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

[wahrifson]

Hard to say on how advance Ryuvia tech is compared to Heroic Age (they have some crazy tech that can mess with time, and destroy distances measured in light years and more), but I should note my knowledge on the series is limited as I just got into it recently. But I suppose it boils down to specifics on who is more advance in what fields speifically as one enemy Ryder the group will have has some insane army that took the combine firepower of two fleets, (focused fire with kinetic and beam/laser weapons) bombarding it, but it only destroyed its limbs and left it barely functioning and not destroyed. (Thankfully this is only limited to select units).



Indeed and unless Britannia gets some serious allies they might be in trouble.

Click to shrink...

Heroic Tribe can manipulate time, Destroy Dimension, Destroy Planet and Create door to another world outside Heroic Age Verse
Hell even with those strength they are powerless facing Golden Tribe so we can imagine how powerful Golden Tribe
I can said that Golden Tribe basically Race of God that can create universe

Indeed and unless Britannia gets some serious allies they might be in trouble.

Click to shrink...

Indeed i hate how arrogant Brittannia that their citizens even thinking can do anything in Earth
They need to be humbled[/QUOTE]

 

[StrifeHavoc]

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]

I thought I replied to this, but here we go.

Heroic Tribe can manipulate time, Destroy Dimension, Destroy Planet and Create door to another world outside Heroic Age Verse
Hell even with those strength they are powerless facing Golden Tribe so we can imagine how powerful Golden Tribe
I can said that Golden Tribe basically Race of God that can create universe

Click to shrink...

Well I don't know anything about the Golden Tribe so I can't comment, but I can say the ancient Ryuivans can do a few of those.

Indeed i hate how arrogant Brittannia that their citizens even thinking can do anything in Earth
They need to be humbled

Click to shrink...

[/QUOTE]

Oh yes they will be humbled big time unless an enemy of Lelouch bails them out.

 

[wahrifson]

I thought I replied to this, but here we go.



Well I don't know anything about the Golden Tribe so I can't comment, but I can say the ancient Ryuivans can do a few of those.

Click to shrink...

[/QUOTE]
Golden Tribe kind like of God
They are very scary i doubt Ryuvian can do anything towards them. Nodod Age with Bellcross reside in him can annihilate them. Well goodluck on your story. Shame Heroic Age do not add in this story.

Oh yes they will be humbled big time unless an enemy of Lelouch bails them out.

Click to shrink...

Good someone like Bradley, Kewell, and Ernst need check on reality. Luciano Bradley can be seen as representative of worst kind Britannia and human being.

 

[Jason Wu]

Lelouch the rizzler is never gonna stop umu. Glad to see this back

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Golden Tribe kind like of God
They are very scary i doubt Ryuvian can do anything towards them. Nodod Age with Bellcross reside in him can annihilate them. Well goodluck on your story. Shame Heroic Age do not add in this story.

Click to shrink...

Well it's more of a case I am not aware of Heroic Age enough to not just work them in, but ensure there is balancing, but it render Claude's prize pointless through which adds another issue.

Good someone like Bradley, Kewell, and Ernst need check on reality. Luciano Bradley can be seen as representative of worst kind Britannia and human being.

Click to shrink...

I agree and I had been hoping to have Lise Hohenstein be the one who destroys him, but she tragically may be too far "damaged" to join Lelouch's side, (she was considered for the harem too), but after much debate Lise as Bradley's killer was a no go, since I didn't want his end to be too quick.

Lelouch the rizzler is never gonna stop umu. Glad to see this back

Click to shrink...

The worst part is that he's not even trying lol.

 

[Sechs]

Autonomous self replicating MA, that is indead the the Mad Angels from IBO.

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Autonomous self replicating MA, that is indead the the Mad Angels from IBO.

Click to shrink...

They are lucky they fought it before it had more time to replicate more Plumas.

 

[Jason Wu]

but she tragically may be too far "damaged

Click to shrink...

You can fix her bro

 

[StrifeHavoc]

You can fix her bro

Click to shrink...

Easier said than done, unless anyone has any suggestions to fixing her, given the horrific amount of trauma she has endured.

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Just to update folks, my beta for the story is progressing through the chapter, they are about 25% done as of this posting.

In the meantime I began a final harem poll, on Fanfiction.net consisting of those remaining candidates as the rest had been worked out, either debated on if they should stay in or be removed, and this poll has those who remain.

Located here:

I would do a poll here for those who don't have Fanfiction.net accounts, but the polls here don't give me enough space for all of the remaining candidates, but I am open to hearing feedback on any choice in particularly.

I know @Jason Wu has been hoping for Lise to join the harem, although I am skeptical given the staggering amount of trauma and hell she had been put through, so she is on the poll, but AFTER 15 others have voted on her, if she can win against such odds then I'll reconsider.

But rest assured I'll post the next chapter as soon as he is done while I work on the next chapters along with other chapters in the meantime.

But if you guys want a poll here then I am open to suggestions on who should be in it, or what it should be about, since I can't put the full remaining harem candidates on it until its seriously trimmed down.

 

[wahrifson]

Just to update folks, my beta for the story is progressing through the chapter, they are about 25% done as of this posting.

In the meantime I began a final harem poll, on Fanfiction.net consisting of those remaining candidates as the rest had been worked out, either debated on if they should stay in or be removed, and this poll has those who remain.

Located here:

I would do a poll here for those who don't have Fanfiction.net accounts, but the polls here don't give me enough space for all of the remaining candidates, but I am open to hearing feedback on any choice in particularly.

I know @Jason Wu has been hoping for Lise to join the harem, although I am skeptical given the staggering amount of trauma and hell she had been put through, so she is on the poll, but AFTER 15 others have voted on her, if she can win against such odds then I'll reconsider.

But rest assured I'll post the next chapter as soon as he is done while I work on the next chapters along with other chapters in the meantime.

But if you guys want a poll here then I am open to suggestions on who should be in it, or what it should be about, since I can't put the full remaining harem candidates on it until its seriously trimmed down.

Click to shrink...

Beatrix Brehme or Esdeath can torture Luciano Bradley
Both have psycho uhuk Aggressive tendency to make his end very hurt, slowly and for long time

 

[Jason Wu]

I know @Jason Wu has been hoping for Lise to join the harem, although I am skeptical given the staggering amount of trauma and hell she had been put through, so she is on the poll, but AFTER 15 others have voted on her, if she can win against such odds then I'll reconsider.

Click to shrink...

You can fix her bro. Nothing like intimate handholding while staring at her eyes can't fix

 

[wahrifson]

You can fix her bro. Nothing like intimate handholding while staring at her eyes can't fix

Click to shrink...

How Lewd.......

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Beatrix Brehme or Esdeath can torture Luciano Bradley
Both have psycho uhuk Aggressive tendency to make his end very hurt, slowly and for long time

Click to shrink...

Well Esdeath unfortunately can't join the torture party since she comes from a non-mecha series, but Beatrix on the other hand, as of this post she is doing well in the poll, and thank god the tie between her and Irisndria is broke, because in every poll they've been tied both annoyingly and funny enough.

1st place:
Dorothy Catalonia (Gundam Wing)
Martica Barchenowa (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)

2nd place:
Alma Stirner (Mobile Suit Gundam Battle Operation: Code Fairy)
Beatrix Brehme (Schwarzesmarken)

3rd place:
Airi Arcadia (Undefeated Bahamut Chronicles)
Circe Steinhoff (Schwarzesmarken)
Pham Thi Lan (Schwarzesmarken)
Irisdina Bernhard (Schwarzesmarken)

Fourth Place:
Teletha "Tessa" Testarossa (Full Metal Panic)
Feldt Grace (Gundam 00 Season 2)
Saki Rukino (Valvrave the Liberator)

Fifth Place:
Yoruka Kirihime (Undefeated Bahamut Chronicles)
Lynn (Sunrider)
Mariko Amemiya (Muv Luv Alternative)
Yuzuka Sendou (Muv Luv Alternative)
Mitsuki Hayase (Muv Luv Alternative)

Sixth Place:
Ingrid Tradoll (Gundam Seed Freedom)
Marida Cruz (Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn)
Sakura Usuki (Muv Luv Alternative)
Kaoru Sakazak (Muv Luv Alternative)
Sayoko Komaki (Muv Luv Alternative)
Asagi Minori (Muv Luv Alternative)
Haruko Kashiwagi (Muv Luv Alternative)
Tsukiko Fujisawa (Muv Luv Alternative)
Melvina Vidya Advani (Muv Luv Alternative)
Haruka Suzumiya (Muv Luv Alternative)

Seven Place:
Marimo Jinguuji (Muv Luv Alternative)
Maya Tsukuyomi (Muv Luv Alternative)

Eighth Place:
Chizuru Sakaki (Muv Luv Alternative)
Suzuno Ogura (Muv Luv Alternative)

Dead Last:
Icari Isolde (Sunrider)
Lise Hohenstein (Schwarzesmarken)

You can fix her bro. Nothing like intimate handholding while staring at her eyes can't fix

Click to shrink...

How Lewd.......

Click to shrink...

Uh she'll need a LOT more than that I am afraid, but rest assured, regardless if she joins or not, the one who put her through all that hell will die horribly.

And besides she was also used as a sex slave and had to do things like that while serving as a spy for the sake of keeping her brother sake, I doubt that alone could fix her.

 

[Jason Wu]

Beatrix on the other hand, as of this post she is doing well in the poll, and thank god the tie between her and Irisndria is broke, because in every poll they've been tied both annoyingly and funny enough.

Click to shrink...

Lol that is hilarious

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Lol that is hilarious

Click to shrink...

I know it happened every time I had those two in a poll, although I am not opposed to the idea of both joining given the issues between the two, those would have to be resolved first before both can join and for Beatrix, its also making sure she can move on from her past love before embracing a new one and forgiving her rival before they can both join, which won't be easy.

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Ok I decided on a poll for this page until further notice, but it's for gauging which Schwarzesmarken you guys think should have a shot at joining Lelouch's harem, who do you think could work best?

I might leave the poll at the top of the page running until the characters are introduced.

I'll likely pick the top two or top three, so just vote for whoever you guys think would work best.

 

[Jason Wu]

I might leave the poll at the top of the page running until the characters are introduced.

Click to shrink...

Yeah let's see how they'll interact first umu

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Yeah let's see how they'll interact first umu

Click to shrink...

Yeah and let's not forget I got other candidates vying for a spot in the harem too.

 

[Jason Wu]

But rest assured I'll post the next chapter as soon as he is done while I work on the next chapters along with other chapters in the meantime.

Click to shrink...

Out of curiosity, how long is the Gundam Seed arc? Obviously Lelouch and Co still needs to secure access to the Colloid gas.

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Out of curiosity, how long is the Gundam Seed arc? Obviously Lelouch and Co still needs to secure access to the Colloid gas.

Click to shrink...

To the avoid the repeat of what happened in Kingdom Hearts story I am keeping it to a few chapters for the visit, so he'll leave the world of GSD for now, with what he came for and more as soon as my beta finishes cleaning the chapter.

 

[StrifeHavoc]

The next chapter is at 50% completion as far as beta work goes, and I got more chapters soon to be ready.

As an apology I have set up a new harem poll to narrow down who should claim the remaining open spots, with the poll here still ongoing (although I might have a plan for Lise to join, but it needs a lot of work and luck for it to work).

The main harem poll on fanfiction.net can be found here.

I am allowing for a short time to allow a large number of votes to be cast, so just vote for whoever you think will work best and who deserves a shot. But once the new chapter goes up all votes will be limited to two votes.

Runner ups on the poll will be kept as reserve candidates since I haven't quite worked out how on Stella, Cui and Tarisa will join, I got ideas, but the rest I have a general idea on to work with.

Here is where the harem stands.

1: Yui Takamura (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
2: Shimako Kai (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
3: Izumi Noto (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
4: Aki Iwami (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
5: Kazusa Yamashiro (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
6: Tatenashi Sarashiki (Infinite Stratos)
7: Stella Bremer (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
8: Cui Yifei (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
9: Tarisa Manandal (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
10: Alma Stirner (Gundam: Code Fairy)
11: Noriko Takaya (Gunbuster)
12: Ingrid Tradoll (Gundam Seed Freedom)
13:
14:

But here in this thread is a special thread, because I feel a member of Lelouch's squad should be a member, so that poll can be found in the original discussion area for this story here.

 

[Jason Wu]

Noriko Takaya (Gunbuster)

Click to shrink...

Ayo? Never watched it but Gunbuster sounds familiar. It's pretty old no? Cool to see it getting attention ngl

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Ayo? Never watched it but Gunbuster sounds familiar. It's pretty old no? Cool to see it getting attention ngl

Click to shrink...

Yeah, Noriko is the spiritual predecessor to Simon of Guren Lagann as is Gunbuster in a way.


View: https://youtu.be/oZaavNTCO5I?si=ZxkCsBYtOyCFO80G

 

[wahrifson]

The next chapter is at 50% completion as far as beta work goes, and I got more chapters soon to be ready.

As an apology I have set up a new harem poll to narrow down who should claim the remaining open spots, with the poll here still ongoing (although I might have a plan for Lise to join, but it needs a lot of work and luck for it to work).

The main harem poll on fanfiction.net can be found here.

I am allowing for a short time to allow a large number of votes to be cast, so just vote for whoever you think will work best and who deserves a shot. But once the new chapter goes up all votes will be limited to two votes.

Runner ups on the poll will be kept as reserve candidates since I haven't quite worked out how on Stella, Cui and Tarisa will join, I got ideas, but the rest I have a general idea on to work with.

Here is where the harem stands.

1: Yui Takamura (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
2: Shimako Kai (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
3: Izumi Noto (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
4: Aki Iwami (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
5: Kazusa Yamashiro (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
6: Tatenashi Sarashiki (Infinite Stratos)
7: Stella Bremer (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
8: Cui Yifei (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
9: Tarisa Manandal (Muv Luv Alternative Total Eclipse)
10: Alma Stirner (Gundam: Code Fairy)
11: Noriko Takaya (Gunbuster)
12: Ingrid Tradoll (Gundam Seed Freedom)
13:
14:

But here in this thread is a special thread, because I feel a member of Lelouch's squad should be a member, so that poll can be found in the original discussion area for this story here.

Click to shrink...

Man only Ingrid here have some kind capability as Military Commander on Land, Naval and Mecha battle for war.....

Yeah, Noriko is the spiritual predecessor to Simon of Guren Lagann as is Gunbuster in a way.


View: https://youtu.be/oZaavNTCO5I?si=ZxkCsBYtOyCFO80G

Click to shrink...

Agressive Pilot Type truly ideal for Tank in Strategy so Lulu will have great use for her facing Britannia
Combine with Kallen and Aki with support to commit Rape of Britannia Military with Bradley and Ernst unit become 1st Target
Damn it i truly want to see those racist bigots get their due....sadly still far with Lulu securing logistic and technology

 

[StrifeHavoc]

Man only Ingrid here have some kind capability as Military Commander on Land, Naval and Mecha battle for war.....

Click to shrink...

Indeed and she could be useful as the Lelouch's group begins growing into their own group.

Agressive Pilot Type truly ideal for Tank in Strategy so Lulu will have great use for her facing Britannia
Combine with Kallen and Aki with support to commit Rape of Britannia Military with Bradley and Ernst unit become 1st Target
Damn it i truly want to see those racist bigots get their due....sadly still far with Lulu securing logistic and technology

Click to shrink...

It will come, don't worry, Lelouch just needs the resources and the manpower so once he kicks Britannia out of Japan he can more easily hold onto it and keep Britannia from getting it back.

I am thinking for Noriko she might end up a rival with Yui for Lelouch to spice things up a little.

 

[Jason Wu]

Indeed and she could be useful as the Lelouch's group begins growing into their own group.

Click to shrink...

It will come, don't worry, Lelouch just needs the resources and the manpower so once he kicks Britannia out of Japan he can more easily hold onto it and keep Britannia from getting it back.

Click to shrink...

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

 

[wahrifson]

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

Click to shrink...

GoohN, UMF-SSO ASH 03 and Abyss can become Benchmark for Naval MS

 

[StrifeHavoc]

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

Click to shrink...

He'll get some when the time is right and he has the resources.

GoohN, UMF-SSO ASH 03 and Abyss can become Benchmark for Naval MS

Click to shrink...

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.