In Pursuit of a Gentler World

[StrangerDanger51]

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Stage 1: A Wrench in the Machine
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In my second life, I was born in a mansion. It wasn't a exactly a small mansion; it was practically a castle, but for the lack of stone walls. Practically the perfect home for the upper crust of nobility. I grew up a quiet girl, though I was a man in my previous life. Thankfully, my baby years were a haze, sparing me the trauma of childbirth and absolute boredom. My parents loved me, and made sure that I was afforded all the comforts they could give. I had many playmates in my younger years, though that soon gave way to a more focused schooling.

I was trained in combat and etiquette. Hidden knives and poison identification, strength and flexibility training. Even firearms. My combat mistress was very insistent that I must be able to blend in, to disappear completely if needed. I was to know who was who in the mansion, memorizing their faces, jobs and access levels. She said this was good training for my future. My etiquette mistress, similarly, was very clear on being able to blend. She particularly emphasized the ability to completely disappear into a crowd of random nobles and mix with them easily.

The most confusing part of my new life was the dichotomy of this world. The clothing and styles were almost Victorian, though the fabric was modern. It was obviously a British civilization given the accents, but the climate was far too hot to be on the isles. Despite looking like something out of a renaissance movie, the mansion was flush with modern conveniences. A rare trip beyond the grounds revealed a post-modern world, built on top of a desert.

An enormous silver city built in layers, expertly designed to withstand any natural phenomenon. Enormous solar arrays to supplement nuclear power, massive shock absorbers to withstand any kind of earthquake. It was named Pendragon, the seat of the Imperial throne, and jewel of the homeland. The name was familiar, but I wrote it off. A British city named Pendragon was expected for what seemed like an autocratic society. Or, Brittanian, as they called it.

It wasn't until I was sixteen that something interesting happened. I was told that I had 'graduated', and my training was complete. I was to be given a mission, with new responsibilities. After a tearful farewell with my parents, I was flown across the city to my new home. I was introduced to a Lady, clad in clothing less ornate than most nobles and I was struck by familiarity. She was a black haired woman, and introduced herself as Marianne. The head of her guard was some noble, a forgettable face.

I focused back on the lady, but I was still unable to place her. I kept trying to place her while we walked, though I payed enough attention to note faces and positions, as I was trained to. The features they carried were European, as everyone was here. The only anomaly was hair color, eye color, and the average build. In general, everyone I'd met was skinny, tall or not, apart from a few anomalous nobles. It wasn't out of proportion, but they looked slightly stretched. While most people had normal hair colors, some had blood red, purple, green, aqua, and so on. Similarly, some eye colors which should be impossible

We soon reached our destination, a door as ornate as any other. The door slid to the side automatically, as doors do in this weird world. Marianne entered first, the rest of us following. Her goal was a gilded crib, which within lay a baby, practically a newborn. Marianne picked up the baby, who looked no more than a few weeks old, and turned to me. She introduced my new charge, Lelouch Vi Brittania, 11th Prince and 17th in line to the royal imperial Brittanian throne. Raised as a bodyguard-servant, I was to be his personal maid and protector. My first and last duty was to his life. If he died, my own was forfeit.

Suddenly, something clicked in my brain, and I began putting everything together. I was in Brittania, an Imperial state which covered more than a third of the world. In seventeen years, this baby would go on to begin a rebellion against this country, kill thousands personally, and millions indirectly. This baby would focus the world's hate onto himself as a last ditch effort to create a peaceful world.

As the eldest daughter of the head maid and butler of a prominent noble family, the Ashford family, my loyalty was without question. That is what led to my selection.

Yare Yare Daze, and may the God my Emperor wishes to kill help me.

I'm going to need it.

---=== February 12th 2000, Ascension Throne Brittania (A.T.B.) ===---​

My eyes blinked open as my charge cried into the still room. I quickly walked over, pulling my charge from its crib. The baby's violet eyes were screwed up while its mouth let its displeasure known. Thanks to my years of training, I was a very light sleeper. With ease born of recent and prolific practice, I identified a dirty diaper. Smooth motions deposited the baby on it's changing station, and carried out the deed. Sated, the baby ceased crying and looked up at me. it's violet eyes pierced my soul.

"There, there, little Lulu. Everything's going to be alright." I say, pulling my charge up into a hug. The baby yawns, then rests it's head against my shoulder. Within moments it has returned to sleep.

I stood silently, watching him. In another moment, my composure was broken. I relaxed my face and smiled with my eyes as well as my mouth. Silently, I let out a Sqeeeeee! I mean, come on! He's so cute! I've tried so hard to be professional about this, but I'm only human! Seriously, If you spend every minute of every day around something and are responsible for its care and safekeeping, you will begin to form an attachment. This goes for inanimate objects as well as living dependents. How do you think people gain such a love of their cars, or pet rocks.

An additional factor was my own biology. I am a young woman, in the middle of puberty. My hormones are running wild, and I've come to regard Lulu as mine. If not as my true-born son; then my charge. My responsibility. Knowing his future only makes me want to protect him, but I know better than that. I wont be able to stop him, and swaddling him in blankets

I'll prepare him, instead.

---=== July 20th 2001, A.T.B ===---​

The next few years passed by in a state of bliss. Lelouch grew in leaps and bounds; he was walking younger than average, fiercely intelligent, and quick to pick up the trick to his puzzle toys. The toddler was doted upon by his elder half-siblings, and much loved playmate of Euphemia, who was born a year after him. His mother barely featured in his life, both due to the work she was doing with the fledgling Autonomous Knight project and the goal she shares with the Emperor. She always tried to have time for him, whether it was a picnic or a story before bed. I can understand why so many of her staff Idolize the woman, having known her for a few years now.

His brother Clovis, at age nine, attempted to teach a two year old Lelouch how to play chess. It was a fool's errand, to expect a toddler to play the game well. At least that's what Clovis thought. Likely sore due to repeated losses against his elder half-brother Schneizel, he wanted an opponent he could beat. Unfortunately for him, Lelouch was a fast learner. After a few lost games to get his developing mind around the rules and moves, he consistently destroyed Clovis. His subsequent accusations of cheating and complaints to his siblings only led to laughter. He had expected someone to boost his ego on, but chose his opponent poorly.

Lelouch, however, found himself quite entertained. He spent the next few months running around, challenging anyone he could. Cornelia came close to winning, but still lost. Schneizel is the only one Lulu hasn't won against. Euphemia was still too young to understand the game, but the random guards, servants and visiting nobles who indulged the child all found themselves on the losing side fairly quickly.

It's therefore hardly surprising that Lelouch's first word was a question related to chess.

---=== January 15th 2002, A.T.B ===---​

"Chess?"

I blinked, surprised. Lelouch had stopped in a hall while searching for a new victim. Most knew not to accept a challenge by now, and only Clovis was still repeatedly attempting to reclaim his 'honor'. So the situation itself wasn't surprising, but the action and target were. Lelouch was stood there, in his toddler-sized finery, looking up at me with a determined set to his slightly chubby, aristocratic features. His elegantly carved, wooden chess set, a much loved gift from Schneizel, was held up in my direction. While I was squealing in my head, I knelt down next to him and placed a hand on his head with a kind smile. HEADPAT ACHIEVED!

"Of course, young Master." The beaming smile I received was worth the world. He took me by the hand and dragged me down the hall. Some people we passed, guards and nobles, gave me a smirk as we passed them. They assume I'm going to finally get my butt kicked, after 'avoiding it' for so long. We were soon ensconced in his 'playroom', the board set up between us. This was actually the first time I'd ever played him. In fact, it's the first time I've actually played the game in this life. It was also the first time he's ever asked me, so of course I have to say yes.

I've watched Lelouch almost every moment of his life. Of course, this means I now know chess by osmosis, even if I was never very good in my old life. I can generally see what the players are trying to do five moves in advance, though Schneizel's tactics still throws me off, sometimes. Our match reveals something rather astonishing; Lelouch plans far more than five moves in advance. That is an absolutely insane accomplishment for a two year old. However, he played as if I was a completely new opponent, and used a strategy I knew. Even attempting to change strategies was useless, as I know every strategy he tries. He soon found himself being trapped into a check he couldn't escape from.

Once he realized this he stopped and looked up at me with big eyes, like he was only really seeing me for the first time. It's not a bad comparison, really. As a servant, I am not nobility. It is a trait of the upper crust to generally dismiss the working class unless they are particularly exceptional or exceptionally poor at their jobs. Though I've changed him, fed him and clothed him throughout his life, I'm not his mother. As far as I know he feels affection for me, but to everyone else I was essentially Lulu's shadow. Always there, but easily dismissible. You don't pay attention to someone's shadow, after all.

That first chess game wouldn't be the last. Lelouch would always attempt to find another opponent first. Most of the time this was the new guards, who didn't know his reputation. Only after he'd exhausted all his options, would he turn to me with his big, violet eyes. Personally, I think it's out of respect. Why would you repeatedly challenge one who you see as a master? It would do nothing but lower their opinion of you. Of course, I'm flattered. I'm no chess grand-master. I can barely stay ahead of the boy, even when studying up on techniques and strategies while he's asleep.

After his third birthday, it was also expected of me to also provide his basic education. My etiquette training was also passed on, though for nobles, rather than a shadow. The toddler took to his lessons with ease, Though he wasn't happy it interfered with his chess time. I had to take a whole lesson to explain that chess was far from the focal point of the world. By the time Nunnally was born, Lelouch was just getting the hang of it. He walked with a straight back, chin up. He was polite to everyone he met, even the servants. That won him some brownie points with the staff, though it was expected of Marianne the Commoner's son.

---=== October 25th 2003, A.T.B ===---​

Lelouch was nervously waiting with me, outside the medical wing on the day. Hours passed, and soon a Lelouch excited to meet his new sibling fell to exhaustion. All that pacing and trying to keep himself awake wore him out even faster. The labor was long, and wouldn't end until the next morning. My charge, as soon as he woke, demanded to be brought to see his sister. I complied, of course, and ithin minutes we were atthe new royal's room. The first thing he did upon entering was run over to the pink crib and look at his sleeping sister. After a few minutes studying her face he turned to me and asked a question, looking completely serious.

"You'll be there for her too, right?"

I hesitate to answer. "If I have to protect the princess as well, I may not be by your side you if something were to happen." He goes silent and turns back to his sister. I can see the gears turning in his head. Slowly, he steps away from the crib and lowers himself to one knee, face pointed down.

"Please."

...OOF. My heart. Now, I know for a fact the only time Lelouch has ever gotten down on his knees to ask for anything was to ask Suzaku to protect this very girl, so It's not out of character. Despite trying to teach him to be more humble and respectful, he is royalty, and has picked up some behaviors from his siblings and mother. He is prideful, and sometimes throws tantrums. He is also incredibly intelligent and manipulative, which helps him know who he can manipulate, and who he can't.

"I cannot make that decision, young master." I finally respond. I can his fringe casting a shadow over his face already. "However, because of your honest and sincere plea, I will bring the matter before your mother." His face snaps up to mine, eyes wide in shock. After a second, he jumps up from the ground and hugs me around my legs.

"Thank you, Eliza."

---=== Spring of 2009 A.T.B ===---​

Nunnally is very sweet, the girl is doted upon by all her siblings. As 87th in line for the throne, she doesn't have much chance of ascending to the throne, and so is regarded as a non-entity in the political game. Lelouch dotes upon her more than any other, however, and spends most of his time with her. Which is good for me, at least. After noting that exact fact, Consort Marianne agreed to extend my duties to include Nunnally.

With her protection equal in importance to her brother, my duties to her led to many new responsibilities. After increasing harassment from the other Queen-consorts and nobles in the palace, It was decided the family would move outside the city. And so, I came to live within Aries Villa. My first task was surveillance. I personally installed over a hundred of cameras and microphones all across the grounds and within the mansion itself. They all ran on independent batteries, and could last years before loosing power. I employed a few scientists to create a program to make sense of all this data, allowing real-time monitoring of the entire Villa. Those scientists were sworn to secrecy and scattered all over the empire, with comfortable lives awaiting them.

To some, this may seem like overkill. However, I have a responsibility to protect my charges, and it's not paranoia when they really are out to get you. I observed thousands of times where Marianne and C.C. met and headed of dozens of incidents of Marianne attempting to experiment on her own children with her Geass. The day Cornelia, the Goddess of Victory, requested to become the head of Marianne the Flash's royal guard, I knew my time was almost up.

Soon, V.V. would assassinate the Queen. Knowing her what she desires, I plan to let him. However, I will NOT let any harm come to my children! To hell with Canon! I, Eliza Montgomery, the Shadow of Lamprouge (My self-assigned title. Cool huh?), reject that future!

Still, the fated day came. Anya Alstriem was taken in by Marianne, as a favour. The young girl was shy and her parents were having trouble teaching her proper etiquette. After observing Marianne's children in court, they asked her to tutor little Anya. This, of course, meant I was to tutor Anya. But just because she is not my direct responsibility doesn't mean I'm going to let Marianne take away eight years of her life. A week later, Marianne orders Cornelia to withdraw her royal guard from the Villa for a night. Though Cornelia protested, she complied with her Idol's orders.

In the dead of night, when V.V. Spilled the Queen's blood all over the staircase, I was not in the Villa. Nor were the prince, princess, or even little Anya. We were visiting the Ashfords, on 'Marianne's' request. Lelouch, Nunnally and Milly all had a wonderful time attempting to drag Anya out of her shell. The manor was full of joy, and laughter. V.V.'s discovery that his 'witnesses' weren't there caused a look of real panic to grace the little psychopathic bro-con's youthful face. There was one thing I did know. There was no one else in the room who lived, apart from V.V., when Marianne's heart stopped and she went still. Once I'd confirmed that, I glanced up from the screen of my monitoring device and smiled at the children, watched over by the most loyal royal guard on this planet. All was right in the world.

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Stage 1: Complete
. . .
Stage 2: Commencing
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AN: Started re-watching CG and just couldn't get this out of my head. So many plot twists, switching loyalties and accusations abound. Now, what will happen when someone who knows everything, and is in a position to affect real change, is thrown into the mix. I also realize this chapter was mostly background, time-skips and introducing the MC. Future chapters should be more filled out.

 

[StrangerDanger51]

---=== Stage 2: Love, Death + Giant Robots ===---

---=== The Morning after Marianne's Death ===---​

I was woken from my nap by the soft beeping of my communicator. A glance around confirmed my charges were still sound asleep in a pile of blankets, along with Anya and Milly. I quickly left the room full of sleeping children and nodded to the teal-haired guard standing at attention outside the door. Walking away, I answered the call.

"Eliza? Are Lelouch and Nunnally okay?" Well, Cornelia certainly has her priorities straight.

"Of course. Sleeping off a late night with Miss Ashford and Miss Alstreim." I respond, customary politeness in my voice. I can hear the sigh the princess lets out in relief.

"Miss Ashford? Ah, I see. Marianne sent you away as well?" Bait taken.

"Yes, it did seem a rather spontaneous decision. A message was sent and we were out the door within the hour." More reinforcement of her suspicions, not that she needs it. "Is something wrong, your highness?"

"I have some bad news. Lady Marianne has been assassinated." I let out a small gasp, faking surprise on my face for any cameras that may be pointed in my direction. "I see you understand."

"Yes, I do. She knew something was going to happen. Perhaps she knew the assassin, or even just had a suspicion an attempt would be made." I reasoned, backing up Cornelia's conclusion.

"I agree. For your own safety, I recommend you keep my siblings at Ashford manor for the time being. I will contact you when it's safe to return to the villa." Cornelia orders with the voice of one used to being obeyed.

"Yes, my lord." With that, the call cut off.

I let out a huge sigh. Man, that was stressful. I like Cornelia just fine, watching the young girl dote on her little sister was adorable, and with the two of them at the villa so often, I interacted with them quite often. With Cornelia's assignment to the head of the guard, she learned the full truth about my posting here. After that, I noticed a bit more respect in her voice, rather than the usual dismissal attitude nobles often used when talking to servants.

After securing breakfast from the chef, I made my way back to the guarded room. (I tested the food, as always, and watched it being made just in case). I stopped at the door.

"Come in Jeremiah. You should hear this as well." He nods, then opened the door for me. I set some places at a small table, then whipped the silver domes off the plates. The Aroma of bacon, eggs, sausages, and toast quickly roused the sleeping nobles and was devoured almost as quickly. It was in this post-breakfast quiet I made the announcement.

"Children, I'm afraid that something terrible has happened." Instantly, their little eyes find my face. "Lady Marianne Vi Brittannia, passed away last night." The children looked confused, but Jeremiah's eyes widened, then filled with tears. I clarified, "Lelouch, Nunnally, your mother has been killed. Last night, someone met her in the villa and took her life."

The wails of pain and heartbreak were expected, finding myself a teddy bear for two distraught children less so. I caught Orange's eye, then glanced to the prince and princess and back to him. He visibly gathered himself, and a steely glint entered his eyes. Jeremiah Gotwald's loyalty to Marianne as absolute. In her death, that loyalty was transferred to the children she left behind. Absolutely loyal knight, acquired.

---=== 1 Week Post-Marianne's Death ===---​

Rumors of terrorism flew widely through the royal court, as well as affected sympathy for the prince and princess. It wasn't hard to tell it was only a thin cover to mask the pleasure that many felt towards her death. Their belief that a commoner could never last as a member of nobility further justified, they put on airs of grief, while cheering in private. Within the week, her funeral was announced. The entire royal family attended, and many of the princes and princesses mourned her. Their mothers, not so much.

When my charges were called to her open casket, I was able to confirm it. This was truly Marianne, her real body. I knew that the Emperor took her body and hid it in canon, for her to return to some day. This was further proof she was completely dead. The children grieved and laid some purple flowers on her body. The procession moved to the royal graveyard, where Charlie made a speech just as Marianne was being lowered into the ground.

"Marianne was a fine woman, who loved her family dearly. This cowardly assassination will not go unpunished!" Oh, shit. That's genuine rage in his eyes. I wonder if V.V. is even going to last until 2018?

"The investigation into Marianne's death has revealed the true perpetrators! EU assassins were smuggled into the country and assisted by our own citizens, Traitors!, in their dreadful deed." So that's your story, huh?

"The strong prevail, while the weak are crushed under their feet. The Europeans has shown themselves weak! I hereby declare war against the United Republic of Europia! Let us storm their nations and exact vengeance! All Hail Brittania!"

"All Hail Brittania!!"

"All Hail Brittania!!"

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"Why did father lie?" Lelouch suddenly asked. It was long after the funeral, we had returned to the Villa and the children were preparing for bed. Nunnally sat up from her side of the room, and looked over, curious. (Yes, they share a room. It was at both of their requests, and it makes my job infinitely easier.)

"I don't believe EU assassins killed mother. If they had, why would she send us away? She knew something was going to happen and trusted whomever killed her enough to meet with them alone. It doesn't make sense."

I sighed. Lelouch was too smart for his own good, sometimes.

"Correct, young Master." I replied, "When she gave the order for you to be sent to Ashford Manor, I heard her mumbling something afterwards. I believe she said 'Whatever he wants, I won't get my children caught up in it.' When I asked if she said something, she just replied that it was nothing." So, I might be fibbing. Just a little bit. There was no conversation. After all, I forged the order sending us to Ashford.

"Do you know who it was she was meeting, miss Eliza?" I smiled at Nunnally. The little dear was almost as intelligent as her brother, if less prone to brooding.

"No, I do not. I do know that lady Marianne had also ordered Cornelia and her guards away for the night, leaving her without any protection but her two personal guards." Nunnally nodded in response, and started sniffling. I walked over and gave her a kiss on the forehead. She cried for a while but eventually drifted off. I tucked her in and walked over to do the same with Lelouch. Before I finished, he spoke.

"Eliza. I swear, I will find my mother's killer and destroy him!" I looked the determined ten-year-old in his violet eyes.

"I understand, young master. But I just want you to think of two things, if that truly is your goal." He seemed curious and nodded

"What do you do after you find the killer, and what are you willing to do to find him."

---===---​

The month following Marianne's death was very... eventful. The predicted collapse of the Ashford Foundation came to pass, with their primary backer in the court dead. I approached Reuben, the Ashford patriarch, and secured a Knightmare simulator in return for a favor. As expected, my scores were not exactly stellar. I'd never be an Ace pilot, but I now know enough to at least get by on a battlefield. I'd only used it while my charges were asleep, though once it was discovered we had one, Lelouch requested some time to use it. I figured it couldn't hurt, so I let him. Nunnally didn't want to, though. Quite the little pacifist; just like her sister, Euphy.

You would think the war against Europia United would have caused Brittannia to pay less attention to Japan, but their increased use of Sakuradite only pushed them to negotiate harder. Talks started to break down, but fighting the EU as they were, they could Ill afford a Chinese intervention over Japan. They had yet to use the Knightmares against their enemies, though I knew it wouldn't be long.

I've had many years now to plan out this exact moment. I hadn't approached C.C. before Marianne was killed due to the distinct possibility she would rat me out to the mad couple. Now Marianne's 100% dead, I feel even safer making a contract with that ancient witch. I knew she had been made to promise to watch Marianne's children if anything happened, so the next time I caught her near the villa, I cornered her in the garden.

She stared at me, her amber eyes blank but for a spark of curiosity. "You're the maid, correct? The one who follows Lelouch and Nunnally around." I nodded and motioned towards a nearby bench.

"A seat, perhaps? We have much to discuss." I said. She accepted and we sat in silence for a time, enjoying the atmosphere of the garden. "I must confess something to you, C.C." She blinked in shock and turned to face me. "I know everything." She didn't look impressed.

"I know about Ragnarock, I know about Codes and Geass." Her face has been steadily getting more guarded. My next words cause her to freeze for a minute. "I also know your one, true, wish."

"You believe you can fulfill my wish?" She asks. I nod, then begin explaining.

"Your problem has always been your own involvement in the lives of your contractor. Mao loved you and could never kill you. While I believe Marianne would have followed through, she was killed by her jealous brother-in-law."

"You are very blunt."

"I just wish to clear the air. Even if I promise to one day take your place, there is no reason we cannot have an amiable relationship until then."

"If that's all, can we get on with it?"

"Of course. I promise to take your place in the future, in exchange for power in the present."

"Then we are in agreement."

---=== 1 Month Post-Marianne's Death ===---​

While I would have preferred a Geass more suited to protection, I admit that this one suits my personal history quite aptly. The first test was, of course, getting someone inconsequential in a room with me, and testing it. The butler suddenly decided that he had better things to be doing than sitting around in a room doing nothing. He got up and walked off. Subsequent testing revealed a few more details. In short, I have an 'Incognito Field' or 'Anonymity Field'. In a 100m radius area around me, I am Anonymous. Once activated, I am ignored by anyone within an area around me. I call this Geass 'Absolute Anonymity'. The potential uses for infiltration are huge, and the potential problems that will come with permanent Geass are terrifying. But I can't think of that right now.

I have bigger problems.

The Vi Brittannia children are still being sent to Japan.

Charlie Boy had obviously decided to try to get the Japanese to lower their guard for Britannia's inevitable blitzkrieg. Though I also theorize he's still trying to protect them from his psychotic brother, but I don't mention that to my charges. We are given a day to make arrangements, then are put on a plane over the pacific. Not, that anyone knows I've joined them. The guards that escorted them were very clear that the siblings were being sent on their own, so I just used my new 'Ignore me' field to get onto the plane disguised as a stewardess.

I only kept it up until we had taken off. The children were quite distraught that they were being sent alone, and my presence did wonders to assuage their fears. Read: I was glomped and cried on. The flight was long. Arizona to Japan is about a 15-hour flight, after all. We had time to talk, discuss what was likely to happen, and what they should do if separated from me. Basically, it boiled down to 'Stay wherever they take us, don't go wandering around without me nearby.' Agreement secured, we settled in for the flight. Nunnally was both worried and curious. As was Lelouch, though he'd never admit it. This was the first time they'd been outside Pendragon or Aries Villa in their lives. It's too bad it happened under such horrible circumstances.

Nunnally spent quite a bit of time watching the clouds below us, asking questions almost non-stop. I indulged her, of course. Knowing what I've prevented happening to her, it makes just seeing her walk and look around fill me with joy.

I believe our first impression left a little to be desired. Nunnally was hiding behind Lelouch, eyes peering out around him. Lelouch glared at the prime minister and his family. I gave them a cool stare, which was returned. Kaguya Sumeragi was also there, looking tiny behind Genbu Kururugi's leg. The eight-year-old looked as tiny as the seven-year-old Nunnally. Susaku was glaring at all of us, in a very confrontational stance.

Seeing that no one was going to make the first move, I bowed respectfully.

"Ohayō gozaimasu, Kururugi-sama. Odaijini shite kudasai" Hello (Respectfully), Mr. Kururugi. We are in your care. (Pleased to meet you, in this context.) The eyes of all the Japanese present widened slightly, obviously surprised I spoke the language. After a few seconds, Genbu lowered his eyebrows and bowed in return.

"Ohayō gozaimasu, watashi ni shitagatte kudasai." Hello, please follow me.

I nodded, and they turned to the shrine, not waiting for us to follow. Lelouch and Nunnally both looked up at me, obviously curious.

"What did you say?" Lelouch asked.

"I said hello, and that it was nice to meet them. He said hello back, and to follow him." He nodded, and I ushered my charges on, towards the shrine.

Upon entering, I was reminded that this was a shrine, not a stately home. The Kururugi family lived an austere lifestyle, with minimal decoration and excesses. The entrance was mostly bare, but for a small shelf to store indoor and outdoor shoes. I began untying all of our shoes and resolved to get some house slippers from the town asap.

I figured that we might as well be as respectful as possible, and give them less of a reason to hate us. Hopefully I would be able to head off Genbu attempting to marry himself to a fucking six-year-old. I mean seriously, even if it is just for political reasons, it's just fucking creepy.

Entering the shrine proper, we found Genbu and Susaku sitting at a low table. I showed Nunnally and Lelouch how to sit properly, to raised eyebrows and the curiosity of the Kururugi men, then sat myself between them. Genbu served us the tea himself and once all the tea had been poured out, I bowed slightly.

"Itadakimasu" Thank you for the drink/food. I then took the tea cup in both my hands and sipped silently. I noticed Nunnally and Lelouch both watching me, and attempt to do the same as best they can. The tea has obviously been brewing for a while, as it's quite bitter and just hot enough to be pleasant to drink. The Kururugi men were staring at us with strange looks on their faces, their own cups untouched.

I raised an eyebrow at them. "I presume you expected some stupid gaijin (foreigners) who knew nothing of your culture or traditions, Kururugi-sama?" Genbu gives me a long hard stare before sighing and taking a drink from his own cup.

"Yes, we did. Members of the Brittanian Imperial Family are famously vain and haughty. I expected two brats who expected everything to be handed to them on a silver platter. Instead, I find them being coached on proper Japanese etiquette by a Brittanian woman I was not told to expect." He frowns at me as he says the last part.

"Shanzai shimasu (I apologize), Kururugi-sama, but I am their sworn hogosha (guardian/protector) and would not let them be sent to another country without my presence." Genbu gives me another hard stare, then nods respectfully.

"Yes, I see. We organized a room for two, but I assume you would prefer one for three?" At my nod he continued. "There are not many rooms in this shrine, but one of the other buildings has an empty suite you may occupy for the duration of your stay." And thanks to my actions, we will not be sleeping in a storage closet. I bow respectfully, noting Lulu and Nunna following my lead.

"Kururugi-sama, Domo Arigato gozaimasu." Thank you (Respectfully), Mr. Kururugi.

He grunts, "You have yet to introduce yourself, Hogosha-san. (Miss Protector.)"

"My name is Elizabeth Montgomery. These are my master and mistress, the prince Lelouch and princess Nunnally Vi Brittannia." He nods, and waves in the direction of his son.

"This is my son, Kururugi Suzaku. It is likely you will see him around the shrine often. He is being tutored here, you see." Suzaku, who had looked at us with anger and scorn to begin with, now looks mostly confused. We were likely the first Brittanians he'd ever met, and did not act how he expected us to. Likely upended the boy's whole worldview. Hah. Like that doesn't happen to him often enough anyway.

Tea drunk and introductions complete, we were escorted to our rooms and I sat the two children down in front of me once I was sure we were alone.

"You must have a few questions by now, feel free to ask what you will."

"How do you know Japanese, Miss Eliza?" Nunna spoke quickly, before Lelouch even got a chance. "It was really shocking, I didn't know you knew how to speak it."

I smiled, she really was a cutie. "As well as my other training, I was taught many languages at a very young age. There was no knowing who I would be assigned to, or what situations they would get into. I am fluent in Japanese, Cantonese, and French. I was just learning Russian when I was assigned to you, master Lelouch. Since then I haven't had time to do much other than keep up my fluency." I gave her a soft smile, which Nunnally enthusiastically returned.

"Why were you so polite to them?" Lelouch demanded. "They were very rude and refused to give us even the most basic courtesy we are due."

"For that precise reason, master Lelouch." I respond, to his surprise. "The Japanese are very polite and respectful people, with a long history and many intricate traditions. By acting polite when they were rude, I acted more Japanese than they had, putting them on the back foot. Knowing their traditions and language when they did not expect it also contributed to this, likely more than I expected it to."

"To what end?" He asked, righteous anger turning to curiosity.

"I forced them to re-evaluate us. Kururugi Genbu told us himself, in the tea room. He expected rude and pushy foreigners and was prepared to meet that rudeness with his own. I expect he planned to give the two of you a small and under-equipped room, to remind you of your position as political hostages. Instead, we have a nice set of rooms, and the tentative respect of our hosts." The two children are looking at me with awe.

"However," I continued, "it is still tentative. We must continue to be polite and respectful, observe their traditions, and it is likely we will continue to be looked upon with favor." I get nods, their violet eyes (Nunnally's eyes were slightly washed out compared to Lelouch's vivid violet) filled with determination. The next few hours were filled with instruction on how to bow properly as well teaching them some Japanese phrases and the context to use them in.

If I spotted a certain brown-haired child watching from the door, I certainly didn't draw attention or mention it.

---===---​

Life quickly settled into a new normal in the shrine. Susaku was respectful, and Lelouch was polite in return. Nunnally was always curious, and asked the boy questions at every opportunity. Mostly about Japanese traditions and language. Once he explained suffixes and their meanings, he found the Princess calling him Susa-kun whenever they talked. The initial overly-polite stage of the two boy's friendship soon thawed, thanks to that same girl pulling them out to play all the time.

Early one morning, Lelouch caught Susaku doing some kendo katas. That encounter really set the tone for their friendship.

---===---​

"What are you doing, Susaku?" The prince inquired of the exercising boy.

"My morning katas. Tohdo-sensei is very strict and always makes sure that I have completed them before our morning spar." The Japanese boy explained, not even pausing in his exercise.

"Tohdoh-sensei? That means teacher, correct?" A nod from Susaku got Lelouch thinking. After a minute of silence, Lelouch spoke up again. "That would make Kyoshiro Tohdoh your tutor, then?" Susaku, who was just finishing his kata, nodded.

"Would you like to meet him? I'm headed to the dojo now. He spends most of his time there, meditating." Susaku offered, Lelouch hesitated, glancing back at me and Nunna, watching from the edge of the porch. All I did was smile and stick my chin out.

Lelouch turned back and bowed slightly. "Thank you for the offer. I think it would be beneficial to meet this man." He stated politely. They walked off towards another building on the grounds together while Nunnally and I following sedately. By the time we got there, Lelouch and Susaku were standing on opposite sides of the dojo, preparing to spar. I took Nunnally around the edge of the mats, to stand next to the tall, strict-looking Japanese man that could only be Tohdoh.

"Ohayō gozaimasu Kyoshiro-san. Who's idea was this little spar?" I asked the lieutenant colonel, who was giving me a sideways look.

"Ohayō, Montgomery-San. It was both of them, actually. Susaku claimed he could beat Lelouch in a spar in one move. Lelouch objected." Tohdoh replied, "I will have to curtail the arrogant streak he seems to be developing, soon."

I hummed in agreement, watching the boys warm up. I had tried to teach Lelouch some of the physical arts and managed to at least drill some basic defensive moves in, even if he is still a stick with barely any muscle. The boy would not become a JoJo character in this life, I believe. Finished stretching, the boys bowed and got into stances. Tohdoh called the start of the match. Suzaku won, of course, but it wasn't on the first move. He attempted a quick takedown, but it was obvious and telegraphed. He didn't seem to expect Lelouch to even know what to do in this situation, so it caught him off guard when Lelouch was able to counter. After the surprise wore off, Lelouch got his ass soundly kicked.

"This challenge was unfair!" Lelouch claimed, a fire in his eyes as he got to his feet. "You knew I wasn't as physically capable as you, yet you challenged me all the same. If this fight was a mental fight, I would have beat you!" Lelouch, like the prideful boy that he is, stated once he'd gotten off the mat. I stepped forward.

"Well then, young master, perhaps a game of Shogi would be more to your liking." He sends me a quizzical look.

"Shogi is the Japanese equivalent for chess." I see a fire lit in his eyes. He turns back to Susaku.

"Give me an hour to learn the rules, and we'll play."

Of course, we know how this will go already. Susaku lost the game, badly. Lelouch didn't gloat, but it was a close thing. He really was annoyed by the spar, earlier. Their mutual respect grew into a friendship, the kind of friendship only available to the innocent youth. People become far too jaded too quickly as they grow older and never truly give themselves to a such a pure-hearted friendship as one does in their youth.

It's just sad it'll have to end, eventually.

--- August 10th, 2010 A.T.B ---​

It was peaceful, for about a year. Despite the troubles of the world, all the conflict, our piece of it was quiet. Britannia continued their war against the EU, though still found time to conquer Indochina (Thailand, Vietnam, and their surrounds), now re-named Area 10. The Japanese were panicked and began to align their policies with the Chinese Federation and the EU to apply economic pressure. The Britannians took this about as well as you'd expect.

They were already in a full-scale war against the EU, and the small island nation certainly didn't expect Britannia to care about yet another nation joining their enemies.

One day, however, I knew it would soon be over. C.C. was standing in the garden, in a sunflower-patterned Yukata (Cotton dress). I caught her eyes, and she nodded. She's gotten into contact with me over the summer, 'informing' me of Charlie's plan to distract the world with their war, then blindside Japan. Her turning up now can only mean one thing. I run back to our rooms and grab our bug-out bag. When I got back to the kids, all three were standing on top of the hill, looking out at Mt Fuji. The air was full of planes.

We ran. Not ten minutes later, the Kururugi shrine was annihilated in a gigantic fireball.

I turned to the frightened and confused children.

Yare Yare Daze.

---=== Stage 2: Complete ===---
...
---=== Stage 3: Commencing ===---​

AN: Second Chapter, and pre-canon complete. Next up will be a time skip to 2017. The time in-between will be told as the story goes, with flashbacks. Please post a little message on your thoughts and feel free to ask some questions!

Fun Geass fact: Season 1 of code Geass takes place over 2 months, August and September.