular back in Britannia."

"Um, okay," Shimako stated, as Izumi seemed just as confused as neither could visualize it.

Perhaps I should show them some if time allows, Lelouch thought, making a future note.

"As for your question," Lelouch went back to the topic. "That series showed a lot regarding physics in space, at least much more accurately than most back in the day. This means having to move in environments where gravity is non-existent."

"No gravity?" Shamiko asked. "You mean no risk of saying…falling to your death?"

"Something of the sort," Lelouch answered. "That and having more freedom of movement."

"That would be an advantage for sure," Izumi complimented.

"Actually, it's not an entirely good thing," Lelouch objected. "Gravity is needed to help with bone mass and overall body health. If you stay out there for too long, even the strongest human can become brittle and far too weak to live normally on Earth again. Food isn't easily accessible either. Most foods must be dried or compressed into packages to survive transport into space and to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria. There is also the potential contamination of the equipment due to some items like alcohol not being able to properly dissolve."

"I think I heard about astronauts eating food by a straw during the Apollo missions and later for those staying on the moon until the BETA overran it," Izumi commented.

"Yes that's true, but this ship has artificial gravity so we shouldn't have that problem. Not to mention all of the electronics and components are protected from crumbs and liquids that would've been problematic in the past," Lelouch explained.

"Artificial gravity? How are we creating that?" Shamiko asked, curious. "That can't be something simple. How well can we trust the system?

"I apologize as I don't know how to explain how that system works," Lelouch admitted.

"Then how about I offer a solution to that?" A familiar pink-haired woman flashed into the room.

"What are you doing here, Claude?" Lelouch inquired in annoyance.

"Figured I would step in on a good question unfamiliar to you. As for your answer."

Claude snapped her fingers.

Suddenly, everyone in the room became weightless. Yui, Izumi, Shimako, and Lelouch tried to grab hold of something just as gravity was restored. They fell flat on their faces together as the intercom suddenly went chaotic elsewhere.

On the bridge, around the same time.

"Someone, damage report!" Maya announced over the speakers.

"C-Checking," a bridge officer reported. "Everything is all green here. No damage to report."

"I got a massive spill here in the mess hall," a voice came from the speakers. "Damnit, I'm gonna have to start all over on this meal. Request an additional aid kit in case of any major burns?"

"Tada!" Claude declared as the Lelouch and the other girls pushed themselves back up.

"What was that all about!?" Yui snapped.

"You said you were worried about the gravity, weren't you?" Claude brought up. "Living in zero-gravity zones will be a problem compared to being in no gravity. So, I figured I'd give you an answer. Our system is so good that you can play around with it at no cost to the ship!"

"I get it. It's something you can turn on and off. Please don't do that again."

"At least give us a warning before you demonstrate anything," Lelouch remarked as he dusted his suit off.

"Explaining is too tiresome," Claude fumed. "Best to experience first and then get questions later."

Says someone who has trouble explaining things, Lelouch thought.

"Now then," Claude continued. "Any other questions?"

"No one will question you on that, but seriously isn't this a bit much for a demonstration?!" Lelouch exclaimed, annoyed with Claude.

"Well I did have a more important reason to see you. I had to warn you about using the Coupling System with those girls, the espers from Russia." Claude said with a knowing smirk before her expression turned serious.

"What about them?" Yui inquired.

"Don't use the coupling system with them no matter what," Claude said sternly. "Their abilities would work too well with the system, and by too well I mean you'll both end up basically mind raping each other unwillingly. For that matter don't ever use it with anyone possessing similar abilities."

"Are you serious? Something like that could happen with those kinds of people?"

"Yes, because the Coupling System links minds together, and linking with people like them would be too much for your mind to handle, so I've made sure to lock the coupling system for their assigned machines," Claude said with a wink.

"I suppose thanks are in order," Lelouch admitted with a sigh, but Claude vanished again.

"I really want to pay that woman back, one day," Yui said, grumbling in anger.

"One day, perhaps a chance will come," Izumi counsoled, patting her friend's back.

"By the way how is your sister?" Shimako asked, offering a change in subject.

"She's fine, but I do worry about leaving her at Ashford Academy," Lelouch said, unable to hide his worry for Nunnally.

"Bringing her along on this ship wouldn't be a good idea," Izumi said, cutting off the idea before anyone could bring it up. Lelouch nodded in agreement.

"And I don't think leaving her in our Japan would be a good idea either," Shimako added, to which both Izumi and Yui agreed.

"At least at Ashford Academy, Nunnally can socialize with people her age and there are more things to keep her calm. The trauma from the time our mother died left scars, and outside of me and our friendSuzaku she has been uneasy around anyone else," Lelouch explained, recalling the times Nunnally would throw a tantrum whenever he had to leave. Being blind and helpless in a nation that didn't look too kindly on Britannians at the time didn't help matters. "I don't want her to become completely dependent on me."

"I don't think being here could offer her the same, especially as she would know about her brother risking his life," Yui commented.

"So what was the cover story you gave her, if you don't mind me asking?" Izumi inquired.

Lelouch's overall mood soured, as it wasn't easy to say. At least Yui understood as she had been with Lelouch when he told Nunnally.

(The Previous Night)

"Big Brother, why are you doing such a long internship?" Nunnally asked.

"It's…regrettably necessary, but what I can tell you is what I haven't told anyone else," Lelouch said. Although he disliked lying to Nunnally, this would be the best for her. "Just know what I am doing will ensure a safer future for us."

"Okay," Nunnally was still saddened by the news, but took comfort in his sincerity and love for her.

"You'll have Sayoko for the time being and I will return when I can," Lelouch reassured.

"I'll make sure of it, Nunnally. You can trust me to look after your brother" Yui said with more reassurance.

"Thank you. Are you sure this will be best for us in the future?" Nunnally asked her brother.

"Nunnally, the Ashfords only took us in as liability insurance. You know this as well as I do. Who knows when that could change or what could happen once we graduate from Ashford Academy? I have an opportunity to do something to secure our futures and safety on our own terms. All I have to do is take care of some things, which will have us apart for some time."

"You will return, right, Big Brother?" Nunnally begged. Her worry over him was touching and made Lelouch question his plans for a second, but he knew that this would be the best for her.

"I'll return when I can, but should there be any trouble, I'll return immediately," Lelouch said reassuringly.

"As far as everyone knows at Ashford Academy, I am departing for a long internship across Britannia's territories as part of a program with the…" Lelouch hesitated. "Britannian Boy Scouts."

"Claude's doing," Izumi and Shimako said in unison, immediately understanding the joke.

"If the Ashfords were keeping you as liability insurance, would they just let you go that easily?" Shimako asked.

"That is what I thought to myself," Lelouch replied. "But while Ruben Ashford at least had a more genuine desire to shelter us compared to his son and daughter-in-law, apparently Claude paid them off with a hefty sum in exchange. No questions asked, according to her."

"It must've been a lot of money to buy their cooperation like that," Shimako remarked.

"Well, as long as the headmaster's son and daughter-in-law don't find out. They are more concerned about trying to marry their daughter Milly off to restore their status. As long as they don't come visiting, which is highly doubtful, it should be fine," Lelouch answered.

"We really should do something for your sister. Set up an emergency plan or something in case something happens," Izumi suggested.

"Yui and I have been talking with Maya about setting something up. That is, once we accomplish our initial and more immediate mission to help Japan."

It was late in the evening when the Vortigern arrived at its destination along with the colony ship it was escorting. Upon arriving, the ship began descending to the planet below. All scans of the planet were green, and it would be safe and suitable for colonization. As preparations began for the colony ship to descend to the planet's surface, Lelouch was standing-by in his fortified pilot suit, with a helmet tucked under his right arm.

Sayoko and Lelouch had worked out a schedule of training maneuvers. First, they would be hands-off, allowing the pilots to get used to flying in space through free flight exercises before moving on to actual training, allowing them to get more comfortable with the idea. While the ship gets ready to depart for its next destination, they'll spend the time refining what they'd learned in the simulators.

Hopefully we can use the few days here to get as much training as possible, Lelouch thought as he walked through the hanger.

Lelouch's thoughts were interrupted when he saw Izumi waiting by the open cockpit of the Izanami.

"Did you need something, First Lieutenant Noto?" Lelouch asked.

"Lelouch, you can drop the formalities with me. It's just us," Izumi replied with a light smile.

"Thank you. I do prefer that in fact. I am glad you are more flexible than how Yui and Kazusa are," Izumi remarked, causing the two to laugh.

"I suppose. What brings you here? I've yet to give out deployment orders.?"

"I know it's late, but thank you for helping me during Kyoto. What you said made a lot of sense and helped me get my head on straight," Izumi began with a grateful smile. "If not for what you said, I wouldn't have only survived, but I wouldn't have pushed myself to train myself to be a better overall pilot."

"I would say my words have only done so much. The rest was all from you and the hard earned talent you've cultivated. You got a medal for your performance and a nickname, the Berserker of Sado, for the most BETA kills achieved by any Japanese TSF pilot so far," Lelouch offered praise.

"I am not fond of that name," Izumi sighed, " It makes people think I am some kind of vicious beast."

"I am sorry if I can't offer much of a counter for that, but you did obtain a staggering kill count."

"Yes, I suppose that's true, but I don't feel much satisfaction with that accomplishment. I'm not disappointed or anything, but it's hard to describe it." Izumi struggled to put her feelings into words.

"A lack of fulfillment to avenge the one you lost to the BETA?"

Izumi considered this for a moment before nodding.

"I think that's it. Nothing short of whatever is behind the BETA will do."

"It will be sometime before that happens," Lelouch said. Both he and Izumi knew the brain behind the BETA was beyond their reach for now and they knew that any attempt to get to it alone would be borderline suicide.

"Yes, I know, but it's strange. I don't mind the fact that I'll be away from home for a while."

"Unfortunately, I am not an expert on such things," Lelouch admitted, knowing that Izumi's sorrow wasn't something she could come to terms with now.

He knew from his own experience with his mother's murder, so Lelouch had an idea of what Izumi was likely going through.

"There are some things I'll need to sort out. I was able to visit Tadamichi's family before leaving to mourn with them. We knew each other since we were kids and I was close to his family," Izumi said with a sad expression. "Ours was an arranged marriage, but we were lucky to discover that we loved each other deeply."

"I can't imagine how difficult that was for you and them," Lelouch commented, feeling it was best to keep the conversation going.

I am not surprised it was an arranged marriage, but I guess it was a rare one in which the couple was surprisingly compatible, Lelouch thought. His comparison was based on what he knew of them from Britannia.

"They welcomed my presence and thanked me for getting vengeance for their son," Izumi replied. "I am glad I was able to help. With their son gone their household is in trouble too. He was their only child."

"Regrettably, they aren't the only ones."

"You're right, I have no doubt that many lost their sole children during the invasion.

Lelouch was aware that this wasn't a matter to touch upon lightly.

"With many families of the Royal Guard having endured such losses you and your family are worried about what could happen?"

Izumi smiled, unsurprised that Lelouch would pick up on it.

"Yes, just as the Royal Guard families of both lower and higher ranks lost children, I am aware I am not the only one going through this. I am afraid that my family could come under pressure to marry me off to another to secure their future. Not just from the outside, but from my relatives too since our house isn't very stable like Shimako's, Aki's or Kazusa's."

"Such panic or anxiety is normal given the recent devastation to Japan," Lelouch offered reassuringly. Unfortunately, he didn't know politics, let alone how marriage worked within the Royal Guard Families to offer much more. "I imagine it will take some time for those families to calm down before assessing where they stand."

"I hope I'm just imagining the worst possible outcome."

"Right," Lelouch said, realizing what was troubling Izumi.

She's afraid she could be put in another marriage before she is able to move on from her former bethrothe, Lelouch thought. I doubt that will happen so soon, but…

Lelouch paused, thinking of Yui, making a note to perhaps further study and gain a better understanding of the Royal Guard families and their politics.

"You are welcome to visit if you wish to talk," Lelouch offered.

"Thank you," Izumi said with a smile.

Just the same, giving her a chance to vent her issues will still help her. Hopefully it doesn't become an issue that could affect her on the field. Lelouch thought, wishing to avoid any losses.

Especially a potential situation where he would have to perform another mercy killing, as he did to Kaori in Kyoto. Something Lelouch didn't want to do again.

While the ship they were escorting was making landfall, Lelouch and his squad, including their many new members, were deploying to conduct flight practice in zero gravity.

Lelouch and Yui were the first to launch.

"Whoa," Yui let slip as she expected some difficulty flying through space.

"Are you alright, Takamura?" Lelouch said, being mindful of protocol.

"I am fine. I was expecting some kind of resistance," Yui said, managing to get a grasp on flying through space. "The controls suddenly feel too smooth."

"In space you don't have air resistance or even gravity to restrain you now," Lelouch explained.

"Just got to keep an eye on things from more directions now," Tsukiko chimed in as she approached, accompanied by Asagi, who's TSF was shaky.

"Turn on your AMBAC. the system will handle the rest and make it easier for you," Lelouch advised.

The Active Mass Balance Auto-Control was a system allowed for thruster-less maneuvering using precise limb movements which the system can adjust for automatically. It can save on fuel and energy ensuring a longer and more stable flight.

"Got it," Asagi replied before switching on the system, her flying stabilizing.

Some of the others might need more time to get used to operating in space, Lelouch mused.

They still had time as they awaited for the transports to finish their descent. Once they were done and finished establishing a base of operations they would depart for their next destination, Cosmic Era Earth.

Lelouch could only hope time and the use of simulators would be enough before they begin hunting space pirates.

A/N: With that Lelouch and company are on their way to the world of Gundam Seed Destiny, and that chapter is already done. It will be posted when the beta work for chapter seventeen is done.

With the new additions Lelouch is squadron is now at full strength, as far as TSF squadrons go.

I won't say how, but I will say things won't go as planned when they arrive.

I am doing work on chapter nineteen with chapter twenty under way, so don't worry there are chapters made for this story, its just waiting on the beta work. But as you guys know the holidays are a busy season for everyone, so yeah. But I'll post chapter seventeen as soon as I get the chapter back.

I'll see you all next chapter and happy holidays, I hope the chapter was worth the wait. There may not have been a lot of action, but any loose ends have been tied up.

StrifeHavoc · Feb 26, 2025

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for his contributions.

At least despite some delays the chapter is finally ready for posting and thanks again to Silkdreamweaver for polishing and cleaning up the chapter.

I am going to say this was a hard chapter to do, mostly because of the power scaling between machines, which forced me to up the "difficulty." Then finally wanting to avoid a copy and paste of events this chapter ties into for Gundam Seed Destiny.

I'll explain more at the end of the chapter, but for now, enjoy. I am sorry if my attempt at a amusing chapter title didn't pan out.

Chapter 17

Scars That Cannot Heal

(Gundam Seed Destiny)

Four days later the Vortigern exited warp, near a planet very much like Earth, but unlike theirs where much of the Asian and European continent had been ravaged into lifeless wastelands, this one was vibrant and full of life. Standing on the bridge, looking out at their destination, was Lelouch and Yui while Maya was reviewing information on the planet provided by Claude.

The ship was mindful to avoid drawing the attention of the locals. Compared to their initial mission of escorting the colony ship to its destination, their second destination offered possible danger so the Vortigern was on alert.

Hmmm, Maya thought as she reviewed the files on hand.

Lelouch had already reviewed the information during their travel to the planet and had taken care to memorize the relevant information.

An Earth no different from the one me and the others hail from. Unlike our worlds, this one is much further along in terms of technological advancements. They've already colonized space around this Earth with space stations and a city with other settlements on the moon, Lelouch thought. Unlike Yui's world, and perhaps closer to his world in terms of power balance, there were at least four notable nations or superpowers to keep in mind.

"So do you think there is a chance of any alliances," Yui asked, interrupting Lelouch's thoughts. "Do any of the factions look like potential trade partners?"

"That might be risky given the status of things here according to Claude's info," Lelouch said with one chin on his hand, doubtful. "Based on that information I would say the Atlantic Federation is out of the question. Although it is a democracy, its close ties to the terrorist organization, Blue Cosmos, and its anti-coordinator propaganda would make me unwilling to trust them. In fact I think we would be pulled into whatever brewing conflict this world could be heading towards."

From Caulde's files Lelouch learned that Coordinators were a race of humans whose genetics were modified during the embryonic development within their mother's womb. Initially appearing in small numbers, marriages between many first-generation Coordinators led to a population boom and the rise of second-generation Coordinators who inherited the augmented genetic traits from their parents without further modification.

This all began with the first Coordinator, a man known as George Glenn; a man with a record of scientific, athletic and military achievements that turned him into a figure of legend. All of which became debated after he led the first manned mission to Jupiter. He confessed that he had been modified genetically before he was born, and was hoping for other humans to follow in his footsteps. He released the secrets behind his modifications on the worldwide internet, leading to the rise of Coordinators.

It was meant to be, or at least Lelouch believed, an act with good intentions; he wondered if George Glenn was too idealistic to realize just how much of an impact his actions would have on the world he left behind for Jupiter.

"According to the information provided, their nation was controlled by those who would become Blue Cosmos and were the ones who urged for the eradication of Coordinators," Yui stated, having managed to review some of the files herself. She was relieved that Lelouch matched her concerns about the Atlantic Federation.

"George Glenn shared the secret behind his modifications without any thought as to what people would do with that knowledge. I imagine many blame him for the tragedies and the bloody war that came after," Lelouch commented as he saw their destination draw near.

Surrounding the Earth in a ring that became more visible as they neared it, was a literal junkyard in space. Filled with everything from old satellites left adrift, broken pieces of ships, colonies, space stations and asteroids that had been drawn in, some of which were used as mining colonies judging by the structures built into those they saw.

The Debris Belt as it was aptly called, wasn't only where the space junk of this Earth was dumped. It also became a graveyard for the many ships and colonies destroyed in the bloodshed that would come in the years following Geroge Glenn's secrets of modification.

"I can't wrap my head around what George Glenn was thinking. I can accept he meant well, but for all of his achievements in science, how could he have failed to anticipate the full repercussions of his actions?" Lelouch wondered aloud. If there was one flaw in the legendary George Glenn, for all of his achievements, for all of the genetic engineering done to make him a better human, he was too idealistic for his own good.

"I guess everyone attributed his achievements to his modified genetics so everyone wanted their children to be like him," Yui said.

Lelouch closed his eyes before saying, "Not everyone. One of the major factors that no doubt fueled anti-coordinator sentiments was the argument over if modifying one's child genetically before they were born was the right thing to do. Then factor in religion and previous arguments and reservations against transhumanism and you'll find a sizable portion of the population who would be against such modification from the outset. Above all, what he failed to consider was how difficult it would be to gain the technology needed for such procedures and who were the ones who could do so."

Yui realized what Lelouch was suggesting.

"The procedure was monopolized by those with wealth?!"

"Exactly," Lelouch confirmed. Following the reveal of George Glenn's origins and the secret behind his creation, there was a sudden ban on genetic engineering.

However, many wealthy families, especially those with connections, began modifying their unborn children into Coordinators in secret. As the debates raged, the first generations of Coordinators were already born. Initially they were small in numbers, but once the ban was lifted there was a wave of unborn children being modified into Coordinators.

The divide between Coordinators and the unmodified, now referred to as Naturals, culminated in the assassination of George Glenn. Maybe there could have been a way for him to have avoided the pitfalls, but it was already in the past and now Lelouch had to navigate the echoes from George's fallout.

"Captain," Yuzuka said, arriving in uniform saluting Lelouch and Yui. The pair turned around to return the salute. "The squad is about ready per your orders."

"Good, it might not be necessary, but I don't want to take any risks with unknowns in the Debris Belt," Lelouch said as he and Yui departed the bridge as Maya watched them.

I am sure there are criminal groups and scavengers operating in the Debris Belt, Maya thought, reaching the same suspicions as Lelouch.

The two had spoken earlier and agreed that upon arriving the Vortigern would enter yellow alert with all pilots on standby and all of the ship's weapons at the ready should they come under attack. Due to the inexperience of everyone when it comes to space combat, Lelouch, Yui, Izumi and Shimako would be sent out first. The others would remain on standby.

Ideally I would like for this to be done quickly without incident, Lelouch thought.

Meanwhile in the locker room for the female pilots, Yuzuka had just finished putting on her Fortified Suit. Shejoined the other female pilots Haruko, Asagi, Mitsuki, Tsukiko, Cui, Stella, and Sharon in the waiting room attached to the locker room as they awaited orders. Shimako and Izumi had finished changing earlier and were waiting in their machines, which was the same thing Martica and her sister did once they were ready despite being allowed to wait.

Haruka was oddly absent as well too, but she had likely changed into her Fortified Suit.

"So you think we'll run into any trouble? Like pirates or something," Cui asked, sitting at a table with Tsukiko who shrugged her shoulders.

"It's possible. The Debris Belt does provide a lot of good ambush points for any ships hiding in it," Tsukiko said, reclining in the chair.

"So, this is a world without any BETA?" Asagi inquired.

"Yeah. No aliens as far as we've heard, except for the bones of some space whale they found. Otherwise no BETA or any other alien species," Cui replied.

"Not counting us," Tsukiko remarked, drawing a laugh from a few people in the room.

"Ok, aside from us being the aliens. Anyone interested in checking out the planet?" Mitsuki mused.

"I think most of us are," Stella commented, after looking around. "However, I don't know if we could accommodate a huge group though without drawing suspicion."

"That's a shame, but I suppose since this world is on edge, it's to be expected. Did you read how the last war ended?" Tsukiko said, reclining in the chair.

"I read that both sides were on the verge of self-destruction.," Stella said, grim faced. "Thankfully a third party stopped both sides before they could wipe themselves and the planet out."

"Wasn't a treaty decided through?" Asagi asked.

"Yeah, but it's really more of a cease fire when you think about it. The animosity that led to the war in the first place hasn't been dealt with, not to mention how both are unsatisfied by how it ended," Haruko said, folding her arms.

"And us showing up could be a trigger that could possibly set off a new conflict," Sharon added.

"Well that sucks," Cui grumbled.

"I know," Haruko said, understandingly. "I wouldn't mind seeing a BETA free world myself, but that is how it is. Besides, it's probably best to avoid getting dragged into a planet's affairs as much as possible. Our home has its own problems."

"I agree, but that might be easier said than done depending on the situation," Stella cautioned sagely.

"So, if some kind of disaster or crisis we can't ignore occurs, we could step in?" Asagi inquired, not opposed to lending help.

"Maybe, but who knows," Stella replied.

"Well, what about our Captain's world? It has no BETA too, right?" Asagi asked, offering an alternative.

"Yes, but the Japan he lives in is a conquered territory of the Britannian Empire," Stella replied. "If you read the data provided, it is a country where non-Britannians are, at best, second class citizens, which would make moving around difficult."

"What a buzzkill. But what about China or Taiwan?" Cui asked, annoyed by the lack of places they could visit.

Stella sighed, annoyed that Cui didn't read up on Lelouch's world as she did.

"Actually, unlike our world, China along with most of East Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia form the Chinese Federation," Stella answered.

"Oh," Cui said, surprised. She couldn't help but feel envious that Lelouch's China was much bigger than her's. The BETA drove the Communist People's Republic of China off the mainland, forcing them to take refuge on Taiwan with the Democratic Republic of China. It forced them to form the Unified Front of China out of their two militaries despite the considerable ideological differences that would've made such an alliance normally impossible. "What kind of government is it?"

"It's still an imperial monarchy, but compared to Britannia, it is more respectable to human rights," Stella repiled.

From what I read about Britannia, that's not a high bar to reach, Tsukiko remarked internally.

"Huh, so it means it's ruled by an Emperor or Empress. That's really different from my home," Cui said, intrigued and surprised by the differences.

"Indeed. The current ruler is Empress Tianzi. Unfortunately she is a child with all real power currently in the hands of the High Eunuchs," Stella informed.

"WHAT," Cui snapped, raising from her chair and slamming both of her hands on the table. "Are fucking kidding me? Who the hell thought keeping those corrupt, dickless, troublemakers around is a smart idea?! Anyone who knows their history would've dropped using Eunuchs in any government capacity, because they always get corrupt, greedy and take power at their first chance, especially with a child emperor."

"She isn't wrong. A child ruler equals opportunity for anyone wanting more power for themselves," Tsukiko commented, indifferent to Cui's outburst.

"Given their track record in history, it's just shocking to me that they would be kept around in any form," Cui said, calming down and taking her seat.

"I guess that is reasonable. I mean I am not a history buff or anything." Asagi remarked.

"Well maybe we'll find a non-BETA planet to check out at some point, one friendly to out of town visitors," Sharon said to lighten the mood.

None of them noticed Mistuki having slipped away.

Around the same time in the hangar, Lelouch was walking alongside Sayoko, who was also in her Fortified Suit. The pair were discussing various plans and contingencies. Among them was what to do in the event of combat with the people of this world and potential others.

"I've checked with the mechanics, they've confirmed that all mission recorders are fully functional and the bridge reports their recording equipment for both communications and visual events are ready," Sayoko explained professionally.

"Good, while I have no desire to get entangled in the affairs of another world. It would be foolish for us not to prepare for possible conflict," Lelouch said. "It might seem overly cautious, but who knows what or who we might run into and what their intentions could be."

"No sir, I concur with you. Not everyone we will encounter will be friendly or have good intentions towards us," Sayoko replied.

"Exactly. We'll need to be on guard whenever we arrive at a new world until we are confidently reassured that they won't start hostilities against us."

"Did the Major say anything else?"

"She did," Lelouch replied, recalling the conversation he and Maya had. "In the event of situations, like a civilian ship under attack by pirates and such, we would intervene in the interest of providing humanitarian aid and rescue, since that could go a long way in fostering good relations with a new world."

"Or a good first impression, I imagine."

"That too," Lelouch agreed. "As long as we don't end up tangled in their affairs, we have some freedom to act."

"Of course," Sayoko said. Soon they were approached from behind by Yuzuka and Haruka.

"Sir, Ma'am, Lieutenants Sendou and Suzumiya reporting," Haruka said as she and Yuzuka saluted.

"At ease," Lelouch said as he and Sayoko returned the salute.

"You two are supposed to be on standby," Sayoko inquired.

"Forgive us ma'am. It has become difficult to wait. We wanted to see if there was anything more productive we could do." Yuzuka explained, which Haruka nodded.

"I am afraid there isn't much, but you could conduct more space simulation battles as you wait," Lelouch offered, appreciating the go-to attitude of his squadmates. "There may not be combat if all goes well."

Seeing the dejected looks on their faces, Sayoko stepped in.

"Sir, we could have them on stand-by in their machines. While Lieutenant Sendou's skills are questionable, Lieutenant Suzumiya on the other hand is more than capable of joining us should the need arise," Sayoko said, remembering Haruka's performance during her mock battle.

"Well, I have no reason to object," Lelouch said, before Mitsuki showed up.

"Sir, with permission, could I join them as well?" Mitsuki asked, saluting Lelouch and Sayoko as she butted into the conversation.

"Your manners could use some work. She does have combat experience and did perform well in our simulations," Sayoko said after lightly scolding Mitsuki.

"Sorry ma'am. I'm just eager to do my part," Mitsuki replied.

"Very well, I suppose there is no harm having another," Lelouch acquiesced.

"Assuming battle becomes necessary, sir," Sayoko pointed out, to which Lelouch agreed with a nod.

Unknown to them, and also entering the Debris Belt was another ship. Three-hundred and eighty meters in length, it was blue with some gray and white lining. It had four launch bays on the front, heavily armed with six-dual barrel beam cannons on the front, two on top, one on each side and two underneath. Aboard the bridge, seated in the captain's chair was a man in his early thirties with short blonde hair, blue eyes, and wearing a white uniform with gray and black trimmings with red on his shoulders.

The rest of the bridge crew was working in silence until the door to the bridge opened and a man floated insided. A man wearing a black and gray uniform, with yellow and red on his shoulder suggesting a higher rank. His most distinctive feature was a black helmet-like mask with matching colored lenses that hide his identity.

"Somehow or another, we managed to pull this off successfully," the captain in his chair said to his masked compatriot.

"How long until we reach point B?" The masked man asked a navigation officer.

"About two hours sir."

"Do you think that new ZAFT ship is coming after us?" The captain asked.

"I don't know," The masked man replied, floating behind his own chair that sat next to the captain's. Unlike Lelouch's ship, theirs lacked artificial gravity. "Since we don't know, let's assume it is and keep on our present course. Better to plan for the worst outcome, especially on the battlefield."

Neo Roanoke, the masked man and overall commander of their mission to raid a PLANT colony called Armory One. Unlike other PLANT colonies located at Lagrange Five, the new colony at Lagrange Four was both an industrial and military arsenal with new weapons and ships in development. Thanks to a spy within the ranks of its military, Neo and his special forces of the 81st Independent Mobile Group, better known as Phantom Pain, were dispatched to hijack and steal three of the new mobile suit weapons developed there. Identified as the Chaos, the Abyss and the Gaia, all three were formidable new Gundams.

While their three infiltrators stole the machines, Neo and his ship, the Girty Lue attacked the spaceport and partoling ZAFT ships to serve as a distraction for the infiltration team to escape. Thanks to a special function of their Girty Lue-class vessel, Mirage Colloid Stealth Technology, rendered their ship invisible to the naked eye.

Everything had gone well, the infiltration team had accomplished their goal but, things began to take a turn for the worst when a fourth, unknown, prototype got involved. Their infiltrators had to fight their way out..

The three managed to return to the ship, but unfortunately for Neo, the new warship ZAFT had been building arrived on the scene.

Deciding to quit while he was ahead, he abandoned the battle and ordered a retreat.

The new ZAFT battleship tried to pursue them, but Neo ordered that their gas-powered engines be detached and set to detonate since they could be ejected from the ship. The explosion stalled the ship, buying them time to escape.

There was no doubt in Neo's mind that the new ZAFT ship was still in pursuit of them.

"How are the three doing?"

"None of them are worse for wear," Neo said reassuringly to the captain of the ship, Ian Lee. "They're sleeping like babies. It does appear that Auel used a block word on Stella. That does bother me a little."

"Pilots that have to be frequently returned to their cradles everytime something happens to them," Ian said with slight disapproval in his voice. "Does the lab really think they'll be useful to us?"

"You have to admit they are better than the previous batch," Neo countered before adding, "They understand what we are telling them and know what to do. Unlike the last bunch, they are more capable as soldiers and pilots since they did successfully steal three of ZAFT's new machines."

Ian winced as he remembered the previous batch. Biological CPUs, the pilots treated more as living equipment than actual people. To combat the genetically augmented Coordinators, the Atlantic Federation had conducted experiments using drugs and other means to enhance normal humans to make them fight on the same level as Coordinators. The first generation were made using various criminals on death row as test subjects. While highly effective as combat pilots in mobile suits, they unfortunately were incapable of much outside combat, due to how limited they could go without a new dose of the enhancement drug.

They found that the longer they went without their doses, the more mentally unhinged and psychotic they became as their own minds along with their bodies would deteriorate. Auel and Stella were from a new batch that should be able to function longer between doses thanks to improvements.

As an additional precaution each new pilot was conditioned to the use of a safe word that would stop them if they became too uncontrollable or disobedient.

"Hmph," Ian responded, causing Neo to smile in understanding.

"It can't be helped, after all everything seems to be in the trial stages these days. This ship, our mobile suits, those pilots and even our world."

"I am more than aware," Ian said.

"The day is coming when everything will begin for real, and we'll be the ones in charge," Neo said with a smile behind his mask.

Suddenly a beeping sound interrupted their conversation.

"Sir, we have an incoming transmission on an encrypted line. It's from the Nemesis," a communication officer replied.

"Put it on," Neo commanded.

On the screen was a man with brown hair that was graying on the sides, wearing a white and blue with gold trimmed uniform and a red turtleneck under it. His green eyes showed a hardened determination while anger behind them.

"Admiral Alec Gruber of the Orb Union, to what do we owe this pleasure? I thought you had your own mission that we provided aid for you to carry out?"

"I am actually calling you about that Captain Roanoke. It seems our interests now align."

"Care to elaborate?"

"As you know your superiors provided us with a great many resources. A Girty-Lue-class Stealth Battleship and old Earth Alliance mobile suits so that we may assassinate Chief Representative Cagalli Yula Athha," Alec said. Neo noticed the disgust on his face when speaking Cagalli's name.

"I assume your target went to the PLANT colony Armory One instead of the PLANT homeland as initially planned. She's on the ship chasing us," Neo said, quickly deducing what had happened.

"Yes. It was decided at the last minute for the meeting to happen on Armory One, since they agreed that a quiet meeting with little fanfare was ideal given the subjects she intended to address within the PLANTs. However, during the mission carried out by your infiltrators, it seems our target was touring the base with the Supreme Chairman of the PLANTs, Gilbert Durandal."

"I see, it seems we almost did your job, which might've been easier for everyone," Neo mused.

"Yes, but unfortunately during the chaos she and her bodyguard apparently boarded a mobile suit to escape, but after being caught up in your fight the foolish princess was injured and was taken aboard the Minerva for treatment. Our spy still at Armory One managed to discover this after her presence aboard was relayed to them, then he contacted us," Alec explained.

"I see. So you already know that the ship is the one after us," Neo said, hardly surprised by it.

"Yes sir, and since you are hiding into the Debris Belt and we still have our stealth system and gas propellion intact. We can work together to sink it," Alec replied with a smile. Unlike their main thermal engines, the stealth system on their ships works best with gas propulsion as the extremely high levels of light and thermal heat would bleed through the stealth field.

"Right, let's talk strategy then," Neo replied.

Unaware of the coming danger, the Vortigern had proceeded deeper into the Debris Belt. The ship was on yellow alert, but so far encountered no hostilities. Still the sight of the various forms of space junk was a sight to see. It was surprising just how small their ship was to everything else around them, which only heighted the scale of the debris belt.

Maybe this will make it easier for us to get in, get what we need, then get out, Lelouch thought, monitoring things from the cockpit of his Gundam.

Their destination came into view. A large asteroid with man-made structures sticking out. No one could tell if it was once part of a colony or an asteroid harvested of its resources. Whatever it was in the past it was adrift in the Debris Belt and was their destination.

Moving along its surface, a hole in the side of the asteroid was found. One large enough for two ships the size of the Vortigern could enter.

Within the asteroid was a hidden dock. Inside was a freighter or transport ship of some kind, judging by its design, waiting for them. There was a call from Maya on the bridge.

"Contact has been made and verified, we'll be meeting them in the hangar. Captain Lamperouge and Captain Takamura, you two should join me, the rest of you are to remain on standby," Maya stated, speaking from an open communication line.

"Roger that," Lelouch replied, disembarking from his machine.

It was ten minutes later, when Maya arrived with a soldier following her. Lelouch and Yui joined her to meet Claude's contact. There were two men waiting for them. One was in a black suit with short brown hair, likely a bodyguard. The other was a man who appeared to be in his late thirties or early forties with short greenish brown hair, brown eyes wearing a similar black suit with a gray trench coat over it.

"Mr. Yuri Amalfi, I presume?"

"You must be the captain of this impressive vessel," Yuri said, confirming his identity. "I am indeed Yuri Amalfi, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Thank you. I am Major Maya Tsukuyomi," Maya introduced herself, extending her hand for Yuri to shake. "This is Captain Lelouch Lamperouge and Captain Yui Takamura, the pilots of our Gundams."

The two saluted, Yuri merely smiled.

"No need for such formalities, but it's appreciated. The transfer of everything you'll need to produce Mirage Colloid gas has been started, but it will take time for the transfer to complete," Yuri explained politely.

"It's nothing to worry about, we expected it. But as a courtesy we are willing to give you a tour as we wait," Maya offered.

"I would be delighted to tour such a vessel like this one given it can travel vast distances. As an engineer I am very curious about it," Yuri said, intrigued.

"Of course." Maya gestured for Yuri to follow them.

So he's an engineer, that makes sense, but what did Claude offer him to gain his cooperation? Lelouch wondered as he and Yui followed Maya, Yuri and the rest of their respective escorts.

Watching the whole thing from nearby was Yunya, Leon and another around their age with short blonde hair and blue eyes. Leon and Yunya were dressed in their Fortified Suits with their prep coats to cover themselves, but their third companion wore the uniform of the engineering crew of the ship, specifically those responsible for maintaining the machines in the hangar.

"So far everything is smooth sailing," the blonde haired engineer remarked with both hands on his hips.

"Come on. You're going to jinx it," Yunya complained, eyeing his friend warily,annoyed with the tempting fate.

"I doubt anything will happen, but you really are asking for trouble Vincent," Leon said, staring at the blonde young man in disapproval.

Vincent Lowell laughed nervously under the stares of his friends.

"Hey now, I am not asking for us to get into a fight. It could end up becoming a political nightmare. Something none of us wants to be tied up in," Vincent said, raising his hands in defense.

"I suppose," Leon said, folding his arms.

"I doubt the captain would allow that. He seems like a level headed guy," Yunya remarked, referring to Lelouch before frowning. "Some of the others I am not so sure about."

"Right," Vincent said before redirecting the conversation, well aware of Yunya's issues with the Japanese. "Those Russian girls and that Chinese chick are the ones I worry about."

"How so?" Leon asked, curious.

"From what I've heard from the guys handling maintenance of the simulators, they've said that the girl from China is just vicious in battle," Vincent began. "She's racked up quite the kill count, but she's brutal in her dispatching of the enemy. Seems like she enjoys it."

"So we might have a battle crazy chick in the squad. I think we can handle her," Yuuya said, wondering if Vincent was exaggerating the details.

"Such people aren't exactly rare," Leon added.

"Sure, but those Russians are easy on the eyes, but they are cold as ice as personalities go," Vincent said, moving the conversation along. "But one of them seems to have a sadistic streak."

"Ok," Yunya said, clearly not intimidated. "Are you really telling us about them because you're worried about them or do you got an eye for them or something?"

Leon's stare towards Vincent confirmed his similar suspicions.

"Come on you two, those kinds of stares would melt metal," Vincent said, trying to light-heartily defuse the two.

Meanwhile, nearing the Debris Belt was the new ZAFT battleship, the LHM-BB01 Minerva. At three-hundred and fifty feet long with a unique wedge-like shape, retractable wings that allowed it to operate in atmosphere, and painted a dark gray and red. It had two mobile suit launchers near the rear of the ship with a third more unique launcher for the fourth prototype machine it carried.

Seated on the main bridge, a woman in her late twenties with dandelion colored hair, blue eyes and wearing a white uniform with black trim that belonged to a ZAFT commander. She was the captain of the ship. She was uneasy. It wasn't the search that troubled her, but the VIPs that ended up on her ship.

"Ma'am, we've got up to Bogey-One," a member of the Minerva bridge crew, Malik Yardbirds, announced to captain, Talia Gladys. "It's at orange, ninety-alpha!"

Despite their efforts to escape, the Girty-Lue was still pursuing them and gaining.

"Large heat source detected. At the yellow-fifty mark, eighty-two charlie. Distance eight thousand."

"They followed us after all. Impressive they got up so quickly."

"Yes. It just shows ZAFT isn't slacking off either," Neo replied. "Right, the Amdrial and his ship should be in position. Let's proceed with the plan."

"Aye sir," Ian replied.

"All hands to battle stations. All pilots to the briefing room!" Neo commanded.

The approaching ship wasn't unnoticed by the Vortigern. Maya had the foresight to leave some sensor buoys outside the asteroid and beyond which helped in monitoring everything outside.

"Major, we're detecting a large heat source entering the area," a member of the bridge crew reported, as the alarm was sounded.

Using a ship intercom built into the wall, Maya contacted the bridge.

"All hands to battle stations. I want everyone ready for if this turns into a fight. All pilots report to the briefing room," Maya announced before turning to Lelouch and Yui. "You two better get over there. We'll feed you new information as the situation develops. Get everyone ready."

"Understood," Lelouch said as he and Yui hurried off.

"Mr. Amalfi, could you accompany me to the bridge. Perhaps you can help us identify the ship?" Maya politely suggested.

"Of course." Yuri followed Maya with his bodyguard right behind him.

Meanwhile the Minerva was following close behind. As Taila oversaw the crew's efforts as the ship prepared for combat, the elevator to the bridge opened and revealed three individuals. One of them was an older man in his early thirties with long black hair, amber eyes and wore a white high-collar coat trimmed with black, red and light purple, a white tunic and pants with black boots. He stepped onto the bridge with a calm expression.

His company was eighteen, at least. One had shoulder-length blue hair and green eyes, wearing a black jacket trimmed with white, a green turtleneck shirt, and black pants. The other was a woman with shoulder-length blonde hair and amber eyes wearing a purple suit with a white shirt and purple pants with black dress shoes.

"Chairman," Talia greeted, surprised to see the Supreme Chairman of the PLANTs' Supreme Council, Gilbert Durandal.

"If I may ask a favor Captain," Gilbert requested. "May I have our guests observe the coming battle on the bridge?"

"It wouldn't be a problem, but…" Taila had second thoughts about having such important VIPs on her bridge when a battle was about to start.

"Captain, I think it's worth noting the Chief Representative of Orb here," Gilbert said, gesturing to the woman with him, Cagalli Yula Athha, "took part in combat during the last war, piloting a mobile suit and even commanded a warship herself. I think having her offer her perspective on our combat methods could be useful."

"Very well, if that is how you feel Mr. Chairman." Talia conceded.

"Thank you Talia," Gilbert said, before gesturing for his guests to take their seats at chairs behind a map table set behind the captain and the rest of the bridge crew.

"Six thousand to target," Malik reported.

"Lower the bridge," Taila commanded, as the entire bridge was lowered into the armored section of the ship with a thick armor hatch covering the ceiling above. "Prepare for ship and anti-mobile suit combat!"

On the Vortigern, Lelouch was in the pilot operations room, observing both a radar scan showing the approaching ship and live video feed from one of the nearby sensor buoys showing the Girty Lue. At the same time he was having a live video chat with Yuri and Maya on the bridge, observing the same thing.

"It just fired a decoy missile," Yuri observed, watching as the ship cut its engines as it fired a missile, glowing bright and stimulating the thermal signature of the ship.

"They are using an anchor to have the ship swing around the asteroid then come down from above," Lelouch observed.

"Do you recognize the make and model of that ship?" Maya asked Yuri.

"I am sorry, but I don't. It must be a new model of ship of some kind. However its design is similar to some Earth Alliance and Orb Union warships," Yuri noted.

"A ship wouldn't be doing a maneuver like that unless it was being pursued," Lelouch remarked. It was a brilliant idea to get them behind their pursuing enemy, while using the debris around them to hide. The decoy fired ahead would fool the enemy into continuing pursuit.

Setting up the conditions for an ambush.

"We've also picked up mobile suits; three of them being launched before the ship fired its decoy," Maya replied, pointing out the paths of the mobile suits.

"But who is chasing them?" Yui asked, folding her arms as she grew impatient.

Suddenly, the Minerva came into sensor range as the Grity Lue moved above the asteroid it was anchored to. Likely to attack from behind.

"The Minerva," Yuri said, recognizing the ship. "That's ZAFT's new battleship. It wasn't supposed to be launched until tomorrow. "

Then could the pursuer be related to the Earth Alliance? Lelouch wondered, but he could only guess.

"Should we warn them, Major?" Yui asked.

"Wait. The Minerva is launching mobile suits as well," a member of the bridge crew announced. "Four in total have been launched."

"It looks like one of the newer prototypes is leading them. It's the Impulse, the new ZAKU Warrior followed by GuAIZ R mobile suits," Yuri listed off, recognizing the machines.

"At this rate they'll be walking into a trap," Maya said before turning to Yuri. "Would the ship expect a call from a stranger?"

Yuri sighed, "No, but maybe my communications codes could prompt them to answer. They're old, but maybe they're useful."

"This would mean exposing yourself. I doubt your nation had permission to give us the Mirage Colloid tech," Maya pointed out.

"Yes, all of which I've done for my son and to make up for some mistakes I've made. If this means I'll go to prison, then that's fine," Yuri said, clearly determined to do the right thing.

"Very well, I'll help you send a message," Maya conceded before turning to Lelouch. "In the meantime, start working out a battle plan."

"Understood," Lelouch replied.

Meanwhile, the Minerva continued its advance towards where they thought the enemy was, unaware of the ruse being used against them. On the bridge of the ship, everyone was distracted for a moment as the true identity of the Chief Representative's bodyguard was revealed causing a minor stir. Cagalli's companion and bodyguard, Alex, was really Athrun Zala a former pilot of ZAFT who deserted to stop his father's genocidal plans against the Earth. However, when the war ended he was discharged from the military for desertion, but whatever charges he might've had were lowered to an honorable discharge since he had sacrificed his mobile suit to stop the superweapon GENESIS from wiping out half of all life on Earth.

His assumption of a different identity was to avoid any problems his past actions or his ties to his father could cause.

But the Chairman saw through his disguise.

"But Chairman, he isn't!" Cagalli argued, trying to protect her friend.

"There is no need to be so defensive, I understand what happened. It's just if we are going to talk, I'd rather be sure it's Athrun Zala I am really talking to. That is all," Gilbert replied, causally with calm understanding.

"Our mobile suits are closing in on Bogey One. Distance one thousand and five hundred," Mailk reported.

"Strange, the enemy hasn't changed course," A man sitting near the helmsman replied, wearing a dark colored uniform with short green hair.

"Ma'am," the CIC officer called out. "We have an incoming transition?"

"The point of origin, is it from Bogey-1?" Taila asked.

"No ma'am, I am having a hard time pin-pointing its origin, however it's using an old ZAFT encryption previously used by members of the Supreme Council and the National Defense Committee," Meyrin Hawke replied, surprised by the encryption.

"Put it on the viewer," Taila ordered when Durandal raised no objection.

"Minerva, this is former Supreme Councilman Yuri Amalf, please respond," Yuri pleaded, losing his calm composure.

Nicole's father, Athrun thought having known him since his son Nicole was his comrade and close friend until his unfortunate demise.

"This Captain Talia Gladys of the Minerva receiving," Talia replied as Yuri's face appeared on the overhead monitor.

"Captain Gladys, recall your mobile suits immediately, your target has lured you into a trap. The enemy ship used an anchor to swing around the large asteroid you just passed to attack from behind. Your mobile suits are heading into a separate ambush with enemy mobile suits waiting for them!" Yuri warned quickly.

"Recall Shinn and the others now," Taila ordered.

The fact the enemy ship wasn't reacting to their mobile suits closing in convinced her Bogey-1 was a decoy.

Unfortunately they reacted too little too late.

Ahead of the Minerva the four mobile suits it had launched to attack Bogey-1 were caught in the ambush. Under attack by the stolen ZAFT prototype Gundams, the Chaos Gundam was quick to draw first blood. Deploying its two weapon pods on its back, capable of operating wirelessly, took down one of the GuAIZ R mobile suits. The pilot didn't have a chance as his cockpit along with the rest of his machine was destroyed.

"Shawn!"

The female pilot of the ZAKU Warrior, Lunamaria Hawke, called out as her comrade was reduced to space dust. The rest were trying to evade, to avoid sharing Shawn's fate.

"Scatter, everyone take them on one on one," Shinn Asuka, pilot of the Impulse Gundam, advised as the group was forced to break up, hoping to divide the enemy's focus.

The black enemy mobile suit, the Gaia Gundam, chased down the red and pink colored ZAKU Warrior. The Chaos Gundam went after the Impulse Gundam while the Abyss Gundam pursued the last GuAIZ R mobile suit.

The GuAIZ R mobile suit attempted to use the floating remains of a space colony for cover, hoping to draw the enemy in for a surprise attack. Unfortunately they made a fatal mistake. Unable to hide from their sensors, the enemy pilot realized what they were attempting and fired a barrage of energy beams from its enormous shoulders combined with a blast from its chest mounted Multi-phase Beam Cannon. The beams demolished the giant solar panel the GuAIZ R mobile suit was hiding behind, destroying both.

"Dale!" Hawke cried out at the loss of another pilot. "Not even five minutes, and they got two of us already!"

Damn it, Shinn cursed internally. This isn't the best equipment for fighting these two!

Shinn's Impulse Gundam was pursued by both Chaos and Abyss. He had managed to face both stolen mobile suits before, but that was when he was using more melee oriented equipment. The Blast Silhouette was not ideal for use in a ranged dog fight. Especially when the Chaos Gundam was designed for high-speed space combat and Abyss Gundam, although designed as a amphibious mobile suit for naval combat, was heavily armed for ranged combat and a spear for close quarters.

If only I could change equipment, Shinn thought as he turned, putting away his beam rifle, firing the Blast Impulse Gundam's twin long range beam cannons.

The beams forced his pursuers to split as the dodged. The heavy firepower was helping keep his pursuers at bay even if their speed made landing a killing blow difficult. The Impulse was designed for long-range heavy assault and bombardment missions. A melee weapon like a beam saber would've been more ideal, giving Shinn a chance to match them in speed in close quarters and making the fight more even.

Changing equipment is out of the question. They'll shoot me down in the process or the Silhouette Flyer, Shinn thought, weighing his options.

He kept fighting the two Stollen Gundams. He fired a barrage of missiles, but the Abyss Gundam shot them down with its dual, three-barrel beam cannons mounted on its shoulder binders.

The battle of them exchanging long-ranged fire continued with the remains of the space colony they were fighting near being destroyed in the crossfire. As it currently stands, the battle would be decided by who runs out of power first.

As Shinn and Lunamria were fighting for their lives, the situation for the Minerva wasn't much better. Shortly after the ambush began, the enemy ship appeared behind them.

"Heat source at Blue 18, Mark 9, Charlie!" Malik reported. "It's Bogey One! Distance five hundred! Two Mobile Suit launches confirmed!"

"Behind us!?" Taila exclaimed, knowing they were in a bad position.

"Targeting lasers detected,"Malik added.

"Fire anti-beam depth charges. Evade," Talia ordered.

"Firing Dispars," Athrur Trine, the Executive Officer of the ship relayed, unleashing interceptor missiles to deal with the incoming mobile suits.

The Minerva accelerated, hoping to put some distance between them and the enemy behind them. Such hopes were quickly dashed as the Grity Lue was too fast for them to outrun.

Despite the emotions of fear and anxiety among the crew as they struggled to turn the tide, Gilbert Durandal was remarkably calm, as he spoke to Yuri on the communication line.

"Mr. Amalfi, may I hazard a guess that whoever your present company is, they are capable of lending us aid?"

Yuri looked over to Maya, who was reluctant at first, but nodded her consent.

"Yes they can, but they also have their own goals and obstacles that they need to deal with. So there's going to be a discussion later on the nature of the transaction for this help."

"Very well. With my authority I would like to ask for their aid to assist us," Gilbert requested formally.

"Captain Lamperouge, I assume you have been listening in," Maya asked.

"I have and I already have a strategy to handle this," Lelouch replied.

The Minerva was trying to get away from the pursuing Grity Lue, but as the ZAFT ship was moving to use a large asteroid as cover to protect themselves from the two enemy Dagger mobile suits chasing them. Despite being only two mobile suits, they were armed with dual, recoilless cannons that were more than enough to sink a ship of the Minerva's class from long range.

Despite their efforts, the two units were closing on the Minerva.

Suddenly a beam rifle shot zipped past one of the enemy Daggers causing it to pause as Lelouch's voice was heard on all communication channels. Standing atop the giant asteroid was Lelouch in the Izanami.

"Attention enemy vessel, the ship Minerva is under our protection. Withdraw from this area at once. Do not force us to engage your forces," Lelouch said. "I repeat…"

Suddenly a powerful beam rifle was shot towards him. Thankfully the Izanami's I-field redirected it away. His Gundam's sensors detected another group of enemy machines, including one suit armed with long-range, heavy ordnance.. Lelouch was quick to dodge the second shot. Instead of a beam, the second cannon was a 350mm gun launcher. Something his Gundam's I-field couldn't block.

Coming up behind it were six more Daggers, just lacking the long range weaponry of their fellows. Notably the mobile suits looked different, older. Switching communications to his squad's channel, "I guess it's time to fight back," Lelouch said, smirking. He knew his offer to cease hostilities would be thrown back in his face.

He intended to make them regret their decision since they could now technically justify self-defense for their involvement.

"Yes, self-defense," Cui remarked, grinning like a predator.

"Indeed," Stella said, calmly as she sniped the Buster Dagger that had taken a shot at Lelouch from a nearby, smaller asteroid.

"Begin your attack," Lelouch commanded, giving Cui and Stella the go ahead.

Fortunately for Lelouch, despite having been trained to fight the BETA, conflicts with humans weren't cut out of the curriculum, with such conflicts being the result of terrorists or rogue soldiers.

Cui engaged a Striker Dagger armed with an anti-ship sword, crossing blades with her beam saber. Using her free hand, she punched the Strike Dagger, followed by a kick before using said free hand to grab the sword. She ripped it away as she kicked back the Dagger. Cui finished off the mobile suit by splitting the enemy machine into two halves from the head down.

In that same moment she rushed forward, towards an attacking Dagger, dodging its attacks. Cui used her beam saber to bat away energy attacks as she closed the distance. Once in throwing distance, Cui hurled the anti-ship sword and impaled the cockpit of the attacking Strike Dagger.

"As planned you three are with me," Lelouch ordered, addressing Mitsuki, Yuzuka and Haruka.

"Roger," Mitsuki, Yuzuka and Haruka repiled, as they came out from their hiding spot to join Lelouch as they headed towards the Minerva while Stella and Cui engaged a sudden group of enemy reinforcements.

As I suspected. There must be another ship hidden nearby for support, Lelouch thought. The second group of enemies confirmed his suspicion.

"We'll take out the pursuing mobile suits then go after their mothership," Lelouch explained as they accelerated to intercept them. They Shot down missiles as they went, while using beam shields to deflect any direct hits from missiles, beams or cannon shots.

A second group of Dagger mobile suits tried to join the fray by intercepting Lelouch and his team, but they were interrupted in turn by Shimako, shooting down the Buster Dagger leading them with her the Sadamitsu's plasma cannon.

Shimako was part of a second group, led by Sayoko in her own Minamoto TSF, accompanied by Haruko, Cryska and Maritica.

"Engage the enemy," Sayoko ordered, serving as Lelouch's second in command.

"Roger that," everyone replied.

The Daggers moved to intercept the new enemy, but Martica sped ahead using her beam shield to deflect incoming fire. Once she was close enough she veered to the side before cutting a Dagger in half with one beam saber swipe through the torso. Cryska followed her sister's lead and used a beam saber to stab one of the enemy mobile suits through the cockpit. Haruko joined the attack, firing on the enemy using her smart gun, while using a beam shield to deflect incoming attacks.

Haruko, Sayoko and Shimako might've been attacking at a distance, but the aggressive actions of the Barchenowa sisters made mounting a coordinated counterattack by the Dagger mobile suits difficult.

For the enemy Daggers, their enemy was agile, their way of movement was very human-like and their responses in battle made them difficult to pin down. The Sadamitsu Gundam's Panzer Deflection Armor dealt with most of their beam based weapons, deflecting any shots harmlessly away from Shimako and her allies.

Meanwhile on the enemy ship Nemesis, Alec was not pleased with how the battle was going. These unknown mobile suits were overpowering the machines they had.

I guess this is the problem when you only have old machines to work with, Alec thought, gripping his right hand into a fist before slamming it onto the armrest of his chair.

Calming himself, he took out a locket from his uniform's pocket, revealing the picture of his wife and daughter.

That Athha bitch will die, mark my words, Alec thought, determined, as he pocketed the locket.

"Move the ship closer. Get us a line of fire on that ZAFT ship," Alec ordered, rising from his command chair. "Tell the hanger to prepare my mobile suit for launch. Don't drop the stealth."

"Yes sir," an Orb Union officer replied as Alec left the bridge.

Lelouch shot down another Dagger L, but soon two more mobile suits, different from those they had been fighting, moved to engage him. They looked similar to the Daggers, but were equipped with heavy, dark gray and yellow armor with a railgun mounted on their right shoulder and a small missile pod on the other. They were GAT-01D1 Duel Daggers.

Lelouch dodged a shot from their beam rifles, before retaliating. Haruka landed a shot on one of them, hitting the head before scoring another on the torso.

The second tried to evade, but a well placed shot from Lelouch took its right leg, striking an area above the knee that was unprotected by armor. It stalled, allowing Mitsuki to move in and cleave the mobile suit in half across the torso with her beam saber.

The other ship has to be around here somewhere, Lelouch thought, knowing the Vortigern would have picked up the second ship by now, unless…

Lelouch recalled something Yuri had said about the uses of Mirage Colloid Technology.

"Major Tsukuyomi, could the ship's sensors and those used by the buoys be used to search for magnetic fields? A powerful one that could use Mirage Colloid particles to hide a ship?"

"They can," Maya replied before turning to a bridge operator. "Reconfigure the sensors for magnetic fields. Look for an abnormally strong one."

"Yes ma'am!"

It took only a few minutes, but that same operator soon responded.

"I found one. There is a large magnetic field moving towards the Minerva, but its path is being hindered by all of the debris."

"Understood. Forward the information to Lieutenant Noto, tell her she has a new target," Maya commanded.

Mirage Colloid was first tested as a new stealth system that could hide a mobile suit for surprise attacks, Lelouch thought.

As explained by Yuri during the earlier tour about Mirage Colloid technology; much like how the magnetic field of Shimako's Gundam could hold and use the prisms able to deflect energy based weaponry, those same microscopic prisms are capable of blocking infrared emission as well as bending visible light and radio waves around an object, making it invisible to both electronic sensors and the naked eye.

As the Nemesis moved closer to intercept and attack the fleeing Minerva, Izumi received the message from the Vortigern informing her of her new target. Using the sensor data from the ship, she narrowed the location of her new target before moving to attack.

Izumi's GN Drive already rendered her invisible to most sensors. Using its optical camouflage she took a roundabout route to ambush the enemy ship.

Even if I can't tell where you are exactly, this should work, Izumi thought as she closed in on the magnetic field.

Once the distance was closed she deactivated her optical camouflage, unleashing the GN Bits of her Gundam.

"Fly my fangs!"

The GN bits opened fire raining down beam fire on the area where the magnetic field was the strongest, and sure enough, she hit something. Then more hits followed, as the Nemesis was revealed as its stealth system failed. Now able to see her mark, Izumi aggressively pressed her attack, going for the ship's weapons while she dodged retaliatory missile fire.

A weakness of the Grity-Lue Class was the fact that most of its strongest firepower was locked in forward firing positions focused on the front as it was meant to launch devastating frontal attacks against an enemy.

It was ill-prepared to deal with a surprise attack on it and Izumi wasted no time in disabling it by attacking the engines with her beam pistols. It wasn't long before the Nemesis was rendered dead in space, followed by Izumi systematically destroying its other weapons.

During the attack, Izumi spotted a black mobile suit launching from the ship, but it quickly activated the same Mirage Colloid Stealth System and vanished from sight.

"This is Lieutenant Noto to Vortigern, we have a problem. An enemy machine launched from the enemy vessel, using the same stealth system. I've lost it. It's likely heading for the Minerva," Izumi reported.

Around the same time aboard the Girty Lue, Neo witnessed what had just happened and he realized continuing the battle would only prove perilous for him.

"Signal Oakey and the others to return, tell them to double time it. We'll be next if we stay around. Who knows if these unknown machines have another squad closing in to ambush us," Neo said, but quietly he couldn't help, but applaud whoever devised this counter strategy to turn what should've been an ambush to sink a ZAFT fleet, onto themselves.

Whoever these guys are, they aren't Orb, Earth Forces or ZAFT. Their machines are unlike anything we've seen before, Neo remarked, which only justified his decision to cut their losses and withdraw. The Nemesis and her mobile suits would buy them time to escape.

Neo did take care to record everything they could. His superiors would be very interested in whatever information he could collect.

They could easily shake any further pursuit within the Debris Belt once they get far enough away.

"Yes sir, but what of the Nemesis?" Ian inquired.

"There is nothing we can do. All we can manage is to escape before we're cornered next," Neo explained with a sense of urgency.

"Understood, but it seems Oakley and the others are engaged with one of those unknown machines. Escape could be a problem," Ian reported.

"I see. Take command. I'll handle this," Neo replied, leaving the bridge.

As the battle had been raging near the Minerva, Shinn and Luna were busy fighting for their lives against the three stolen ZAFT Gundams. Yui was dispatched in the Izanagi to support them.

While her Gundam was melee focused, its lighter armament and engines meant it could arrive to back up the two ZAFT pilots the quickest.

"I've reached the target area. Engaging the enemy," Yui replied as her machine drew one beam saber, while its other hand held a beam smart gun.

Yui decided to aid the red ZAKU Warrior under attack by the Gaia Gundam. They were closer to her, and it seems the pilot of the ZAKU was struggling the most.

Lunamaria was kept on the defensive by her aggressive foe, but she still tried to fight back. Aiming her mobile suit's beam cannon, she fired, but the Gaia transformed into its bipedal mode, dodging over the beam using debris, while heading straight for Luna.

"Who do you think you are, you thieves!" Lunamaria continued to fire at the stolen Gaia.

"You're finished," Stella replied as her Gaia's built in beam blades inside its wings activated as it intended to cut the ZAKU in half.

Yui opened fire, but Stella, noticing the approaching enemy, broke off her attack to evade. Stella tried to pull back, but Yui was closing in faster than she could flee. Seeing no choice Stella transformed the Gaia Gundam back into mobile suit mode, opening fire with her beam rifle while using her shield to block Yui's shots.

"What the? Who?" Luna said, stunned by the unexpected arrival of help.

"I am here to help. Give your partner a hand. I'll take care of her," Yui said to Luna.

"Right, thanks," Luna said, taking off to back up Shinn.

Yui closed in, swapping her smart gun for another beam saber, while using a beam shield to deflect Stella's shots. Stella tried to pull back. She holstered her beam rifle and drew a beam saber as close quarters battle was becoming inevitable.

Their sabers met, clashing blow for blow. Unfortunately for Stella, Yui's training in Armored Fencing enabled her to fight with more fluidity, speed and technique, gradually overpowering the Gaia Gundam and forcing Stella into a corner.

Panic and fear was beginning to show as Stella realized she was against a foe who was her superior.

Yui, deciding to end the fight quickly, activated the sub arms of her Gundam, having one of them grab her second beam saber, using it to take off one of the arms of the Gaia Gundam in a sneak attack. The shock of losing an arm stunned Stella leaving her wide open for Yui to finish off.

"Stella!" Sting shouted, coming to her aid with the Chaos Gundam.

Sting switched to mobile armor mode. Launching the Chaos's attack pods he unleashed missiles and beam shots at Yui, allowing Stella a chance to escape.

Using the beam claws on his machine, Sting attempted to take out Yui, but she easily dodged his attack.

"Stella, back up Auel, finish off the other two, then come back to help me," Sting commanded.

"Sure," Stella replied, thankfully without much protest.

Sting transformed back into mobile suit mode to use his shield to block a retaliatory beam shot from Yui's smart gun. The shot was more powerful, pushing the Chaos Gundam back. Afterwards the beam smart gun began firing rapid beam shots. Far less powerful in exchange for a higher rate of fire. Sting used the space junk around them to better defend against Yui's attacks, even as she tried to close the distance.

Close quarters with this one is a bad idea, Sting reasoned, maintaining his distance.

He noticed how his foe wasn't used to fighting the remote weapons used by the Chaos Gundam, something he took advantage of to impede Yui's efforts to close the distance.

Hurry up Stella, because I don't know how long I can keep this up, Sting thought, glancing at the power indicator of his Gundam which was getting low.

"Even if I can't get to you, unlike my machine, your mobile suit should be running on a battery. So how much longer until you run out?" Yui asked herself. Due to the N-Jammers, all mobile suits in the Cosmic Era Earth run on batteries with limited operational times.

Her Gundam could run indefinitely while she has also been trained to fight for sustained hours of combat, if not a whole day or more if pushed.

Even if Sting could evade her attacks and likewise she could manage the same, their battle will boil down to attrition. Sting was at greater risk the longer the battle dragged on.

Around the same time, Shinn gained a moment to breathe as he was fighting the Abyss Gundam on his own. Luna joined him, the pair hoping to double team the enemy Gundam. Shinn drew a beam javelin, to engage the Abyss Gundam in close quarters, aware that his mobile suit would be running low on power soon. The beam javelin only had a blade on the tip, but the weapon was more than enough to engage the Abyss Gundam in a melee. However, Shinn's effort to conserve what battery his Gundam had left made it difficult for Luna to contribute to the fight as she couldn't use her beam cannon, so she drew a beam tomahawk from her ZAKU's shoulder shield after holstering her beam cannon.

Auel was seething in annoyance and mild anger when Sting was forced to help Stella.

"Damn it Sting. You picked a hell of a time to leave me to deal with that combining bastard on my own," Auel said, glancing at the power indicator on his Gundam, his power level was also concerningly low.

Luna was about to join in, when the Gaia Gundam suddenly attacked her, intending to finish her off after Stella's first attempt was thwarted by Yui. With only one arm remaining for her Gaia, Stella drew a beam saber engaging Luna and her ZAKU in close quarters combat.

Even with only one arm Stella was able to match Luna and hold her own, but it was a stalemate.

Until…

"Stella, pull back now," Neo called, as he arrived in his mobile armor, the TS-MA4F Exus.

Its twin linear guns opened fire, shooting off one of the ZAKU's arms, before launching its four Gunbarrels and using the mounted, beam blades to decapitate the ZAKU's remaining limbs leaving it helpless and adrift.

"LUNA!" Shinn shouted, hearing Luna's cries as the decapitation of her machine caused electronics in her cockpit to short out.

The Gaia Gundam and the Exus converged upon the Impulse Gundam, Shinn quickly kicked the Abyss Gundam away, slashing its mulit-phase beam cannon, rendering it inoperable. Shinn hurled the beam javelin at the approaching Gaia Gundam, but Stella batted it away with her beam saber, This was just a faint to get them into his line of fire with the Blast Impulse Gundam's beam cannons, but when he tried to fire them they failed to do so.

"What?!"

The Impulse Gundam turned gray as its phase shift armor powered down, its energy levels now critical.

"You picked the wrong equipment for this fight," Neo replied, smirking. His Gunbarrels swarmed the Impulse Gundam, blowing off its limbs and leaving it decapitated and helpless.

"Now I'll finish you," Auel said, moving to finish off the helpless Impulse Gundam.

"Hold it Auel!" Neo said, intervening.

"Huh, but why?"

"We need hostages, so that unknown mobile suit won't come after us." Neo replied, aware that the Abyss and Gaia Gundams were dangerously low on power by now.

Around the same time Sting had managed to keep Yui occupied. Her lack of ranged weapons and the Chaos Gundam's remote weapons kept the Izanagi at a distance.

Damn, those pods are annoying, Yui thought, frustrated as she had never dealt with such weapons before.

Aside from their beam cannons, the pods could release missiles, which thankfully for Yui had been exhausted earlier.

As Yui got used to battling the remote weapons pods she began to notice a pattern. She realized that they needed to return to the Chaos Gundam to recharge after a period of time. She waited and when they began returning to the Chaos Gundam, Yui struck. Taking aim with her smart gun, shot down one of the pods quickly followed by a second.

Shit, Sting thought. He only had his sabers, shield and beam rifle left.

Transforming back into mobile suit form, the Chaos Gundam steeled itself as the Izanagi closed in. Sting tried to shoot her down, but something was causing his shots to be harmlessly redirected away allowing Yui to close the gap quickly. Sting drew his beam saber just in time to meet Yui in a melee.

Suddenly Neo joined in, unleashing his mobile armor's Gunbarrels, raining beam fire upon her, followed by missiles fired from the main body of the mobile armor. Yui pulled back, using the head mounted guns on her Gundam to shoot them down.

Opening up a channel, laced with a voice scrambler, Neo spoke.

"Unknown Mobile Suit I insist you halt your attack at once or the ZAFT pilots you were meant to assist will be killed."

Checking the sensors of the Izanagi, Yui picked up the disabled Impulse and ZAKU being held at gunpoint by the Abyss and Gaia Gundams.

"Just so you can kill us all?" Yui snapped back.

"No. If you break off your attack, I'll release them into your custody. Isn't that your objective; to save these pilots? We'll retreat, and you can take them back. Of course if you do decide to attack us, and if somehow you avoid getting them killed, the batteries of their machines are nearly depleted. Adrift in this mess, good luck finding them again by the time you beat us," Neo pointed out. He deduced that these unknown mobile suits weren't part of ZAFT, ruling out reinforcements by ZAFT given the timing since events at Armory One. "Besides the other ship attacking that new ZAFT ship, one of its mobile suits has a nuclear reactor for power, equipped with an N-Jammer Canceller. The pilot will likely self-detonate if he cannot achieve his objective of killing the Chief Representative of Orb, so I would say that you have more pressing matters as well."

Yui's eyes widened, but her fists tightened around the control sticks. She hated letting the enemy go, but if what he said was true then Lelouch and the others were in danger.

"Fine. I agree to your terms," Yui replied reluctantly.

"I am glad you saw reason. You heard her, hand them over then let's get out of here," Neo said, smiling as Abyss, Gaia and Chaos retreated with him from the area, leaving Yui to recover the disabled Impulse and ZAKU.

"This is Captain Takamura to the Vortigern with an emergency message," Yui began, opening a communication channel to the ship.

Around the time as Yui tangled with the stolen Gundams, the battle was progressing poorly for the mobile suits of the Nemesis. However, the threat of the mobile suit hiding under camouflage remained. Lelouch and the Vortigern were working to locate it before it could attack the Minerva.

Lelouch alongside Haruka, Mitsuki and Yuzuka were still searching for the invisible mobile suit that fled the Nemesis before it was crippled. Using the same trick to locate the Nemesis, they had narrowed it down to an area of drifting asteroids near the Minerva. The ZAFT warship was continuing to flee, aware a stealthed enemy machine was pursuing it.

It's not interested in us. They are really bent on sinking the Minerva, Lelouch thought, wondering if they had some kind of vendetta.

"Captain Lamperouge," Maya called.

"Go ahead Major," Lelouch replied, opening the communication line.

"Captain Takamura succeeded in recovering the ZAFT pilots sent ahead, but she discovered that the enemy machine has a nuclear power plant and could self-detonate to kill the Chief Representative of Orb," Maya warned. "We've already begun moving our ship and Mr. Amalfi's ship outside the possible blast zone."

"Understood. It's just all the more reason we must find it and stop it from reaching the Minerva," Lelouch said, but finding the enemy was easier said than done.

"Captain, if we could offer our assistance," Martica offered on a communication channel. "My sister and I could find the target. We just need to be near the area where the magnetic field has been detected, no?"

That's right the sisters are psychics, Lelouch thought, realizing they could help narrow the search area by picking up the thoughts of the target.

"Very well. I'll unleash a barrage to try and flush him out and create an opening for you two," Lelouch stated. He used the Izanami's mega-particle cannon in scattershot mode on the suspected area.

"Roger," the Barchenowa sisters acknowledged in unison.

Advancing, the two sisters began searching for their enemies' thoughts as they entered the area. Lelouch's attack covered part of the area, helping narrow the search radius until they picked up angry malevolent thoughts nearby.

Inside the cockpit Admiral Alec was gradually getting closer to the Minvera, but Lelouch and company's efforts had forced him to act cautiously in his approach. Yet his frustration was growing as his target was slipping away.

I can't let that bitch escape me. My family will be avenged, Alec declared in his mind as his rage grew, fueled by his frustration.

Alec still remembered it. He had commanded the ships under his command to fight the Atlantic Federation tooth and nail. He had lost many friends and comrades to the enemy. His wife had been an engineer working for his nation's manufacture of arms and technology, Morgenröte, while raising their daughter.

Then the Atlantic Federation invaded Orb to seize its Mass Driver, after the Earth Alliance's had theirs in Panama destroyed by ZAFT. Needing to acquire a new Mass Driver to prevent their forces in space and on the moon from running out of supplies, they turned to the neutral nation of the Orb Union.

The Chief Representative Uzumi Nala Athha refused to join the Earth Alliance and allow them use of their Mass Driver due to their position of neutrality and most of all because the Earth Alliance's leadership was dominated by the anti-Coordinator, extremist terrorist organization Blue Cosmos.

ZAFT and the PLANTs were likewise led by equally extreme anti-Naturals, so Orb declined their offers of aid, not wishing to be caught up in the war of extermination the two were seeking to wage.

Despite their efforts to avoid conflict, the Atlantic Federation invaded Orb aiming to seize their Mass Driver and Morgenröte, to seize their technological innovations. Although they resisted at first, it became clear Orb was fighting a losing battle, because the superior numbers of the Atlantic Federation would eventually wear them down.

Once they came under attack a second time, the Orb Union made the decision to evacuate its people. Everything went well until the ship carrying his wife and daughter were sunk by stray fire.

"I won't allow your daughter to drag Orb down as you did. Your ideal cost me my child, so I'll kill yours in compensation even if it's the last thing I do."

Suddenly an alarm sounded in his cockpit, a proximity alert, discovering one of the Minamoto TSFs beam rifle shots were about to hit him. Acting fast, Alec blocked it with one of the Variable Arm Units of his mobile suit, forcing him to deactivate the Mirage Colloid and switch to Phase Shift Armor so it would be easier to redirect it back at his attacker.

"I found our target," Cryska reported dodging her own returned shot. Seeing the black mobile suit, the GAT-X207SR Nero Blitz Gundam appear, she watched as it unfolded its Variable Arm Units that were mounted on its back as a large set of claw-like arms.

"Take him down, but keep in mind he could self-destruct so pull back if you believe there is a possibility," Lelouch commanded. He was concerned if they could escape a nuclear explosion or not.

"Roger," The Barchenowa sisters replied.

Alec growed as the Nero Blitz raised its right arm, firing a barrage of bullets as the Gundam moved to evade retaliatory strikes from the two sisters, while using the surrounding asteroids for cover as it doggedly continued to move closer to the Minerva.

Hell bent to get to your target, aren't you, Lelouch thought, before an idea came to mind and opened communications with the Minerva.

The Barchenowa sisters closed in, having noticed their beam shots were being redirected, drawing beam sabers instead. Close quarters might've been risky, but it would be the sure way to ensure they could disable the enemy machine.

The Nero Blitz used its large claw-like arms to grab nearby asteroids to hurl them at the incoming attackers. He followed up his attack by launching decoy balloons from his right arm. Unaware if they were explosive or not the Barchenowa sisters evaded them as they continued to close the distance.

Cryska was the first to get into attack range, rushing the Nero Blitz Gundam. It blocked her beam saber swing with the shield mounted onto its left arm. Cryska pulled back and evaded when one of its claw-like arms tried to strike her. Martica then began her attack, beam saber drawn. The Nero Blitz fired its two lancer darts at the incoming enemy, as Martica ducked before making a pass. The enemy Gundam dodged upwards, causing Martica to narrowly miss the torso and instead sliced off its right leg, just above the knee.

Alec barely had a second before Cryska was on him again. He fired more bullets from his right arm while pulling back in an effort to break close quarters combat. It was quickly obvious to the sisters that the enemy Gundam had no other close quarters combat capabilities to speak of except for those claws mounted on its back. Those claws were keeping Cryska at a distance, even if barely, as they tried to either grab the Russian TSF pilot or slug her aside.

From behind Martica attacked. Alec couldn't escape in time as he had been occupied fighting Cryska allowing her twin sister to cleave off his Variable Arm Units, before slashing apart its thrusters. Cryska didn't let the chance slip by, using her beam saber in conjunction with Martica to cut off the arms of the Nero Blitz and its remaining leg.

Alec howled in rage as his machine was disabled. As if fate wanted to add salt to the wound, a communication came across an open channel.

"This is the Chief Representative Cagalli Yula Athha. I demand to know who is responsible for this and why you would seek to sink a ZAFT vessel who has nothing to do with whatever petty grudge you may have against me!"

I suppose the taunt is unnecessary at this point, but maybe we can get some information, Lelouch mused, having suggested to the Minerva to allow Cagalli to call out their attackers, hoping the provocation will drive them into making a mistake.

Most importantly, maybe it would distract long enough for Cryska and Matrica to get to a safe distance.

"Petty," Alec began, opening a communication line. "PETTY! MY FAMILY DIED AT ONOGORO! You and your father are traitors to our nations and threats to our nation's continued existence. I had sworn to kill you to avenge those who died!"

"Identify yourself," Captain Gladys demanded.

"I am Admiral Alec Gruber of Orb Union, representing those who wish to see the Athha Family wiped out for their betrayal of Orb!" Alec replied. "I will apologize for dragging ZAFT into this, but I will never apologize for my intent to kill the Ruin Princess who will see our nation burn again. We had planned to kill her on her return trip from Armory One."

"How could you do that, I-" Cagalli began, but was cut off.

"And I could still succeed, I do just regret what I must do to achieve it. If by some chance you survive ruin princess, know that sooner or later the war will continue and Orb will be better off if you were dead," Alec declared, pulling a lever next to his cockpit chair, triggering a self-destruct.

Unknown to everyone, it also triggered the self-destruct on the Nemesis as hidden within was a nuclear bomb wired to go off upon the self-destruct of the Nero Blitz Gundam.

Both the enemy Gundam and the enemy vessel were vaporized in the resulting nuclear explosions that consumed them. The explosions themselves sent various debris and asteroid fragments flying in every direction.

Caught off guard, everyone was engulfed in the storm of debris.

A/N: Alec and his men were created mostly to provide a fight for Lelouch and his companions, but mostly to ensure Stella, Sting and Auel along with Neo didn't get slaughtered. But they would help me with other plot bits in the story, which I'll keep quiet on to avoid spoilers. Its kinda scary and I had a "Oh crap" moment when I realized the indirect thought control used by TSFs, which bypasses the need for the use of physical controls to a degree allowing their pilots to react quicker and the machines to have better and agile human-like movements.

Add psychoframe tech, while they aren't Newtypes, allows for a more effective thought reading system that pairs well with such a system. An idea that was indirectly inspired too by Super Robot Wars X.

To sum it up this was the chapter where the author realized, I had to step things up to try and keep things from being too easy, and that will show in coming chapters bit by bit. Funny enough in a way it does feel that it mirrors Lelouch's early successes in canon until Cornelia got involved, so...some foreshadowing there.

With that said, best to ask this question, what will happen next when events of Junius Seven comes into play?

But keep in mind, the tech Lelouch and his friends just showed off, consider how that might effect things, and the PLANTs will be very interested in wanting it. Of course even Lelouch wouldn't give up such tech easily, so be at ease. Gradually there will be political elements that Lelouch will be dealing with, but...for now...he isn't a position to do much since he has to earn the right to speak and bargain on the Empire of Japan's behalf. But as he becomes independent...well, keep in mind things can change.

To avoid mistakes I made in my KH crossover, although I know that ship sailed a long time ago with the early chapters, I am going to be much more mindful of the time Lelouch and co spend on worlds/series, with some exceptions.

Now I do have a new poll up on my fanfiction.net profile page, although I was waiting patiently for my beta to finish the touch ups/clean up of the chapter (I will only say there were things beyond his control that caused major delays, so its not his fault) I was not idle. Aside from making the next chapters, I was also consulting with folks I met on the internet who knew their series to go over some of my plans for some series and to make refinements to catch any potential faults and issues in my plans. BUT of course we were working to trim down the staggering number of potential harem candidates for Lelouch. In the end only seven or ten will make up the harem.

We've eliminated a number of candidates after much debate and discussion, some for some characters are still ongoing through. The characters from Gunbuster (Noriko Takaya and Jung Freud) were eliminated from the running after much discussion, I was disappointed, but it can't be helped. I will say most of the Gundam series candidates have been eliminated as well with only a few remaining (Marida Cruz, Loni Garvey (novel version) Ingrid Tradoll, Secelia Dote, Nika Nanaura, Sabina Fardin, Aliya Mahvash, and Dorothy Catalonia). The reason most Gundam characters got cut is the question if ANY of them would be open to polygamy, and its highly unlikely they would be considering where they come from. The characters from Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans got take out of consideration due to a lack of important details for some. The candidates from Aldnoah Zero are on rocky ground.

You are welcomed to argue for or against any candidates in reviews, I am curious on people's thoughts on their picks.

Code Geass folks, outside of Kaguya and Milly who I doubt will have a problem, but Kallen I am worried she might not be open to it since by that point Lelouch might be involved with four women romantically by then. But still they have some serious competition before them to claim one of the very limited spots. And Shirley, unless something major happens regrettably I doubt she has a chance (I wanted to be fair and give her a shot), and you folks who hate Shirley leave the poor girl alone alright, (mostly for the anonymous reviewers on FF.net).

HOWEVER, the characters of Schwarzesmarken, I've been unable to find anyone to debate and discuss the viability of them not just potentially joining Lelouch's squadron, but some could become part of his polygamous relationships. Or at least anyone very knowledgably on the visual novel instead of the anime since the latter had cut out a lot. Not to mention the whole Beatrix vs Irisdina has hit a stalemate, while there are some who want to see both in the harem I am skeptical given their history. So as much as I didn't want to I did a poll with the only possible candidates to try and find a resolution outside of talking my plans over to catch any potential faults in them.

But beyond that, I will post the next chapter as soon as my beta finishes with it, which I hope will be a little quicker. In the meantime I thank you all in advance for your reviews/feedback, and give the new poll a vote. It will be open for a LONG time until the harem starts so you got time. Besides I plan on involving the potential candidates one way or another, to give them a chance to earn a spot, which was another reason I've been trying to trim down the numbers so I don't drag things out in the story.

Thank you all for reading and I apologize for the long author note.

StrifeHavoc · Jul 1, 2025

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for his contributions.

The beta work for this chapter is completed at last despite some delays, so up it goes.

Chapter 18

Break the World

It had been two hours following the aftermath of the battle, but thankfully the pilots under Lelouch and the Minerva had survived both the nuclear explosions and the hail storm of debris. Thankfully Alec's exchange with Cagalli and Captain Gladys allowed Lelouch and his squad to get clear of the explosions themselves. Luckily, Yui with Shinn and Luna were safe due to being far enough away.

The rest of the machines under Lelouch's command were at the biggest risk, but thanks to their training and the capabilities of the machines they managed to pull through..

The Minerva was lightly damaged in the storm of debris. Some of their thrusters had been hit and a few smaller weapons were put out of commission. Its missiles and other weapons had managed to shoot down the larger pieces.

In the aftermath of these events, the Minerva, having lost their quarry, called off the pursuit to focus on conducting necessary repairs before returning to Armory One. In the meantime, the Vortigern, alongside Mr. Amalfi's transport ship, remained near the Minerva as a meeting aboard the ship was about to take place.

Traveling by a small shuttle, Maya was accompanied by Yuri, his bodyguard, Lelouch and Yui. The shuttle landed inside the Minerva's hanger and the group disembarked to meet the ship's captain, Talia, along with the leader of the PLANTs, Gilbert Durandal, Cagalli and her bodyguard.

Cagalli's bodyguard was of similar age with blue hair, green eyes, and wore a black and white jacket, black pants and a green turtleneck underneath.

"Welcome Major Tsukuyomi," Gilbert Durandal greeted, offering his hand. "Allow me to properly introduce myself, I am Gilbert Durandal the Supreme Chairman of PLANT's Supreme Council."

"Thank you. It's a pleasure to meet you as well, allow me to introduce the leaders of our TSF squadron, Captain Lelouch Lamperouge and Captain Yui Takamura," Maya responded, shaking Durandal's hand before gesturing to Lelouch and Yui as she introduced them.

Lelouch and Yui in turn saluted Durandal who nodded in acknowledgment.

"This is Captain Talia Gladys of the Minvera." Durandal gestured to Talia with one hand before moving into the next person. "This is Chief Representative Cagalli Yula Athha of the Orb Union and this is her bodyguard Athrun Zala."

Lelouch glanced at Cagalli, the blonde haired woman was about two years older than he was, but when compared to Durandal, who appeared confident and assured in himself. Cagalli seemed dignified, but something in her eyes showed that she lacked the same confidence.

"Chairman Durandal sir," Yuri said with a slightly regretful yet resolute look in his eye. "I must apologize for my actions and I would like it to be known that any fault lies with me."

"Yes, I am curious why a man of your reputation and a former member of the Supreme Council was doing in the Debris Belt with people clearly not from around here," Gilbert said, but his expression was more of curiosity than anything. "Your intervention saved this ship including myself however."

"Yes sir. As hard as this might be to believe, sir, they aren't from our Earth, they come from a different world."

"Their machines are unlike anything we've seen. I can safely say ZAFT never produced such machines," Durandal admitted. "Why don't we take this conversation somewhere more appropriate. I feel that there is much to talk about."

Elsewhere aboard the Minerva, Shinn and Lunamaria were in the lounge of the ship. Luna sat on a sofa with a canned, soft drink in one hand with a sour expression upon her face.

"Are you alright sis," Meyrin, Luna's younger sister, asked.

Lunamaria sighed, "I'm alive, but damn it; we couldn't even nail one of them. We even lost Shawn and Dale."

"I know. We walked right into ambush," Meyrin said, feeling tense. "Yet those unknown machines managed to beat back those Earth Alliance mobile suits and take down the other ship."

"One of them saved me and Shinn after we were taken hostage," Luna said as her sour expression grew. "I don't know how I'm going to face Shawn and Dale's families back at the PLANTs."

Shinn's gaze was downcast. Shawn and Dale were friends with them since the academy. They introduced them to their parents during graduation, who even celebrated them being assigned to the Minerva together. If they ran into their parents on the PLANTs, how could they face them?

Maybe, I can even the score. That might help, Shinn thought, feeling a pang of guilt.

He had been hailed among the best of his class, but it felt like hollow praise. Shinn couldn't even stop the stolen prototypes nor keep Shawn and Dale alive. He barely kept Luna safe during that battle. All the while he was at a disadvantage due to the Blast Silhouette not being suited for facing two Gundams at once.

Damn it. We should've expected an ambush. I should've expected one, Shinn thought as his grip tightened around in his drink.

Luna looked up at her sister, regretting that she had steered the conversation into a depressing direction. Between the sisters, Meyrin was the most intelligent between them, having excelled in multitasking and computers, but was nervous and shy when dealing with people she didn't know. Luna was chatty and more outgoing, and chose to become an elite mobile suit pilot instead.

Feeling responsible for the depressing turn, Luna changed the subject of the conversation as an idea came to mind.

"Uh, that machine that intervened to help us, it didn't move like a normal mobile suit. Its movements were… I don't know how to say it, more human-like?"

"Yeah. It was fast too," Shinn agreed, partially glad for the change of subject. The loss of Shawn and Dale caused him to recall a similar tragedy that happened during the last war.

Around the same time, Maya had finished explaining everything to those gathered in an officer's cabin. Athrun, Talia, Durandal and Cagalli listened quietly, but their thoughts were clear to read on their faces. Lelouch, observing them, wouldn't blame them if they had a hard time believing any of it. Yet their expressions suggested they were taking it well, or so he hoped.

What helped their case was Maya using her holo on her wrist to display holographic images of the BETA, and battles against them. The technology displayed thus far had also been helpful in making their case.

When it was over, emotions and reactions began rolling in, with Durandal expressing his surprise. He was first to voice his reaction.

"This is…quite a lot to take in," Durandal acknowledged regaining his composure.

"I don't blame you," Maya conceded. "We weren't prepared for something like this to happen. We had no intention of being caught up in the affairs of other worlds as we have our own problems to contend with as I am sure you understand."

"Of course. If you don't mind me asking; what was your purpose for coming?"

"It was to gain the material and means for producing Mirage Colloid gas, which I would provide as part of a bargain with Miss Claude Triello," Yuri Amalfi replied, explaining, "She approached me, willing to do something no one else could do. In exchange I was to provide assistance to the Empire of Japan, namely in the creation of its Gundam machines as part of a collaboration. I provided technical assistance in adapting our technology into their designs. I was also involved in the creation of the Sadamitsu and I had a hand in the weapon systems used by both the Kintoki and the Izanami. The latter I am sure some have noticed has similarities to the ZGMF-X10A Freedom for those familiar with the machine."

So Yui's father and Cumpa Rusita weren't the only ones with a hand in their development, Lelouch thought. Which made sense considering the different technologies used. Those familiar with it would best understand how to apply them to the new machines best, bypassing lengthy trial and error experiments and such.

"You are aware that what you are admitting, despite your intentions, are very serious crimes Mr. Amalfi," Talia pointed out.

"I am aware and I am willing to face whatever punishment my crimes would bring. Much of what I did was motivated by the danger the BETA could pose to PLANTs should they ever come, or any other similar alien threats," Yuri admitted. "I have a collection of information on the BETA including records and details of battles against them, which I used to aid me in developing the new machines for the Empire of Japan."

"I assume this is also atonement for your hand in developing the N-Jammer Canceller technology?" Durandal deduced, earning a confirming nod from Yuri who looked regretful at the mention.

I didn't know he developed the N-Jammer Canceller, Yui Bloody Valentine war she read about had took a much bloodier turn with its creation, not just leading to the creation of the GENESIS superweapon, but allowing the Atlantic Federation to use nuclear weapons again, bringing humanity to the brink of self-annihilation.

"And you mentioned something else earlier, something personal?" Durandal inquired.

"My son Nicol's death, undone," Yuri repiled, stunning everyone in the room.

"What," Cagalli exclaimed, while Athrun was speechless.

Yui, Maya and Lelouch were not. They knew exactly it was possible, it was just a question of how.

"I feel I should probably intervene here to explain." Claude's voice echoed in the room.

A tear in the air appeared, followed by Claude's hands appearing to widen the tear, allowing her to enter the room. Once she was through, the tear remained open as Claude dusted herself off with one hand.

"Sorry for the dramatic entrance, but I thought it was necessary to drive it home. He had some divine intervention literally," Claude explained.

"Who, what are you?" Cagalli asked, being among the first to regain her composure.

"My name is Claude," she introduced herself. "Resident master of time and the most beautiful woman to have ever been."

Lelouch kept quiet, but internally he was rolling his eyes at her.

"Now to explain; faking his death so he could survive was no easy task."

"Why would that be necessary, if he survived-" Athrun began, but Claude cut him off.

"It would've caused a reality destroying paradox altering what is a zero-point moment in time, in which events like the destruction of Junius Seven are events that happen across all timelines that cannot be altered due to the event's importance to the timeline. The death of Nicol Amalfi is one such event sadly for the poor kid."

"Why?!" Athrun demanded, troubled that Nicol was fated to die.

"Think about all that happened following his death and what it led to?" Claude pointed out. "I mean after you and Kira fought to the death, you got picked up by Cagalli and both had a much needed heart to heart that began making you into a better person. For Kira if he hadn't been found by a Junk Guild mechanic and Reverend Malchio, who was then delivered to Lacus Clyne, then he wouldn't have been given the Freedom which was used to save his friends. Not to sound insensitive, but many events and the Second Battle of Jachin Due would've likely ended with all life on Earth destroyed by GENESIS."

"If that is true, then how did Mr. Amalfi survive a death that was fated for him?" Gilbert asked.

"Not easy, let me tell you," Claude said with a sigh. "The tricky part was getting him out of the Blitz before it exploded. It was easy enough to transmit what was to be his final words, during that time I opened a tear like the one I came in. I barely got him through the tear and left behind a stand-in to ensure the death was convincing for any recovery teams."

"Unfortunately, the explosion from the Blitz followed through the tear," Yuri began. "Nicol lived, but the blast left him in a coma. Right now Nicol is at our home at Maius Four. It's expected he'll finally wake up soon. I'll accept whatever punishment I must face for my crimes."

"You have committed a serious crime by offering restricted military technology to an unknown party," Talia acknowledged.

"However," Durandal began. "On the other hand, you may have just led us to a moment in our history that is likely to be on par when George Glenn discovered Evidence-01."

"That's true," Cagalli admitted, aware of the implications of the fact they were conversing with humans from outside their solar system. "I can't even begin to imagine how the world might react."

"I agree, but that doesn't mean we'll be overlooking what you did of course. It just means we can give you an alternative punishment," Durandal pointed out.

"I understand," Yuri replied.

"I still have some questions for Miss Claude," Talia began as she turned to the pink-haired woman.

"Sorry that's all the time we have. Bye," Claude said, leaving through the tear before anyone could stop her.

"I suppose we can try to answer what we know about Claude," Maya offered, having expected this.

Lelouch and Yui sighed, realizing this would be a long discussion.

Around the same time, aboard the Vortigern, the pilots were talking. In the men's ready room for pilots, Leon, Yuuya and Vincent were having a discussion.

To pass the time the three men were continuing their earlier discussion, now having seen the women they discussed, fight.

"Geez. That Chinese girl is vicious. Just as the rumors claimed."

"Does this mean you are going to try and go for her?" Yuuya asked, reading a magazine he had found.

"Nah. I think she might be too much for me. Types like her are the kind where you have to be on their level or can beat them in a fight," Vincent said, slightly disappointed.

"Right. Are you sure about that? If you really want her then just try it. Don't try to fish for encouragement to do so from us," Yuuya replied, while Leon, reading his own magazine, gave a nod of agreement.

Vincent sighed, deciding to drop the subject and switch to something else.

"Ok, well… How about those machines they fought? They seem kinda clunky compared to our TSFs," Vincent said, recalling the previous battle.

"I'm sure anything we got could take it down in a straight up fight," Yuuya replied confidently.

"I agree," Leon replied, flipping a page.

Meanwhile in the female pilot's waiting room, Yuzuka, Asagi, Haruka and Mistuki were playing a game of cards to pass the time while awaiting new orders. A game the majority were frustratingly losing to Mistuki.

"Now, now, no sour faces. Besides we're not betting money or anything," Mitsuki said grinning, while most of the others were depressed by their losing streak.

"I wish we had something else to do," Asagi grumbled.

"I don't think anyone expected to be entering our very first space battle this soon," Haruka said, glad to steer the conversation away from the losing streak.

"Seriously, those mobile suits we fought were barely a challenge though," Mitsuki said, less than impressed with the Dagger mobile suits they fought.

"I know! It felt like we were running circles around them," Asagi agreed as she began shuffling the cards for a new round.

"Well… does anyone have someone back home they are interested in?" Haruka asked suddenly, causing Mitsuki to eye her suspiciously.

"As in a boyfriend?" Asagi inquired for clarification, which Haruka nodded. "I don't have anyone, but I am sure someone on this ship could be interesting enough."

"Not a lot of options though," Mitsuki noted as she accepted the new hand from Asagi.

"True. Most of the guys are married and those who aren't are questionable at best," Haruka commented. Somewhere on the ship. Vincent sneezed.

"Wasn't there someone you had an eye on back home Haruka?" Mitsuki asked. Haruka seemed uncertain.

"There was, but now…I'm not sure?" Haruka admitted as her cheeks turned red.

"Oh! So someone else has been stealing your heart then?" Mitsuki asked, smirking.

"I'm not sure, but he is interesting," Haruka replied, thinking of Lelouch.

Unknown to everyone, Yuzuka was internally panicking. She had an idea as to who Haruka was referring to. Having Yui as a rival for Lelouch was bad enough, but the fact others had their eyes on him was making things worse for her.

Around the same time Circe was in her cabin looking over data from the most recent battle. The cameras on the Minamoto had done an excellent job capturing a lot of data to use. Circe was using the data to work out training plans for Yuuya, Leon and Sharon to help them improve as pilots in space.

Leon and Sharon haven't been much of an issue, but Yuuya still has a big chip on his 't help that he and Leon are prone to butting heads, Circe thought as she recalled the times she supervised their training on the simulators.

"I wonder if Claude knew what kind of guy Yuuya was. Is that why I'm here?" Circe mused out loud before taking a slip of coffee.

Lelouch and his squad would've been more interesting to train. Probably less stressful, Circe thought, almost envious of Marimo. She might be better for dealing with a tough case like Yuuya, but the more I think about it, the more it would've ended with Yuuya getting the shit kicked out of him if her reputation is anything to go by.

"Maybe I should try to join the next battle so I can get a better feel for these Minamoto TSFs," Circe said, thinking out loud.

I wouldn't mind seeing Lelouch in action in person rather than the ship. He has proven capable so far, Circe thought, recalling everything Claude had told her about him. This included how in his original timeline he would become an Emperor and conquer the whole world when he was only eighteen years old. Then arrange his own assassination to bring the conflict to an end and change the status quo for the better.

Obviously now that means becoming Emperor and a symbol of hatred for the world won't be needed, so I want to see what he'll do instead, Claude's words echoed in Circe's mind.

What would someone who could pull off world conquest do? Especially now that he wasn't bound by the original course fate had for him.

Back on the Minerva, Maya had finished explaining everything she knew about Claude to Captain Gladys, Durandal, Cagalli and Athrun. Durandal seemed to take it the best, but everyone, understandably, was uncomfortable with someone like Claude having the power to manipulate reality the way she can.

Cagalli took it the worst and was more expressive about it.

"How can someone have that much power?!"

"We're not happy about it, but considering the state of affairs our world is in, we don't have much choice." Maya replied calmly, to Cagalli's outburst. "What she offered in exchange was too much for us to ignore."

"Understandable given how dangerous these aliens have been and the staggering number of lives they've claimed," Durandal replied. "Yet I do share Representative Athha's shock about arranging for a large-scale war in the fashion of a contest. It's clear she has ulterior motives for doing so."

Lelouch agreed, but he still lacked any inkling as to what it could be.

"Considering what she is capable of, there isn't much we can do about her," Maya admitted.

"Just as frustrating as that sounds, I'm sure," Talia added.

"What about those machines you use? Do they use nuclear power?" Cagalli asked.

"Most of them use a special solar capacitor that allows our machines to operate for days, up to a week at least. However, the machines used by say Captain Takamura and Lamperouge use more unique power sources. Their machines use what is essentially a miniaturized black hole as a power source," Maya explained, causing everyone to pause in surprise.

Lelouch watched in amusement.

"I…I think I need a break. Forgive me," Cagalli said, holding her forehead.

"Perhaps we should end it here for now, since I am sure you'll need to inform your government of what has happened with that rogue admiral," Durandal offered, providing an out for Cagalli who was at her limit. "In turn I would like to ask if you'll share any useful details you may have uncovered since there is a link between those who raided Armory One and the admiral who attacked us."

"Of course," Cagalli replied, but Lelouch seemed doubtful of how fruitful that investigation would be.

Considering an admiral of your own nation tried to kill you, this assassination plot must involve those even higher in power, Lelouch thought, considering the resources involved.

"When time better permits I would like to speak to you young man," Durandal requested, looking towards Lelouch.

"Of course," Lelouch agreed.

"Mr. Amalfi, I would like a copy of all details about your dealings with Claude in the meantime," Durandal asked Yuri who had been quiet.

"I understand."

"We'll stay nearby until the Minerva is able to make it to a safe port. Consider it a gesture in good faith," Maya offered.

"Thank you. Once we can contact the homeland we can discuss all this further," Durandal said with a smile.

Already looking to make the most of the situation. I'm not shocked since an opportunity like this doesn't come easily for anyone, Lelouch thought. Durnadal gave off a similar vibe to his brother Schenizel, but he couldn't put his finger on how exactly.

The work crews toiled throughout the night conducting the necessary repairs before the Minerva could begin heading for the PLANT homeland while arranging for another ship to take Cagalli and Athrun back to the Orb Union.

Then things took a sudden change.

"We've been told that Junuis Seven is moving," Maya announced in a meeting with Lelouch, Yui, Sayoko and Circe in a conference room. On a video monitor was Durandal, Captain Gladys and Cagalli. "Captain Gladys informed me that starting a few hours ago the remains of Junius Seven had begun moving. We have verified these reports following the first report that came from an observation base near the Debris Belt that monitors Junuis Seven. The report was initially met with skepticism, but quick follow-up investigations confirmed it."

"As in the remains of the PLANT colony destroyed during the Bloody Valentine, that colony?" Yui asked, earning a nod from Durandal.

"Yes, after the destruction of Junius Seven, the remains drifted into the Debris Belt, where they should've been in a stable orbit for hundreds of years," Durandal explained. "However, reports have confirmed the remains have begun moving and they are now on a dangerous course to impact the Earth in a matter of hours."

"How the remains of Junuis Seven began moving, we don't know. Headquarters have mobilized the Joule Team, providing them with Meteor Breakers to shatter the remains before they enter the atmosphere," Talia reported.

"Given the Minerva's proximity to Junuis Seven, I have asked this ship and its mobile suits to support the Joule Team. That being said, I would like to request your assistance," Durandal asked Maya and Lelouch. "I know you may not have any obligation to assist, however given the enormity of the situation."

"It's fine. It would be shameful if we ignored the situation Chairman, considering the damage something that large would cause upon impacting the Earth," Maya said, accepting his request.

"Thank you. I am grateful for your assistance," Durandal said, before noticing Lelouch's expression. "It seems something is on your mind, Captain Lamperouge. Do you disagree?"

"No sir, I don't. I was thinking about how something as large as Junuis Seven could be moving if its orbit was stable. I am doubtful a meteor could've hit it with sufficient force to move it, ignoring the density of the Debris Belt. The likelihood of this being natural is astronomical so I would like to act on the possibility that this could've been an intentional act."

"Who would even consider doing that?" Cagalli asked.

"I could think of a few groups, but I don't want to point the finger at anyone. I know there was a faction of Coordinators that were open to committing genocide against Naturals, so they could be culprit assuming they have the resources. They are also not the only extremist group open to doing so. If this is intentional, we can expect them to be waiting at Junius Seven ready to stop any attempt to prevent its impact with Earth." Lelouch shared his logic on the matter. "I would like to ask if my squad can join the operation armed, in case my suspicions prove to be right."

Cagalli and Talia had no response, but Durandal spoke for them.

"Your concerns are not unreasonable, although I would like to believe otherwise. I see no reason to say no to your request. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to have the Minvera and her mobile suits do the same as a precaution."

"Of course Chairman," Talia replied.

"Captain Lelouch, maybe it wouldn't hurt if you could visit the Minerva and confer with Captain Gladys in person for further collaboration," Durandal suggested.

"Understood. We still have time before we reach Junuis Seven, I'll bring Lieutenant Steinhoff and Lieutenant Haruko with me. Captain Takamura, I'll leave you to coordinate our preparations with Lietutiant Komaki," Lelouch assigned.

"Of course, we'll take care of it."

"Head on over. I'll make sure this ship is ready for battle as a precaution. I do share your concerns, so I'll ask the bridge to expand our sensor sweeps," Maya offered, approving of the plan.

Sometime later aboard the Minerva, inside the ship's lounge various members of the crew were chatting about Junius Seven, all of them trying to figure out how something so massive could have begun moving. The pilots and members of the engineering were in the lounge, along with one member of the bridge crew.

"So, what do you think?" Vino Dupre, one of the engineers with red and brown hair, asked before taking a slip from his soft drink.

"Maybe a meteorite struck it. No one seems to be sure that it wasn't. Kinda hard to imagine something could hit it that could cause it to move without destroying it in the impact," pondered Yolan Kent, a black haired young man and Vino's best friend.

"Is it true that Junuis Seven is going to hit the Earth?" Shinn inquired, his own soft drink in his hand.

"Yeah, that's what Bart told me," Meyrin replied.

"First the raid on Armory One. Now before that could be settled, this happens?! I mean what is going on," Lunamaria complained while sitting on one of the sofas with her own drink in hand. "Well if Junuis Seven is moving, what are we supposed to do about it?"

No one had an answer, but a blonde haired, young man, wearing a red uniform spoke up.

"Just break it up," Rey Za Burrel answered, causing all eyes to fall on him.

"And how would we do that?" Vino remarked as Junuis Seven was virtually a landmass in space.

"Listen, it's impossible to restore its orbit to keep it from striking Earth, so the only option is to break it up using Meteor Breakers," Rey replied.

"But that thing is huge. Even if you manage to break it in half, that is still a mass five or six kilometers in diameter," Yolan argued.

"Yeah, that won't be enough," Vino added.

"What about all of the victims? I heard the bodies of those who died are still within Junius Seven," Meyrin said sadly.

"If Junuis Seven hits, then Earth will be annihilated. Nothing will be left, neither living or dead," Rey countered.

"There won't be an Earth left," Vino said, as the gravity of the situation set in.

"How awful," Meyrin remarked.

"That's right," Yolan replied as a silence fell over the room. "Oh well. If it was meant to be, it was meant to be. I mean it's currently out of our hands, but look on the bright side; this will take care of a lot of hassles for us and everything will be better at PLANTs."

Unknown to Yolan, someone out in the hallway had overheard, causing her emotions to flare up.

"How dare you say that," Cagalli snapped as she entered the lounge.

Some of the pilots saluted her, due to her being the Chief Representative of Orb. Others did not, but that didn't stop her lecture.

"Things will be better. It's meant to be! How could you even be ok with that? Do you understand what will happen to the Earth and everyone on it? Do you all even realize how many people could die? Is this what people from ZAFT actually think?"

No one had a reply, so Cagalli continued.

"We all suffered through that terrible war. I thought things were changing under Chairman Durandal, but I guess I was mistaken."

"I'm sorry," Yolan apologized, under Cagalli's angry gaze.

"That's enough Cagalli," Athrun said, trying to calm her down.

"Yolan was just trying to lighten up the mood," Shinn defended with an angry scowl on his face. "I think you are out of line. Just coming in here and lecturing us; or did you forget this was a ZAFT ship, not an Orb one?"

"How dare you," Cagalli snapped, her temper flaring.

"Cagalli, please control yourself," Athrun pleaded, trying to rein in Cagalli, aware that her emotions were getting the best of her.

"Shinn, be mindful of what you said," Rey cautioned.

"Why," Shinn asked before mockingly answering his own question. "Oh right, she's the Chief Representative of Orb, right?"

"You!," Cagalli was about to lash out, but Athrun intervened.

"You seem to have some grudge against the Orb Union, may I ask why?" Athrun asked, but Shinn didn't answer. "I thought you used to live there? If you are looking for some trivial excuse to drag the representative into an irrelevant fight I won't stand for it."

"Trivial," Shinn's own anger flared now. "I won't let anyone call it trivial, and you're wrong about it being irrelevant. I lost my entire family because of the Athhas, they believed in the nation and its ideals, but all it did was get them all killed at Onogoro!"

Cagalli, stunned by Shinn's admittance, was taken aback when Shinn looked at her, his red eyes seething in anger.

"You talked about upholding justice. Did you even think about how many people, innocent civilians, would be caught in the crossfire? Would die to follow your values to the bitter end?" Shinn said as his hand crushed the can he held. "I'll never believe any of your self-serving lies again!"

Cagalli was too stunned to retort.

"I wish people who didn't understand stuff wouldn't talk about things as if they did," Shinn commented. Before he could walk away, Cagalli slugged him in the face, knocking a stunned Shinn to the floor.

"Cagalli!" Athrun cried, trying to calm her down, but it was too little too late.

She grabbed a stunned Shinn by the collar.

"Don't act like you were the only one who lost family. My father died on that day too. Even before Orb was invaded, I fought alongside resistance fighters in Africa against ZAFT. I watched the friends I made among them die. I fought at the Battle of Jachin Due where three of my best friends died, so don't you dare imply I know nothing of loss."

Initially shocked from the blow to the face, Shinn growled and broke free of Cagalli's grip. He backed away with Athrun getting between them, trying to keep things from getting worse. Luckily, Shinn promptly left the room, passing by Lelouch on the way out and his two pilots.

"I was hoping to talk to the pilot of the Impulse, but it seems I'll have to make due with the rest of you," Lelouch said with a sigh.

Yolan's joke was in bad taste, but it seems the animosity between both groups still runs very deep, Lelouch thought. He noticed the disapproving looks Haruko and Circe shared.

"We're the pilots of the ZAKUs," Luna said, deciding a change of subject was badly needed.

"Why are you here?" Rey inquired.

"To talk strategy," Lelouch answered. "I have reason to believe Junuis Seven's sudden movement was intentionally caused, so Captain Gladys and I have agreed for our pilots to collaborate in case we run into trouble."

This caused everyone, but Athrun and Cagalli, to look at him in surprise.

"You really think an ambush is waiting for us at Junius Seven," Luna asked, which Lelouch nodded in confirmation.

"Yes, because whoever wants Junius Seven to hit the Earth has to know how quickly the PLANTs would respond," Lelouch said. Although the Earth Alliance would have responded, their forces were stationed at the moon so they wouldn't be able to intercept in time.

The Orb Union wasn't in a position to help either, as far as he knew.

"The goal will be to eliminate all hostiles while protecting the mobile suits with Meteor Breakers," Lelouch explained, using the holo Claude had given him to display a holographic display of Junius Seven. "The plan is to plant several Meteor Breakers throughout the colony's remains to break it up into small enough pieces they can burn up in the atmosphere. If an enemy force is found, we need to eliminate them quickly."

"So we have a time limit to use the Meteor Breakers on Junius Seven," Rey deduced, recognizing the enemy at Junius Seven wouldn't be the biggest threat, time was.

"Exactly," Lelouch agreed, glad Rey was quick on the uptake. "One round of meteor breakers won't be enough to break up Junuis Seven completely. Such fragments will still be a danger to the Earth, so the goal will be to break up Junuis Seven until the fragments are small enough to burn up in the atmosphere or that we could destroy ourselves with the Minerva and the Vortigern weapons."

"Making a collaboration all the more important to wipe out the enemy as fast as possible?" Rey asked.

"That's right. I was hoping to chat with Shinn to get an idea of how they battle so I can know how to best provide support in the battle ahead, if we do run into an ambush."

"Actually I think you're right. We're going to face an ambush." Meyrin agreed with Lelouch's assessment of the situation.

Another advantage we have is that we won't be the first on the scene, Lelouch thought pragmatically.

A few hours later, approaching Junuis Seven from a distance, was a pair of Nazca-class ships, the Voltaire and Rousseau. They were preparing to launch mobile suits to the colony's remains to begin planting the Meteor Breakers. The only change to their initial plan would be that their mobile suits would be armed with a few spares acting as makeshift security, having been in contact with Chairman Durandal.

"Look at that thing. It's huge," commented a young man with short brown hair and bronze skin with purple eyes, who was dressed in a green and white uniform.

"Of course it is," his superior replied, irritated.

He was dressed in a white and black uniform, had short silver hair and blue eyes and stood with his arms crossed over his chest as he stood on the bridge of the Voltaire alongside his subordinate and friend.

"We live on such a colony, remember," Yzak Joule said.

"I'm just commenting aloud. I know how important this mission is," Deraka Elsman replied, sometimes wondering if his best friend could light up a little even in a serious situation like this.

"Listen!" Yzak ordered as Deraka made his way to the elevator behind them. "We don't have a lot of time, the Minerva will be here soon. Work effectively, and watch out for any trouble. I'll join you if there is a problem."

"Roger," Deraka saluted as the elevator's doors closed, on his way to the mobile suit deck to join the others.

Within minutes the first mobile suits from the two ZAFT ships launched. Most of them were GuAIZ mobile suits, but Deraka piloted a black ZAKU Warrior with Gunner Wizard Pack equipped. ZAKU followed behind while some GuAIZ mobile suits were armed with beam rifles, the rest were carrying the first of the Meteor Breakers they had brought.

Tensions were high, since the pilots were told to expect a possible ambush. The idea of Junuis Seven being made to collide with the Earth was more believable than a random meteorite hitting it, given the density of the debris field it would need to pass through. Some wondered why no one would consider the possibility of the disaster being an intentional one. Maybe no one wanted to admit that there were other Coordinators with a mindset similar to those of Blue Cosmos.

The first group had planted the first Meteor Breaker and were in the process of activating it when the first shots were fired.

Hiding among the ruined buildings and artificial mountains of the colony's ruins, black and purple mobile suits armed with beam rifles, shields, and katanas. More than a dozen GINN High Maneuver Type II units emerged from other hiding places to attack Deraka and the other pilots, if they hadn't come armed their casualties could've been higher, because they could fight back and defend themselves.

"What the hell," Deraka cried on the open line when he saw the explosion of the first group in the distance.

An enemy GINN took a shot at Deraka, but he evaded before retaliating with the beam cannon of his mobile suit. Unfortunately his enemy evaded it. Two more were upon him and his group of GuAIZ mobile suits installing their Meteor Breaker. Deraka put himself in the path of their attack, catching their beam rifle shots with his ZAKU's shoulder shield before counterattacking with another shot from his beam cannon.

Unfortunately it was easy for the enemy to evade, but it at least forced them to keep their distance. They focused their attacks on the Meteor Breaker and the mobile suits preparing it.

Shit, they are trying to keep me pinned down, Deraka thought. He couldn't pursue the enemy, not without leaving the Meteor Breaker and its crew defenseless. It seemed the enemy was taking shots at the GuAIZ squad Deraka was protecting, hoping that in his effort to protect them, an opening would appear they could exploit.

"Shit. These guys aren't amateurs. They're freaking experts," Deraka said, gritting his teeth, knowing that the other pilots of their group won't stand a chance.

Suddenly a beam rifle shot down one of the enemy GINNs before a swarm of micro-missiles overwhelmed a second one. A green ZAKU Warrior with a Blaze pack configuration, a backpack with extra thrusters and micro-missile launchers, appeared with a flower-like emblem on the left shoulder.

"Deraka, are you alright," a female voice called out.

"Thanks for the back up Shiho," Deraka said as one of the screens in his cockpit displayed a young woman his age with purple eyes.

"Don't mention it," Shiho said, glad she could be of assistance. "The commander will be joining the battle soon. My group has finished planting the first Meteor Breaker."

"Same here," Deraka announced, looking back to see the Meteor Breaker he had been protecting was drilling into the depths of Junius Seven. "Alright, let's form up. Time to give these GINNs some payback. No matter what, we have to protect the Meteor Breakers."

"Sir!" The GuAIZ pilots replied as they joined Shiho and Deraka.

They found a group of enemy GINNs pursuing another group of GuAIZ carrying a Meteor Breaker. Deraka fired his cannon, vaporizing the torso of an enemy GINN from behind. The other two GINNs tried to scatter, but Shiho quickly closed the distance, drawing her ZAKU's beam tomahawk to cut one of the enemy machines in half across the waist.

The other three GuAIZ mobile suits ganged up on the last GINN, shooting off its arms with their beam weapons Despite the damage it charged the GuAIZs.

"All of you get back NOW!" Deraka shouted in alarm. Two of them moved away, but one didn't move fast enough and was caught by the GINN.

Wrapping its legs around the GuAIZ, the enemy machine self-destructed taking the GuAIZ with it.

"Shit! I knew it. Shiho, has there been any sign of a mothership?"

"None. Clearly these GINNs are intent on seeing Junius Seven fall," Shiho said, coming to the same conclusion as Deraka.

"All the more reason to eliminate these guys as fast as possible. We better pass the word along too."

"Roger," Shiho confirmed. She and Deraka, along with the two remaining GuAIZs moved on, seeking more of the enemy GINNs.

Approaching Junuis Seven were the Minerva and the Vortigern. Their sensors were already picking up signals of a battle in progress, which, unfortunately, confirmed Lelouch's concerns. Thankfully their pilots were already in their machines on stand-by as they approached.

"I guess the commander called it," Mitsuki remarked from her cockpit.

"Given the evidence, it was the most likely outcome," Haruka added from her own.

Given the stakes I wouldn't have minded being wrong, Lelouch thought, knowing they needed to act fast.

"Alright, remember the plan; eliminate all hostiles and protect the Meteor Breakers. We will be providing support to the Minerva's mobile suits," Lelouch explained as he and Yui's mobile suits were prepared for launch. "Lieutenants Cryska Barchenowa and Martica Barchenowa; I want you two to protect our allies with Meteor Breakers and dispatch any enemy units that get near."

"Understood," Martica and Cryska replied.

"Lieutenants Bremer and Kashiwagi will work with the Impulse Gundam to provide direct support," Lelouch commanded. "Lieutenants Suzumiya, Sendou and Hayase will accompany me and Captain Takamura."

"Roger," Haruka, Yuzuka, Mitsuki said while Yui was quiet.

"The rest of you have your orders, but remember, time is our greatest enemy here. We must eliminate the hostiles as quickly as possible so the demolition work can proceed without further interference," Lelouch said before ending, "I am expecting you to perform at your best today, move out."

"Sir!" The other pilots said in unison.

One by one the machines from the Vortigern alongside those from the Minerva launched into battle. The machines launched hurried to Junuis Seven to deal with the hostile force as swiftly as possible.

Around the same time, another ship had arrived on the scene, the Girty Lue, followed by Neo's Exus. They were there to conduct an investigation of Junius Seven since they had no other mobile suits that were combat worthy as the stolen Gundams still needed repairs.

This is an opportunity for me to acquire some additional data on those new machines from our unknown third party, Neo thought. He suspected the new ZAFT ship and their ally would arrive at Junius Seven once word of its impending collision with Earth was known. He expected their ally to show, but the Minvera coming was questionable due to the damage it had sustained.

"Ian, make sure you keep the ship a safe distance away. I'll carry out the mission on my own, but have Sting on standby just in case," Neo said over private communications with his ship.

"Understood sir."

The battle means this wasn't some act of god. Now to see puppeting the scene, Neo thought, heading for Junuis Seven.

Yzak joined the battle in his blue ZAKU Phantom, equipped with the Slash wizard pack, adding a pair of beam gatling guns mounted over the shoulders and a beam ax built into a beam gatling guns of his machine shredded an enemy GINN before he used his beam ax to cleave another in half that attempted to charge him in close quarters.

"Continue the demolition. If we stop then we'll be playing into their hands," Yzak commanded, covering another group of GuAIZ mobile suits as they planted another Meteor Breaker on Junius Seven.

"Damn it. How many of these guys are there?!" Deraka complained on the open communication channel.

"Setting up Junuis Seven to fall is a task beyond what a small group of mobile suits can do alone," Shiho pointed out, downing another GINN with her beam rifle. "But, how didn't anyone notice?"

Yzak's eyes narrowed. He had a good feeling as to why no one noticed and how these terrorists were able to advance their plans as far as they have.

Lelouch shared a similar thought, having suspected it when he heard about Junuis Seven's sudden collision course towards the Earth.

If what I've seen on the files Claude provided are right, well known members of the remnants of ZAFT's radical faction were arrested and detained. With that in mind, it's not surprising that many of their supporters among the rank-and-file soldiers and those outside of the military managed to avoid the authorities, Lelouch thought. What was left of the radical faction within the PLANTs and ZAFT were the only ones Lelouch believed would be willing to go as far as dropping Junius Seven on Earth and wiping out every human on it all in the name of revenge.

Lelouch didn't voice his suspicions, yet. He did not want to cause any disagreements that could impede the disaster relief efforts.

I am sure many of those involved are those who lost loved ones during The Bloody Valentine, Lelouch thought, sympathetically. However, I can never condone something this horrific for the sake of vengeance.

"Engage the enemy," Lelouch commanded as he and Yui moved in. Izumi was among the first to engage the GINNs, a look of anger on her face.

"Why would humans want to destroy their own planet? It's insane!" Izumi declared before shouting, "FLY MY FANGS!"

The dagger-shaped remote weapons launched from the Tsuna, causing the unfortunate enemy GINN in Izumi's sights to begin evasive maneuvers until a shot from Izumi's beam gun hit the cockpit, causing the machine to explode. The Fangs soon found a new target. An enemy GINN was attempting to shoot down a group of GuAIZ mobile suits trying to plant another Meteor Breaker. Izumi attacked from behind. One fang shot it in the back, causing it to explode.

Cu joined the battle, engaging a GINN in close quarters combat. Dodging their beam rifle shots, the GINN tossed away its beam rifle and drew its sword. Cu grinned savagely. She dodged the GINN's attacks, before following up with a sword strike that cleaved it in two.

Two more GINNs tried to double team Cu, but they were stopped by the intervention of Tsukiko and Circe. They attacked with their beam rifles while Cu fought the first one until she beheaded it as Circe shot down the second.

The Impulse Gundam, piloted by Shinn, was equipped with the Force Silhouette, granting it a backpack with wings allowing for atmospheric flight and improved mobility, two beam sabers along with its standard shield and rifle. Luna was piloting her ZAKU with its Gunner armament and Rey was piloting his white ZAKU Phantom equipped with the Blaze Wizard pack. Athrun joined, having obtained special permission from Chairman Durandal to assist them, piloting a ZAKU Warrior equipped with the Blaze pack.

Athrun wanted to focus on completing the demolition work, but he knew as long as the enemy GINNs remained active they risked complete failure if even one of the Meteor breakers was destroyed.

As the battle raged through, Meteor Breakers were being successfully implanted into the falling colony. Enough of them had been detonated so far that Junius Seven began splitting in half. It still wasn't enough as one half continued falling towards Earth, remaining a serious threat.

Watching as these events unfolded, the unknown ringleader behind the incident realized they were losing the battle as the Minerva and the new third party's arrival was putting them on the defensive. With more successful Meteor Breaker detonations his plans were falling to ruin.

Gritting his teeth, he brought up a remote control he had in his cockpit and keyed in a code before the word "Activate" appeared on the screen.

"Destroy everyone who would intervene in dropping our great tombstone on Earth. Mebahiah!"

Upon pushing the button, an asteroid floating above Junuis Seven was split open by a powerful beam cannon from something lurking within it. The destructive display attracted everyone's attention as the asteroid shattered. Unfortunately, in the process, the beam consumed a group of GuAIZ mobile suits carrying a meteor breaker and nearly hit one of the Nazca class ships.

"WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!" Deraka shouted.

"There is something coming out of that asteroid," Yui remarked after defeating a GINN.

Luna took aim, firing her beam cannon into the dust cloud before the hostile within could be revealed.

To her shock the shot was defused upon whatever she had hit. The dust cleared and revealed something unusual. A kind of machine attached to a large ship-like component. It was mostly orange and dark gray in color. The compartment behind it was unleashing drone-like machines with three drill-like limbs. Two acted as arms and presumably defensive weapons, while wires floated around it, likely for stability. Soon more than a dozen appeared surrounding the strange machine as Gato's GINN near it.

The strange drill-equipped drones hurried towards the GuAIZ and the Minamoto Units. The ZAFT mobile suits opened fire with their beam rifles, destroying many of the drones, but more kept coming.

Sato was pleased that they could prevent things from collapsing, but suddenly the mobile armor's tentacles attacked his machine, tearing it apart. This was followed up by more drones attacking the remaining GINNs.

That thing on its back is producing them, Lelouch noticed. He observed the strange machine send out tentacle-like appendages to grab nearby asteroid fragments and remains of nearby mobile suits. It placed them into an opening on top of the back unit, likely to be recycled as resources to produce more drones.

Luckily the drones lacked the main machine's durability against beam weapons, so they were easy enough to destroy. Yet, Lelouch knew if their numbers continued to increase the drones would eventually overwhelm them.

Lelouch noticed something else and it gave him an idea.

There is no proof this will work, but if it does…

The Izanami Gundam's rail cannons fired, hitting the mobile armor and inflicting damage.

As I suspected. In exchange for having armor effective against beam weaponry, it's vulnerable to kinetic weapons, especially high caliber ones, Lelouch thought when he had a second idea come to mind. Now come and get me!

Lelouch fired the rail cannons as soon as they were ready, but this time the drones threw themselves into the line of fire. As Lelouch wanted, it was preparing to fire its primary weapon.

He couldn't help but think that this was a stupid idea, but…

The mobile armor fired its weapon. Lelouch was chased by the energy beam as it cleaved into Junuis Seven. From the bridge of the Minvera, Captain Gladys, Durandal, and Cagalli noticed something.

"That beam is cutting through Junuis Seven. It's splitting it in half," Cagalli said, observing as the half of Junius Seven still falling towards Earth was broken again in two.

"Of course," Durandal said in understanding. "He saw how powerful its beam weapon was, so he decided to take advantage of it. Furthermore, I suspect like he does, that the machine isn't being piloted. It must be some kind of autonomous weapon."

"Yes, otherwise it would have halted its own attack instead of helping break up Junuis Seven," Talia agreed.

"Who gave those terrorists such a weapon in the first place?"

"That Princess, is a good question," Durandal wondered aloud.

Meanwhile as the mobile armor continued its attempts to shoot down Lelouch, Dearka and Lunamaria took aim with their mobile suit beam cannons and shot at the mobile armor's drone production unit. They specifically aimed for the points where the newly made drones are launched from.

Their shots struck home and a chain of internal explosions tore apart the enormous back unit of the Mobile Armor.

Excellent. My plan worked, Lelouch thought, smiling triumphantly.

It should've been easy with them left to mop up any remaining drones and GINNs, but the mobile armor jettisoned itself from its critically damaged rear unit before it was engulfed in the explosion. Now it was moving much faster and more agile.

Yui intervened, parrying one of the tentacles before deflecting another with the Izanagi's Gerbera Straight and Tiger Pierce swords. Yzak was moving to support her, but was intercepted by enemy GINNs,

Despite their secret weapon turning on them, the remaining enemy GINNs continued to fight to the death, proving they would halt all attempts to stop Junuis Seven no matter what.

This rouge mobile armor and its remaining drones continued to add complications with ZAFT and Lelouch's forces tied up fighting the GINNs.

At least there was a silver lining in that the GINNs and drones were very manageable.

Cui cleaved a GINN in two after parrying its blade, before using her Minamoto's shield to block an incoming beam shot from another pair of GINNs making an attack run on her and a group of GuAIZ R mobile suits she was covering, who were moving another Meteor Breaker into position.

"Come on," Cui cried, a vicious smile on her face.

Suddenly a long range sniper rifle took them out.

"I got this group covered," Stella announced, having been using a floating island of debris as a sniper nest. As Stella scanned the battlefield, she found a group of three GINNs about to ambush another Meteor Breaker group. As she took aim, the three GINNs were attacked.

Mitsuki ambushed them, shredding the first GINN with a hailstorm of rifle fire from both Butterfly Busters and a sub-arm using a Beam Smart Gun in rapid fire mode. Its arms and legs came off before the torso was turned into Swiss chess before exploding. The two remaining GINN attacked. Mistuki merely grinned as the Butterfly Busters switched to saber mode allowing her to parry their attacks with dual beam sabers.

She kicked one GINN when it overextended itself in trying to cut her in half and the other GINN rushed her. Catching both of Mitsuki's blades with its katana and shield, but in the heat of battle the GINN forgot the sub-arms of the Minamoto TSFs. Another one, wielding a beam saber, stabbed the GINN through the left side of its torso.

Mistuki pulled back before it exploded, ready to deal with the last GINN, when, suddenly, it exploded.

"Huh!?"

Haruka had shot it down, hitting it from behind.

"I had that one," Mistuki protested.

"Come on. You don't have time to play with the enemy. There are other groups that need help."

"I wasn't playing," Mitsuki pouted as she and Haruka moved on to seek more of the enemy to eliminate.

She hasn't changed much. I suppose her habit of stealing kills from her teammates is the same too, Haruka thought, sighing internally.

Elsewhere Izumi joined Yui in fighting the mobile armor. With Yui distracting it, Izumi managed to slice off one of its winged-like arms, but it kept fighting on. Lelouch conducted hit and run attacks with his rail cannons to help create openings. Izumi and Yui had engaged the Coupling System between themselves to keep up with the mobile armor's attacks.

"This is taking too long," Lelouch muttered to himself, glancing at the altitude being monitored in his cockpit. The distance between them and the planet's atmosphere was quickly decreasing.

They had done a good job breaking up Junuis Seven, as another Meteor Breaker detonated. There were still some large pieces that could be a danger, but the smaller fragments should burn up in the atmosphere.

We need to defeat that thing now and finish the demolition, Lelouch trying to formulate a plan.

"Captain, can I help?" Haruko arrived armed with two MA-M92 Zankitou swords she had taken from fallen GINNs.

"We need to take that thing out now," Lelouch stated before deciding, "Connect to Haruko."

"Acception," Haruko replied without hesitation.

The Coupling System activated as the Izanami Gundam transformed into Destroyer Mode while the Minamoto eyes began glowing red as their minds became coupled as one. With a plan in mind the two wordlessly moved to assist Izumi and Yui.

Meanwhile, Izumi had been trying to get in closer for another attack, but its three tentacles were fast. Predicting when and how they would attack made closing the distance risky. Yui wasn't faring much better. With both machines in Destroyer Mode the mobile armor was on the defensive, keeping them from getting too close while still utilizing its dwindling number of drones of which only less than a dozen remained.

Yui and Izumi were both watching their altitude, because soon they were approaching the point where they risked getting caught in Earth's gravity.

Yui grit her teeth in annoyance as their efforts were being thwarted. There was still the threat of its beam cannon that they had to be worried about.

All we need is one nice opening, Yui thought, worried that the Coupling System would switch off soon.

Suddenly a Beam Magnum Shot came from behind, hitting the mobile armor. The impact was enough to stagger it, its armor diffusing the beam across its surface, destroying the remaining drones surrounding it. Lelouch followed up his attack with another barrage of the hip mounted rail cannons, hitting it in the face.

"What is he doing?" Izumi wondered.

"Wait, who is he Coupled with?" Yui asked, noticing the Inazami's Destroyer mode was active.

Their answer came as Haruko charged from above. With a battle cry she used both swords, striking the point between the main body and its remaining wing-like appendage, cutting it off. Izumi and Yui seized the moment, rushing the mobile armor.

Izumi beheaded it, before Yui finished the mobile armor off by bisecting it. The pair pulled back as it stopped moving.

"We've destroyed the enemy machine. Status?" Lelouch asked, contacting the Vortigern.

"The remaining GINNs are being mopped up and the last of the Meteor Breakers have been placed, but…some didn't detonate and now one large piece may enter the atmosphere."

"Sabotage?"

"It's possible. The Minvera intends to enter the atmosphere and fire its main weapon. We'll do the same to assist. We'll also try to destroy any other fragments that could pose a danger," Maya replied. "Once the last Meteor Breakers are in, all units are to return to the ship."

"Understood." Lelouch replied.

"Was it enough?" Yui asked.

"We've done all we can," Lelouch stated. They had done their best, but while some large fragments were still a danger, the worse case scenario had been averted.

Watching from afar, after having defeated some enemy GINNs, Shinn had watched Lelouch, Izumi, Haruko, and Yui take on the mobile armor and win, while Athrun along with his old friends had defeated the enemy units with no effort. The skills they all displayed were impressive.

I guess that's what it means to be battle hardened, Shinn thought.

Once the last of the Meteor Breakers were set, they activated, breaking up much of what remained of Junuis Seven, save for one large fragment.

It wouldn't wipe out life on Earth, but it could cause an impact that could wipe out a city if it fell in the wrong location.

Shinn and a few GuAIZ R covered the retreat of the mobile suits once their tasks were done, not wanting to fall prey to any more surprises.

However, Shinn noticed a familiar ZAKU trying to position a Meteor Breaker that wasn't firing, in an effort to get it to work.

"Hey, didn't you get the message?" Shinn called to Athrun as he approached.

"Yes I heard, so you can go back."

"But if you don't go back now you'll burn up in the atmosphere!" Shinn pointed out as the altitude meter in his cockpit flashed in warning.

"Even if both ships launch an external attack, it may not be enough. If I can just get this to dig, maybe the explosive ordinance within could still detonate," Athrun said as his ZAKU was struggling to position the Meteor Breaker just right.

Instead of arguing further Shinn moved to help him as the Impulse took hold of the Meteor Breaker opposite of the ZAKU.

"Why would someone like you be with the Orb Union?"

Shinn had heard about Athrun Zala. A renowned war hero who had defeated the seemingly invincible Strike of the Earth Alliance. Then later turned against his own father, former Supreme Chairman Patrick Zala when he intended to use the weapon GENESIS on Earth and wipe out all life on the planet. After the war he was discharged from ZAFT, moving to the Orb Union.

He could understand the stuff between Athrun and his father pushing him to leave, but why Orb? The very country that failed him. Cagalli's earlier outburst replayed in his mind.

Athrun didn't get a chance to answer.

A pair of beam rifle shots narrowly missed them. Four GINNs were launching an attack. They were hell bent on not allowing the pair to plant the last Meteor Breaker.

"These guys are insane!" Shinn exclaimed, blocking another beam shot with his shield.

No, they are determined to see Junius Seven fall. Any amount of damage they can cause is worth their lives, Athrun thought.

These were a brand new model of the high maneuver GINN. No doubt these were the men in charge of this operation..

Athrun felt disheartened that no matter which faction, there were plenty of men who refused to let vengeance go..

This all troubled Athrun greatly, but right now he had to face the enemy before him.

Shinn drew his beam saber to engage in melee as Athrun backed him up with supporting fire.. Shinn attacked when one of the GINNs had to block Athrun's shots. Shinn beheaded it, but to his surprise, the headless GINN tackled him before self-destructing.

Luckily the Impulse Gundam's phase shift armor managed to protect him, but the force knocked him back. Leaving Athrun to engage the last three on his own.

Even worse the remains of the GINN that had self-destructed hit the Meteor Breaker, activating as it burrowed into the ground.

There was no detonation.

Firing a few shots to force the GINNs to scatter, Athrun cast aside his rifle and drew his beam tomahawk. He parried the first GINN using his shoulder mounted shield following up with a kick, not wanting to risk being flanked by the other two. Athrun locked blades with the GINN, the two machines struggling trying to overpower the other. Activating the thrusters, Athrun surged forward ramming the GINN, giving him an opening to strike it down.

Athrun was immediately retaliated upon by the remaining two GINNs as one sliced off the ZAKU's arm holding the tomahawk. Defenseless, Athrun tried to pull away, but the second GINN was poised to deliver a killing blow.

Shinn shot the GINN in the back, then rushed to Athrun's aid, cutting off the GINN's arm holding its sword. The Impulse kicked it in the head before grabbing the hand of Athrun's ZAKU, fleeing from the scene.

Alarms had been sounding in their cockpits, warning them that Junuis Seven, the last large fragment, was entering the atmosphere as the rock began turning red hot.

As they fled, getting clear of the last fragment of Junius Seven, the last GINN was determined to take one of them with them, but after he grabbed one of the ZAKU's legs, Shinn cut its remaining arm off before kicking the GINN, this time with enough force to hit Junuis Seven, exploding upon impact triggering the Meteor Breaker, blasting a chunk away.

Athrun was diverting what power was left to the thrusters to escape Earth's gravity while Shinn struggled to pull them towards the Minvera, but the ZAKU's hand slipped from his grasp, and soon the Impulse was caught in Earth's gravity well, unable to escape.

Meanwhile the two ships were poised to attack, but were delayed when Shinn and Athrun didn't return. Maya, aboard the Vortigern had the crew using their sensors to try and locate the pair.

"Major, I've located them, they are bearing one thousand, mark beta," a crew member reported.

"Are they clear of Junuis Seven?"

"They are out of the line of fire."

"Contact the Minvera and pass along the information," Mata commanded. "All weapons prepare to fire."

"Yes, ma'am!"

Aboard the Minerva, Captain Gladys was hesitating, not wanting to risk killing Athrun and Shinn. Durandal had departed earlier, leaving for the Voltaire, but Cagalli remained aboard to await Athrun's return. Now she sat in uneasy silence, worried about his well being.

"Captain, we can't wait any longer. We won't be able to fire the cannon," Arthur warned as the Minerva could only fire its main gun for a small window during reentry.

"But we don't know where the ZAKU and Impulse are," Malik pointed out.

"Without their positions we could end up catching them in the crossfire," Chen Jian Yi warned from behind his station.

Captain Gladys was silent. her thoughts were broken by Meyrin who received an emergency transmission from the Vortigern. Acting fast, Meyrin used the information to confirm and display the whereabouts of the ZAKU and the Impulse on the main screen, magnifying the image.

"Captain I have the positions of the ZAKU and the Impulse, they are clear of Junuis Seven." Meyrin said, surprising everyone.

Cagalli was both relieved and horrified to see Athrun attempting to survive reentry using the ZAKU's shield, but its form was glowing red which was very concerning.

The worst part was there was nothing they could do for them. The Impulse Gundam's phase shift armor would enable it to survive reentry easily and with its Force Silhouette was capable of atmospheric flight.

They could only hope the ZAKU would somehow survive.

"Activate Tannhäuser," Talia commanded. "As we fire, try to move us closer to the Impulse and the ZAKU!"

"Yes ma'am," the helmsman replied.

The Vortigern fired its Linear Cannons. The Minvera joined, firing its Positron Blaster Cannon. Hitting its mark, each shot breaking a chunk off the large fragment.

The Minvera had managed seven shots, the final one shattering the final fragment, but the smaller ones got past, raining upon the Earth.

Of the fragments that fell, most impacted in the ocean. While this spared population centers from a direct impact, this left coastal cities and towns at risk from tsunamis.

Still things could've been far worse.

Fleeing the scene was Neo in his Exus, his mission complete.

"He's going to have a field day with this," Neo muttered to himself.

Approaching Junuis Seven was risky, but thanks to the debris, he was able to use it as cover to approach the colony.

With everyone being distracted by the rogue GINNs and the mobile armor, he went unnoticed. He did keep a safe distance, and got more than enough information.

Not only did Neo get sufficient evidence that ZAFT was indirectly responsible for Junuis Seven's near collision, he also collected more data on those unknown machines and their ship.

Yes, this would help make up for his previous losses.

Several minutes passed until the Minvera and the Vortigern could switch to atmospheric flight and make it through reentry.

Athrun had made it through as well, but his machine was in free fall. He had no means to slow down and his machine was disabled.

As if things weren't bad enough, his shield broke off sending him into a spiral.

"Ugh, without a booster, atmospheric flight is impossible," Athrun complained, trying to figure out a solution.

At this rate I'll hit the ocean, the impact alone will kill me, Athrun thought grimly.

"Athrun," Shinn's voice sounded through the cockpit. He was surprised that his Zaku could still receive a transmission. "Athrun do you copy?"

"Shinn, is that you!?"

"Stay where you are, I'll be right there."

"Stop, not even the Impulse has enough thrust to…"

Athrun was cut off as the Impulse grabbed hold of his damaged machine, slowing his descent.

Shinn's face appeared on a monitor, clearly annoyed.

"Why must you insist on telling me what can't be done?"

"Alright; what would you rather I tell you then?"

"Something like, help me you bastard!?"

Athrun smiled in amusement, "Would you prefer if I do that?"

Shinn could only shake his head, "No, that was just an example."

A moment later the pair saw a flare shoot through the clouds ahead of them. Following it back where it came from was the Minvera. Unable to contact them through the disruption caused by the falling fragments, they tried to signal them..

Lelouch, back on the Vortigern, watching through one of the monitors in the pilot's breakroom, noticed someone behind him.

"You knew this would happen didn't you? You expected that we would be caught up in it?"

Claude smiled mischievously.

"Maybe," Claude said innocently, as Lelouch glared daggers at the woman. "Oh don't look at me like that. It wasn't hard to know when and why Junuis Seven would be falling. It happens in every timeline for this world. The only difference this time around is that you did succeed in significantly reducing the number of casualties."

"If you knew why didn't you say something?"

"Because I didn't know exactly how things would play out. I can manipulate time and space, and observe other timelines so while I know all possibilities and outcomes, I won't know what will actually happen until it happens."

Lelouch's eyes narrowed, "So was something different about this?"

"Yes, that autonomous mobile armor you fought with all the drones. That was a first for this incident."

"Would you be willing to share anything about it?"

Claude considered this before saying, "What I can tell you is that the mobile armor wasn't made on this planet."

"How did those terrorists get their hands on it then? I assume they were unaware it was going to kill them too."

"That, I can't reveal yet as part of another bargain I've made. And besides, even if I did tell you, there isn't much you could have done with the information."

"How exactly?" Lelouch asked, trying to get anything useful out of her.

"Besides the seven kings, there is another group who were…let's just say, less than thrilled that I excluded them. For good reasons, I assure you. To keep them from causing trouble in this galaxy, some bargains had to be made, but of course they would find a way around it."

"By having someone not directly associated with them acting on their behalf. So they were the ones who provided the mobile armor?" he deduced.

"So far it was used in what was more or less combat testing."

"They intend to make more?" Lelouch questioned.

"Yup, but as you saw, besides their durability, that mobile armor has some issues. Don't worry they won't attack you directly, I won't allow it, but likely their main goal is to find out who the other Kings are."

"How long will your bargain keep them in check?" Lelouch asked, crossing his arms.

"Hopefully until you and others are capable of better contending with them."

A/N: Whew, the first huddle the group had to face as an "escalation" in difficulty they've faced.

For those wondering the mobile armor the Mebahiah comes from Mobile Suit Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS Urdr-Hunt mobile game. I had to rely on gameplay videos to figure out its weapons and capabilities.

And the other six kings and the BETA aren't the only dangerous party Lelouch has to worry about.

Those who've played the visual novel game Sunrider (which Sunrider Mask of Arcadius is free on Steam if anyone was curious) can take one easy guess as to the party Claude mention she works with, and they do have the means to reproduce the mobile armors from Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans, maybe even enhance them if they chose to or more.

Keep in mind while Claude did say she wouldn't allow for them to go after the kings directly, that doesn't mean everyone else is safe since Claude is the kind of goddess that doesn't want worship, instead she seeks entertainment, so keep that in mind.

On my Fanfiction.net profile page I began a "reader interest poll" on potential harem candidates for Lelouch because discussions to fill the last spots has stalled due to disagreements so the top twenty winners on the poll will be considered and rest cut from discussion. It won't decide the harem, but your vote could help break the discussion deadlock, but you are more than free to pitch why a certain character should join in a comment or a PM.

With that said, next chapter Lelouch and squad will get some shore leave before moving onto their intended destination, after they celebrate a squad member's birthday (when I made the story time to keep track of events I made sure to note the birthdays of the characters involved).

Thanks for reading and I am grateful for the feedback, both positive and constructive.

I just hope the next chapter, which is finished, that's its beta work will go a little quicker. Until then I'll see you guys next time.

StrifeHavoc · 2025-10-29T16:16:48+0000

Jason Wu said:
Yup. Lelouch definitely needs to invest in naval assets if he wants to secure Japan from further invasions. Rakshata should get involved to create Amphibious Knightmares since the canon Portman II is pretty boring and outdated as a fourth generation Knightmare.

Britannia is still using that even in R2 so it'll be hilarious to see them fight against Rakshata's modernized 7th/8th generation babies

He'll get some when the time is right and he has the resources.

wahrifson said:
GoohN, UMF-SSO ASH 03 and Abyss can become Benchmark for Naval MS

The Abyss could be a benchmark for naval MS or machines in general since they've encountered it already.

Anyway....time for the next chapter.

A/N: Special thanks to Jameyofthemegacosmos, Icysnowsage, Gundam consultant and designer Redrat8, Seerking for contributing ideas and Darklord331, but a HUGE thanks to both Silkdreamweaver (chief beta reader and editor) and Greatkingrat88 for his contributions.

The beta work has been done and so this chapter is ready for posting, as usually any responses to anonymous reviews will be mentioned at the end of the chapter.

Also as a note/reminder any reviews or anyone trying any of that using art to improve your work scam or any other such nonsense will be ignored as will Shirley bashers.

Let us move on, enjoy the chapter.

Chapter 19

Consequences & Rewards

(October 11th 2016 A.T.B./1998/CE 73)

It had been four days since the events surrounding Junius Seven, and while thanks to the combined efforts of ZAFT and the Vortigern, the potential catastrophe was reduced greatly.

However, the resulting tidal waves and tsunamis caused by fragments impacting the oceans, caused various levels of damage along the coastline. Fortaleza in South America was hit the worst as after it was devastated by a tsunami, an insurgent ZGMF-1017 GINN attacked indiscriminately while rescue and relief efforts were underway.

Thanks to the valiant efforts of the local garrison, the attack was stopped. The shocking revelation was who the pilots were.

It was discovered that the GINN was piloted by three children. Coordinators seeking vengeance for the loss of their parents and supporting the ideals of Patrick Zala.

Lelouch was horrified at the devastation. Hundreds of those who had been rescued just to meet their demise at the hands of those children. At the same time he was equally surprised that children were able to pilot a heavily armed mech and go on a rampage.

Considering his own past and goals, he was sympathetic to those children's motivations, but going on a rampage against civilians wouldn't achieve their goals. Lelouch suspected that they were manipulated, because three kids getting a fully armed mobile suit seemed like a tall order for genetically augmented children, no matter how capable they were.

That caused Lelouch to feel anger for the children that were used as disposable pawns in someone's game.

"If someone wants the war to resume, they will eventually succeed, but only Blue Cosmos will benefit," Lelouch muttered, turning off the television feed in his cabin.

Massaging his temples, Lelouch deduced Blue Cosmos would use the fall of Junius Seven and the attacks by rouge ZAFT turned terrorist groups, to renew the war. The incident in Fortaleza was just the first to rattle the world over the past few days, as other insurgent groups had launched similar attacks on civilian centers and military bases belonging to the Atlantic Federation.

He knew a war was going to happen, sooner than later.

Suddenly a call came in. Lelouch pushed a button on his desk.

"Yes…"

"Sir, I have a call from Supreme Chairman Durandal for you."

That intrigued him. "Put him through."

"Yes sir."

A moment later a projection of Durandal in his office appeared.

"Chairman Durandal. I am a little surprised you would reach out to me," Lelouch greeted.

"Not at all," Durandal replied with a brief smile before adopting a more serious expression.

"Despite the successful demolition of Junius Seven, I don't need to explain where things are heading, as much as I wish to avoid such an outcome."

"Yet, forgive me for saying this, but I think you are among those who realized a second war was bound to happen. Due to Blue Cosmos and those who support Patrick Zala, one of these factions was bound to do something that would invite another war."

"Yes, as unfortunate as that is."

"The biggest failure of the Treaty of Junius Seven, was its failure to have Blue Cosmos dismantled as an organization. Even though some of its leaders were killed during the Second Battle of Jachin Due, thanks to its many backers, they kept the organization sustained long enough for new leadership to replace them. Had Blue Cosmos not survived, preventing a second war, even with Zala supporters still around, might've been possible, but given how much they now control the Atlantic Federation they'll use Junius Seven to drive the world towards another war with the PLANTs," Lelouch said.

"Regrettably since it would be obvious that the terrorists who sent Junuis Seven on a collision course with Earth were supported by some in the PLANTs and ZAFT. All the hardware they managed to acquire without anyone noticing would place the blame on us for this gross oversight to put it lightly. They'll be able to twist the story to make it look like we had assisted them, turning our efforts to demolish it as a way to hide our involvement I am sure," Durandal explained the upcoming situation.

It was now merely a question of when war would break out.

"What is PLANTs planning to do?"

"So far no one has made any kind of statement, beyond the news of rogue ZAFT terrorists armed with mobile suits attacking Earth Alliance territories, specifically targeting the Atlantic Federation. However, we are preparing for that, so even if war may eventually be unavoidable, we intend to exhaust every diplomatic effort to try and prevent it. If not, we are making preparations to defend ourselves should the worst happen," Durandal admitted.

"I would like for you to avoid such an outcome, but…"

"I understand. Avoiding a war will be difficult, especially with the situation as it is now. I am advising the Minerva to complete all needed repairs as soon as possible then head for Carpentaria Base."

"Hopefully before the war breaks out. Are you certain the Orb Union will side with the Alliance?" Lelouch asked.

"They will," Durandal stated. "As you've learned, its leaders, outside of the Princess, favor the Earth Alliance and want to avoid a repeat of what happened during the last war."

"They'll side with the Earth Alliance, unless they want their involvement in the assassination of Cagalli to be known. Any political allies Cagalli could've had all died when her father self-destructed the Mass Driver in what was ultimately a pointless effort that only did more harm than good for Cagalli," Lelouch said before he caught himself. "Sorry for speaking out of turn like that."

"No, Uzumi Nala Athha's effort to deny what the Earth Alliance sought was noble. But as you noted, it was pointless once they recaptured the Mass Driver at Victoria. Lady Cagalli still has some supporters in the military and industrial sectors, but all her political allies died with her father. She is nothing more than a figurehead, ill prepared for politics." Durandal agreed with Lelouch's assessment.

"Yes, I wouldn't be shocked if Unato Ema Seiran was behind it. He has the means and the motive since he would benefit the most from the Princess's demise," Durandal ventured about Orb's acting Prime Minister. "His family has had suspected connections to people in the Atlantic Federation with ties to Blue Cosmos. Our intelligence division first noticed when Orb began pressuring for us to stop using former Morgenröte Inc. personnel who migrated to the PLANTs following the invasion of Orb."

"Nothing to prove he was involved I assume, but enough to make him suspicious?"

"Exactly."

"That also means we should leave Orb as soon as possible."

"Yes and your superiors agreed with me. Before you depart, I would ask if you could make a detour to Aprilius One?"

Durandal piqued Lelouch's curiosity.

"After talking to your superiors we have decided to form an alliance. While we are limited in how we could support you. I am going to assign a ZAFT elite pilot under your command to serve as a liaison who can lend you aid during whatever battles you find yourselves in. This will be part of a collaboration between us, the Empire of Japan and the United Nations of your world."

"How so?"

Durandal smiled before explaining.

Around the same time, Haruko was slumped over a table in the pilot's lounge while Haruka was giving her a sympathy pat on her back.

"Why did my birthday have to happen on a day when so much had to go wrong. Kinda hard to celebrate," Haruko complained. Her birthday was four days ago now.

With all that was happening there was simply no chance to celebrate and it didn't help that the aftermath of Junuis Seven didn't provide any peace that could give them the chance to celebrate.

"Don't worry we'll do something once everyone gets their festive mood back," Mistuki consoled as she tried to cheer Haruko up.

"Yeah. I heard we'll be leaving soon to proceed to our next destination," Haruka noted. "It should take us a week, so we can do something during transit to the next galaxy."

"I suppose," Haruko said, more open to the idea. "I am a little worried about everyone else, especially those rookies from America."

At the same time in a room set aside for training simulators; Yuuya, Sharon, Leon and Chiruzu were engaged in a simulated battle while Circe was monitoring them, but her expression was full of disappointment.

Circe sighed. "Warrant Officer Bridges has potential, but his reckless and cocky attitude is a problem," she spoke aloud to herself.

The simulation was based on recent events at Junius Seven, something Claude had put together at Lelouch's request. It was one he reluctantly made, but did so because he believed the conditions offered training opportunities for combat in space.

Circe watched as Yuuya charged on his own, obviously fueled by an eagerness to prove himself that was dangerously reckless. His combat skills were good, as she watched him fight off two GINNs, engaging one at range using his Minamoto's beam rifle before engaging the other in melee with beam sabers.

On the other hand Leon and Sharon are more level headed. The former butts heads with Yuuya a lot so it's difficult for them to collaborate together, Circe noted.

The others performed well, except for the other troublesome student, Chiruzu.

Chizuru has skill and good potential, but is a stickler for following a plan and is inflexible. It leaves her unable to adapt during unpredictable and chaotic battlefield situations, Circe noted as she observed Chizuru trying to argue with Yuuya, but was ignored, leaving Sharon and Leon to look after her.

"Making an effective team out of them is going to be a serious pain in the ass," Circe complained with an annoyed sigh.

Yuuya scored another kill, downing another enemy GINN. However, while he was doing well on his own, he kept leaving Leon, Sharon and Chizuru behind.

A simulated battle alone may not be enough, Circe thought as an idea came to mind.

Later that day, Lelouch had left the ship to go shopping. Their ship was currently stationed off the coast of the Orb Union. This left many of them with a brief period of free time to explore and settle other matters. He wanted to buy a gift for Haruko's birthday and lift her spirits. He had been aware of her disappointment and recent events had understandably left no one in a celebrating mood, so Lelouch hoped his present could brighten her day a little.

After a short stint of shopping and some extra time left before he would be picked up to return to the ship, Lelouch decided to take a walk along the beach, enjoying the peace and quiet.

He wasn't alone however…

"It's good for you sir to take a walk outside," Gretel commented as she walked beside him.

She had joined him to serve as a bodyguard. For this trip Gretel wore casual clothing since their uniforms would make them stand out too much. She wore a white shirt with a red tie, a pink jacket and a long pink skirt with black boots. Accompanying them was Yuzuka, who also insisted on coming along to serve as another bodyguard. She wore black pants, a purple shirt with a white backpack and sneakers.

"We'll be spending a week on ship as we head to our next destination so it's good to get some fresh air now while we still can," Lelouch replied.

"I didn't think buying a gift for Haruko would be difficult though," Yuzuka remarked, carrying what Lelouch bought in her backpack.

"I don't know too much about her hobbies beyond what she shared with me in casual conversation," Lelouch admitted.

"I am sure she'll be fine with them," Gretel offered reassuringly. "I suppose our chance to walk around Orb does allow us a chance to talk more privately."

"I did want to ask you more about the other factions in your world. I've read about them, but I want to hear it from your perspective," Lelouch inquired.

"Is it because of the twins?" Gretel deduced with a knowing smile.

"Yes." he admitted. "Inia has been…odd."

"Odd?" Yuzuka asked, curious.

"Sometimes when I am walking through the ship I run into her. Inia has been very interested in conversation, but I feel like I need to be mindful because all the times we have talked, Martica has been nearby. No doubt keeping a close watch on her," Lelouch said, recalling how nervous Inia would get if she noticed that the latter was watching her.

"I've heard from Circe that the same happens to Yuuya, but instead of Martica it is usually Crystal watching over her. Inia seems to be much more comfortable around her," Gretel added.

"From what I've heard Inia seemed very interested in his background, myself and even Yui's," Lelouch revealed.

"I didn't hear about that," Gretel remarked.

"It does not seem like she was put up to it. She is more interested in any troubles we may have gone through than our careers," Lelouch said, certain he might've deduced Inia's interest in the three of them.

There is nothing else common between us I can think of, but why?

"Trauma?" Gretel suggested. "I can only think it is because of the project that produced them."

"Right, the Alternative III Plan was meant to create individuals with extra-sensorial perception in an effort to communicate with the BETA," Lelouch replied.

"So basically mind readers," Yuzuka asked.

"In a way, but that doesn't explain Inia's interest. Is this unique to her or about something else? She could just be very empathetic as a result of her experiences."

"Hmmm," Lelouch hummed. During their conversation he noticed they were approaching another group.

Ahead of them was a group of children, most of them appeared close in age. They were supervised by a man and a woman. The woman stood out with long pink hair, blue eyes, while wearing a light blue and white dress with a gold hairpin.

Her companion had short brown hair and purple eyes and wore a black outfit with a reddish-pink collar.

Suddenly a vehicle, overhead on the road which ran along the hill that overlooked the beach, drew their attention. It was a black car. It was close enough that Lelouch could see the driver when they exited their vehicle. It was Athrun.

He must know that group, Lelouch thought.

Athrun turned his head and noticed Lelouch's group. A brief flash of surprise appeared on his face. Before he could callout, he was swamped by the children as they had hurried up the stairs to greet him.

"It's Athrun!" one child called out.

"No, it's Alex," another child tried to correct him, but they only argued back and forth.

"You went away somewhere. Where did you go?"

"Yeah, where did you go?" Another child asked.

"Where's Cagalli?"

"Welcome back. That was quite the trip," The pink haired woman stated.

"I heard that you had quite the time too," Athrun replied. "Are you all okay? I know no one was home at the time, but I was worried regardless.."

"We didn't see it, but this big wave swept away our house," one of the kids exclaimed.

"All our toys are gone!"

"At least all of you are alright?" Athrun said reassuringly.

"Oh my, it seems we cannot get a conversation going," The girl said to her companion as all of the children kept shouting over one another trying to talk to Athrun.

The girl managed to lead the children away allowing Athrun and his friend, Kira Yamato to talk.

"Where is Cagalli?"

"She's in a meeting at the administrative building so she'll likely be working till late," Athrun explained.

"Kira, I'll bring the children back from the harbor later. Why don't you go on ahead?" The girl offered.

"Ok, thanks Lacus," Kira called to Lacus Clyne.

"Pardon my interruption, but could I have a moment of your time Athrun," Lelouch asked, approaching the pair.

"Lelouch, what are you doing here?"

"Lelouch?" Kira asked.

"Sorry. Allow me to introduce myself; my name is Lelouch Lamperouge. This is Gretel Jerkin and Yuzuka Sendou."

"A pleasure. I am Kira Yamato," Kira greeted, shaking Lelouch's hand.

"So what did you want to talk about?" Athrun asked, but Lelouch gestured for him to step away so they could talk in private.

"Keep a close eye on Cagalli. Not to drop this on you suddenly, but Chairman Durandal shared something interesting that you and she should be aware of," Lelouch began. "ZAFT has intelligence on Unato Ema Seiran, the current Prime Minister of Orb. Their information has made note of him holding private meetings at his house over the last several months with notable individuals from the Atlantic Federation, those with ties to Blue Cosmos."

"What," Athrun said, visibly shocked by the revelation.

"While this isn't enough evidence to prove it, Chairman Durandal and I suspect he might've had a hand in the recent assassination attempt on Cagalli. Consider he is among the few people with the connection and means, but would also benefit the most from her death," Lelouch explained.

"He likely intended to martyr her and blame it on ZAFT," Gretel added.

"Most likely, making it easier for him to justify an alliance between Orb and the Atlantic Federation," Lelouch said in agreement with one hand on his chin.

"You know I can't take your word for this?" Athrun asked, understandably skeptical.

"I know, but consider this a friendly warning for the two of you to be careful, if nothing more." Lelouch replied.

"Why tell me this?" Athrun inquired.

"I want to maintain good relations with the rightful leader of the Orb Union, and from what I've heard about the Serians, I would like to see Cagalli remain as the Chief Representative," Lelouch replied. "If nothing else, just think of it as me being a good samaritan."

As the saying in geopolitics goes, there are no permanent enemies, and no permanent friends, only permanent interests, Lelouch thought, figuring it would be best to keep at least friendly relations with Athrun and Cagalli just in case things between him and the PLANTs were to sour.

The following day, the Vortigern arrived near the PLANTs. Instead of traveling to Aprilus One, they met with a trio of Nazca-class ships. It was deemed a necessary change of location, to avoid any issues with the escalating situation.

As they left Orb, news had spread of the terrorist actions at Junius Seven, sparking outrage on top of the actions of the rogue ZAFT elements. This also confirmed that the group that attacked Armory One and tried to ambush the Minvera was indeed from the Atlantic Federation.

War was almost certain now, but the PLANTs were exhausting all political efforts to try and avoid one. Their change of location being one result of the efforts. The last thing anyone wanted to see was a strange ship and to learn human aliens were now a thing. This was considering how the world reacted when Evidence-01 was discovered and revealed to the world.

Maya, Yui and Lelouch were waiting in the hangar to meet Durandal, who was bringing along a young woman with him.

She wore a red ZAFT uniform, had shoulder-length blue hair, pink eyes, and wore a pin near her collar in the shape of a wing.

"Allow me to apologize again for not meeting you at Aprilus One as originally intended," Durandal apologized.

"The situation faced by your nation takes top priority, especially if you wish to avoid war," Maya offered. "Just the same, we are grateful you came to meet with us Chairman."

"Likewise. I would've liked to have a better meeting location, But rest assured arrangements have been made with your leaders back home and the council was unanimous in their support, especially given the opportunities that could benefit both of us."

"Allies that can bolster your faction's strength," Yui suggested.

"That's one reason, but we are especially interested in the Ancient Ryuvians. Particularly, their methods of genetic augmentation," Durandal admitted.

"Their nanotechnology that continues along through their bloodlines without complications.," Lelouch said, having read up on the Ancient Ryuivans.

"We Coordinators run into sterility issues with third generation children. We've tried research and carefully regulated marriages amongst ourselves to deal with the issue, but with very limited success," Durandal admitted.

"So you're hoping we could find something, related to their advancements that could provide a solution?" Lelouch deduced.

"Yes. If you happen upon them. I've been told there are old bases and ruins left behind by the Ancient Ryuvians. I am aware the chances are slim, but should you find something of use, the Empire and the PLANTs have agreed to collaborate on reverse engineering whatever you find. We are already working to enhance the medical technology Claude shared with the Empire, particularly the means to restore lost limbs and organs."

"I understand, but I can't make any promises," Maya cautioned.

"That's all I ask. Now, allow me to introduce the observer who will be accompanying you," Durandal said, gesturing to the young woman beside him. "This is Ingrid Tradoll, an elite pilot who recently graduated with high marks."

"It's a pleasure to meet you all," Ingrid said, saluting the group, who returned it.

"She has been assigned to serve aboard as an observer and an extra pilot. Her personal machine and the necessary supplies are being transferred as we speak," Durandal explained.

"Fortunately we have the space. We could assign her one of the officer cabins since we have an unused one," Maya noted.

"Thank you Major. I would appreciate that," Ingrid replied.

"Once you are settled in we could provide you a tour of the ship," Lelouch offered politely.

"I would like that very much."

"So, we got a new machine. TSFs are more of my specialty though," Melvina said, appearing suddenly beside Lelouch and Ingrid.

Yui began looking around, wondering how she missed Melvina suddenly appearing out of thin air.

How does she do it?

"Don't worry. Claude has told me we have a few men capable of taking care of her machine as long as we have the necessary parts," Maya explained.

Lelouch wondered if all of this was part of some kind of plan Claude had in mind.

The only thing that made him skeptical of it, was the knowledge that while Claude knew all possible outcomes, she didn't know which path events would take until they occurred.

That raised more questions than answers.

"I do look forward to what you'll find on your journey, your majesty," Durandal said. The last part, a bit of a friendly joke.

Lelouch could only smile, "I am sure things will become more interesting."

Unaware to Lelouch, there was a broadcast from a vessel hiding in the Cosmic Earth's asteroid belt, near Jupiter. Sitting in an office was a man in his mid twenties with shoulder-length blonde hair, his face partially concealed by a white mask. He wore a white uniform adorned with medals, black boots, white gloves, a red slash across his chest, naval pardons and a black cape.

He reclined in his chair as he spoke to the holographic projection of a man in his early thirties with short grey hair, blue eyes and pale skin wearing a tanned suit, akin to a Mao suit with purple lines and black shoes, who sat behind a desk with a black cat in his lap.

"It seems everything is going well for you. Your agent capturing images of those GINNs went better than could've been expected," The blonde man said, smiling.

"Thanks to your advance warning about Junius Seven, but that mobile armor they used…" The man said as his holographic avatar began smiling maliciously. "Thanks to you, we found where those monsters were making those machines and seized them."

"May I ask how many you found?"

"Twelve. Three of them were designed for use on different terrain, but of course we'll show the world they were weapons created in secret by ZAFT before we unleash them against them."

"I am glad to hear it. You are proving far better than your predecessor, Lord Djibril."

"Thank you. You have been a boon to us and Blue Cosmos. I was glad to hear that you had survived."

"Yes. Unfortunately I can't assist you from within ZAFT as I was used to," the man explained. "Though I have to remain underground, I am still in a position to help you since I have new benefactors who desire the same goal as Blue Cosmos; the preservation of our pure and blue world."

"That is more than appreciative to hear," Djibril said, pleased. "However, there is one question some members were wondering about."

"Oh?" The man questioned.

"You've been more than helpful to give us the edge against those Coordinator abominations. Since Azreal trusts you on your decisions, there is no reason to doubt you. However," Djibril took a moment to think before continuing. "The weapon that is now called GENESIS. Due to your deep connections, you had access to the various technologies in development. The same that the Coordinators used to nearly blast the Earth into a wasteland. Why didn't you warn us before it was deployed?"

"Unfortunately, I only learned of the name at the time," the man answered after a brief moment of silence. "Despite my connections, information was too classified, even for me. It was something restricted solely to former Chairman Zala and his closest affiliates. Therefore, I had no idea of its capabilities until after it was deployed."

"Does that include those other machines that took part in the battle? The other ones fighting along ZAFT?"

Several images displayed numerous different Mobile Suits as well as a ship marked as "UNKNOWN."

"Those were weapons I was never aware of either. Like the weapon those extremists had, they use technology that is both known and unknown. I wouldn't be surprised if they were suddenly a new major player, one who has sided with the Coordinators."

"You're talking about Lacus Clyne, aren't you?"

"Three sole capital ships shouldn't be able to hold off against two entire armies, especially when you consider they are all severed from their homelands. They shouldn't have the resources to produce the weapons they have, never mind fight in such a long drawn-out battle. Considering the level of influence the Clyne Family once had over Coordinator politics, I wouldn't be surprised if they had been working to undermine the efforts of every side."

"You have a keen eye," Djibril commented. "I rescind my early suspicions. You are no doubt a true faithful contributor to the cause of Blue Cosmos."

"That will be appreciated." The man tapped a few keys near the hologram. "I will send you the coordinates to our meeting point. You are free to send anyone you wish as a delegate."

"Why, you certainly came prepared. As for our side, our agent, Neo Roanoke, will join us when we discuss more of our business ventures." Djibril gladly welcomed. However, he raised an eyebrow upon a moment of silence and even a growl from the man. "Is there something wrong? I am more than willing to convince the rest of LOGOS to go along, even root out those who will not."

"It's nothing of concern," the man answered. "However, like how I handled things with your predecessor, I do not believe that direct interaction will be the best course."

"An intermediary, I presume? Or perhaps a messenger?" Djibril stood corrected.

"As you know, my appearance will bring widespread panic among ZAFT…No, to the entire world. Once they come after me, they will no doubt find you as well, and no amount of PR will cover your tracks."

"Playing it safe, I see," Djibril assumed.

"One other thing," the masked man issued. "Despite her appearance, she is quite skilled at her profession and quite…unstable in her own way. Maintain your composure, and do not provoke her, no matter what she says."

Djibril groaned. "Very well, we shall await your delegate then."

"We will send you the details later." The screen closed afterward.

"Just as I predicted." Those words came from a smirking young woman in her teens, leaning on a black sofa. Her face was covered by the dim lights and her black cloak. Short silver bangs peaked out from under her hood.

"You mean we predicted," the man turned around and corrected. "May I remind you that I'm native to this world and you rely on me to provide them your services."

"Yet, he doesn't seem to care where the machine came from. He won't even bother considering if the ones who gave the weapon and factory to those so-called monsters were us all along." The young woman uncovered her head, revealing gray hair and heterochromatic eyes of blue and gold, to view the hologram on her side, which displayed several projections. The first was a green machine with multiple limbs labeled "MOBILE ARMOR HARAEL," with images of its drones labeled "HARAEL PLUMA" on the side. Another projection displayed a white bird-like machine labeled "MOBILE ARMOR HASHMAL" along with white four-legged drones labeled "HASMAL PLUMA." The next projection showed a purple Gundam labeled "MRX-009 PSYCHO GUNDAM."

"They're not as stupid as you think," the man warned. "One should exercise extreme caution and be prepared for all scenarios, especially when a wild card is in play."

"And yet, it sounds like we already got one." The hologram displayed images of the unknown ship and its Mobile Suits during the battle.

"Our sudden supply of the Mobile Armor has drawn some attention," the man stated as he gazed at the images.

"Unwanted attention," The woman agreed.

"I'd say it's unintended attention. There's no telling how many resources they have in play. Perhaps even the ability to track down where the machine came from."

"Why else would I have kept the deal limited to the guy who coordinated the drop of that huge rock?" She grabbed a golden horn with flute-like holes and twiddled it in her hand. "Unlike the rest of the rabble of this world, I'm not the type to make…what do they call it? A paper trial? I expected him to die and the factory was automated in the first place. Even if he did survive, their investigation would hit a dead end with that place."

"As expected from you," the man walked up from the sofa. "I see why they call you the Black Marketer and the Black Strategist back in your world."

The hologram displayed another image. It was a schematic for an upside-down hexagonal pyramid labeled "RAYVIN BASE." It then shifted to displaying a grid pattern-like funnel that linked to a planet labeled "ARCADIA."

"To think that we Arcadia Lords were at the pinnacle of our power over 1,000 years ago, when our ancestors were far greater than that." The young woman chuckled. "It shows how living on a backwater planet for so long can dilute your way of thinking."

"Power is just a matter of perspective," the man addressed. "Humanity has fought one another for whatever they consider to be power: power in the form of funds or resources, power over their enemies, power to control, power for the sake of power. And yet, they fall over the very thing they sought."

"Are you insinuating that I am no different from those old farts we were conversing with?" the woman stabbed the horn's point end into the table. "I will not be bundled with people like them, who are nothing more than complacent animals by their own will. We both know that too well!"

The masked man was silent, allowing her to regain her composure. "It appears that I spoke too much. Nonetheless, it's expected for there to be someone who hates the world and those living in it. Someone has to be the judge, jury, and executioner for those whose very existence is a crime."

The woman smirked. "Then what's the point of ruling over ants when there are no ants left to rule over?"

"That's the point, Lady Arcadia," he sat down while clasping his hands. "No matter how many good humans there are in the world, unless someone is willing to control them all like parts of a machine, it is within humanity's nature to consume itself."

Once everything was ready, the Vortigern departed Cosmic Era Earth. Now on course to the Ryuvian Galaxy with a designated pit stop along the way; it would take a week before the ship reached its destination. After giving Ingrid a tour of the ship, Lelouch allowed her time to get used to her new quarters. Lelouch decided to attend to some work Maya had been giving him, which aside from his duties as squad leader, related to the operation of the ship.

Eventually Lelouch would be assuming full command of the Vortigern, so in preparation Maya gradually gave him reports and paperwork that would be expected of him to gain experience.

Lelouch had just finished, when a beep sounded, indicating someone was outside.

"Come in," Lelouch said through the intercom.

Sayoko and Circe stepped inside, the latter with a clipboard under her arm.

"Time to talk about our plans for the week during our journey to the Ryuvian Galaxy," Lelouch commented.

"I have some suggestions for a training plan I wanted to go over with you," Circe said.

"We should also plan for our mission once we arrive. I have the details provided by the Major, sir," Sayoko replied, revealing a set of documents.

"I agree," Lelouch said, gesturing to the pair to sit. "From what I've been told our destination is a planet called Tydaria."

Pushing some buttons on his desk, Lelouch brought up a holographic screen showing a dark brown world, with a ring around it. It looked far from hospitable.

"According to our notes it's a Class-3 planet. A very dry planet with no creature comforts beyond the atmosphere being breathable if you don't mind the occasional dust storms," Lelouch read out, reviewing the data on their destination.

"The backbone of its entire economy is its mining industry thanks to its rich ore deposits. Most of its three million population is involved in the mining industry in some way, from running the space docks, to other necessary facilities for trade and upkeep of their facilities. The planet is a stronghold for the Mining Union and so it's a popular target for pirates that prey on their convoys," Circe remarked.

The Mining Union, a galactic wide conglomerate composed of numerous in the Neutral Rim, composed mostly of class-three planets who had nothing to offer beyond being rich in ore. Working together they became an industrial and economic powerhouse in the Neutral Rim, which provides fifty percent of starship building materials and more for the entire galaxy.

However, the Neutral Rim also served as the buffer zone between the galaxy's two superpowers, the democratic Solar Alliance and the recently formed People's Alliance for Common Treatment, or PACT, following the overthrow of the New Empire. Their location allows them access to a very large list of clients and to sell to a wider market without interference from either faction, but as a trade off piracy runs rampant in their territory.

Unsurprisingly the Mining Union is a popular target for space pirates. Due to the bothersome politics and jurisdictions between the worlds of the Neutral Rim, it has made dealing with the pirate problem difficult as they can flee to another world's jurisdiction to escape justice.

"Their only method of dealing with pirates has been through the use of mercenaries. They have their own security forces, but, despite their wealth and influence, they aren't sufficient to deal with them. At most they act as deterrents from attacking the main facilities and shipyards," Sayoko noted.

"Probably hamstrung by the politics of the Neutral Rim. No doubt worried they could give either the Solar Alliance or PACT an excuse to get more involved in the affairs of the Neutral Rim if they started their own military," Lelouch deduced. "Regardless, it's an opportunity for us to obtain what we need. Arrangements have been made for everything Japan needs to complete production of all of the new Minamoto Units they'll need."

"Mercenaries are limited in their weaponry and ships, but we're different," Circe stated, knowing they were poised to be invaluable to the Mining Union.

"Yes, the firepower we can bring to bear surpasses everything the average mercenaries can bring to bear. We can do more lasting damage to these pirates than simply chasing off their Ryders," Lelouch said with a smile.

"Ryders?" Sayoko asked.

"Ah, Ryders I suppose are their equivalent of a TSF, but dedicated to use in space. They cannot function in an atmosphere, without serious risk of damage," Lelouch explained, having already studied details about the Ryders common in the Ryuvian Galaxy. "Like our own machines they can be armed with a different arsenal of weapons, but the pirate groups tend to favor equipping their machines with a heavy shield, a laser rifle, an assault gun and missiles. Heavy units, if they have them, are usually armed with weapons for anti-ship combat, like missile racks or heavy cannons."

"What kind of ships would we have to expect?"

"Whatever they could slap together using whatever they scavenged from the old battlefields and debris fields in space," Lelouch replied, using his console to show them an example of a pirate vessel. "This is called a Pirate Ironhog, a large ship loaded with at least eight double barrel assault cannons, and four racks of four large rockets that can be a danger to any ship that can't evade them."

"Seems like an excessive amount of weapons. More for intimidation than use, I imagine," Sayoko commented.

"Correct. The rockets lack any guiding system, therefore are easy to evade or shoot down unless your ship has no weapons or are careless enough to fly into their flight path," Lelouch replied.

"If encountered, we should eliminate them swiftly," Sayoko reasoned.

"Just to be on the safe side," Lelouch agreed. "The Pirate Destroyer is just a small ship with a laser cannon and two small auxiliary guns," Lelouch explained, refusing to take the pirates lightly despite their own clear advantages. "Junuis Seven was useful in giving the squad experience fighting in a debris field. Apparently the pirates like to hide and make their bases within Tydaria's ring."

"They haven't tried to flush them out?" Sayoko asked.

"I am sure they have, but it's impossible for the Union to create a solid noose the pirates can't break out of. Either through the lack of resources they can bring to bear or instances of their own people being bribed to aid the pirates.. Their bases are most likely temporary and they'll move to a new location. No doubt they have numerous hidden bases set up as fall back points they can escape to, hence why when we find them we need to hit hard and fast," Lelouch announced.

"Is that why you had our battle in the debris belt turned into a combat simulation?" Circe said.

"Exactly. It will be a useful training tool as we travel to our destination."

"Speaking of training, did you see my report on the trainees, Captain?" Circe inquired.

"I haven't yet. I assume the issue is with Warrant Officer Bridges?" Lelouch asked, suspecting the issue from her expression.

"Part of it. The other issue is Warrant Officer Sakaki," Circe began, as Lelouch gestured for her to continue.

Meanwhile in Maya's cabin, Izumi was sitting in front of her desk with an expression of worry and anxiety.

"I did speak to the Shogun as you requested and you'll be glad to hear she would approve of what you intend should Captain Takamura accept it."

Izumi was surprised by this, before her expression changed to one of relief, but she knew the hardest part lay ahead of her.

"Thank you for what you did, Major Tsukuyomi. I know it was a lot to ask for you to forward my concerns to the Shogun, especially with all she has to be dealing with," Izumi said modestly.

"Actually, if I may be frank, the Shogun was hoping for such an outcome. Hence she was hoping one of you would inquire about it."

"What?!"

"I am also aware of the dangerous decline the Noto Family has been in and how they were hoping your arranged marriage would salvage the family from collapse," Maya explained. "However, you do know about Lelouch and what being one of the seven kings means. The prize he could win would be of enormous benefit to both Japan and our world. The Shogun has agreed to help him in return for using what he wins and reverse engineering it."

Maya's eyes narrowed.

"However, what she didn't mention is that she is hoping that Lelouch and Yui Takamura will wed. Her Majesty is hoping that such a marriage will tie Lelouch much closer to the Royal Guard and further cement our alliance. On a side note; in light of the Royal Guard's heavy losses, she has quietly opened the door for men apart from the Royal Guard to take on additional wives to help prevent family lines from going extinct."

"I understand. You are hoping for one of us to become a second wife to Lelouch, to even further tie him to the Royal Guard."

"Yes. The Shogun doesn't want to force the matter, considering the conditions Captain Lamperouge grew up under."

"A cruel father with over a hundred consorts. I can see that Lelouch wouldn't find the idea of having additional wives appealing," Izumi deduced, which Maya nodded in agreement.

"Its not like we are hoping he'll take on that many. A few of you would suffice."

"A few?" Izumi questioned, before she realized something. "You were hoping Shimako, Kazusa or myself would marry Lelouch?"

"The Shogun specifically does, but yes. All of you joining your hands in marriage with him would be fine, but it's not required. I am only telling you this should it come up. We know those two also have an interest in Lelouch that goes beyond friendship."

"I see," Izumi muttered, feeling concerned that they had been spied upon.

"However, she'll leave it to each of you to decide if you wish to become a wife for Lelouch. She understands that for you, moving on from a loved one you had hoped to marry is not easy, but we both know if it were not for the Shogun's intervention your family would have been pressured into offering you in marriage to someone else. Someone who may not be ideal for you."

Izumi sighed, she was right, but…

"That's the problem. I don't know if what I've been feeling for Lelouch is really love or a desire fueled by my fear of potentially ending up in a loveless marriage. While I will always hold a special place in my heart for my beloved Tadamichi, I know he wouldn't want me spending the rest of my life mourning him and I still have an obligation to my own family."

"Perhaps the answer will become clear in time, but in the meantime I would suggest speaking to Captain Takamura. Rest assured, your family will be taken care of as long as you protect Lelouch on the Shogun's behalf."

"Thank you, Major."

The following morning Haruko, Yuzuka, Yui, Asagi, Tsukiko, Haruka and a few others had arranged, with Lelouch and Maya's permission, to make use of the mess hall after lunch hours for a birthday party for Haruko. It may not have been a big celebration, but Lelouch, Sayoko and Maya agreed it would be sufficient.

Lelouch was currently leaning against a wall, watching Haruko enjoy herself as she was having a conversation with her fellow squadmates.

"Not bad," Yui said, approaching him. "This is a nice way of keeping their spirits up."

"Given that we will be spending a lot of time on this ship, keeping morale up will become a necessity."

"True. The human element is something to always keep in mind."

Lelouch nodded in agreement. He had studied various military texts and battles throughout history. Morale was one of the biggest deciding factors in a battle. High morale had driven armies to achieve objectives thought beyond their capabilities.

Bonds and social cohesion were key to ensuring high performance and loyalty.

"Captain," Haruko called out, waving to get Lelouch's attention and prompting him and Yui to approach.

Haruka was seated at the table with Haruko, Tsukiko, Yuzuka and Asagi.

"I wanted to thank you for arranging all of this. The Captain too if she was around," Haruko said smiling.

"You're welcome. I am glad our time at Orb allowed me to at least get you an actual cake at least," Lelouch replied, pleased with himself.

"And a strawberry sponge cake of all things," Haruko pointed out. "This is the first time I ever tried something like this. Who would've thought?"

"Real food is hard to come by in the military. I remember how I had to bribe some of the people working around the training camp we were at years ago just to get some since all of the food we were given was synthetic. You're going to have to be careful the next few days since real food and synthetic food don't mix well," Tsukiko offered sagely.

"Despite the progress we made in our world and the security of the Suez Canal, food is still a scarcity. At least in the Cosmic Era world, they're a little less concerned," Haruka commented.

"Indeed. Synthetic food offers everything the body needs. It's just a shame that it doesn't have the same taste to match unless you can prepare it just right," Lelouch remarked, based on what he knew about synthetic food and what he experienced first hand.

Matters of taste aside, synthetic food is still healthy for you, Lelouch thought.

He couldn't help but wonder if it could be useful to win over the Japanese in his world to his side when the time came to bring about his plans to destroy Britannia. Lelouch knew most Japanese involved in various resistance groups hail from the devastated ghettos that were created. Food and other essentials for living and surviving were difficult to come by.

It wasn't going to win them over, but it could be a useful incentive to win the people of the ghetto to his side.

"How good would you be at preparing it?" Tsukiko wondered aloud.

"Perhaps if an opportunity presents itself, I wouldn't mind experimenting with it," Lelouch mused with a smile.

"You seem confident. I didn't know you knew how to cook," Haruka remarked.

"I do actually and I can assure you I am quite capable of cooking a good meal. I can cook more than three dozen different dishes from scratch including Britannian and Japanese dishes," Lelouch replied with a hint of pride in his voice.

"You did take care of your sister so that makes sense," Haruko commented between another bite of cake.

"So you can make a good husband for a lucky woman then?" Tsukiko teased with a laugh, causing Yuzuka to glare at her, her cheeks flushing red.

"Anyway," Asagi said, feeling it was best to change the subject. "What's our next destination sir?"

"You don't have to worry about ranks, at least during the party. To answer your question, we are making a quick pit stop," Lelouch answered.

"A pit stop?" Yuzuka inquired.

"Yes we intend to stop by my world so I can check on my sister," Lelouch replied.

"I doubt all of us could come with you?" Yuzuka said with a saddened expression.

"Unfortunately no, but I'll be accompanied by Yui and her two friends," Lelouch replied.

Considering how Yui reacted to certain things, traveling with a small group might be best, Lelouch thought.

Lelouch recalled how Yui reacted to Mt Fuji, so he was concerned how the others would react. Could they even restrain their possible outrage even if this Japan wasn't their own.

"That's a shame. I think we would all like to meet your sister," Haruka remarked.

"I am sure you would all get along with her, but I rather not have her aware of what I am doing. Knowing we could be apart for a length of time is hard enough for her," Lelouch explained, regretful he had to leave Nunnally at Ashford Academy, and at the same time, worried about leaving her behind.

However, as much as it bothered him, he knew Nunnally would be safer at Ashford Academy than with him given the various dangers and foes he would face.

He was torn and anxious about her wellbeing, but Lelouch managed to ease his mind with the knowledge that she was safer there.

Not to mention that if Nunnally ever learned the truth, Lelouch knew he wouldn't hear the end of it.

Thankfully, his friends were understanding.

Two days later, the Vortigern was hiding behind the moon of their destination. The stealth shuttle flew for Japan, or rather Area 11. Claude had reassured them the shuttle wouldn't be picked up on any radar systems nor any satellites. Its optical camouflage would hide it from visual sight once they've entered the atmosphere.

Lelouch was worried about how much Claude was doing for him. It raised his concerns about what his fellow kings would be equipped with and was still skeptical of Claude's exact motives, much less what she would demand in the end.

She even prepared a hidden hanger to use in Shinjuku Ghetto, which is only thirty minutes away from the academy, Lelouch thought.

It was convenient, yes, but he wondered how big a debt Claude was putting him in for when she decided to collect.

"Are you alright?"

Yui looked at him, worried.

"I am fine," Lelouch replied. "Just a lot on my mind."

"I see," Yui said. She was concerned, but decided against pushing the matter further.

Aside from the pilot, Yui and Lelouch weren't the only ones onboard as both Maya and Sayoko insisted they take those who can serve as bodyguards with them.

Shimako volunteered alongside Izumi. The two were dressed in civilian attire.

Izumi wore a white, black and red striped, sleeveless tunic with a skirt, black leggings, matching boots and a dark green jacket. Shimako was dressed in a white blouse, a black skirt, a blue jacket with black shoes.

Yui this time wore a light purple coat over a white shirt, black pants, and boots. Lelouch was dressed in a black sleeveless shirt with a rusty red jacket and dark jeans.

"So these watches should mask our appearance to look more Britannian?" Shimako asked, looking at the holo on her wrist.

"Yes, I apologize for the deception, but it's necessary," Lelouch answered.

"We know, a Britannian with two Japanese girls would draw unwanted attention," Izumi remarked. "Knowing that discrimination against anyone not Britannian is legal."

The shuttle flew low, almost skirting across the ocean as it neared the coast of Japan. Suddenly, the shuttle dived underwater, deactivating the optical camouflage as it did so. Traveling below the waves, the shuttle found an underwater tunnel.

After traveling through it for fifteen minutes they arrived at an underground hangar. Yui groaned upon seeing Claude waiting for them with a proud grin.

None of the others said anything, but quietly disembarked.

"Welcome back. How did Junuis Seven go?"

"How much did you know would happen?" Lelouch demanded, suspicious.

"The mobile armor showing up never happened in any other timelines involving the event, so I can tell you it was not from that world."

"Of course," Lelouch stated, his suspicions confirmed. "We aren't the only ones traveling around the galaxy are we?"

"Good guess," Claude applauded. "There are other Earths capable of intergalactic travel, but some are just beginning to explore the places beyond their home systems or searching for a new one."

"Any chance of us encountering them any time soon?" Izumi inquired.

"Hmmm, nope," Claude replied after a moment of contemplation. "Your side of the patchwork galaxy doesn't have any Earths capable of that."

"So on the other side of the galaxy then?" Lelouch inquired, with one hand on his chin, making a mental note of that.

What about the Ryuivan Galaxy though, could anyone reach this one?

Lelouch thought. Before he could ask, Claude was gone as she quickly appeared.

"Of course she would run before we could ask a serious question," Yui remarked.

About over an hour later; Yui, Shimako, Izumi and Lelouch were walking through the Shinjuku Ghetto. Due to Lelouch being Britannian and lacking a disguise, the group kept to the subway tunnels to avoid notice.

If the worst came about and they couldn't flee, they were all armed with concealed firearms.

"Have you explored any of the ghettos, Yui?" Shimako asked, as her eyes scanned the heavily damaged structures beyond the subway they peaked out from.

"No, I only saw the ghettos from a distance," Yui replied. She sadly looked around. The scars of this Japan's war with Britannia surrounded them. "I know they've been left as they were after the war, but seeing what was done up close, brings different feelings."

"I understand. Even if this Japan is different from ours, you can't help but feel sad at what was done to this nation."

"It's impressive they held Britannia back despite the odds being against them," Izumi offered as a compliment.

"Indeed. Britannia had to conquer Japan quickly before the other nations intervened and attempted to seize the Sakuradite Mines for themselves," Lelouch added. "So invading with overwhelming force from three different points was the only way."

"And these ruins are from how the battle raged?" Izumi asked.

Lelouch nodded, "Yes. Many cities along the coast and near the sea suffered the most damage as you can see."

"I am surprised anyone is willing to live here after all this time," Shimako commented.

"They don't have much of a choice," Yui said in a sad tone. "The only way they could live in better homes than those here would be to become Honorary Britannians. Which for some is a matter of pride, what they are willing to endure or both."

"Considering the legal indiscrimination and harassment from Britannians," Izumi noted as she followed behind Lelouch.

"That's just the tip of the iceberg," Lelouch said grimly. "Because discrimination is legal against non-Britannians, most police officers would ignore a non-Britannian in trouble unless it was highly disruptive to the public. Meaning they would be vulnerable to being exploited, attacked or used as more or less slave labor by some businesses or criminal organizations. The problems and dangers they face goes on."

"That's crazy. Shouldn't the police do something about criminals? Even if they weren't breaking the law by abusing and targeting non-Britannians, you wouldn't want such people running around," Izumi said in disbelief.

"Technically they do," Lelouch admitted, before explaining further. "In fact with the introduction of the Knightpolice, a unit composed of retired Glasgows remade for usage by law enforcement, most criminal organizations and the like relocated to Areas where they could operate more easily due to the presence of non-Britannians and officials willing to look the other way with well-placed bribes."

Izumi, Yui and Shimako looked at Lelouch in stunned silence, pausing mid-step..

"You know, if nothing else," Izumi spoke up, breaking the silence, "I am more behind you razing Britannia to the ground now."

"Thank you. I am glad we are in agreement too."

Shimako and Yui offered silent agreement as well.

Fortunately their trek through the ghetto was uneventful. They used the waterways that ran under the Tokyo Concession Area and ultimately, the Settlement itself to reach Ashford Academy.

"I am surprised you led us through that maze," Shimako remarked.

"Thank you. I should apologize for making you follow me through a sewer to get to the academy." Lelouch replied. Part of the reason for his decision was to avoid anyone from the academy seeing him with Izumi, Yui and Shimako.

Disguises or not, he worried it could raise questions. He worked hard to build up a reputation as a wallflower, a background character, and he didn't want to deal with anything that could undo that.

"You need not worry. From what Yui has told us, you are quite known at school. Getting spotted with three girls could spark certain conversations and rumors I am sure you want to avoid," Izumi commented, understandingly.

I should thank you two for keeping any outrage over my choice in path in check, Lelouch thought, but he wasn't sure how to thank them on that one.

"I am grateful for your understanding."

"Uh, would it be a problem for us to be here?" Shimako asked, concerned as they approached a double metal door ahead, sealed by an electronic keypad on the wall next to the door.

"Today is the grand opening of a new amusement park and it's the weekend too, so most of the students should be away. The remainders should be spending most of their time in the dorms or the library," Lelouch offered reassuringly.

Entering the code, Lelouch opened the doors allowing him and his group to enter the sub-basement of Ashford Academy. Using the freight elevator, the group entered the academy proper. Even if the school was mostly empty, they were mindful to avoid being seen as they made their way to the Student Council Club House.

"This place reminds me of Yamayuri Girls Academy, but it seems smaller due to the lack of training fields and TSF hangers. It certainly feels much more like a normal school with a lot more landscaping," Shimako remarked, looking around.

"They do offer a wide range of different school clubs and events, some are quite…wild, let us just say, thanks to the Student Council President," Lelouch remarked, not wanting to get too much into the unusual events Milly had created and overseen.

"Yes, Yui told us about…Milly?" Izumi replied. She questioned if what she heard was true.

"Thankfully she is usually gone on Saturdays, so we should be able to check in on Nunnally without any trouble," Lelouch said, as he led Yui and the others through the backdoor leading into the clubhouse.

They reached the second floor and headed for the dining room where they might find Nunnally, but when Lelouch opened the door, a large white blur suddenly tackled him, playfully.

He was on the ground, back first, very confused about what had just happened.

"Is that a Great Pyrenees?" Shimako commented, recognizing the large white dog that was now licking Lelouch's face. "Such dogs are used by shepherds to protect flocks of sheep."

"I am pretty sure neither Lelouch or Nunnally had a dog like that the last time I was here," Yui added, wondering where the dog came from.

"Oh Sebastian, is someone at the door?" A familiar voice called out, causing a feeling of dread to wash over Lelouch and Yui.

Sure enough, Milly Ashford arrived at the doorway, quickly noticing Lelouch on the ground being licked by Sebastian, and Lelouch's group that included Yui among them.

"Welcome back Lelouch. I see you brought more friends." Milly smiled mischievously.

A/N: A fun fact, I actually prepared a story timeline and as I update it as chapters come out, I put down the various birthdays and other notable events from other series as reminders to myself so when a birthday among Lelouch's squad comes up it will be covered.

While not a lot of action this chapter, a couple of things are taken care of while other things for future visits have been set up, such as Lelouch meeting Kira and Lacus, unofficially, but this would be their first encounter and not the last I can promise.

But we also get our first look into the next major villains outside of the BETA and the other Kings, let's just say that gathering of villains is because of a certain group Claude had dealings with, with one of the said leaders of that group "hurt" they were excluded from her game, with good reason I assure you.

Now Lelouch and company are on their way to the Sunrider galaxy for some pirate/bounty hunting to get money to buy all of the supplies they'll need and what can be sent back home to the Empire of Japan.

Now I did begin a new poll on my fanfiction.net profile page to help with discussion towards completing the polygamy/harem for Lelouch, which I would've done by now but doubts on certain candidates and how they'll be included, even those with issue that should prevent them from joining has stalled during discussions on my discord, so I am hoping the results of this poll will give me something to help get discussion moving again. The top six who win, doesn't automatically join the harem, but they will get chances/screen time with Lelouch to see if they would get sufficient chemistry.

Originally I was going to reduce the votes to six, I had allowed those my discord server and those whose opinions I trust to vote big on those they think could work best, BUT since I had announced this poll on Questionable Questing and no where else at the time, I felt that would be unfair unfair to my readers on SpaceBattles, Archive of Our Own and , so for now I am going to allow 45 votes for my readers to use, but I would recommend voting on those you think can work best.

Remember only the top six will be considered and debated upon, since I am looking for TWO to complete the line up.

I will say some appearing will depend on if they make it into the top six like: Bernadette le Tigre de la Riviere (Muv Luv Alternative), Mariko Amemiya (Muv Luv Alternative), Sakura Usuki (Muv Luv Alternative), Sakura Usuki (Muv Luv Alternative), Icari Isolde (Sunrider), Kryska Stares (Sunrider), Kaoru Sakazak (Muv Luv Alternative), and Tonya Upenskona (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse) would determine if they end up in Lelouch's growing squadron or not, likely to become a Battalion and ultimately the Black Knights.

I am considering recruits from other worlds too (and yes definitely some guys to balance it all out lol), but I am judging on those who could join whose departure from said world wouldn't be an issue for their home and could do so without needing to be called back, etc.

Personally I do feel one of the spots of the harem should go to one of the founding members of Lelouch's squad, like Yuzuka Sendou (who is the top contender, but her issues with the Royal Guard could be an issue that has to be addressed, I do have some ideas for it through), Haruka Suzumiya, Tsukiko Fujisawa, Haruko Kashiwagi, and/or Asagi Minori since they'll have been through thick and thin with Lelouch from the early parts of the story.

Now I could simply do all of them and Yui's friends and be done with it, but my sense of fairness to the other possible candidates from the series involved insists that they should be given a fair shot.

Especially since the candidates from Schwarzesmarken have been quite the headache, since there seems to be a shipping war erupting over either Irisdina Bernhard or Beatrix Brehme, or even BOTH of them, which I am skeptical given their past and animosity with one another, not to mention Beatrix's attachment to her first love, who happened to be Irisdina's brother who sacrificed himself to save his sister by having Irisdina turn him in, a very bitter subject between both women to be sure and a source of conflict too.

Lise Hohenstein has been another headache, and readers have been pushing for her inclusion into the harem, which I can understand why and the sheer hell she endured for the sake of her brother and thus deserves a happier ending I agree. However, she has a very unhealthy attachment to her brother, making her a yandere and she is horribly scarred and damaged both physically and psychologically, so I seriously question and highly doubt if including Lise into Lelouch's harem could be even possible. Lelouch could use his Geass, once he gets it, on her to seal away her terrible memories to give her a fresh start, but even then it wouldn't feel right for her to join.

In Comparison Irisdina, Beatrix, Pham Thi Lan, Circe Steinhoff, Farka Mürenkamp, Gretel Jeckeln or Inghild Bronikowski would be easier to work with.

Anyway, enough about the harem, I don't like dedicating part of my author notes to it, but I feel I should share what has been discussed and what my doubts and concerns are if anyone wishes to voice anything in agreement or otherwise, go on my profile page and cast your votes.

In the meantime I'll see you in the next chapter as soon as the beta work is done on it.

War of the Seven Kings (Super Robot Wars with Code Geass, Muv Luv Alternative and more)

Which of these Schwarzesmarken characters could work best paired with Lelouch?

Pham Thi Lan

Irisdina Bernhard

Beatrix Brehme

Beatrix Brehme and Irisdina Bernhard

Circe Steinhoff

Lise Hohenstein

Anett Hosenfeld

Gretel Jeckeln

Inghild Bronikowski

Farka Mürenkamp

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?

I trust you know where the happy button is?