Hi everyone, thanks again for waiting. My first update of this story for the new year. There really isn't a whole lot of action in this particular chapter, but quite a bit still happens as we deal with the aftermath of Narita; new characters come into play, particularly a certain scientist back among the Decepticon ranks. Many of you were surprised that I brought Shockwave in so early, and I can understand that; but I've got plans for him that I cannot spoil. Oh, and just so you know, this is going to be the last of new additions from the Transformers roster for a long while now; so, no new Autobots or Decepticons. And don't expect Shockwave to make an appearance on the battlefield quite yet as there will be a certain element from the CG story that he will find an interest in. You'll see soon enough in the coming chapters. So, with that being said, let's get started
Messenger from Kyoto
"Lord Megatron." Shockwave bowed to his head to his master as he stood on the bridge of the Nemesis, along with Soundwave and the stunned trio of Seekers.
"Shockwave! This quite an unexpected turn!" Megatron was quite surprised and excited to see his most prized scientist alive. "I thought you had perished on Cybertron." He glared back at Starscream as he was the one who told Megatron that piece of false information.
"Yes… yes… as did we all." The nervous Starscream quickly said as Thundercracker's eyes were still widened with surprise and even Skywarp's jaw had dropped.
"Reports of my demise were greatly premature." Shockwave began to explain. "A pair of Autobots infiltrated my facility on Cybertron, sabotaging my Spacebridge. I gave chase but failed to accurately calculate the outcome. I awoke in the rubble, blinded, it soon became clear that I was marooned on our dead planet with no means of communication. In time, I repaired my wounds and resumed my research on Spacebridge technology. I had sent out a signal with the intent of a Decepticon party of locating me many cycles ago; only for it to be intercepted by Soundwave who allowed me to travel to this planet. Leaving one unanswered question…" He looked directly at Starscream, as did Megatron and Soundwave with Thundercracker and Skywarp backing away. "Why was I left for scrap? Abandoned?" He walked closer to Starscream and gazed at him with his singular red eye. "Why?"
Starscream's face was filled with visible horror as he, for one of the few moments in his life, gave an honest answer. "The… the… the explosion! It… it collapsed the power core chamber! The last thing anyone witnessed was you charging into the Spacebridge portal! No one saw you come back out!"
Shockwave continued to glare at him. "I find your reply to be… logical."
Starscream breathed a huge sigh of relief.
"But… I'd like to point out that those same Autobots that messed with your Spacebridge, Arcee and Cliffjumper, are here on this planet!" Skywarp quickly said. "So, you might get a chance for some payback huh?" He laughed slightly in a nervous tone.
"Noted." Shockwave simply said.
"Welcome back to the fold, Shockwave." Thundercracker spoke in a professional manner. "We have a lot to catch you up on."
"Indeed, we do." Megatron confirmed. "Soundwave, please fill Shockwave in on recent events." The silent Decepticon nodded as Megatron turned to his second-in-command. "Starscream, come with me, we have a meeting to attend to."
"As you wish, master." Starscream followed Megatron off the bridge; leaving Thundercracker and Skywarp alone with Soundwave and Shockwave.
"So… I'd better go check on the soldiers." Thundercracker voiced, wanting an excuse to get away from Shockwave.
"Yeah, I'll help you out with that." Skywarp said in agreement as the two hurried off the bridge, leaving the two emotionless Decepticons alone for Soundwave to fill Shockwave in what's been happening on Earth since the Decepticons' arrival.
Area 11 – Britannian Palace
Cornelia sat in a large meeting room alongside her knights; Guilford and Darlton, along with Euphemia, and several other bureaucrats. However, they were still waiting for the last attendants of their meeting to arrive. Most of the bureaucrats, as well as Euphemia were slightly startled by the appearance of Laserbeak as the drone flew in from a skylight and hovered in the air on the other side of the room before shinning two lights down to reveal three-dimensional holograms of Megatron and Starscream, both of them standing approximately twelve feet tall.
Even though it was just a hologram, Euphemia could barely contain her own jitters as she glanced down at her personal computer that she brought into the meeting to avoid making eye-contact with the Decepticon leader.
"Apologies for keeping you waiting, Viceroy Cornelia." Megatron said in a seemingly humble tone. Cornelia paid it no mind and nodded, allowing the meeting to begin.
"The Japan Liberation Front was nearly wiped out by your Narita operation, Viceroy." One bureaucrat began. "Now we're hunting down the survivors one-by-one."
"Is that some kind of joke?!" Cornelia exclaimed. "Do you have any idea how much of a disaster that was?! We lost more than ninety percent of our forces in that assault!"
"Ninety-two percent, Viceroy." Starscream pointed out. "It pays to be accurate."
Cornelia ignored him and continued her rant. "The Purebloods are all but wiped out and we've lost more than half the Glaston Knights' entire ranks! Even three of its most elite pilots lost their lives!"
Euphemia glanced at Darlton, offering a sympathetic look as those elite pilots were his own adoptive sons, though the older soldier kept a stoic face for the meeting, his fists clenched with anger.
"Well I… you see…" The same politician tried to think of an excuse, but Guilford spoke up.
"The occupation government is responsible for this! They've done nothing about Area 11's subways and mining railways! And the ghettos, they falsify the registrations and property deeds, as the rebellion spreads unchallenged!"
"Um… the subway tunnels stretch over the whole country. We can't just fill them all in! We don't have the budget."
"The Autobots and terrorists are using them as their strike bases and escape routes!" Guilford exclaimed.
"Incorrect." Megatron countered. "The Autobots and their allies are in fact using a Groundbridge as their means of transportation."
"A Groundbridge?" Darlton questioned.
"A portal system that enables them to travel anywhere on the planet." Megatron explained. "Meaning, their base may not even be in this country."
Cornelia scoffed. "So, what you're saying is that they could be virtually anywhere on Earth?"
"Indeed." Starscream nodded. "Perhaps even in the Homeland? Under Pendragon's basement perhaps?"
"Impossible! The Emperor would surely have discovered them if that was the case!" Guilford quickly exclaimed.
"Perhaps your precious Emperor isn't as strong or competent as you believe him to be." Starscream mused; resulting in glares from Cornelia and her soldiers.
"Enough." Megatron said calmly, glancing at Starscream. "While the location of the enemy base remains a mystery, I believe the real reason the Autobots and the Black Knights have been as successful as they have is because Britannia has gravely underestimated them." The Britannian soldiers and politicians looked at Megatron as he continued. "The Autobots are experienced soldiers, having done battle against my Decepticons for eons, even Optimus defeated you in single combat, Cornelia." The Viceroy glared as Megatron continued. "And as you view the population of this nation as mere 'Elevens', you simply believe they aren't strong enough to challenge you while this has proven false. They've produced advanced Knightmares of their own and have proven to be formidable warriors as well, not only rivalling but surpassing the skills of even your personal elite soldiers."
"He may have a point, your highness." Darlton voiced, causing Cornelia to look at him in surprise but still allowed her knight to speak. "While most of the Black Knights had modified Burais, there were two Knightmares that we've never seen before, and their pilots are beyond skilled, I've seen one of them for myself."
"There is one other factor you need to take into account, my dear Britannians." Starscream began. "The support our enemies have gained. While most of that stems from the Eleven population, it would seem that even Britannians are voicing their support as well."
That took all of them by surprise. "What!?" Cornelia exclaimed, almost standing out of her seat.
"That makes no sense at all!" Guilford stated. "Why would subjects of the Empire support our enemies!?"
"I can think of two reasons." Starscream explained. "The first, Clovis' little massacre in Shinjuku, as well as the Purebloods taking full advantage of that. Apparently, some of your own subjects are sympathetic towards the Elevens and don't like how they've been treated. The second reason is the hotel-jacking. Zero and the Autobots were the ones to save those hostages, not you. That being said, it seems your own people are doubtful that you are capable of protecting them at all."
"So, what would you have us do then?" Cornelia narrowed her eyes at the Decepticon first lieutenant.
"Personally, if it were up to me, I'd exercise my authority and scorch the entire Area 11 population. Both Elevens and Britannians." Starscream revealed.
All the Britannians present; royal, soldier, and politicians looked at Starscream in either disgust or horror.
"You… what…?" Euphemia muttered.
"Are you suggesting we massacre our own people?!" Cornelia almost screamed.
"Why not?" Starscream shrugged. "You had no qualms with attempting to massacre the people of Saitama to draw out Zero and the Autobots. And, let's be honest, if it weren't for little Euphie here, you would have killed all those Britannian hostages"
"No! We would never…!" Guilford exclaimed.
"That's enough!" Megatron barked; silencing all. "This bickering is getting us nowhere. Our enemies are the Autobots and the Black Knights; we must deal with them first before we deal with the fallout."
Even though there was discourse among the two parties; all of them silently agreed with Megatron, fighting amongst each other will only help their mutual enemy in the long run.
"Vice minister." Darlton spoke to one of the politicians. "Internal Affairs has appointed a special group of Elevens to self-govern this area, isn't that right? A group who are called the N.A.C."
The politicians looked in surprise while Starscream rolled his eyes. "You decimate against the Elevens, yet you still managed to appoint some into governing this Britannian occupied area? You do realize that you managed to give your enemies an advantage in doing so, you may as well be farming a rebellion that way."
"Apart from Starscream's tone, I actually agree." Darlton voiced. "When we stormed Narita, we looked for evidence of the N.A.C.'s conspiracies, but it was buried in the landslide."
"Yet you are still suspicious of them." Megaron noted. "Then simply remove them from the equation."
"Wait!" The vice minister stood up. "Please! These are just rumors! There's no evidence of that at all! If you suppress them then the Eleven's economy will certainly collapse. That means no tax revenue to send to the homeland! Also, it's a prime directive that Numbers should take care of their own kind!"
"A directive that gives the Numbers more room to rebel." Starscream points out. "Your Empire is quite contradictory, it's no wonder so many have rebelled against you."
Cornelia had enough of this. First the Decepticons save her and destroy her pride, now they're criticizing and insulting the Empire itself?! "Oh, well tell me then, Starscream. What have you and your 'superior' Decepticons have done to find Prime and Zero?!"
Starscream was about to retort, but Megatron spoke in a calmer tone. "Unfortunately, due to their means of transportation, as well as their ability to mask their signals, we've yet to discover the location of their base. Optimus and Zero are far more competent than you give them credit for; which is why I am assuming command." Cornelia looked in shock as Megatron continued. "As it stands, you are incapable of handling the Autobots or their Black Knight allies; and that is not an insult, but a fact. If it weren't for my intervention in Narita, you would undoubtedly be a prisoner of the enemy by now. And before you attempt to disagree with me on this, I already spoke with your father on the matter."
That caught everyone's attention. Megatron spoke to the Emperor about this!? Before anyone could say anything else; Laserbeak displayed a third hologram, replaying a recorded message of Charles Zi Britannia himself.
"Cornelia, as of this moment, I am assigning all military operations in Area 11 under Megatron's control. He has more experience than the Autobots, so it is the most logical choice. You do not have any say in this; you will work with Megatron. That is my final word."
The message ended as all the Britannians were left in silence as Megatron spoke again.
"So, allow me then to clarify the new chain of command: you still remain the Viceroy of Area 11 and will deal with all political matters as usual. However, in terms of the military, especially when dealing with the Autobots and the Black Knights, I am in command. Simply put, you bear equal status to Starscream; your soldiers will still answer to you, but you now answer directly to me."
Starscream didn't like the idea of being of equal ranking to a human but wasn't about to question Megatron and receive a beating from him.
"You can't be serious!" Cornelia voiced, feeling as though she had been, for a lack of better term, demoted. "I won't…"
"Conflicting agendas will only result in chaos and failure!" Megatron stated. "You would be wise to remember that Cornelia. You are under my command now, as such, you will follow my lead."
Cornelia said nothing as she sat back down, her fists clenching in anger and frustration. Euphemia silently offered her sister a sympathetic look before taking a look at the report on her computer. Her eyes set upon the Lancelot as her own eyes silently wavered, thinking about Suzaku.
Five elderly Japanese men had gathered together in a darkened room, the only light being a single fireplace in the center of their circle as they spoke.
"So, the Britannian viceroy has gone this far already."
"With the Liberation Front scattered, the last embers of Japan have died away."
"No! He may be on the run, but Tohdoh is still strong! Still fighting! Even Katase is still alive! They can still rebuild!"
"Even if they do, what can they do against these beings, these Decepticons? They're clearly a far graver threat than Britannia. I fear there may be no hope for our country."
"No, there is still a hope." A voice belonging to a young girl from behind a screen. This girl had long black hair and green eyes
"The Black Knights and those Autobots? You've been infatuated with Zero since he rescued Suzaku Kururugi. We even sent him the Guren MK II and the Gekka Pre-Production."
"They have used those Knightmares with better results than we original thought. And those Autobots have proven strong enough to make Knightmares look like cheap toys."
"I heard even one bested Cornelia in single combat."
Ashford Academy
Shirley hadn't been paying much attention to the lecture her teacher was giving her. As she pretended to read her textbook, she opened up a letter sent to her by her father, revealing a pair of tickets for an opera.
"Thanks Daddy…" Shirley whispered to herself with a smile. But of course, since she had an extra ticket, she could also bring a friend with her. But who? She glanced to the spot where Lelouch would normally sit, only to find he wasn't there. In fact, neither was Kallen. That caused an odd feeling to build up inside her chest.
As the day continued and Shirley went through the rest of her classes, and her practice in the Swim Club, she couldn't get her mind off that odd feeling, even in the Student Council room. Milly noticed the odd expression on her friend's face.
"Okay, what's got you so worried? Constipated? Your monthly?"
"That's not it!" Shirley quickly said.
"Ah, you're lonely because Lelouch is gone, aren't you?" Milly teased.
Shirley was stunned, and while she didn't deny it, there was something else on her mind as well. "It's more like… Kallen's absent the same day he is. Again."
"Oh, so care-free." Milly said. "While the rest of the world's still grappling with giant living transforming robots; you still can't help but think about little things like this. Suzaku's been absent for two days because of all that to, and so has Rai."
"I know that!" Shirley exclaimed. "But Lulu and Kallen gone on the same day together?! That's serious!"
Milly giggled. "I envy you Shirley, that's what I love about you."
That particular choice of words got the attention of Nina, who had been silent as she typed away at her computer and glanced towards the pair of girls.
"Don't make fun of me!" Shirley exclaimed.
"Then just tell him already." Milly stood up. "Three little words: I like you."
Shirley's cheeks turned red. "I couldn't! I just couldn't! I mean… what if…"
"'What if he rejects me? It could ruin our great friendship!'" Milly teased and laughed a bit.
Shirley sunk a bit. "You don't have to laugh… that hard you know."
Milly didn't intend to hurt Shirley's feelings a bit and offered the girl a sympathetic expression. "Sorry. But it's comfortable, you know? With everything that's been happening, with all of us here together, it's almost like everything in the world just doesn't matter when we're like this. But then again, anything can happen. For all we know, the whole world could undergo a drastic change any day and we'd never see it coming. We may not even go back to the way things were."
"You make it sound as though something awful is about to happen." Shirley said.
"Oh forget it, please don't take me too seriously." Milly tried to brush it off like it were some kind of joke. "If it's bothering you, why not just ask him the next chance you get." She turned to the doorway as a certain someone walked in. "So how do you feel about it on your side?"
Shirley looked in confusion, which turned into shock to see as Lelouch himself had entered the room. "Lulu! I thought you were absent!"
"Nunnally had a little fever this morning, and Sayoko was busy, so I stayed home to help." Lelouch explained.
"Oh really… you don't say…" Shirley stuttered slightly, feeling a bit embarrassed about her fantastic thoughts of Lelouch and Kallen doing some naughty things together. "So is Nunna feeling better now?"
"A bit." Lelouch answered before turning to Milly. "Madam President, those papers?"
"Oh right. Make sure you organize them by year and class, okay?"
"Yeah I will." Lelouch picked up the pile of papers, and accidentally Shirley's envelope as well. "You have a talent for ordering people around."
"And you're a great subordinate." Milly teased.
"Subordinate?" Lelouch thought to himself as he left the room. "Like to see her take that attitude with Ratchet or Ironhide."
After Lelouch was gone, Shirley flashed a glare in Milly's direction. "Ugh! Madam President, you nearly gave me a heart attack doing that!" She quickly noticed her envelope was missing. "Where's my tickets?" Her eyes widened realizing Lelouch accidentally took them and practically screamed as she ran out the door after Lelouch.
"Lulu!"
Lelouch had gone outside and turned around to see Shirley running after him. "What is it?"
"Um… is my dad's letter mixed up with that paperwork?"
"Hmm?" Lelouch looked and saw the envelope he accidentally took. "Oh, sorry." He handed it back to her but saw an odd look on her face. "What's wrong?"
He was right in front of her, and she did have an extra ticket, so there would be anytime to ask him, now would be it.
"Listen uh… Lulu, my dad works a really long way from here. But he likes to send me stuff like this to keep my spirits up, you know?" She took out a pair of tickets. "He even got me two tickets for an opera in a couple of days. I haven't really thought of anyone to ask to come with me, so I was just wondering…" She handed Lelouch one of the tickets. "If you're not busy..."
Lelouch looked at the ticket for a moment, he wasn't doing anything in particular at that date. "Sure, why not?"
"Wha… really?!" Shirley could barley contain her excited smile.
"Yeah, I've been pretty busy lately so this might be a nice break." Lelouch had an honest smile. "So yeah, I'll come. Sounds like fun."
Shirley looked like she was ready to squeal out of joy but kept her cool as to not embarrass herself. "So, I'll see you then."
"Yeah, sure." Lelouch nodded as Shirley walked off.
"[Looks like you got yourself a date]"
Lelouch turned towards the parking lot, towards Bumblebee's vehicle form, though he couldn't see his face, the exiled prince probably guessed the Autobot scout was smirking underneath the hood.
"It's not a date, we're just going to the opera." Lelouch said as he walked towards the yellow Autobot in his vehicle mode.
"[Sounds like a date to me]" Bumblebee teased as Lelouch got in.
"Shut up." Lelouch grumbled as they drove off.
Unbeknownst to them, they were being watched a certain green-haired girl sitting in Lelouch's room and eating a pizza, having seen the exchange occur between Lelouch and Shirley.
C.C. had a curious look on her face, but quickly turned into annoyance. "Stop being so suspicious." She said to a voice that only she could hear. "That's hardly the case, to me he's nothing but a self-righteous jerk."
Meanwhile Shirley had stopped as she stood behind the building and couldn't contain her excitement anymore. "I did it! I actually asked him! And he said yes!" She almost squealed. "But…" She shook her head. "He's just coming with me to a little concert! So, it's no big thing… but still, it's a chance." She looked at her own ticket with a smile. "Thank you, Daddy." She soon felt her own phone ring.
As Shirley answered her phone however, she failed to notice someone else was watching her from the rooftop. A man wearing a white jacket with silver-white hair. He wore a visor over his eyes with a pair of headphones over his hears as he smiled sinisterly at not just Shirley, but the glance of the C.C. he saw in the window.
The Nemesis – The Bridge
"Lord Megatron." Shockwave has entered the bridge along with Soundwave as their leader was the only other occupant in the room. "Soundwave has informed me of all that has transpierced here on this planet; such as our control over the Britannian Empire, including Zero and the Black Knights, as well as Zero's true identity."
"I see." Megatron noticed, a bit surprised that Soundwave revealed Lelouch's identity to Shockwave, but then again, Shockwave's loyalty to Megatron was absolute, on par with even Soundwave's, so it made sense.
"And I must ask; what is the purpose of keeping his identity a secret?" Shockwave asked. "Surely, as the Black Knights are mostly consisting of Elevens, they would logically abandon their leader as he is the prince of the same Empire they despise so much."
"But we cannot say whether they know it or not." Megatron said. "They may be aware and follow him willingly. And it is not just our dear Lelouch, Optimus himself has proven to be quite the charismatic leader, so I wouldn't be surprised if they are in the Black Knights out of respect for him. That being said Shockwave, you are now the only other Decepticon aside from myself and Soundwave that know of this secret, and I would encourage you to keep it to yourself. This information could prove useful to us if we manipulate it the right way."
"Your reasoning is logical, Lord Megatron." Shockwave nodded. "And I have new information of myself to give."
"Oh?" Megatron was intrigued.
"Upon my arrival to Earth, Soundwave and I have discovered a small group of Earthlings attempting to flee the city of Narita." Shockwave began. "They refer to themselves as 'Code R' and have been studying something rather... interesting."
Soundwave extended his tentacles and attached them to the main console on the bridge, he then began to offload the information he previously downloaded into the Nemesis database.
"Soundwave was easily able to access their data from their primitive computers." Shockwave began to explain as Megatron saw all the information now under his control. "Though their own technology is crude and primitive, what they were studying was something… unexpected: immortality."
That got Megatron's attention "Immortality?"
The screen shifted to reveal multiple pictures and videos of C.C. being experienced on by the research team. "Apparently, this human female possess an uncanny ability to heal from virtually any form of injury, including those that should be fatal. Unfortunately, the information regarding her is limited. It was meant to be kept in secrecy as the data suggests this project was spearheaded by the deceased Britannian Prince Clovis, even from the rest of the Britannian empire. And there is one other odd piece of information we've discovered… Geass."
Megatron raised an eyebrow. "And… what exactly is Geass?"
"Unknown." Shockwave replied. "Very little information from this Code R has been given, and I myself am unfamiliar with the term."
Megatron stroked his chin. "Interesting." This 'Geass' was amusing enough, but an Earthling with immortality? Not even Cybertronians are immortal. This could prove to be useful. "Where are these humans now, Shockwave?"
"They are detained within a special cell aboard the Nemesis." Shockwave answered. "As well as an injured Britannian soldier that was nearby, he was taken as well to avoid any witnesses."
"Very well then, keep them all alive." Megatron instructed. "Find out all you can about this Code R, as well as this Geass. And be sure to sever any ties these humans have with their homes, no loose ends."
"Why such precautions?" Shockwave asked.
"Though Clovis intended to keep such a secret, it makes me wonder what else this world has hidden beneath its surface. And who else may be aware of them." Megatron replied as his eyes narrowed. "Charles, you wouldn't happen to be keeping any secrets from me, would you?"
The Ark
Several Black Knights had gathered in the bridge along with all the Autobots to discuss what happened in Narita. Most of the Black Knights present, including their masked leader, all sat or stood in the living-quarters based instillation on the side of the massive chamber as they talked with the Autobots.
"From what the police reports have said, there were no civilian casualties and all of Narita had been evacuated before the battle took place. I thought that was good news." Ohgi said.
"That is good news." Bulkhead said. "We're not like Britannia or the Cons, we're not gonna drag innocent people into this."
"Which in turn, will help increase our reputation and support." Fixit voiced. "Maybe even bring in some new recruits."
"Good, we got more rookies to train." Ironhide said.
"Yeah, but… now we know what the Decepticons are capable of." Kallen said. "And… they're a lot stronger than I thought."
"No joke." Rai agreed. "We had Britannia on the run, but we we're stuck on defense the rest of that fight."
"Don't beat yourselves up about it." Cliffjumper said. "You guys actually managed to kill off more than a few Cons; so you've proven yourself quite a bit. We'll just need to change our strategy going forward."
"But that also means you can't rush straight into a fight." Arcee pointed out.
"Yeah, let the Autobots handle the Con's heavy-hitters." Wheeljack added.
"No argument here." Kallen said. "The Guren and I barley stood a chance against Soundwave."
"I managed to poke out one of Breakdown's eyes." Rai pointed out. "Right before he sent me flying with that massive hammer of his."
"Breakdown's about as strong as me, and Soundwave is Megatron's right-hand bot." Bulkhead pointed out. "Of course, you guys are gonna have trouble with them."
"Speaking of Megatron… I never expected him to be so strong." Ohgi said, his eyes wavering having seen his battle with Optimus. "I mean… I had an idea but… even Optimus couldn't…"
"It was a tie! A tie!" Tamaki exclaimed. "The big O's still standing, right? Bet he could wipe the smirk off Buckethead's face if he wanted!"
"[I wouldn't be so cocky, Tamaki]" Bumblebee bleeped. "[Optimus and Megatron have been duking it out since the war began; Optimus won a few of them, Megatron won others; but in all honestly… those two are evenly matched.]"
Most of the Black Knights looked in surprise. They had all seen Optimus in action before and could easily say he was an absolute force to be reckoned with. But hearing that Megatron could not only take him, but also beat him?! Just thinking about that was almost terrifying.
"Megatron is indeed a formidable foe." Optimus began. "A powerful warrior as well as a commanding leader and competent strategist. However, he is not invincible as he has suffered defeat before. But you are correct to exercise caution; while our modified Knightmares have proven to be capable of defeating the Decepticons; I would advise against any confrontations with Megatron or even some of his top brass without an Autobot to aid you."
"Yeah, that's probably a good idea." Rai agreed.
As they all talked, Zero remained silent though he had listened to every word. However, it wasn't just the strength of the Decepticons that was on his mind; he thought back to Shirley. He actually was glad that she invited him to go to a concert; with everything that's happened recently, including revealing and explaining his identity to Kallen, he needed a break to take his mind off things. He already told Optimus before everyone else arrived and even agreed it was for the best. Zero was taken out of his thoughts as Ohgi handed him a letter.
"Oh Zero, this is for you."
"Hmm, what's this?" Zero took the letter.
"A love letter." Ohgi answered.
Lelouch smirked underneath his mask. "I'm sorry Ohgi, but I'm not really into men."
Rai, Tamaki, Bulkhead, Cliffjumper, and a few other Black Knights burst out laughing while Kallen, Arcee, and even Ironhide smirked slightly.
"And they say you got no sense of humor!" Tamaki chuckled.
"You laugh too much." Ratchet commented, rather annoyed.
Fixit looked quite intrigued. "Oh, I was not aware that human males could mate with each other."
Ohgi's face turned red with embarrassment as he shook it away. "That's not what I meant. It's actually a letter from Kyoto, they urgently request a meeting. In fact, it's for you to Optimus." He spoke to the Autobot leader. "They want to meet with you and Zero. They praised us for how well we used the Guren MK II and the Gekka Pre-Production; and seeing how you defeated Cornelia by yourself back in Saitama…"
"They wish to speak with the group that has gained the most results." Optimus finished. "This makes sense."
"Is this really necessary however?" Ratchet questioned.
"Necessary?! It's Kyoto!" Kallen exclaimed.
"If they accept us, it means even more funding and support." Ohgi said with an eager smile. "It could solve our financial crisis."
That got Zero's attention. "Crisis? What crisis?" Ohgi was surprised to hear that Zero hadn't heard about this. "There shouldn't be any trouble. Ratchet and I created the budget plan ourselves."
Ironhide glanced at the Wreckers, much to their confusion. "Something up Old-Timer?" Wheeljack asked.
"Oh, not much, except I've seen you guys take some of our new recruits to monster truck rallies." The Autobot veteran said.
"Hey, I pay for that with my own money!" Rai quickly exclaimed.
"Yeah, besides those are actually fun!" Bulkhead added.
"Well if it's not you guys…" Arcee glanced at Tamaki.
"Hey, it's not my fault! We're turning into a big organization now! That means new expenses, you know!" Tamaki argued.
"You mean like all those fancy restaurants you take all those new recruits?" Arcee questioned with a knowing grin. "I've seen where you've been taking them. Looks way too expensive for you to buy on your own."
Tamaki's face became one of comic shock. "You know about that?!"
Zero sighed. "Ohgi, you and Fixit are in charge of the budget for now."
"Hold it right there!" Tamaki stood up. "I'm the one that's in charge of the cash! That's my job!"
"Dude, you literally just admitted you used our money to go to fancy restaurants and show off to the new recruits." Rai pointed out.
"You got potential as a Wrecker, Tamaki; but in terms of finance… not so much." Wheeljack pointed out.
"Agreed, if you want our trust with such an important position, we need to see positive results." Zero pointed out.
"Did you seriously just say the word 'trust'? Trust a guy who hides his own face from his own partners?!" Tamaki exclaimed.
"Oh scrap." Bulkhead muttered as several Black Knights looked at Zero with similar expressions as Rai looked nervous.
"How about it Zero, huh?! And what about you guys?!" Tamaki looked to the rest of the Autobots; Fixit looked the most nervous while the others had serious expressions on their faces. "You've been with him longer than we have! Have you seen his face?! Why not let the rest of us in on it!"
"Tamaki…" Optimus was about to speak, but Kallen already stood up to defend him.
"Zero's not the problem here!" The red-headed girl spoke to Tamaki. "Who cares who he is?! He saved all our lives in Shinjuku; and he's given us all so much! Same goes for the Autobots! You've seen what the Decepticons are like Tamaki, you really think we would have stood even the slightest chance without them?!"
Tamaki grumbled a bit before sitting down and crossing his arms. He wouldn't admit it, but he knew she was right. The Black Knights on their own wouldn't stand a chance against the Decepticons; it's thanks to the Autobots that the Black Knights even exist at all.
Zero looked up at Kallen as he said nothing, but his eyes did waver a bit, feeling a tad bad to put Kallen in this position; Rai felt similarly as they both remember what happened after she learned about his identity shortly after Narita.
Flashback
Once all the Black Knights had recovered from their ordeal in Narita; each of them returned home to get some rest and recover; save for Kallen, Rai, and their unmasked leader who stood in the bridge of the Ark; alongside all nine Autobots, and even C.C. They told Kallen everything; Zero's real identity as not only her classmate Lelouch, but also the exiled prince Lelouch Vi Britannia, long thought to be dead. He also told her about Nunnally's status as the presumably deceased princess, and even the incident that cost her eyes and legs, and the life of their mother. Lelouch also told her about his Geass and how he got it from C.C. and even revealed her real name to her, much to the immortal's chagrin. Once it was all done, everyone looked at Kallen as she remained silent and held her head down.
"Hey… you still with us Kallen?" Rai asked.
"Yeah… It's just a lot." The red-haired girl said, not quite knowing what to feel. However, she looked up to the Autobots. "You guys all knew about this? Even you two?" She asked specifically to Arcee and Cliffjumper in a tone that sounded like a mix between anger and hurt.
The two Autobots exchanged looks of guilt. "Sorry Kallen, but we just had to be sure."
"Lelouch has got every reason to hate Britannia as much as you do; and given how we've seen some certain extremists handle Britannians…" Cliffjumper winced slightly.
"But you guys know I'm not like that!" Kallen exclaimed. "I'm not a god damn terrorist!"
"Kallen don't blame them, any of them, I asked them not to tell anyone my identity." Lelouch told her. "I couldn't risk dragging Nunnally into any of this; I already lost my mother and the rest of my family couldn't care less… she was pretty much all I had left."
Kallen's look softened as she can at least understand what it's like to lose a loved one, a family member in particular. She glanced at Rai. "When did you find out?"
"By complete accident, believe it or not." Rai said. "I was getting some milk late at night and he just walked in assuming I was asleep."
"Really? That's it?" Kallen asked in honest surprise.
"That's it." Rai confirmed.
"So… who else knows?"
"Only those gathered here right now." Fixit answered. "Though, according to the Wrecker's report from Naritia, we may suspect that Kyoshiro Tohdoh may be aware as well."
"Not surprised." Lelouch said. "He was one of those who looked after me and my sister when we were sent to Japan, that man is a true warrior and an absolute genius."
Optimus Prime then spoke himself. "Kallen, I deeply apologize for our deception, but as said before; Lelouch's reason for standing against Britannia and the Decepticons is very real."
"Even you know, Wheeljack? The newest recruit to our little mix-matched army?" Kallen questioned to the white Wrecker, but Bulkhead spoke first.
"That one's on me. I told him; Lelouch didn't ask me to do it." Bulkhead quickly said.
"And to be fair; if he approached you guys on the street the way he first did before as Lelouch vi Britannia, would you have willingly followed him the way you do now?" Wheeljack asked.
Kallen didn't say anything at first, realizing that Lelouch hid his identity for a good reason. Honestly, if she had known the first time, she'd met him, she'd probably stab him the first chance she'd get. It was for that same reason that she understood why the Autobots, even her partners Arcee and Cliffjumper, kept his identity a secret.
"Kid, we get how you feel." Ironhide began. "When we first met the kid, we were skeptical for the same reason. But… he's proven himself, even with his Geass thing. He's got plenty of issues, but he's a decent human being." He ignored the look Lelouch gave him, but the exiled prince was a tad grateful that he's earned the respect of the Autobot veteran.
"So… your Geass… lets you control people?" She asked Lelouch directly.
"It only works on humans, not Cybertronians." Lelouch explained. "I need direct eye-contact for it to work and it can only work on an individual once."
"How do I know you're not using it on me right now?" Kallen asked skeptically.
"Because I already did." Lelouch answered, causing Kallen to look in surprise. "Remember back at Ashford when I told you not to tell anyone about Shinjuku? I'd used it on you previously because I needed to know if you were the same pilot in the Glasgow."
"That's all? You didn't enslave me or anything?" Kallen asked.
"No. I may be an exiled Britannian prince, but I'm not my father. I won't do anything like that to anyone." Lelouch confirmed.
Kallen had a serious expression on her face before a certain memory came up, causing her to look in confusion. "Hold on, what about in the bathroom? You were right there when Zero called and…"
"Glad to see you still alive, Q-1"
The red-haired girl looked to Bumblebee in surprise as he replayed the message on his radio. The Yellow Autobot simply shrugged. "[When you can't really talk, and not everyone understands bleep, you find other ways of communicating]"
"Like I said before, I didn't want to drag my sister into any of this" Lelouch continued. "I'm sorry I lied like that."
Kallen then glanced at C.C. "So, you're immortal? And you can grant superpowers to anyone?"
"In order, yes, and I wouldn't necessarily call Geass a 'superpower'." C.C. explained. "Each one manifests differently depending on the person I form the contract with, based off their own personal desires. No one Geass is exactly the same. So, if you were to form a contract with me, you probably wouldn't have the same power Lelouch has."
"I see." Kallen said.
"And there's still limited information on the power itself." Ratchet said. "Given how little information a certain someone has relayed to us." He glanced at C.C.
"If something crucially important were to come up, I will tell you." The immortal said.
Ratchet rolled his eyes along with Ironhide. "That girl's a real mixed-bag." The veteran Autobot commented.
"She always like this?" Kallen asked Rai.
"Oh yeah." The amnesiac nodded.
"Kallen, I probably have no right to ask this of you but… please don't tell the others, not even Ohgi." Lelouch told her. "I'm not sure if they're ready… and I don't know if I am either. You're one of the few people I have chosen to trust with all of this because I've seen who you are through your actions: you are a strong, dependable, and capable warrior; and… much like myself… I think you understand how it feels when your world crumbles around you… and how hard it is to find people to trust. But I know I can trust you; I trust each and every one of the Autobots with my life and my sisters with this secret; I trust Rai with it, and now… I'm choosing to place that trust in you. But… if you can't and you don't feel like you can follow me anymore… I won't stop you from leaving but… I need you; we need you. Kallen… please." Lelouch bowed his head to her, almost as if he were begging her, which in fact, he was.
Kallen had no idea how to respond to this. A Britannian… a child of the Emperor no less, is begging her, an Eleven, for help! She would never once think anything like this would even be possible and yet, he still told her everything about himself and even admitted some of his own weaknesses. She happened to glance towards Rai, who had a similar look on his face, and even Fixit offered one as he rolled up to Rai. Her gaze set upon all the Autobots, though Ratchet had a neutral expression, the rest of them, even Optimus had expressions silently telling them they needed her, she was one of their best pilots, their ace. Upon seeing the looks of her partners; Cliffjumper and Arcee, their looks silently told her that they were hopping beyond hope that she'd stay. She'd be lying to say she didn't develop a strong bond with them, a bond they both mutually felt towards her.
So, with a deep sigh, Kallen spoke. "Alright." Lelouch looked up to her. "I won't tell anyone. You saved my life, many times. You even helped me, and my mom get out of that god forsaken mansion… you… all of you in fact… you brought me here, you made the Black Knights and gave me a purpose, a real reason to fight. I get why you had to hide your face but… Britannian prince or not, you gave me a reason to hope. So please, don't make me loose that hope. Zero, Lelouch, whatever the hell you wanna call yourself, I'll follow you every step of the way, even through Hell itself. Same goes with the rest of you." She glanced at all the Autobots as she smiled. "Thank you for everything, I'll do everything in my power to repay you in any way I can. You have all chosen to trust me, well I'm choosing to trust you."
All the Autobots, even Ratchet, as well as Rai and even C.C. all smiled. "We thank you, Kallen." Optimus Prime nodded.
"Welcome to the circle of trust." Cliffjumper told her with a smirk.
Lelouch got up and smiled honestly at Kallen… only for it fade into a look of shock and pain as Kallen suddenly punched him in the gut.
"That's for seeing me naked in the bathroom you pervert." She stated with a smirk, glad she got that out of her system.
Lelouch felt his knees and coughed up a storm as Rai, Fixit, and Bumblebee looked in shock; while C.C., Arcee, Bulkhead, Ironhide, Cliffjumper, and Wheeljack chuckled. Ratchet merely rolled his eyes once more as Optimus had something of a small nod in understanding.
"In retrospect Lelouch, you kinda had that coming." Arcee commented.
"Yeah… I did…." Lelouch coughed slightly as he chuckled himself.
"Nice hook." Wheeljack told the girl with a smirk.
"Thanks." Kallen smirked back.
End Flashback
Once Lelouch and Rai returned to the Clubhouse for the night; Lelouch took the moment to enter his sister's room to check in on her.
"Lelouch?" Nunnally sat up from her bed.
"Looks like your fever's gone." He noticed as he walked in and stood right by his sister's bed.
"Maybe I was just a little moody." Nunnally said.
"Moody?"
Nunnally laid back down. "It just seems to me lately, that you've become a little distant, like you have other things weighing on your mind." Lelouch gave a small gasp, but it faded as Nunnally had a small playful smirk on her face. "Perhaps my body just did this on your own to get your attention."
Despite the small humor, Lelouch had a serious and concerned expression as he kneeled down and gently grasped his sister's hand.
"Maybe you're right." He admitted. "I've had some things on my mind lately."
Nunnally's smile faded. "You know… you can tell me if you want to. I don't want to seem like a burden to you."
"You're not a burden Nunnally. Don't think for one second that you are." Lelouch told her. "While there have been things on my mind, I've had friends to help me through it, I'm not alone I promise."
Nunnally smiled. "I'm glad to hear you're making friends. I'd like to meet them someday."
"Yeah… someday maybe." Lelouch had something of a sad smile. He wanted to tell her about him being Zero as well as the Autobots, but that would mean he'd also have to tell her about the Decepticons, and he really didn't want to make her worry. But with everything that's been happening recently, he may have no choice but to tell her someday.
"So then, can I be a little selfish now?" Nunnally asked. "Please stay with me a little bit longer. If I fall asleep alone, I'm afraid I'll have that dream again."
Lelouch held her hand a bit tighter. "Nunnally… I promise that no matter what, I'll always be here for you. I'm not going anywhere."
The Next Day - The Ark
"Thanks to the information you've provided, we've obtained a potential list of Kyoto's leaders." Ratchet told Lelouch over the communications as he and the other Autobots, minus Bumblebee, looked at the list of elderly Japanese businessmen and politicians on the Ark's screen.
"But we can't know for sure whether any of them are with Kyoto for sure." Fixit added.
"Of course." Lelouch said. "If it were easy to identity them, Britannia would have snuffed them out a long time ago."
"Gotta give these guys credit." Wheeljack complemented. "Pretending to be with those higher-crust wannabe-Cons while supplying resistant groups. I like em."
"You would." Ironhide commented to the Wrecker.
"I'll meet you at the Ark shortly; only a handful of Black Knights will accompany me and Optimus." Lelouch said.
"You don't need the rest of us?" Bulkhead asked.
"This is a meeting; we're not going into battle." Lelouch replied.
"I agree with Lelouch." Optimus spoke. "If we are to establish a formidable opposition to Britannia and the Decepticons; we'll need allies. With Kyoto's connections and resources combined with the information we can provide; we'll be able to strengthen our arms."
"Even so, this is a bit of a risk considering we don't know who we're supposed to meet." Arcee commented.
"Well it does make sense. These guys gotta hide their identity to, and for good reasons." Cliffjumper said.
"Either way, we need to meet with them. I'll be at the Ark shortly. See you soon."
Lelouch hung up as he sat in Bumblebee's driver seat, as his vehicle mode was still in the Ashford parking lot.
"[So, you know any of these guys?]" Bumblebee asked.
"Out of all the potential collaborators, there really is only one that I know personally." Lelouch answered. "And I'm hopping it's him we're meeting with."
"[And if it's not?]" Bumblebee asked.
"Then we'll just have to hope they listen to us. It pains me to admit it, but we need Kyoto's help." Lelouch said.
"[Yeah, I see you're point. Oh, by the way, you forgot something.]" Bumblebee's CD-drive opened as a small claw handed Lelouch his ticket for the opera that Shirley gave him, reminding Lelouch that the opera is tonight, around the same time he's supposed to meet with her.
"I didn't forget." Lelouch slightly scowled. "I was going to call and cancel."
"[You know that girl's gonna be disappointed. She seemed happy that you actually said yes]" Bumblebee pointed out.
"Yeah, I know. But this takes priority." Lelouch said, feeling a bit disappointed himself as he was actually looking forward to a nice quiet night.
"[Hey Lelouch, can I ask you something?]"
"What is it?"
"[What exactly does that girl mean to you?]" Bumblebee asked, taking Lelouch by surprise as he clearly did not expect that sort of question. "[It's obvious she cares about you a lot, but do you feel the same way towards her?]"
Lelouch looked out the window and didn't answer right away. "She's a good person. She's been really nice to Nunnally and I appreciate that."
"[Do you see her as a friend?]"
"Yeah… I guess I do."
"[But she doesn't know about you. She doesn't know you're an exiled prince, or that you're really Zero.]" Bumblebee pointed out.
"What do you want me to say, Bumblebee?" Lelouch questioned. "Hey Shirley, guess what, I'm not only the prince of Britannia, an empire that I hate with every fiber of my being, but I'm also the masked leader of a rebellion working alongside alien robots and fighting a war!"
"[Well no, maybe don't lead with that…]"
"I can't tell her." Lelouch said honestly. "I don't want her, or anyone else from Ashford getting dragged into this. I can't imagine what Britannia, or the Cons might do to them."
"[Okay, I see what you mean. But Rai knows, and we've even let Kallen into our little social circle]" Bumblebee pointed out.
"That's different and you know it." Lelouch stated. "They're both warriors, they can fight. Shirley's anything but a fighter." Before their conversation could continue, Lelouch felt his phone ring and looked on the Caller-ID to see it was Shirley calling him. He answered it without a second thought. "Shirley? I was going to call and…"
"Listen, Lulu… I know I made a date with you, but I may be late. Sorry, but anyway, I'm sure it'll be fine, really."
"It's alright." Lelouch told her. "I might be late myself, so don't worry."
"Okay… well, see you tonight."
"Yeah…" Lelouch replied before hanging up.
"[You didn't cancel.]" Bumblebee said. "[You said you were going to be late, that's not cancelling.]"
Lelouch sighed. "Let's just go."
If Bumblebee's face was exposed, it would have a serious yet concerned expression as he drove off with Lelouch inside.
Narita
Multiple Sutherlands had gathered around the rubble of the landslide to dig out the remains of their fallen soldiers. Despite being no civilian casualties; deaths among the military were rather extreme. Their bodies, or what remained of them, were brought to multiple tents at the bottom of the mountain where the families of the soldiers could identify them.
Suzaku was present underneath one tent as he saw this morbid scene play out, and yet his mind couldn't help but think of his encounter with Zero, the yellow Autobot, and that one green-haired girl.
"Was it really her? Did I really see her there…? And then…?" A familiar and painful memory replayed in his mind, which he was quick to squash down as he poured some of his bottled water over his head. "Just forget it, she doesn't show up in any of the data."
"Dug enough bodies up yet?"
Suzaku looked in surprise to see the vehicle mode of Knock Out as the door on the driver's side was opened, prompting Suzaku to step inside, the door closed as Suzaku could speak to the Decepticon in private without civilians noticing.
"What do you want, Knock Out?"
"To congratulate you." The red Decepticon answered. "You actually helped put the Autobots in the defensive back in that battle despite your little… episode near the end." Suzaku grimaced, as he knew what Knock Out was referring to. "But regardless, Megatron has recognized your talents and has made it official."
The CD drive opened to reveal a small hand-held object, which Suzaku took. It was a purple badge with the emblem of the Decepticons.
"You passed the test with flying colors and you're one of us now. The first ever human Decepticon: Suzaku Kururugi. So, let me be the first to officially welcome you to the winning team." Suzaku looked at the Decepticon insignia he held in his hand and wasn't quite sure what to feel about that. "Don't get too excited on me." Knock Out said sarcastically.
"Knock Out… you've fought the Autobots before, right?" Suzaku asked.
"Yeah…. What of it?"
"Well, what is it they're trying to do?" Suzaku continued. "And Zero and the Black Knights; what are they all trying to do?"
"The Bots say 'freedom is the right of all sentient beings' and the Black Knights are 'knights for justice' whatever." Knock Out answered.
"Justice and freedom?" Suzaku angrily clenched his fists. "That's what they call this?!"
"This is called war, kid." Knock Out said. "Like it or not, death is a consequence of war. Everybody on both sides kill; it's not just the Bots and the BKs; your side kills to. I'm sure you must have killed before to, right?"
Suzaku's eyes widened in shock, instinctively thinking back to a memory he is trying so hard to forget; one he almost did succeed in forgetting until his encounter with that girl.
"Kid, let me give you the best advice I can give." Knock Out said. "Just do whatever the heck you want. That's one of the benefits about being a Decepticon; you can do whatever you want and get away with it. Anything you want; good or bad, name it."
"Whatever… I want…?" Suzaku muttered.
"I'm the wrong bot to talk about this sort of thing. You wanna get into all that philosophy stuff, talk to Dreadwing seeing how you're all buddy-buddy with him." Knock Out said.
Suzaku happened to glance out the side window and looked in surprise to see Shirley walking through the area as she and her mother were led by Villetta to a tent. Suzaku rubbed his eyes to make sure he wasn't seeing anything, but when he did, she was gone. He sighed.
"I'm gonna continue with recovery operations." He said as he got out of Knock Out's vehicle mode.
"Go for it. Like I said, you can do whatever you want and get away with it. You're one of us now." Knock Out said as he drove off.
Meanwhile; Cecile was replacing the energy-filler on the Lancelot when she looked upon both its shoulders to see the Decepticon emblem etched onto it. Knock Out had already done that before the recovery operations in Narita began; and she couldn't help but feel rather uncomfortable about it.
"Cecile."
She was slightly startled as Lloyd walked up to her with his casual smile. But she got right to business and began to tell him what she had learned.
"I checked the units; including the Glaston Knights and Purebloods, even Knock Out provided me with some data on a few Vehicon remains."
"And I was right, wasn't I?" Lloyd asked.
"Yes, a Radiant Surge." Cecile confirmed. "And from what witnesses have reported; two Knightmares each have a Radiant Wave Surger. And even the energy-output seems to be different, unlike anything we've seen before."
"Rakshata. I never thought she would work with our enemies." Lloyd said. "Guess the temptation to work with giant alien robots was too much for even her."
"It's not just the Surgers however." Cecile said. "Some of the Knightmares appear to have melted. The ammunition the Black Knights are using is completely different than anything we have."
"Well, seeing how Cybertronian metal skin basically makes Knightmares look like tissue paper, it's no surprise the Black Knights have to make some upgrades to stay face against the Cons." Lloyd surmised.
"The Black Knight pilots are extremely skilled; and we've seen how competent the Autobots are in combat." Cecile pointed out. "Suzaku's mental state is so unstable now, if we have to face them again…"
"Hold on; I can understand the Autobots, but you really don't think any of the Black Knights' units can actually beat my dear Lancelot?" Lloyd questioned as Cecile seemed more concerned with Suzaku himself than the Knightmare he was piloting.
Meanwhile; Villetta had led Shirley and her mother into a tent where there were other bodies in bags that family members had to identify; but they didn't stop in there. There was a smaller tent inside that one that they were led to, with a table of belongings including a lab-coat with a familiar name written on it.
Villetta opened Shirley's phone to see her photo-ID and name, but she caught a picture that fell out. "Yes, the spelling of 'Fenette' matches this one. I'm afraid this is… this is all we could recover. I'm sorry you had to find out like this."
"It's alright…" Mrs. Fenette muttered.
However, Villetta's eyes slightly widened as she saw the picture of Lelouch that was in Shirley's phone. His face looked very familiar.
Optimus' vehicle mode followed a black car through a tunnel. Inside Optimus' truck sat Zero, Ohgi, Kallen, Rai, and Tamaki. However, per the request of those they were meeting; Optimus had to darken his windows so the Black Knights couldn't see where they were going, and it annoyed Tamaki to no end.
"This is taking too long, when do we get there." Tamaki honked the horn on Optimus' steering wheel. "Hey! Where are we going?!" He tried to shout to the car they were following before honking two more times.
"Tamaki, is that really necessary?" Optimus questioned.
"Come on big-guy, can't you tell us where we're going?" Tamaki asked the leader of the Autobots.
"I am unaware." Optimus answered. "We've been traveling through this tunnel for quite some time."
"Geeze, take a chill-pill will ya?" Rai told Tamaki.
"Yeah, you're embarrassing us." Kallen agreed.
"Sorry if I'm more than a little impatient." Tamaki said in obvious sarcasm.
"You'll have to exercise patience, Tamaki." Zero told him. "Kyoto have their reasons and we have to go along with it if we want their support."
Suddenly, Optimus came to a halt as his vehicle mode began to ascend up some form of elevator fit for vehicles. The Black Knights could feel the change in their ride.
"Hey Optimus, what's going on?" Ohgi asked.
"We appear to be ascending some form of elevation." Optimus answered.
"We're going up?" Kallen voiced in confusion.
"These guys have an elevator?" Rai voiced just as the elevation stopped.
Optimus then followed the black car a little more before stopping. The driver got out of the car, revealing to be a man in a suit and sunglasses as he waved for Optimus to let his riders out.
"I believe we have arrived at our destination." Optimus said as the doors opened; allowing Zero and his four Black Knights to step out. Once they did, they saw a massive window and were beyond surprised at what they saw beyond it. Even Tamaki and Rai ran up to the window to get a closer look to make sure they weren't imagining things.
"What…. Is this…?" Rai breathed.
"This is… the Fuji mines?!" Ohgi voiced in utter awe as everyone saw Mount Fuji, as well as the large metal plating that appeared to cover at least one third of it. Even Optimus was partly amazed at this site; but was also saddened at the thought of Britannia, and indirectly the Decepticons, using it for their own purposes.
"That is not possible!" Tamaki exclaimed. "There is no way we can be here!"
"It has to be Mount Fuji!" Kallen exclaimed as well, even though she was stunned by everyone else. "There's only one mountain like this!"
"But I thought… Britannia controlled all the Energon that comes in and out of this place…!" Rai stuttered.
"You know what they do to intruders here? Execute them!" Tamaki stated.
"Their power reaches all the way out to here…? The Kyoto group is amazing…" Ohgi breathed.
"It's repulsive."
The lights suddenly dimmed, and the windows went dark as all eyes set upon two veiled seats; on the right sat an elderly man with a cane, while the one on the left sat a young girl, with guards on either side. Lelouch's eyes widened underneath the mask; though he recognized the voice of the man and was glad to be meeting with him, he was surprised to see the girl as he recognized her as well, despite not seeing her face. She was so young; it was hard to believe she's really a head of Kyoto. But this was something that can actually be helpful to him and his allies.
"Mount Fuji, a sacred mountain once known for its clear water and quiet beauty, now it is bent the Empire's will. A place of hideous violation; a reflection of what Japan has become. It pains me so."
The young girl then spoke in a calm yet authoritative tone. "Can I assume this truck you traveled in is one of the Autobots?"
The truck then transformed to reveal Optimus Prime. The guards instinctively stepped back as being in the presence of this particular being was intimidating enough.
"My name is Optimus Prime, I lead the Autobots; and I work alongside Zero who leads the Black Knights as well."
"A pleasure to meet you, Optimus Prime." The man spoke. "It's an honor to meet the one who dealt the supposed Goddess of Victory's first defeat; and who saved the Japan Liberation Front from total annihilation."
"You and Zero must please forgive us for not showing our faces." The girl said. "For one of you is hiding your face as well."
"Indeed. We cannot accept this." The man continued. "If you wish for our trust, we must know who you are; therefore, you will show us your face."
Once he said that; four Burais rolled out from the shadows and pointed their guns specifically at Optimus who continued to remain calm; though the four Black Knights were more than a little surprised by this sudden show of force.
"Whoa, hold on! We're not your enemies!" Rai stated as he, Ohgi, and Tamaki threw up their hands to show they mean no harm.
"Please wait!" Kallen stood protectively in front of Zero. "Zero and Optimus have given us power and victory! You cannot…"
"Kallen, it's okay." Zero put a hand on her shoulder.
"But…" She tried to protest.
"I said it's fine." Zero insisted, causing her to reluctantly stand aside.
"Which of you is Ohgi?" The man asked.
Ohgi stood straight. "That's me."
"You will remove Zero's mask."
Before Ohgi could make even a move or a protest, Zero spoke. "That won't be necessary… Lord Taizo Kirihara, Lady Kaguya Sumeragi."
Both the identified heads of the House of Kyoto had their eyes widened in shock as the guards and Knightmares immediately pointed their guns at Zero. The Black Knights looked in shock at how Zero was able to know their names without seeing their faces; however, Optimus was able to step protectively in front of Lelouch.
"We bare no ill-will towards you Lord Kirihara, Lady Kaguya, please stand down and hear us out." Optimus said.
The guards and Knightmares didn't appear to listen until the man identified as Kirihara shouted. "Enough! Stand down!"
"But… they know your name! Both your names! They cannot…" One guard protested.
"I said stand down!" Kirihara exclaimed.
"If Optimus Prime is strong enough to defeat even Cornelia, what hope can we have to defeat him with simple Burais?" Kaguya spoke
The guards then did as request as they lowered their pistols and the Burais backed away.
"Zero, Optimus Prime, how do you know of us?" Kirihara questioned.
Zero chuckled slightly as he stepped forward from behind Optimus. "It would be hard for me to forget the two of you, for I have yet to repay my debt to you for taking care of me all those years ago." He placed his hand on his mask as it retracted. "Me… and my sister." He removed it completely so that everyone can see his face.
Both Kirihara's and Kaguya's eyes widened as their pupils shook. "You…" Lord Kirihara couldn't believe it as Kaguya's face instinctively contorted into a small smile.
Kallen and Rai were surprised to see Lelouch openly reveal his face like this; Ohgi's own eyes were so wide they were almost circular as his mouth formed into a perfect o; while Tamaki looked with a hanging jaw. Their masked and mysterious leader was a kid! A kid who looked as though he was in high school! And a Britannian no-less.
Optimus had a look of understanding on his face; he was glad to see Lelouch already expanding his circle, and even more so that he was acquainted with these particular people. Lelouch had already told Optimus about his and Nunnally's time under the Kururugi family's watch and all the people they've met there; so there was something heartwarming about Lelouch meeting with people that he has a great deal of respect towards.
Immediately; the young girl named Kaguya dashed out from behind her veil and nearly rammed Lelouch off his feet as she wrapped her arms around his frame. Optimus was mildly stunned while Rai and Ohgi were more than a little shocked; Tamaki's jaw hit the floor while Kallen's eyebrow twitched, for some reason, she didn't feel comfortable with this girl being so clingy to Lelouch.
"Oh my gosh… Lelouch! I can't believe it!" Kaguya beamed so excitedly. "It's been so long! You've gotten so much taller! And you're Zero! This is amazing!"
Lelouch had an honest laugh. "And you haven't changed a bit, have you?" He ruffled her hair bit.
Kirihara stepped out from his own veil as all four Black Knights straightened themselves out in his presence as he had a grin on his face. "It's been eight years since that family received you as a hostage."
"I do appreciate everything you've done for me back then, Lord Kirihara." Lelouch said honestly.
"If it hadn't been me or Kaguya you met tonight, would you have taken a messenger as a hostage?" Kirihara asked.
"Not at all. We came here because we need your help, nothing more." Lelouch replied. "Please."
"You actually said 'please'. You've changed quite a bit, haven't you?" The elderly head of Kyoto gave a booming laugh. "Ohgi!"
"Yes sir!" Ohgi stood in attendance.
"This man is a true mortal enemy of Britannia; he may have hidden his face from you but for vital reasons." Kirihara told him. "Should the enemy be aware of his identity, his loved ones could be placed in danger; the same can be said for the rest of you. I urge you to follow Zero, even these Autobots. If you do, we'll assist you generously; with intelligence, and strategic support."
Kallen and Rai exchanged wide smiles and even Tamaki looked more than a little happy with Ohgi barley containing his smile.
"We're grateful and we thank you!"
Kirihara nodded before looking up to Optimus. "I can understand Zero's reasoning, but what reason do you have for fighting Britannia, Optimus Prime? What is it the Autobots seek?"
"The Autobots firmly believe that freedom is the right of all sentient beings." Optimus began. "What Britannia is doing is atrocious and they must be stopped. We will do everything in our power to ensure that happens. However, Britannia is not the only threat this planet faces."
Kaguya finally let go of Lelouch as she had a serious look on her face. "I trust you are referring to these Decepticons?"
"Indeed." Optimus confirmed. The Autobot leader then began to explain what the Decepticons are, as well as the details regarding the War for Cybertron and the horrifying fate of the planet. Optimus also explained how Britannia appears to be a puppet state for the Decepticons as the Sakuradite they are hunting is really Energon; the fuel and lifeblood of all Cybertronians. Optimus also said how he theorizes that the Britannian Emperor may have been directly mentored by the Decepticon leader, Megatron. Though Optimus couldn't confirm this, it was still a strong possibility.
"I see." Kirihara had a gravely serious look on his face. "It would appear these Decepticons are an even graver threat than we initially thought."
"Yes, suffice-to-say the fate of the entire Earth, not just Japan, hangs in the balance." Optimus stated. "Just as you have said you will provide support for us, we in turn will provide you with any and all knowledge regarding the Decepticons we possess: their membership, strategies, tactics, and weaponry, as well as any new information we may learn in the future."
"The bargain is acceptable." Kirihara nodded.
Lelouch smiled as he looked towards Kaguya. "Looks like we have to go."
Kaguya put on a pouty face. "Awe, do you have to? You just got here."
He patted her head. "Don't worry, I'm sure we'll see each other again." He said as Optimus transformed back into his vehicle mode as Kallen, Rai, Ohgi, and Tamaki stepped inside.
"Are you embarking on the path of blood, Lelouch?" Kirihara asked him with a grin.
Lelouch turned back with his own grin. "If I have to, yes." He put his Zero mask back on as he got into Optimus and they left.
Later that evening; Optimus returned to the Ark to tell the rest of the Autobots and Black Knights the good news. In the meantime; Lelouch had changed into some casual clothes as Bumblebee drove through the rain near an opera house.
"[Looks like it already started.]" Bumblebee observed. "[Told you it would be too late]"
"Yeah, you we're right." Lelouch sighed. "I'll just make up some excuse next time I see her. But things are looking bright for us; we have Kyoto's support now."
"[That is good news.]" Bumblebee agreed. "[Rai even told me you know two of their heads. One of which happens to be a cute girl.]"
Lelouch rolled his eyes. "Why do I have a feeling you enjoy teasing me like this?"
"[Because you make it so easy.]" Bumblebee replied before his vehicle mode came to a stop. "[Uh… Lelouch…?]"
"What is it?" He looked out the passenger's window and was stunned to see Shirley standing there; without an umbrella and completely drenched in rain.
He quickly got out of the car and came over to her. "Shirley, what are you doing out here?" She didn't appear to answer as her hair covered her face. "Come on, let's get you out of the rain."
Lelouch put Shirley in Bumblebee's passenger seat as he sat down in the driver's seat next to her. "I'm really sorry I was late. Something urgent came up and I couldn't ignore it. I thought you'd already be back home by now." He said but noticed how red Shirley's face was with something coming down her cheeks; it wasn't just rainwater… wait… was she… crying? "Shirley…? What's wrong?"
"Lulu… tell me… Zero… he fights for the weak, doesn't he?"
Lelouch looked a bit confused. "Well… yeah I mean, that's what he said."
"Then why did he kill my father?"
Lelouch's eyes widened, as would have Bumblebee's optics if his face had been visible.
Shirley lifted her face to reveal tears streaming down her red and puffy eyes. "You know my father… was so gentle…! He never ever hurt me! He didn't do anything wrong! But… he was killed… There wasn't even a body! Why?! Why did my father have to die?! I… Don't want this… Nooo!" She completely lost control as she leapt over to Lelouch, wrapping her arms around him as she buried her face into her chest, crying up a storm.
"Please… Lulu… Help me…!" She pressed her lips against his before continuing to cry into him.
While Lelouch instinctively wrapped his arms around her to comfort her; he couldn't help but feel as though a knife just pierced his spirit. Even Bumblebee… if one could look outside, one could see rainwater dripping down from his headlights, almost like tears in rain.
Done.
So yeah; on the plus side, Kyoto has given their support to the Autobots and Black Knights; and Lelouch has revealed his identity to them, including Kaguya, and even his face to Ohgi and Tamaki. However, they do NOT know about his identity (yet) and won't for quite some time, but this is still quite the step for Lelouch. Kallen however also knows who he is and seems to have accepted him, not without punching him in the gut though. LOL.
But… Shirley believes her father to be dead. Yeah, I know, it's sad and I really hate to do that to her, she's such a sweet little cinnamon roll… but I have special plans for her in the next few chapters ahead. (Spoilers: she is NOT going to have her memories erased; but she will have a major role to play throughout this whole story. You'll see).
But while Shirley's father is reported dead, he is actually still very much alive; only he and the rest of Code-R (including Jeremiah) are now under the control of the Decepticons as Megatron and Shockwave are now aware of the existence of Geass, which can only spell bad news for later down the line. (Even Megatron is beginning to suspect Charles is hiding something)
And now, Suzaku has officially been made a Decepticon; he has been given a Decepticon-badge for him to wear and even has the emblem etched onto the Lancelot; though he's still hesitant about working with them.
(I also chose to edit out a certain scene with Nina and a table, for obvious reasons. That was just plain creepy. I don't have any problems with Nina being a homosexual, it's just hers towards Euphemia is almost on stalker-level.)
Anyway, I hope you like this chapter as plenty of stuff is going to happen later down the line and we are introduced to a certain mind-reader who is definitely going to cause Lelouch and even the Autobots trouble. See you soon with the next chapter.