Hi everyone, thanks again for your patience. I know many of you have been very eager for me to continue this story, while I do appreciate your support and praise, I do have other stories that I need to work on, not to mention my own things in life, so I just encourage you to please be patient with my updates. I work on them whenever I have the time, but work and other things in my life take my top priority; so please continue to be patient with me.
Now before we begin, I have two things I'd like to say…
First, I noticed many of you were surprised at what I'm doing with Marianne, so let me explain why I'm doing it. While I do give credit for the writers of the cannon series to spring such an unexpected plot twist on us, it was also more than a little hallow. We at least understand the reason behind Charles' and V.V.'s actions with Ragnarok, because of what they went through in their childhood; even if it was morally wrong, we could still understand their reason for it. But we didn't get any sort of explanation with Marianne; she didn't explain her own reasons, anything that happened in her past that would have had her support what Charles was doing, or anything else like that. It made her look like another one-dimensional villain, and I hate one-dimensional characters, it's a waste of development. But here, I plan to at least make her a more developed character, even though I completely agree that her actions were completely heinous, and she is not going to be forgiven so easily.
Second, I am getting a lot of guest reviewers saying how they think my story should go. Once again, I thank you for your support, but I have a pretty solid plan for my story, and I intend to stick with it. Thank you for understanding.
Now that is all out of the way, let's get stated…
The Next Move
Horai Island, it was a massive artificial island that laid off the coast of the Chinese Federation mainland. The island itself was more than twice as large as the massive Autobot vessel known as the Ark that remained in a docking position on the eastern side of the island. The entire man-made structure was built to harness the tidal power of the ocean it laid on; it was clean and constant and did not require the use of Energon to fuel it. While the Ark was capable of holding a large amount of people and had sustained them for so long, the vessel was to act as the main Autobot base as well as a flagship for the fleet they would soon be constructing, so Horai Island was to be the home for the two million refugees they rescued from the ruined Japan, and it had the means to do that; it had more than enough food and living space for all these people, not to mention several fully functional hospitals.
What stuck out the most however was a massive tower at the very center of the island that projected a dome-like shield over the entire artificial island, making it, as well as the Ark near it, completely invisible to both the naked eye as well as radio frequencies; making it all the more difficult for the Decepticons to find them.
"Oh my." Lloyd smiled as he stood near the window of said tower alongside Rakshata, Fixit, and Cecile, one at a high level to overlook the entire island. "A man-made island that dwarfs even the impressive Ark. And it was constructed so quickly."
"Well, that's the best part about being in hiding for six months straight." Rakshata also smiled. "You have nothing else to worry about. No pesky politics, no life-or-death battles, you can just buckle down and focus on your work."
"I believe the word in your dictionary to describe a person who lives that kind of lifestyle is called a 'hermit', correct?" Fixit asked.
"More or less." Rakshata said. "I guess we really are an army of hermits, aren't we?"
"Yes, it really does clear up our schedule, doesn't it?" Lloyd commented.
"I'm just glad that we're finally out of the Decepticons' reach." Cecile said with relief.
"For the moment." Ratchet commented as he and Perceptor were behind them. "We can't afford to rest on our laurels."
"Agreed." Perceptor said as well. "We can't stay in hiding forever, we'll be taking the fight to the Decepticons soon enough; once we build our charter, that is."
"Uniting the entire human race, is that right?" Lloyd said as he adjusted his glasses. "Well as history has proven, the best way to unite people is usually against a common enemy."
"When you think about it like that, we should really be thanking Megatron for giving us the means to unite the world." Rakshata added.
Ratchet sighed. "Even after six months, I'm still not use to your antics."
"How do you think I feel?" Cecile replied. "I've had to put up with Lloyd for years."
Meanwhile, on the bridge of the Ark, Lelouch sat in the meeting area alongside Ohgi and Kaguya, with Optimus standing over them, but the person joining them was their informant that had been planted deep within the Chinese Federation six months prior.
"I have to admit, I'm rather impressed." Li Xingke commented. "Not only with this vessel, but even managing to outwit the very same force that had all but destroyed Britannia, which had been standing for centuries."
"Well, we do have experience fighting the Decepticons." Kaguya smiled. "Especially, him." She pointed toward Optimus.
"You've even managed to outwit those parasites of the High Eunuchs." Xingke spoke to Lelouch specifically. "Aside from Gao Hai, whom you are personally controlling with your Geass, none of them are even suspecting this island even exists. They seem too focused on fortifying their own defenses."
"Are they expecting an attack from the Decepticons?" Lelouch asked.
"Unlikely, I think they may be expecting an attack from you." Xingke shook his head.
"Why do you believe that?" Optimus asked.
"I overhead the other Eunuchs talking about a possible negotiation strategy with the Decepticons." Xingke commented, causing him to scowl. "Damn cowards. As if they weren't infuriating enough."
"Doesn't your Empress have any say in that?" Ohgi asked.
"No." Xingke replied. "She's nothing more than a figurehead for them. Once they've joined up with your enemy, I'm certain they'll get rid of her immediately." He said in disgust while clenching his fists.
Lelouch recognized the rage and burning resolve in Xingke's face, it was one he had seen on himself in the mirror whenever Nunnally was in danger. Xingke cared deeply for Empress Tianzi in the way Lelouch cared about his younger sister. It was nice to meet a peer like that, but at the same time, he feared that would also have Xingke make rash decisions like he himself did more than once whenever Nunnally was in danger.
"Xingke, you remember our agreement, don't you?" Lelouch reminded. "We'll help establish a democracy within your nation and restore true power to the Empress."
"And my forces will personally join your organization and the nation will lend you its full support." Xingke finished. "I intend to honor our agreement so long as you do for your end."
"We promise Xingke, we will restore both young Tianzi's position and her freedom." Optimus vowed. "As well as the freedom for the people of your nation and the rest of this world."
"And these two are totally good at keeping promises." Kaguya added with a smile. "Trust me, they have the power to back it up."
Xingke smiled in return. "I am placing my trust in all of you, do not make me regret it."
At the same time, another similar meeting was being held within the central tower that projected the shield, in the lower levels that served as a meeting area large enough to house several Autobots, with a balcony that allowed humans to participate. Currently, the only Autobot present appeared to be Ultra Magnus with the humans being Diethard, Wizard, Katase, as well as Kirihara and the rest of Kyoto.
"It appears we have successfully dealt a devastating blow to those vile Decepticons." Kirihara said. "We've saved countless innocent lives, and their main vessel has been neutralized."
"We were able to broadcast the outcome of that battle to the rest of the world." Diethard reported. "Because of that, multiple resistance pockets have appeared and have already begun to rebel, even in areas the Decepticons have already conquered."
"Have we been able to get in contact with any of them?" One member of Kyoto asked.
"A few have managed to be brought into the Black Knights via our Groundbridge system, as well as the connections we had at Peace Mark. Unfortunately, most of these pockets were destroyed the second the arose." Wizard answered. "The Decepticons have proven to be more thorough than even Britannia."
"When you seem more focused on the act of conquest itself than politics, it does seem simpler." Another member of Kyoto said.
"Which is why I choose not to engage in politics myself." Katase pointed out.
"And despite our recent victory, the Decepticons are far from defeated." Ultra Magnus added. "The war still rages, and it will continue until we build an army that is large enough and organized to end the threat."
"With that in mind, we should talk about potential candidates of people more willing to join our cause." Diethard said.
"I trust the connections from Peace Mark can help us in that regard?" Katase asked Wizard specifically.
"Oh yes, quite." Wizard answered, smiling under his flashy mask.
Meanwhile, in the main hospital building, Gino had recently woken up from being checked over by Akari Kozuki to make sure he didn't have anything inside him that would allow the Decepticons to track him, fortunately that was not the case. As he sat up in his hospital bed, he was being visited by his colleagues from the former Knights of the Round; Nonette and Monica, as well as classmates from the Ashford Student Council; Kallen, Suzaku, and Rai, the later dropped off Arthur on his bed, who was already purring at his side as Gino petted him.
"Glad to see you're still in one piece, Gino." Nonette smiled as she gave him a brief hug, which he was happy to return.
"Yeah, it's good to see you guys too." Gino smiled back before it faded. "I'm sorry… for… all that happened… being forced to fight you."
"That wasn't your fault!" Suzaku quickly told him. "The Decepticons forced you to do that! It wasn't your choice!"
"But it was my choice to stay behind." Gino said as he glanced toward Kallen. "If I went with you to your base six months ago…"
"Look, what's done is done." Kallen interrupted. "Yeah, you didn't come with us back then, but you're with us now. So don't worry about it."
"Right now, we're just glad to finally have you back with us." Monica said with a smile.
Gino however did not smile. "I… I just wish it was all of us. Anya's still with them." This caused the rest of the group to look down as well, remembering their comrade or classmate.
"Well, we saved you, didn't we? We'll save her too." Rai tried to tell him.
"Yeah but… she's been acting pretty weird these past six months." Gino said. "In fact, ever since we were captured, most of the time… it felt like I was talking to a totally different person."
"Maybe something to do with her amnesia?" Rai asked Nonette specifically.
"I don't know, she's been like that for as long as we've known her." The former Knight of Nine said with a shrug.
"There aren't any official records that say how or why she ended up the way she did…" Monica added. "But I wouldn't be surprised if someone was playing dirty from behind the scenes."
"We'll figure out what to do with Anya once we rescue her, and we will rescue her." Suzaku stated.
"Right." Kallen nodded along with everyone else.
"Count me in too!" Gino said as he tried to sit up straight. "I want to join you guys! I want to be a Black Knight!"
"You sure?" Rai asked with a half-smirk.
"Well, I already turned my back on Britannia when I helped you guys back in Area 11, and Britannia's gone anyway… plus, I want to get the chance to get to know all you guys, to understand why you've been fighting." Gino explained. "I know I'm not the smartest guy or anything like that, but I can tell you're all good people, and Bots, and I want to be a part of that."
"I'm sure Optimus and Zero will be thrilled to hear that." Monica said. "We'll talk to them about it, and once you have a Knightmare, you'll be assigned to a unit."
"Cool, can't wait." Gino smirked.
"Hey, we gotta go." Kallen said. "Sorry to leave you, but there's this big party going on and everyone else is joining in."
"We'd invite you too, Gino; but they say you gotta stay here for a little bit while longer." Suzaku smiled apologetically.
"Eh, it's fine." He accepted. "You guys just have fun. I mean, you pretty much totaled the Nemesis, so I'd say you earned a break!"
"Thanks a bunch, we'll bring you back a slice of pizza for sure though." Nonette smiled before the group left. "But Arthur will be staying here to keep you company." She winked before leaving.
Gino sighed with a smile as he leaned back, Arthur curling up on his lap with a purr as the former Knight of Three petted him while looking out the window to the clear blue sky. He could tell that this fight was far from over and there was a lot of work to do, but he was at least happy that he was finally with his friends again.
Meanwhile, outside the Ark and command center appeared to be a massive celebration with virtually every single refugee that the Autobots and Black Knights had saved. Given that they were now free from Decepticon enslavement and had found a safe haven, it only seemed fitting to give the people something to lift their spirits. In fact, several Autobots and Black Knights had joined them as well.
In a small building, a trio of individuals appeared to be directing all the festivities taking place, specifically the preparation of a batch of a specific super-sized dish.
"Alright T-AI, how are we looking?" Milly asked as she and Cera were joined by the holographic girl, who projected herself via a small device built onto the building's roof.
"All the ingredients are prepared." T-AI reported. "Bumblebee, Suzaku, Sideswipe, and Jazz are already flipping the dough as we speak. Wheeljack and Grindcore are handling the toppings, while Air Raid, Hot Shot, and Warpath will take care of heating."
"Four twenty-meter pizzas." Milly said. "Eighty meters of smoking hot cheese and tomato sauce all at once. That's over six times bigger than what we had planned at the school festival more than six months ago."
"Just be sure they get everything right this time around." Cera stated in a firm tone of voice. "The dough can't be too thin, or it'll all fall apart. And be sure Warpath and the others don't overheat it; we don't want to start a fire, or worse burn it all."
"Wow Cera, I've never seen you this worked up before." Milly noted.
"I was denied my chance at the world's largest pizza six months ago… not this time!" Cera exclaimed with a fiery passion burning in her eyes. "But I swear by the Primes… that if any Decepticon has the nerve to interrupt this… there will be hell to pay!"
Milly and T-AI exchanged glances with each other; the holographic girl looking confused, while the blonde just raised a single brow with a half-smirk.
Meanwhile, the Lancelot, being piloted by none other than Suzaku, tossed a massive piece of dough in the air and caught it as it fell before spinning it in the Lancelot's hands to stretch it out even more.
"Alright, I think I'm good with this one. How are you guys doing?" Suzaku asked over the Lancelot's communication as the rest of the dough-prep team were all around him in the form of a large circle with enough space to properly stretch the dough they each had.
"[This is a lot more fun than I'd thought it be. Sucks we can't eat it though.]" Bumblebee commented as he spun his batch of pizza-dough in his hands.
"Dude, that's not how you spin. This is how you spin." Sideswipe smirked as he threw his batch into the air rather high before transforming into his vehicle mode to spin a series of doughnuts and create a powerful updraft of wind that stretched the dough out even farther before he transformed just as it began to fall into his hands. "How was that?"
"Not bad but check this out." Jazz smirked back as he threw his stretched dough up before firing his sonic gun to fire a low-tone blast, powerful enough to stretch out the dough in one shot, but not strong enough to rip right through it. "Now that's how you do it with style."
As the four continued to spin the pizza dough; it also served as rather good entertainment for the large audience of civilians, Black Knights, and Autobots gathered around them as they cheered for their heroes or friends, or simply just hung out and made conversation with each other.
"Go Suzaku!" Euphie called out as she stuck close to Nunnally, Sayoko, Alice, Misty, and Elita-One.
"This is even more fun than the school festival. Only now I actually get to see it all." Nunnally smiled before turning to the blonde next to her. "What do you think, Alice?"
"Well… for the first real party I've ever been to… not bad." She said with a half-smile.
"Same here." Misty nodded. "I don't even remember if I've ever been to one." However, once she caught look of the sympathetic expressions shared by Nunnally and Euphie, she tried to put on a smile. "But I'll definitely remember this one."
This caused Nunnally to smile back as she looked up to the pink Autobot. "Elita, did you ever have parties like this on Cybertron?"
"We had our own forms of celebration, yes." Elita replied. "Not quite the same as this, but one that we still shared with those we cared about, that's what kinda makes it all the more special. And I'd say this particular celebration is well-earned." She smiled toward the young girl, which only caused her own smile to brighten up even more.
"You think it's gonna be enough pizza for everyone?" Rai asked as he, Shirley, Tamaki, Nonette all gathered together with Bulkhead.
"Dude, we got like over a hundred feet of freaking pizza, and you're saying it's not enough?" Tamaki questioned.
"Actually, it's over two hundred feet." Nonette corrected. "But we've got over two million people here; yeah, I know they've all got plenty of food, but I don't know if everyone's gonna get a slice."
"Pretty sure we'll have enough for everyone." Bulkhead said. "But we gotta make sure we save Cera a slice. Don't know why, but she had a very scary look in her eyes when she insisted on it."
"Well, I'm not worried about the pizza." Shirley said with a smile. "Right now, I'm just glad that everyone's getting along. I mean, less than a week ago, most of these people were miserable even after we've rescued them. Ever since Britannia's fall, people have been treating it like it's the end of the world, but now look at everyone. They're all so happy."
"Yeah, they really are." Rai admitted as he walked toward Shirley and grabbed her hand. "And we'll make sure it stays that way." This caused Shirley to blush as she smiled towards Rai.
"Ugh, get a room you two." Tamaki commented, only to get elbowed in the side by Nonette.
Meanwhile, while everyone else appeared to be in a celebratory mood, Tohdoh and Drift were off on the side going over some data on a holo-pad provided by the Autobot, particularly their recent battle against Bruticus
"Hmmm, one would think that having such a large body, as well as a combined mind of five individuals may make it more difficult for him to react, yet he had our entire unit on the defensive for most of that fight." Tohdoh commented.
"There is a reason why the Combaticons, and particularly Bruticus, is feared so." Drift said. "They've wiped out entire armies before. The Combaticons alone are an effective team, which is why Bruticus is able to perform at such efficiency."
"Excuse me, master." Both turned to see not only Jetstorm and Safeguard approach them, but even Chiba, Asahina, Urabe, and Senba. "Perhaps you would like to join us in the celebration?" Jetstorm offered.
"We understand the war is not over yet; but it does not feel right that everyone else is celebrating while you two are not." Safeguard added.
"There is much work to be done." Drift told his students. "You are free to join the others in celebration, but we do not have time for such antics."
"Ah man, you're worse than the colonel." Urabe commented. "No offense." He quickly said to Tohdoh, who merely looked at him with a cocked eyebrow.
"Still, you guys really just want to sit here?" Asahina asked. "I get you're not the party-animal type, Colonel. But still…"
"It's fine, don't worry about." Tohdoh told them.
"Yes, we'd figured you'd say that." Chiba commented as she walked toward Tohdoh with a plate of steamed dumplings. "But I brought you something anyway. Made them myself, hope you like them."
Tohdoh nodded as he took one and bit into it. "It's delicious. Thank you."
Chiba did her best to hide her blush, but Jetstorm and Safeguard looked in concern. "Chiba, your skin tone is changing." Safeguard noted.
"Is it the result of a human fever?" Jetstrom asked.
"No! It's nothing!" She turned from them in embarrassment, causing the two Mini-Cons to look in confusion, while Senba, Urabe, and Asahina had knowing smirks on their faces.
"Alright, the dough is ready!" Jazz stated as he, Bumblebee, Sideswipe, and the Lancelot had backed away after placing the properly stretched, massively over-sized, circular pieces of pizza dough on a larger plate big enough to house them. "Now for the main ingredients."
"Tomato sauce coming up!" Grindcore exclaimed as he stood over a ginormous bowl filled with hundreds of thousands of tomatoes, right before he began to smash them to paste with his fists alone.
At the same time, Wheeljack stood before a block of cheese that was about on equal height to himself. "Don't even wanna know how they put this together. But…" He drew his swords. "More fun for me." He then began to hack and slash with his blades with such speed and precision, that the cheese would be shredded in little-to-no time at all.
"How exactly did we managed to get a block of cheese that big?" Ohgi questioned as he stood alongside Chigusa, Ironhide, and Chromia.
"You'll have to ask the science department about all that, I honestly got no idea." Ironhide shrugged.
Chigusa giggled slightly. "Remember the last time we were at festival like this?" She asked Ohgi.
"You mean that incredibly awkward moment we had with Kallen and the others?" Ohgi asked with a half-grim.
"Yep, good times." Chigusa replied.
"But it's a little easier this time around, huh?" Chromia commented. "No more secrets, disguises, or anything like that."
"Nope." Ohgi just shook his head. "Today, it's the time to celebrate and relax."
"Yeah, but tomorrow is back to work. We're not done yet." Ironhide said with a serious tone of voice.
"Always have to bring the mood down, don't you?" Chromia joked as she playfully nudged his side; causing Ohgi and Chigusa to both chuckle while Ironhide smirked in response.
Meanwhile, Cornelia and Guilford appeared to be off on their own, still close to the festivities, but far enough away so they could have a moment to themselves.
"They certainly are lively, aren't they?" Guilford commented with a small smile
Cornelia however didn't return that smile, but rather looked guilty. "And to think that we almost destroyed all of that." Guilford looked toward her and tried to protest. "Don't try to deny it, Gilbert. I know you were doing your job, you were loyal to me as your knight, so none of that lies with you, but more with me. I let my anger and pride get the better of me, I was angry at the Autobots and the Black Knights, completely ignorant of the hope they inspired. I should have left Britannia a long time ago."
"And I realize that but, your high… excuse me… Cornelia." Guilford began. "You've made a genuine effort to change yourself, now you're doing everything you can to support these people even though they were once your enemies. That shows the good you're capable of, which to me, far exceeds the harm you once did; and I'm sure your siblings feel the same way."
"Not all of them." Cornelia replied, a scowl forming on her face. In that instant, Guilford knew she was referring to Schneizel. He remembered when Euphemia and Nunnally told Cornelia about Schneizel's betrayal, with him being present as well. Though he had seen Cornelia's wrath before, he had never seen such a heart-broken and rage-filled expression on her face.
"It was no secret I didn't trust many of my half-siblings. But I did trust him." Cornelia began. "I respected him, admired him, even loved him as if he were my full-blooded brother. But it seems it wasn't mutual." She clenched her fists so tightly; it seemed her knuckles would turn white. "I swear to god… if I ever lay eyes on Schneizel again… I'll kill him myself!"
"Cornelia, you have every reason to hate him just as much as I do." Guilford placed a firm but comforting hand on her shoulder. "I had nothing but respect for Prince Schneizel, but he betrayed not only his nation, but his family. He betrayed Euphemia with the Special Zone, he betrayed rest of us by assisting in the uprising at Pendragon which led to the fall of Britannia, he even betrayed Nunnally and Lelouch by aiding the Decepticons in their attempt to destroy the Ark. But we can't let that anger guide us. You said how you allowed your pride and anger to blind you in the past, while I'm partially responsible for that as well. I was your knight, I served you loyally, and I didn't question it; at first, I thought that was only part of my duty. But… maybe I should have from the beginning. Well, I'm not going to make that mistake again. I will work with you if you want me to, and I'll help in any way I can, but… please don't take any offense to this, but I'm not going to serve you blindly anymore. Even if you're trying to make a change, if you happen to fall back in any old ways… I'll be more than happy to pull you out. You can trust me."
Cornelia turned to him with an emotional smile as she placed her own hand on top of his that still remained on her shoulder. "Thank you, Gilbert. I'm really glad you're here."
"Me too." He smiled back.
Back with the pizza, all the squashed tomatoes had been thoroughly spread across the stretched pieces of dough, followed by the shredded cheese Wheeljack had sliced up. Grindcore returned as he and Bulkhead carried a massive dome-like structure that was placed over the platform where the pizzas were all settled.
"Now that's how you prep a pizza, Wrecker-style." Wheeljack smirked as he shared a fist-bump with Grindcore and Bulkhead.
"Alright heating team, you guys are up." Bulkhead said over the comns.
"Rodger that." Warpath acknowledged as he, Air Raid, and Hot Shot were in a bunker directly underneath the platform.
"Time to heat this thing up." Hot Shot stated as he held plasma-gun and fired at a low output, alongside Warpath who set loose a wave of red-hot energy from his own turret-chest, followed by Air Raid who transformed into his jet mode and turned around, so his engine was facing upward, and he ignited it at a low output as well.
"I know were being repetitive with the heat-puns, but I just gotta say that it is cooking in here." Air Raid joked.
Back on the surface, all the gathered people and Bots present looked in anticipation as they saw the smoke coming from the holes of the make-shift oven, knowing that it wouldn't be much longer till the pizza was ready.
"Huh, you know, if we were told a year ago that we would be hanging out with a group of alien robots to make a series of pizzas larger than the average car, I'd say 'you been reading too many of those comics?'" Zi Dien commented as he sat at a small table alongside Orpheus.
"Yeah, the world has become quite strange, hasn't it?" Orpheus added. "First we were full-fledged terrorists, now the people see us as heroes."
"To be fair, our main adversary was Britannia, and they were more terrorist-like than we were." Zi Dien said.
"Imagine saying something like that to a royal or noble person a year ago." A third female voice spoke up as the two young men turned around to see Monica approach them. "I can imagine quite the tongue-lashing they'd give." She said with a smirk.
"And another thing unexpected, two terrorists making casual conversation with a Knight of the Round, much less a member of the Emperor's royal guard." Zi Dien said.
Monica merely raised a cocked eyebrow with a smirk. "Mind if I join you?" She requested.
"By all means." Orpheus accepted as she sat down in the chair next to him, but as she did, Zi Dien immediately stood up. "And where are you going?"
"To get a closer look at the pizza." He said as he had already begun walking away, leaving the pair alone.
"Why do I have a feeling he did that on purpose?" Orpheus said with a sigh as he placed his hand on his forehead while Monica merely giggled.
Meanwhile, Bulkhead and Grindcore had lifted the dome from the plates to see the pizzas looking thoroughly cooked and ready for consumption.
"Alright!" Rivalz cheered as he, Milly, Cera, and Nina ran underneath the large Autobots to see the massive pizzas for themselves. "I can taste it already!"
"Hold it." Nina stopped him from doing anything as she took out a small hand-held device. "Need to make sure it's not radioactive. You don't want to grow an extra limb or anything."
"I can taste test it if you want." Cera offered.
"You just want first dibs." Milly joked.
"Yes." Cera made no effort to deny it. "But since I'm immortal, I don't have to worry about being poisoned with radiation."
"Well, the rest of us still have to worry about it so…" Nina was already scanning all four pizzas. The process took about a minute before she got the data she needed. "Alright, they are safe to eat."
"Now for the finishing touch." Milly looked toward the Autobot trio in front of them, standing across from the pizza consisting of Prowl, Windblade, and Smokescreen, with even Undertone present as well. "Cutting team, you're up."
Windblade first drew her dual swords before handing one of them to Smokescreen. "I expect it back." She said to him with a playful smirk before using her other sword to slice one of the twenty-meter pizzas with such skill and precision.
"Don't worry, swords aren't my thing anyway." Smokescreen replied as he began to cut his larger pizza as well. He was followed by Undertone who wielded his bladed-staff with ninja-like skills, along with the necessary speed, to properly cut the third pizza.
'My skills being used for something so meager and insufficient.' Prowl thought as he drew a pair of shurikens and spun them like helicopter blades before swiftly cutting the pizza. However, once he heard everyone's cheers, he smiled slightly. 'Although this does increase moral, so I'm not completely against it.'
"And with that, we are done!" Smokescreen announced.
"Time to dig in everyone!" Milly announced as people were all gathering around trying to get their hands on a slice, with Cera already at the front, helping herself to six slices with stars in her eyes and droll coming down from her mouth.
'Finally….!'
As the party was underway, only two individuals didn't seem to be present, and they were none other than the co-leaders of this massive coalition. Lelouch, in his casual attire, sat with a content smile on the front edge of the Ark that overlooked the entire island, just above the bridge. He would soon be joined by Optimus Prime.
"I am surprised you are not down there." Optimus noted.
"I'll head down in a moment. Just… wanted to take it all in." Lelouch began. "All of this… what we're building… I don't have the words for it. But, we have people from both Japan and Britannia, even other countries, people from all over the world, even beyond; and they're all together, like natural borders or even differences in species don't matter. Before I even met you, I was the ultimate pessimistic, I thought the world would never change, that it could never be changed. But now… I… I don't know if I'd call myself an idealist, sounds too arrogant but… I just can't help but hope this is the kind of future the Earth will have in store, once the Decepticons are defeated."
"I don't believe that is arrogance speaking." Optimus began as Lelouch directed his gaze toward him. "What we see here is indeed reality, those who are different, even those who were once enemies, now stand together, not only as comrades in arms, but even friends. While the road to this future is a difficult one, with many hardships along the way, I do believe that we can build this future for your world. And the fact that you have hope for this future, even after all the hardships you've endured to get to this point, shows just how much you have grown, and how proud I am of you because of that."
"Well… I had a pretty good role model." Lelouch smiled toward the Autobot leader, who returned with a smile and nod of his own.
"Geeze, you two gonna make out now?" They heard Kallen's voice from behind as they turned around to see the snarking redheaded Black Knight, along with her Autobot partner approach them.
"Why are you standing up here when everyone else is down there?" Arcee asked. "Okay, I admit the view's pretty great, and you're not the party-type Optimus. But it wouldn't hurt to join everyone else."
"In fact, we're not even giving you a choice." Kallen smirked as she grabbed Lelouch by the hand and began to pull him away. "Come on, Lelouch!"
"Whoa… hey, Kallen! I was coming down anyway!" Lelouch said in a protest, despite the smile he still had on his face.
"I know, but I still wanted to drag your lazy ass anyway." She replied as she continued to playfully pull him away.
Arcee then walked up to her own leader with crossed arms and a cocked eyebrow as they watched the exchange. "You better be careful not to leave too much of an impression on him. No offense Optimus, but he is still a kid, and he could use a break every now and then."
"You need not worry, Arcee." Optimus assured. "While I don't regret the choices, I've made in my life to get to where I am now; I wouldn't wish this sort of path for Lelouch either. So long as he is with his friends and family, that is enough."
"Well, I'd say you've done a pretty good job. I remember that arrogant little prince when he first came to the Ark, hard to believe he's the same person he is now. You know he sees you like a father, right?" Arcee reminded him.
"I'm aware." Optimus acknowledge. "While this alliance of Autobots and Black Knights are a strong fighting force, I believe they have become something far greater than an army; a human concept that we have learned since coming to Earth… family."
New Kaon – Darkmount
The leader of the Decepticons sat on his throne with Starscream, Steeljaw, and Sky-Byte by his side, along with Schneizel who stood on a small hovering platform that enabled him to stand on equal height with the gathered Decepticons. All five of them faced Soundwave, who was broadcasting two holograms of Knock Out and Thundercracker.
"What is the status of the Nemesis?" Megatron questioned.
"Unfortunately, all major systems have suffered critical damage, Lord Megatron." Thundercracker reported. "The Ark's attack was precise; the enemy wasn't shooting in a desperate attempt to flee; they had intended to cripple us."
"One of the targets that got the worst of it was the Nemesis' power core." Knock Out also reported with a wince. "And unfortunately, many of the new openings that was made in the ship's haul have now become overflown with molten lava, including the main Energon infuser. We can get it repaired, but it will take some time."
"Do everything you can. My fleet is currently scattered, trying to suppress all the increased attacks! I need my flagship operational as soon as possible!" Megatron ordered.
"We'll do what we can, Lord Megatron." Thundercracker bowed before his and Knock Out's transmission cut off, leaving the Decepticon leader less than pleased.
"Well, that certainly makes things difficult for us." Sky-Byte commented.
"Not only have the Autobots and Black Knights escaped, but their very presence has already incited multiple rebellions across this planet!" Starscream exclaimed. "Something must be done!"
"Schneizel, how goes your negotiations with the High Eunuchs?" Megatron asked.
"A little more difficult than expected my lord." Schneizel answered. "Though they seem willing to cooperate, they are very insistent on being considered equals with you."
Starscream groaned in irritation. "Why would they even consider something so audacious? They are neither warriors nor strategists! Just more annoying politicians! We should enslave the Chinese Federation and wipe them out as we did Britannia!"
"Have you forgotten where we currently stand, Starscream?" Steeljaw told him. "Britannia was effectively destroyed because we had both numbers and superior firepower, but more importantly, our main force of resistance, the Autobots and the Black Knights, had gone into hiding and were unable to oppose us. But that is no longer the case."
"He's right." Sky-Byte agreed. "As you so kindly pointed out Starscream; the reappearance of our enemies has caused multiple small rebellions to pop up, stretching our forces, while our main flagship is grounded. Our forces are stretched too thin to go to war with another superpower, and I'm certain the Bots and Knights would more than take advantage of that. I believe the human phrase for this is 'caught between a rock and a hard place'." He briefly turned to Schneizel. "That is what you say, right? Did I get it right?"
"Yes, you got it right." Schneizel confirmed.
"Enough!" Megatron stated as he stood from his throne. No one dared to speak against him at the moment as he still appeared livid from his recent defeat, not because of the defeat itself, but because it was Lelouch who dealt the blow to him. Even after Megatron's attempts to break him, he still bounced back and proved to be as strong as before, if not stronger. Optimus' influence and stubbornness was plain to see.
"We speak of the Chinese Federation, but what of the European Union, as well as the tributary-state, Euro Britannia?" Megatron asked.
"Ever since Britannia's fall, Euro Britannia has claimed their own independence." Schneizel explained. "And, right after the empire's collapse, the EU began to attack in earnest, believing Euro Britannia to be vulnerable now that the main empire was no longer supplying them."
"I can see why they'd think that." Steeljaw responded. "How is the battle going now?"
"They appear to be locked in a stalemate at the moment." Schneizel replied.
"Do you think Euro Britannia may be willing to cooperate with us?" Steeljaw asked again.
"Unlikely, not of their own accord." The former prince began to explain. "Even before the fall, tension between us and them was rather high. Despite being technically considered a Britannian state, Euro Britannia has been more lenient in its enforcement. It does not employ the number and area system that Britannia once did."
"Who is in charge?" Sky-Byte asked.
"Grand Duke Augusta Henry Highland, also known as Grand Duke Velaines." Schneizel responded. "Despite being a Britannian noble, he doesn't exercise the same ruthless authority that my late father once would, he's even cautious to avoid civilian casualties, even those within the E.U."
"I'm surprised your father even let him stay in power despite that." Starscream commented. "I can even see the late Charles all but obliterating Euro Britannia entirely."
"My late father and Grand Duke Velaines may not have seen eye-to-eye, but Charles was not insane enough to start a Britannian civil war. That would lead to even further conflict that would have ultimately destabilized Britannia; though he had been looking for ways to take directly take control of Euro Britannia in a more subtle way." Schneizel replied.
"Then we shall do what your father could not." Megatron began as he turned to his subordinates. "Steeljaw, Sky-Byte, I am sending the two of you to Euro Britannia. You are to meet with Velaines and persuade him to side Euro Britannia with our cause. Should he agree to join us, we will provide him with sufficient armament, and we will allow them to destroy the EU for us, wiping out another superpower with less effort than we did in destroying Britannia. During which, Starscream and Schneizel will continue to negotiate with the High Eunuchs and see to it that the Chinese Federation is brought into our fold as well."
"You want us to do both at the same time?" Starscream questioned.
"Now that they have escaped us, Optimus and Zero will no doubt try to gain allies in their crusade." Megatron explained. "The EU seems the most likely they'll seek aid from first, but they could seek assistance from the Chinese Federation as well; despite the High Eunuchs in control, it wouldn't surprise me if those two managed to find a way to convince the people to overthrow their oppressive leaders and create a new nation-state to aid them. They have the means and conviction to do just that."
"You make it sound like were in a race of sorts, Lord Megatron." Sky-Byte said.
"That's because we are." Megatron stated. "Before, the Autobots and Black Knights were a means to an end. I've allowed them to carry on so long because Britannia was the first to try and fight them, which made it all the easier to manipulate both sides so that we may take this world for ourselves. But now, they're a threat, and I will not underestimate them again."
"Point taken." Steeljaw accepted. "Very well, Sky-Byte and I will go to Euro Britannia, and I believe I know a few Decepticons who would be willing to join us."
"And Schneizel and I will continue to negotiate with the Eunuchs. We will let you know if there are any developments." Starscream said.
"Good." Megatron nodded. "We are at war, and I have no intention of losing!"
The Next Day – Horai Island – The Ark
The celebrations and party the previous day was a true success. The moral of the civilains and soldiers had been raised exponentionally, with even several Black Knights and Autobots becoming closer to each other as a result. But, now the time of celebration was over, now it was time to get back to the war effort. A meeting was currently underway as Optimus Prime, Lelouch, Ohgi, Ultra Magnus, Tohdoh, Wizard, Orpheus, Elita-One, Xingke, Diethard, Cornelia, Kaguya, Ironhide, Cera, and Ratchet all gathered together on the bridge of the Ark; the humans sitting in the living quarters while the Autobots stood nearby.
"Alright, we need to discuss our next move." Tohdoh began the meeting.
"Our first step is gathering allies." Lelouch stated. "We've recruited heavily with new rebel groups that have been popping up since our return, but it's not enough to stave off the Decepticons."
"In order to defeat a force as powerful as them, we'll need assistance from the remaining superpowers." Optimus said. "The EU and the Chinese Federation."
"The remaining High Eunuchs are currently in the talks with Schneizel about joining the Federation with the Decepticon forces." Xingke said, causing Lelouch and Cornelia to scowl slightly, but they chose not to speak up. "However, Gao Hai is working to slow down their talks, while also seeing to it that Horai Island remains invisible to the rest of the world." He then turned to Lelouch. "I'm surprised that you didn't use your Geass power on all the Eunuchs and just have them stand down and give power back to the Empress."
"That thought did cross my mind." Lelouch admitted. "But if we did that before, back when the Decepticons still operated under a united front, it would be blatantly obvious that we were involved."
"Yes, I agree." Ultra Magnus said. "And if that were the case, Megatron would have sent the bulk of his forces to wipe the Chinese Federation of the map as he did Britannia. At the time, we needed subtly, and Zero using his Geass on a single Eunuch works for that just fine."
"But with the Nemesis temporarily out of commission, as well as the many uprisings and rebellions, the Decepticon forces have become scattered and are stretched too thin." Ratchet said. "But that won't last long, we need to move and gather our allies now."
"I'm a close personal friend of the Empress." Kaguya pointed out. "Aside from Gao Hai, far as the Eunuchs are concerned, I'm just Tianzi's 'playmate'; but I can work with Xingke from the sidelines to slow the negotiations between them and the Decepticons."
"Just be careful around Schneizel." Cornelia advised. "He might come off as kind or even indifferent, but he'll read you like a book. And if he suspects something is wrong with Gao Hai…"
"Don't worry, I'll be careful." Kaguya assured.
"So, for the moment, the Chinese Federation is covered; that just leaves the EU." Elita-One said. "What's the situation there?"
"They and Euro Britannia are in a dead-lock." Wizard replied. "They have the means to keep fighting, but I don't see either of them winning without totally exhausting themselves."
Ironhide looked more than a little annoyed. "There are bigger things to worry about right now, but they're still too focused on trying to one-up each other?"
"Is there a way we can get both on our side?" Ohgi suggested. "I mean, the EU seems pretty obvious, but since we have three Britannian royals currently on our side, four if you count Lelouch…"
"I have no interest in using any sort of royal authority." Lelouch quickly stated.
"Okay, three Britannian princesses." Ohgi continued. "Any chance you guys can find a way to convince Euro Britannia to have a cease-fire and work with us?" He asked Cornelia specifically.
"If it were Euphemia asking them, more than likely." Cornelia replied. "I've met the man in charge, Grand Duke Highland. He's not at all like how our late father used to run Britannia. He didn't adopt the number or area system and has done all he could to avoid civilian casualties. When the two of us would meet, we'd speak professionally to each other, but we often disagreed. Euphie however shared his views, so I feel like he would be more willing to listen to her."
"But what if the Decepticons are already trying to persuade Euro Britannia to join them?" Orpheus asked. "Megatron could already be offering them more advanced technology to push back against the EU since they seem more concerned about fighting them than anything else."
"I agree, that is something to be concerned about." Optimus acknowledged. "However, I also believe that we should not be so quick to denounce the idea of creating a cease-fire between Euro Britannia and the EU. If we were able to convince both sides to join us, it would not only bolster our forces, but help create a bridge of peace to help establish our united nations charter for once the war is over."
"So, let's operate under the assumption that the Decepticons are talking with Euro Britannia." Lelouch began. "With the Groundbridge system, we could find a way to talk with Highland as well as those others in charge of Euro Britannia to arrange not only a cease-fire with the EU, but even a possible coup if the Decepticons are taking control."
"That sounds like a plan." Elita nodded. "But that just leaves the EU."
"If were to establish dialogue with them, we'll need to get into contact with someone who has connections and influence." Ultra Magnus said.
"I believe I might know someone who can help with that." Wizard said as he looked to Orpheus and nodded, the young man pulled out a file folder and handed it to Lelouch, who read the contents as he looked over the photo and information of a certain young woman.
"Leila Malcal?"
"She's an 'unofficial' apprentice to the EU general, Gene Smilas." Wizard explained. "So, she has connections. Currently, she's part of this EU black ops unit called the wZERO, and no, they're not naming it after you." He joked a bit toward Lelouch before getting back to the topic at hand. "Most of the soldiers they've taken in are trained refugees from Japan."
"And that's not even the best part." Orpheus revealed. "Her real name is Leila Breisgau."
That took many of them by surprise; particularly Cornelia, Diethard, and especially Cera.
"Breisgau? Are you certain?" Lelouch questioned.
"Absolutely." Orpheus confirmed.
"I am afraid you'll have to explain this revelation more thoroughly, Orpheus." Optimus said, referring to himself and his fellow Autobots.
"Same. I've heard that name before, but I've never really paid much attention to Earth's politics." Ratchet added.
"I think I've heard of them before." Ohgi said. "A Britannian noble family that defected to the EU?"
"Simply put, yes." Cornelia explained. "Bradow von Breisgau was a Britannian nobleman, but he never approved of Britannia's oppressive ways, more importantly he felt the system of an emperor was outdated. So, you can imagine that he wasn't on the best of terms with the rest of Britannia."
"Which is why he defected to the EU." Lelouch deduced. "And this girl, I'm assuming is his daughter?"
"That's right." Wizard confirmed.
"I don't know all that much about the Breisgau family, other than they were killed in a terrorist attack in the EU several years ago." Lelouch said.
"The Breisgau family was something that I followed rather closely early in my career." Diethard explained. "He was greatly loathed by Britannia, but he gained a large support in the EU, they even went as far to grant him the moniker of 'The Assembly Man'. But he was killed in a terrorist attack eleven years ago; with his wife and daughter presumed deceased as well."
"Obviously, his daughter still lives." Ultra Magnus said. "Did you ever determine who the assassin was?"
"No." Diethard shook his head. "Though the official report was a terrorist attack, I had my suspicions it was someone of Britannian nobility, or even royalty, who didn't particularly agree with his political views."
Cornelia couldn't help but look away with a disgusted expression at that remark. Though her old self would have definitely disagreed with his views, even she would have been disgusted with the assassination attempt that would claim his life as well as that of his wife and daughter. If he were a warrior, she'd happily challenge him to a duel to settle their differences, but he was not, and she would happily have killed the real assassin who tried to take those innocent lives.
"So, what do we know about Leila herself?" Ironhide asked.
"She's a humanitarian, following her father's footsteps in his liberal views." Wizard replied. "Currently, she lives with the Malcal family, but they seem more to use her just to have Britannian noble blood in their family line. But still, I would think Leila could be a valuable ally to us, maybe even a full-fledged Black Knight herself."
"Then it seems we have a plan." Lelouch said. "We'll find a way to get in contact with her, and by extension, this general Gene Smilas to try and find a means to talk with the EU's higher ups, while also working to meet with Euro Britannia's Grand Duke Highland for a possible ceasefire and alliance."
"We should also have most of our own forces remain on standby here, if in the event the situation with the High Eunuchs escalates and the Decepticons discover our location." Tohdoh advised.
"Agreed." Optimus nodded. "We'll send a select few Autobots and Black Knights to the EU, while maintain communication to send reinforcements if necessary, while everyone else will monitor the ongoing situation in the Chinese Federation. I will remain here."
"Are you sure, Optimus?" Lelouch asked. "You are one of the faces of this resistance."
"And you are the other, Lelouch." Optimus reminded him. "While I would like the opportunity to meet and speak with Leila personally, I feel that a dialogue between a human who shares her views could help better show the Autobots and Black Knights stand as equals, as opposed to the Decepticons who wish for all humans to be under their heel."
"He has a point, I'm going to have to go with Optimus as well, Lelouch." Cera told him. "I think Zero is best needed here."
Lelouch did see their points and agreed with them from a logical standpoint; but this would be his first time doing anything major without Optimus right by his side. He was by far no means entirely dependable on Optimus, he could definitely speak and handle himself quite well, but it just didn't feel right not to have Optimus there with him. But still, he knew Optimus had faith in him, and he was not about to disappoint.
"Very well, but we should still have some high-ranking Autobots by our side as well." Lelouch said. "Ultra Magnus, Elita-One, would you be willing to join me as well?"
"Of course." Ultra Magnus nodded.
"We'd be happy to." Elita smiled.
"I believe I may have an idea of who to send to the EU while everyone else remains here." Lelouch began. "From the Zero Squad alongside Elita, we'll need Kallen, Bumblebee, Arcee, Suzaku, Sideswipe, and Orpheus. From the Elite Guard, we'll have Ultra Magnus, Smokescreen, Strongarm, Prowl, and Monica. From the Wreckers; Bulkhead, Rai, and Grindcore. We'll also need Jetfire, Euphemia, Cera, and let's bring Gino in as well."
"I guess that officially makes him a Black Knight, then?" Cornelia asked teasingly.
"He was pretty insistent, and he was a Knight of the Round, so his Knightmare skills would definitely come in handy." Lelouch replied.
"Speaking of which, his new Knightmare is ready." Ratchet told him. "So he should be ready for deployment as soon as possible."
"Then it seems we have our strategy." Ultra Magnus deduced. "That is a very well-balanced team, Zero. I am certain we'll be more than capable of contributing should the need for battle arise."
"Then it's settled. We'll get everyone ready." Ohgi said as everyone stood up, the meeting now dismissed as all Bots and people began to leave, all except for a certain immortal.
"Wait, Lelouch, Optimus, can I speak with you for a moment?" Cera asked the two as everyone else already left. Though curious, neither saw any issue as they directed their attention toward her.
"Is something the matter, Cera?" Optimus asked.
"Well… no, nothing wrong per say." Cera began. "It's just… Leila. There's something you need to know about her."
"What is it?" Lelouch asked.
"Eleven years ago, shortly after her parents died… I formed a contract with her."
Explosions, gunfire, cries of battle and death, all this echoed around him as he rode his Alexander Knightmare, currently in its 'insect' mode that allowed him to move swiftly throughout the warzone around him. He knew his mission, what he and his squad were sent here to do: wipe out the Britannian forces around the city of Narva where EU military forces were currently trapped. He knew his mission and what he had to do, and that only served to add fuel to the fire that burned inside him.
"Die…! Die!" The young Japanese man with blue eyes and long blue hair called out with a wide grin, which only seemed to cause the red rings in his eyes to glow brighter as he went on the attack, his Knightmare's turrets tearing through every single Sutherland that he set his eyes on. "Die!"
However, it wasn't long before he ran out of ammo, causing his adrenaline to die down, and the glow in his eyes to fade as he adopted a serious expression to take note of the change in the situation.
"Seems I'm surrounded…" He muttered to himself, while also taking note that all units in his squadron had been wiped out by this point, mostly because of the self-destruct operation that had been installed in their Knightmares as well as his own. He then noticed an alert on the screen of his cockpit. "Self-destruct disengaged?" The red ring in his eyes suddenly reappeared.
He discarded the empty guns from his Alexander as he set his sights on the incoming enemy forces. Still in its 'insect-mode', the Alexander shot toward the nearest Sutherland, jumping, and swerving to the side with such speed and swiftness that not a single bullet so much as scratched his Knightmare. The Alexander leapt into the air before transforming into a humanoid appearance while drawing a tonfa-like weapon before charging at a Sutherland that tried to shoot at him, only for him to dodge to the side and strike at the Sutherland's cockpit, killing the pilot inside with one strike.
More gunfire was shot his way as he transformed his Alexander into its insect-mode to zoom directly at the Sutherland shooting at him before transforming again to draw both his tonfas and beat the Sutherland down with little effort. "Die!" He shouted before noticing another Sutherland, the red ring in his eyes vanishing before leaping his Knightmare back to avoid the spear lunged at him by what appeared to be the commanding Sutherland, evident by its cape. Both units then charged at each other to strike and parry their respective weapons of tonfas and sword against one another.
"God damn you to hell!" He heard the enemy pilot shout, the red ring in his own eyes appearing again as the young man inside roared to strike with enough force with his right tonfa to knock the sword out of the Sutherland's hands and use the left tonfa to obliterate the cockpit with a single strike.
On his radar screen, he saw there were only a select few remaining enemy units left. No time like the present, he transformed his Alexander into its insect mode to scurry after them. The Sutherlands backed up out of the forest and into a swampy area as they tried to shoot at the incoming Alexander, which was able to avoid all their bullets with no effort.
He then leapt toward the nearest Sutherland to knock the rifle out of its hand before transforming into his humanoid form as he landed, striking it multiple times with his tonfas until it was completely crushed. "Now die!" He then shot toward the second one that tried to shoot him down, leaping into the air and landing at its rear, before ruthlessly smashing it to pieces from behind. He then did the same for the third and completely destroyed it in two seconds flat before moving onto his next and final target. "Die!"
The command-model Sutherland tried to lunge its spear at him, but he leapt over him and prepared to strike from the air. "DIE!" The strike knocked the Sutherland back, but the pilot quickly stabilized it before drawing one of his blades and going on the attack.
"Sorry pal, I don't believe in ghosts!" He shouted to the one he could only guess was the infamous 'Ghost of Hannibal', who blocked the sword by crossing his tonfas, only for him to throw one Tonfa away and lunge his Alexander's fist directly toward the cockpit, the fist dislodging to reveal a concealed blade that shot out and impaled the entire cockpit, pilot included.
He drew back his blade as the disabled Knightmare fell to the ground before he smiled as he knew is mission was complete. He reeled his Alexander back as it gave a loud alarm-like noise that rang through the air, almost like a monster's cry. Just another mission for the pilot of the wZERO unit, Akito Hyuga.
Done.
And with this, we officially begin the Akito arc for this story. With the Decepticons scattered and stretched for the moment, the Autobots and Black Knights begin their attempt to recruit as many allies as they can to build enough of an army to fight back against the oppressive force choaking their world. Lelouch has taken a small team of Autobots and Black Knights to the EU to meet Leila and possibly recruit her to their cause, while Optimus and the others remain on Horai Island to watch the situation in the Chinese Federation unfold.
A few other things I'd like to note before you start making your comments...
*I've decided to completely omit Xingke's disease, as it was only shown once in the second season and was never brought up again. So I just decided to get rid of it.
*I also plan to explore more into the situation surrounding the Caretaker of Spacetime as well as the Geass-Skull that was never thoroughly explained in the series. I won't say who or what they are, you'll see as this arc moves on, but I feel like you will all be pleasantly surprised with what I have planed.
What's in store next for our heroes? What new challenges will they face? While they will undoubtedly make many more allies, they will also meet some new adversaries as well. I look forward to what comes next, and I hope you do as well. Until then, stay safe and stay healthy out there. Love you.