bakerstreet | picture prompt meme;

[In life, Arthur made an attempt to be the guiding point of the spear rather than the one grasping the hilt. That had always been the purpose of a round table, after all, there was no head.

He had in time come to learn there was limits to those ideals he wanted to achieve and his oversight had cost his country dearly. In reality, he had still been king and his seat at the circular table did little to diminish that no matter how much he attempted to mitigate it.

As a Servant, Saber had to juggle his own sense of self and outlook with the desires of his Master. It was a tricky position to negotiate. And as he fell in line behind Lelouch's step, some old habits ebbed back into Saber's own pace. He keeps an even gait, back straight, head forward with only the briefest of glances to the side at the guards without fully turning toward any of them.

There are so many other questions he has about Lelouch, about his standing, about how he is viewed by a third of the world compared to the other two, whether this guards are under the influence of Geass or not. But it can wait and, for the moment, Saber takes in what he can from quiet observation and remains at Lelouch's back, very much allowing him to lead wherever he intends to take them. And it is likely best he keeps questions and commentary to a minimum out in the open--he doesn't know enough about the lay of the land yet himself and already doesn't know who is and isn't privy to Lelouch's actions and secrets yet.]

[ While Lelouch doesn't walk with a sophisticated swagger, he does carry the very same regality a king—nay, an emperor—would. He always has, despite having to pretend he's just like everyone else, a commoner. Those exaggerated actions of his don't carry over as he walks, and even though he may seem lost in the castle because he's not that used to all these halls yet, he seems to at least know where his room is. Looking for a spare one may lead them to walking past a hallway over and over, though. . . ]

Here— [ He's asked for the key from a guard in the process. The room he leads Saber into is not at all modest, but it's simple, nonetheless. Given the time of day, it may prove challenging to appreciate the furniture and the paintings—created by one of Lelouch's brothers—but Lelouch seems to appreciate them when he looks around.

When he's content with his Servant's (fake) quarters, he turns to look at Saber again. He lifts a hand, gesturing to the area. ]

This will be yours, should you need it. And of course, when you interact with others who aren't myself, you will imply that this is what you use for slumber and other purposes.

[There were plenty of heroic spirits whose lives had not been lavish or luxurious and many who might step into a 'guest' room such as the one Lelouch leads them to and bulk at the scale and quality.

For Saber, there isn't an especially notable reaction to the space, a combination of commanding the grand space of Camelot in its glory days and traipsing through barely habitable spaces en route to battle.

He can appreciate the grand architecture and interior design, the sense of opulence that is present in the relative simplicity, though it is simple only in comparison.

When Lelouch next speaks, Saber glances toward him once again, showing no great difficulty in tearing his attention from the surroundings back to his Master as he gives an affirmative nod.]

This will more than suffice. After you are rested, I am sure we have much more yet to discuss, but until then I will move with discretion and will not draw attention from your staff or other residents here.

[He doesn't doubt there are plenty of other very human (or human-like) complications yet to discover related to the life of Lelouch vi Britannia.]

Well, then. I'll leave you to it.

[ That's the last words Lelouch leaves Saber before he makes way for his own quarters. He's pretty sure Saber can find him on his own, even without having to traverse through the hallways. Although... now that guards have seen Saber? Perhaps it may be wise to walk around, to make sure that he's properly being surveyed rather than showing up all of a sudden in Lelouch's room if need be.

It just makes more sense that way.

Lelouch stays awake for a while longer once he's back in his own room. He's already got the sigil of Geass in his eyes. He's only shown one to Saber, and didn't really go into detail as to how much Geass has consumed him. That's... fine. He'll find out sooner or later. What's more curious are the marks on his left palm. Red, like the Geass of sigil. He scratches it with his other hand, but the marks are imprinted on his skin, as if they've become a part of him.

He's read about these, though... These Command Seals. Three chances of gaining absolute obedience from your Servant; they will do as you please despite their objections, because they physically won't be able to control themselves. Hah. That's familiar. It seems like there's a lot that can be thought of with Command Seals, with Servants and Masters, and this Holy Grail War that Saber speaks of, but it's far from Lelouch's thoughts at the moment. Because ever so gradually, he drifts off to sleep...

The following day, C.C. finds Lelouch and sees the sigil in his hand. The suggestion of covering it up with gloves comes, and Lelouch hesitates not. Even as himself, he must wear gloves to protect this new power, as well as Saber's identity, amongst other things. Should there be other Masters out there... That could cause even more trouble. Especially when Zero Requiem is just around the corner.

Speaking of which, when C.C. does end up meeting Lelouch's Servant, the plan is also shared with him. What transpired prior to all this doesn't get shared. Not by her, although perhaps by the Knight of Zero, who keeps it vague, but shares nonetheless because to see his friend—to see Lelouch—in the pits of despair with no choice but to die... There's something painful about that, and part of him doesn't want it to happen.

These aren't stories Lelouch has told Saber, only engaging in small talk the next day and the next. Talking about Master and Servant is the last thing he wants to think about right now... especially when there are matters at hand, such as laws to create, bills to pass, what to do with the rest of the territory that the Holy Britannian Empire owns, and the like.

Still, there's a moment when Lelouch catches a break. He's alone in the garden, seated underneath a tree while the sun shines brightly yet warmly. The sounds of running water can be heard nearby, but nothing to destroy a conversation over... He's reading a book—Alice's Adventures in Wonderland? How. . . childish? ]

[The thing with the Holy Grail War is that is always lands smack in the middle of some other wider context. There is always a history that has come before it, always a present situation that can be impacted by the summoning of Servants, and all Masters have their own motivations for doing so. Some stumble into the matters by mistake, managing to summon a Servant by mistake or a strange twist of destiny, others are all but born for this moment, the descendants of families for whom magic is literally within the blood.

The current political climate truly is a war unlike any Saber has encountered personally before. It's a tremendous amount to take in and quite horrific, though no war is without its horrors. The only differences in terms of viciousness are the means of destruction. He's not sure bombs are more or less noble than swords and spears, both can be misused, but one requires less manpower and results in more immediate destruction than the other.

For the most part, Saber keeps commentary and questions to himself, asking only clarifications where absolutely needed and otherwise learning through observing. The impression he is given of the path these three have walked--Lelouch, Suzaku and C.C--is a particular brand of tragedy. The are enough similar shades that he understands the pressures and burdens, but the ultimate scale of this war and its responsibilities are beyond anything he can personally imagine.

And the plan they have come up with--

Well, in many ways it's none of his business. A final horrific chapter in a sad and bloodied tale.

Opting for something more casual in terms of his presentation now, Saber steps out softly into the garden, a wave of strange nostalgia hitting him from the fragrance of the flowers and distant water as he approaches Lelouch beneath the tree.

He knows the book in the abstract from his previous summonings, but he hasn't read it. Lewis Carroll would not be born for many centuries after his own death.]

Someone told me about that book some time ago, but I have not read it myself. It sounded quite fanciful though.

[He offers a small smile.]

May I join you for a time?

[ It's during the past few days that Lelouch has spent more time reading about Servants prior to retiring for the night. It's made him curious to get to know more about Saber, to discover who he is, and to figure out why he is the way he is. Then again, when Lelouch thinks about it, what point is there in knowing when that knowledge won't be put to good use? It won't be long until the end of his days... at least, that's what he thinks, anyway.

While he doesn't perk up at the sound and presence of somebody nearby, he does look up. There's no surprise in his face when he sees who approaches him, nor does he look at all bothered. It's a neutral expression he displays, but not uninterested. Never that. ]

This is a story that's loved by many. [ Loved by his sister, most especially, hence it's placed special in his own heart.

He then addresses the question posed to him by gesturing to the spot nearby. ]

If you don't mind sitting on the grass.

[The suggestion that he might mind sitting on the grass draws a slightly warmer, more genuine smile as he shakes his head a little. He's not nearly so grand as to not wish to lay himself upon the ground, not by a long shot. The image of King Arthur sort of... entertain him. They often overlook how much sweat, mud and blood is involved in marching across the British isles.

He steps closer, lowering himself to take a seat beside Lelouch carefully.]

And is it beloved by you? [He reaches across to tap a finger to the book.]

[ What he loves doesn't matter, he almost wants to say, but stops himself. Jeez, Lelouch, what a pathetic response that would be. Truly unbefitting of a prince, let alone a king and an emperor. ]

Yes. Yes, I suppose so.

[ He's read this probably at least three times growing up. There are condensed versions, shorter ones that are more for children. He's read those, too. The animated film was something he's seen, as well... but that's not something he'd prefer to sit through at this time. Lelouch prefers to read. ]

Is there anything you need?

[ An order, Lelouch assumes. He can't imagine a Servant resting peacefully... that's not what they are for, after all. ]

[There's the potential that some might find Lelouch's directness a brand of curt that is rude, cold or dismissive, but Saber gives only a small shake of his head at the pointed question.

He shifts a little, drawing his knees up to drape his arms across them as he looks out across the expanse of the garden.]

I have been given the impression you have seen enough storms roll in to appreciate the stillness before they arrive.

In a very short space of time, I have heard a great many tales about you from those closest to you, yet no tale is ever a full picture. There is likely no such thing.

[He pauses, strangely relaxed all things considered.]

Tell me about them. Your knight and your adviser.

[ It's not that Lelouch purposely left breadcrumbs for Saber to follow, but it seems like he did, from the sounds of it. Of course, he'd be lying if he didn't think the man would ask around. That would be an insult to his Servant's intelligence.

At first, he thinks that Saber's intentions is to ask more about him, to get a better idea as to how and why Lelouch is where he is now. But no— it seems Saber isn't as direct as that. To paint a full picture, you'll need shadows and light. No great image has just colours so flat. ]

Suzaku and C.C.? I've known Suzaku since I was young. You could even say we grew up together. He was the son of the former Prime Minister of Japan. Cats seem to dislike him.

[ Things happened in between. Now, this part, he's not sure how much Suzaku had offered to say. Most of it isn't Lelouch's business; it's not his story, after all. ]

C.C. is a frivolous woman whom I owe. I've promised to make a wish of hers come true. [ In exchange for power, though... now that he thinks about it, he also has C.C.'s loyalty. Now, what did he do to earn that, he wonders? ] I've told you of Geass. It was given to me by her.

[ All interesting and very direct points regarding the two. Lelouch could go on ahead and tell frivolous stories, but he imagines those may not be as interesting as these facts. There's nothing dramatic about the way he speaks, but there is a lilt of theatrique to it. Nothing grand, nothing too extra, just enough for him to sound fond of the two. ]

[Ironically, what Lelouch offers isn't entirely what Saber is looking for, but it does also say something about the young man.

He listens attentively though, nodding slowly, thoughtfully before he leans back slowly to plant his hands against the grass and stare upward.]

I see. That tells me virtually nothing about either of them as they relate to you. You say you have known Suzaku since you were children, but I know about as much about his father as I do about him from what you've said. And more about your business affairs with C.C than anything to do with her.

What do they like? What are their strengths? What times of the year do they like the most? What would they want to eat to celebrate something? [He glances over to Lelouch with a small smile.] Does Suzaku tragically like cats?

[ It's almost like an interview, and these questions have answers that friends would know. Suzaku is... his friend, he supposes— no, he knows he is. C.C., after everything that they've gone through, may as well be classified as a friend, as well.

Lelouch lets out a sigh, not at all heavy that it may come off to Saber that this is all a burn, but a tired one, nonetheless. ]

You should have been more specific, if you had wanted answers to questions like those. [ A pause, and he slips a bookmark into what he's reading before closing it shut. ] Tell me, do you introduce a comrade by saying all these things about them? What would they say, were they to hear you speak of them in such a manner?

[ They'd be embarrassed, that's how they'd react. Surely, were he to hear Suzaku speak of Lelouch in the same way Saber would like Lelouch to, his cheeks would be coloured red by now. ]

Saber cants his head to the side slightly, conceding to that point.]

I cannot dispute that. Perhaps I should have asked what you thought of each of them instead.

As for my own comrades, I would introduce them by their name and title, but I already know this of yours. If someone asked me to speak on them as people while settled in a beautiful garden, then yes, I would have spoken on their qualities as people. Were we standing over maps to stragetise a means of attack I would speak on their qualities as soldiers.

And as to what they would think to hear me speak of them in that manner... I would not wish to speculate. You would have to ask them.

[Of course, neither of them can ask a single one of Saber's comrades and they both know it.]

My relationships with them are purely professional at this point.

[ At least, that's how he'd like to look at it. He doesn't really have time for niceties anymore. Or rather, he's thrown away the idea of niceties and play to become who he is. Does he regret it? No. Does he miss it? There are times... ]

They both have my trust, and I have theirs. That is enough.

[ It wouldn't have been before, but after everything they've all gone through, it's more than enough for Lelouch. Especially when he has promises made to each of them. As Emperor of the most powerful empire, it's his job to fulfill these promises. That's all there is to it. ]

I'm afraid you won't hear a story out of me, lest you wish for me to tell you the story of Alice in Wonderland.

['At this point' also says a great deal. Even though that thought reminds Saber of some of his own experiences and makes something twinge uncomfortably inside him, the serene kind of smile on his face doesn't shift.

Lelouch says that is enough and that does seem like all he's willing to give for now.]

I would be ready to listen to your telling the story if you are willing to share it with me, though I half suspect you are being facetious.

[ Sorry, Saber. There's no point in getting backstories out of a dying man! But perhaps little bits and pieces here and there wouldn't hurt.

While he's not certain if Saber is disappointed or not, he'll concede. Just a little. But he'll also insist in telling the story of Alice in Wonderland. ]

I'll answer one question as truthfully as possible. Make it quick.

[ Then he waves the book slightly, enough for the motion to get Saber's attention. ]

It's a fun story. You may end up enjoying it.

[If Saber is disappointed, he certainly doesn't appear so or any kind of general dejection. But this is, in the most honest way possible, a sort of game of strategy. Saber's goal is to find out what kind of man he is serving for himself.

And he may be a Servant and he may need to obey when the moment calls for it, but Saber isn't about to pretend to be a pushover or dull in any way.]

I may only ask it now, or might you permit me to keep hold of that offer for one truthful answer for another time?

[He flashes a cheeky kind of smile before shifting a little to get himself more comfortably settled.]

And if you are taking your time to share the story, I do not doubt that I will. So please, whenever you are ready to indulge me, I am ready to listen.

[ Hm... Lelouch didn't really think that far this time. It was more of an impulsive thought, which he's converted into graciousness. It takes him a moment to respond, fixing his collar in the process to pass the time. ]

Your time is limited. You may ask until the end of the day, else the chance will pass.

[ Cheeky, indeed... But Lelouch doesn't seem to mind. He's dealt with worse people—the very same people Saber has spoken to the past few days, in fact.

He'll wait for Saber's decision before beginning the story of Alice in Wonderland. He'll only tell the condensed, children's version, however. ]

[Saber brings his hand forward to lay it upon his own chest as he bows his head a little in what is both a deferential and sort of playful gesture.]

That is a very generous extension of your offer. I will be sure to use it wisely, Master. [He lifts his eyes then without fully straightening his head.]

Or do you prefer 'my lord'?

[ He's developing a sharp tongue, or perhaps Saber's already had one to begin with, just sheathed until recently. It almost makes Lelouch feel normal, or perhaps it's because of where they are. In this garden, where it's peaceful and serene, Lelouch can't bring himself to put up a mask. ]

Lelouch will suffice.

[ That is his name, after all, and he surrenders it with a sigh. ]

[A little smile lingers on Saber's face, like that response really doesn't surprise him a lot. He's not entirely sure if their senses of humour are meshing or if Lelouch is just tolerating the light nudges, but Saber figures there's not terribly much to worry about at this stage. Lelouch appears to be made of thicker skin that that.]

I believe you were preparing to tell me a tale.

[ It's just a name. Or rather, it's his name, which he would like to go by. Then again, that doesn't really matter anymore in the grand scheme of things. ]

Ah, I was... [ He's told this story too many times already. While he could open the book and check for references, he doesn't really need it anymore. Especially when he'll base his story off the movie version, too. A tale for children to enjoy. Not necessarily something for bedtime, but... Nunnally always enjoyed it being told to her then.

He leans back against the tree, relaxing a little. ]

The story begins with Alice expressing discontent and boredom of her studies, and she heads to the riverbank to find something better to do. It's there that she meets a white rabbit, dressed in such gentlemanly wear, but he doesn't seem to be happy. In fact, he's rushing, exclaiming "I'm late! I'm late for a very important date!" [ One cannot miss Lelouch even acting that line out. Theatrics is something he's rather good at, after all. Even if it's Saber whom he's telling the story to, he doesn't hold back. ] Alice gives chase, even when the rabbit enters a hole on the ground.

Then, she falls.

[Stories, Saber believes, have great power and a sort of magic to them. Anyone can tell them, and anyone may listen--they are not restricted by anything like status or wealth or bloodlines.

This very much feels like a story that Lelouch not only knows well, but one he has narrated in one form or another before. The cadence of his voice and the particular flare for dramatic portrayal is immediately and effortlessly enticing. It shows qualities and skills of a leader with excellent presentation skills with the capability to draw attention to him instantly. Maybe, in another life, Lelouch would have been a fine stage actor rather than a political one.

Resting his elbow on one knee and his cheek against his knuckle, Saber listens intently and with ease.]

Is she harmed during her fall?

She is not.

[ Ah, that was a good time to pause, then, else he wouldn't have gotten that reaction out of Saber. Telling a story like this gives Lelouch nothing— amusement, perhaps, and it is a way to pass the time, but when he looks at it from an emperor's point of view, he gains nothing from it. What profit would an emperor make from telling a children's story to a Servant?

Absolutely nothing... still, he continues, because perhaps it is because he gains nothing that he is more than happy to do it. Somehow gaining the interest of Saber feels like a win, though. ]

Alice isn't hurt, and reaches the bottom of the hole a long while later. There, she sees a small door, one that she cannot fit through no matter what she does. It is far too small, after all. A white rabbit may fit, but a human child cannot.

She spots a table with biscuits, labelled "Eat me", [ Lelouch continues telling the story of Alice's adventures, particularly sounding lively when he gets to the part of the Cheshire Cat, even moreso with the Queen of Hearts. All are exciting parts of the story, all of which Nunnally would have enjoyed to hear about, were she here and they were on good terms... it doesn't seem to sour Lelouch's mood that he's sharing a piece of him that is more than special, though. In fact, he seems to be very receptive to the idea of sharing something important.

There are pauses in his story every now and again, made to incite a reaction from his one man audience. He isn't looking for anything dramatic, but would answer simple questions prior to continuing with the story. And then, at the end...

He sighs, dramatic and rather exaggerated... ]

Alice wakes up from her dream. It seems Wonderland wasn't real, after all.

picture prompt meme;

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