Clovis was the product of his environment, and his death was the first indication that Lelouch's interpretation of things isn't what it seems to be. I'm still feeling that the real tragedy in Geass' Revenge Tragedy is not how Lelouch would lose everything in the attempt, because that directly conflicts with the 'success story' statement, but in how his revenge could be ultimately misdirected and meaningless. How the truth behind his personal tragedy isn't what he thinks it is. Considering everything he went through and probably will go through, THAT would be a blow, and his reaction then would be interesting.

He did have the Ashfords. I'm not sure how much communication goes on between here and there, but they could've kept him updated. Plus, the fact that he recruits through the internet suggests he has unconventional web channels. Even if he uses Biglobe.

I WOULD LOVE THAT YES. If there not be dorkery, I'd love to see him walk past a Knighmare Frame under repair and suddenly spout off a gob of techspeak, freaking out everyone at the scene.