Hello everyone. I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas; I know I did. I realize things might be difficult with the pandemic that's been happening, but any time you are able to spend with your loved ones during the Holidays is a time worth remembering.
And with this, we have the final chapter of the year. I've been waiting to write this for quite some time. But before we begin, I have some sad news…
Just recently, Derrick J. Wyatt and Henry Orenstein both passed away very recently. Derrick was a designer for the Transformers Animated series as well as the OG Teen Titans while Henry helped bring the entire Transformers franchise to life, having convinced Hasbro to buy Diaclone and Micro Change, and have them repackaged as Transformers. (Shout out to DigimonAT0318 who informed me of this). So, let us observe a moment of silence for the passing of these men.
Last we left off; the Autobots and Black Knights led by Zero have scored a major victory, having pretty much liberated the EU and Euro Britannia from Decepticon occupation. But what of the current situation in the Chinese Federation? Well, let us find out right now.
A Different Kind of Engagement
The Vermillion Forbidden City appeared to be in a bustle as this was the night before the arranged political marriage between Schneizel El Britannia, representing the ruling Deception faction; and the young Empress Tianzi of the Chinese Federation, solidifying the alliance between the two powers and allowing the Decepticons full access the large nation's resources and its people. Despite the truly sinister applications, there appeared to be a party between those decorated of the former Britannian nation, including several members of the now defunct royal family such as Anticlea, Odysseus, Carine, and Laila; and those who were in favor of the Chinese Federation's High Eunuchs who would get a fair share of the profit and power that would result from all of this.
Of course, more than a few Decepticons were present as well. Starscream was currently present with the High Eunuchs along with Schniezel, Kanon Maldini, and the reluctant Tianzi. Guarding the perimeter of the gated city were several smaller teams of Decepticons. On the north end was Thundercracker and Onslaught, on the south side were Slipstream and Brawl, the east end was guarded by Swindle and Vortex, and the west side was covered by Blast Off alone. There were also a pair of smaller Decepticon ships encircling the perimeter, each one filled with Vehicon troopers ready to deploy at a moment's notice.
"Hey, remind me again why we're doing this?" Blast Off questioned over the radio with his fellow Combaticons and the Seekers for the sake of conversation.
"To gain control of the Chinese Federation. I thought it was obvious." Vortex replied.
"Well, yeah. I could figure out that much." Blast Off replied. "I mean, why do we have to do this whole 'wedding' thing? It seems like a waste of time."
"Yeah… the whole idea of these fleshies… interfacing…" Swindle shivered at the thought of it.
"I think it's a waste of time, too." Brawl added. "We should just take this whole place over like what we did with Britannia!"
"Ordinarily, that would be the option we'd take." Onslaught told his team. "But given the Autobots and the Black Knights have resurfaced and have made things really difficult for us, throwing all our resources into destroying another super power is only going to give them more opportunities to strike at us."
"I don't like it either." Thundercracker added. "But if this can allow us to gain control of this nation's resources, then I'm fine with it."
"But you sound rather reluctant, Thundercracker." Slipstream said. "I've noticed you acting that way since we first started this operation. You didn't seem to be so reluctant when we overthrew Britannia."
"It's the High Eunuchs." The blue Seeker revealed. "Dealing with Starscream alone is enough, but him and those worthless politicians? I would prefer watching those human videos on their information super highway, at least their partly entertaining."
"And disgusting." Swindle added. "These humans actually enjoy watching recordings of their own kind interfacing with each other? And the methods they use…"
"Too much information, Swindle!" Blast Off exclaimed. "Don't go and put that stuff in my head!"
"Look, I don't like dealing with those Eunuchs any more than the rest of you…" Onslaught began.
"Then let's just squish em! Those guys are so annoying!" Brawl interrupted.
"But would you rather be caught in the crossfire between these guys and the Bots and their own human pets?" Onslaught continued.
"Point taken." Vortex said with a reluctant sigh.
"So, keep your optics peeled for any sign of them." Slipstream said. "Even with the city secure with our Anti-Groundbridge generator, we'd be fools not to expect some form of interference from them."
With that, everyone resumed their guard duty. While what Thundercracker said about the High Eunuchs was true, he left out the part where he seemed somewhat concerned for Tianzi. It wasn't that he'd grown to care about her or anything, she was just so small and helpless, and it seemed unnecessary for someone so tiny to be used as a means to acquire more resources. Honestly, Thundercracker wondered why Schneizel didn't choose to 'marry' the High Eunuchs instead? He'd seen information on the human's internet that humans can have multiple partners in their engagement. Once again, he cursed the idea of politics.
"You realize that we're essentially prisoners, don't you?" Anticlea said as she, Odysseus, Guinevere, Carine, and Laila gathered in the middle of the party.
"Of course, we've been prisoners since Britannia's fall six months prior." Carine pointed out as if it were obvious.
"At the very least, Schneizel has made our 'arrangement' more comfortable." Odysseus commented. "Staying in his personal estate, as opposed to being subjected to slavery and labor."
"Do not mention the name of that traitorous man!" Guinevere exclaimed. "He betrayed every single one of us the minute he sided with those abominations."
"Keep it down!" Laila spoke in a hush whisper. "If they hear us…"
"Perhaps there may be a way we can convince High Eunuchs to come over to our side." Anticlea commented. "If we were to take Tianzi prisoner, we may even gain some leverage over them, even Schneizel and the Decepticons."
"Mother, you would consider abducting a child?" Odysseus looked rather appalled.
"Isn't that more or less what's happening to her right now, at the hands of the Decepticons?" Carine questioned.
"In case you've forgotten Odysseus, that's essentially what Britannia does." Laila spoke with contempt. "Even with members of our own family. On that note, what the Decepticons are doing now, really isn't all that different from what we've tried to do."
"Laila, how dare you!" Guinevere stated. "You would compare us to those abominations!? They are trying to destroy the world! All Britannia has ever done is seek to bring order!"
"By essentially committing genocide on a daily business, just because we can." Laila replied. 'Perhaps I should have followed Euphemia's lead and left the homeland when I had the chance.'
"So, everything has been prepared then?" One of the High Eunuchs asked Starscream as they stood around the conjoined throne where Schneizel and Tianzi sat together, Kaguya standing particularly close to Tianzi with Sayoko by her side and Kanon at Schneizel's side.
"Yes." Starscream confirmed. "Once the union has been made tomorrow, you High Eunuchs shall stand by our side as honorary Decepticons."
"Excellent." The smallest High Eunuch smiled. "We'll be looking forward to meeting with Lord Megatron in person."
"However, I must also express warning." Starscream said. "Lord Megatron is rather intolerable when it comes to failure. So, try not to in the future."
"Perish the thought." The most overweight High Eunuch waved his hand with a slight laugh.
Schneizel glanced towards Tianzi, who looked nothing short of miserable and it was clear to understand why. "Do not worry, your majesty." He began, getting her attention. "I realize that you may essentially be forsaking your freedom with this arrangement, but I promise it won't be all bad. I'll see to it that you are kept safe and comfortable; you won't have to deal with any more Decepticons after this. Aside from that, this way your people won't have to get caught in the middle of such a bloody struggle. I promise, everything will be fine."
"Well… I…" Tianzi wasn't quite sure what to say to that. Though she was still rather young, even she could hear the sinister intent behind Schneizel's voice. She was, by no means, a fool. She knew that she was about to become a slave, something she was rather used to under the High Eunuch's rule.
"Your concern is warranted, Sir Schneizel." Kaguya said, speaking as diplomatic as possible with Sayoko standing close to both girls. "But perhaps she'd be more comfortable around someone she actually knows, as opposed to a complete stranger."
"Of course, a reasonable request." Schneizel nodded. "Which is why I also welcome your company, Lady Kaguya. I will see to it you and your friend, Miss Shinozaki, will be living in comfort as well."
"Thank you." Kaguya nodded, maintain a face of neutrality. As she spoke, Sayoko kept a small device attached to her wrist, one she was able to utilize with taps of her fingers to send signals to an outside party, deep underneath the consulate.
"The time is almost here." Xingke told his group, consisting of Zhou Xianglin, Hong Gu, and other leaders of the Chinse Federation military that sided with him. "Tomorrow, we'll make our move to secure the Empress and meet with the Black Knights and the Autobots."
"The Prime Dragon Protocol has forced us to cut off our only means of communicating with them." Hong Gu said. "Can we be certain this plan of theirs will work? What if it was changed in some way?"
"They'll send us a signal of some sorts." Zhou answered. "But for now, let us just assume the plan has remained unchanged."
Xingke knew the risks of this, but it didn't matter to him. All that mattered was making sure Tianzi was safe and that his promise was kept to her. He owed her that much after saving his life so many years ago.
Flashback
A younger Xingke was forced to the ground in front of the toddler Tianzi, much to her shock as she tried to protest his treatment.
"But your majesty, this man broke the law by trying to save the life of an inmate!"
"Y-Yes but, I get brought medicine when I'm sick! And the person who brings it isn't punished!" Tianzi tried to say.
"There's no comparing that prisoner with you, your majesty!"
"Don't argue, the banquet will be starting soon!" A High Eunuch stated. "Do as her majesty commands!"
"If he's taken to face the law, he'll be executed!"
That caused Tianzi to gasp in shock. "But that's wrong! That's wrong! He was doing something good! And he shouldn't die because of it!"
Xingke could only look up in surprise. Was the Empress going out of her way just for his sake? The sake of a lowly servant? And to his great surprise, he was cleared of his crimes by Tianzi. He owed her a great debt, and he may have an idea of how to repay it.
"Officer school?" The young Tianzi asked as she and Xingke stood on a balcony, overlooking the night sky.
"Yes, that's how I'll use the life that you spared." He replied. "I wish to protect you in any way that I can."
"I would like to go too." She said. "To the outside."
"Outside?" Xingke asked.
"Outside of the forbidden city." Tianzi looked to the stars in wonder. "To school, or maybe the sea, where you can find all kinds of hot and yummy foods and lots of friends to make."
Xingke could only look toward her in sympathy, knowing that despite being the Empress, she was still trapped in her own home. But he would see to it she would get her wish.
"Yes, very well." She looked toward him in surprise. "One day, if you still wish, I will take you away from here, your majesty."
"Really?!" Tianzi asked in excitement.
Xingke kneeled down to her level. "It's my way of thanking you, for sparing my life." He offered her his pinky, much to her confusion as she didn't know what it meant. "This is how we make promises, outside the city."
Tianzi looked to her own pinky before locking it with his.
"An everlasting promise." Xingke vowed.
"For all time." Tianzi vowed back.
End Flashback
Back at the party, Kanon happened to glance at a shimmer in the sky that didn't appear to be a star. "My lord, something is coming."
Schneizel drew his attention toward where Kanon was looking, followed by Starscream, the High Eunuchs, even Tianzi, Kaguya and Sayoko. The object in question became much clearer the closer it came toward the area, even catching the attention of Onslaught and Thundercracker from the north gate as they radioed their fellow Combaticons and Seekers.
The object appeared to be a drone-like device that flew toward the middle of the palace courtyard where the party was taking place, drawing everyone's attention as the Decepticons quickly entered the courtyard as well. The drone then projected a large hologram of a certain individual that every person and Cybertronian present recognized.
"Optimus Prime!" Starscream exclaimed as he, Brawl, Blast Off, and Vortex readied their weapons, with several Vehicons dropping in from the circling battleships and aiming their Energon blasters as well, nearly causing a panic.
"Stand down, you fools! It's a hologram!" Thundercracker told everyone. "Your weapons won't affect it!"
"I-It's really him…" Odysseus, Laila, and even Carine looked in awe while Guinevere and Anticlea glared hatefully at the hologram Autobot leader, blaming Britannia's fall on him.
'That is Optimus Prime…?' Tianzi thought in surprise, looking in awe at the hologram as well with shaky eyes. Kaguya was quick to place a hand on her shoulder to calm her down, glancing at her with a subtle eye-expression, one that Tianzi seemed to understand.
"Someone certainly has nerve." One of the High Eunuchs commented as the others looked toward the hologram with overconfidence. "I'm beginning to understand how he was so quick to challenge Britannian authority."
"Starscream." The hologram of Optimus spoke as the Decepticon second-in-command approached him. "I had suspected you would be involved in this matter. However, I am rather surprised that you seek a route that appears to be devoid of bloodshed."
"I do not appreciate that sort of impression you have of me, Prime." Starscream said. "I'm no Megatron, if a conflict can be avoided, I will take that route."
"We both know that is not true. Which is why I suspect the true mastermind, is standing here before us." Optimus glanced past Starscream to see the approaching Schneizel, with Kanon close behind him. "Schneizel el Britannia, I presume."
"Indeed. I have to say, I'm rather humbled to be standing in your presence, Optimus Prime." Schneizel appeared to have spoken in a form of courtesy. "The alien who stands as an equal to the masked man who challenged Britannia and shook the world to its core. You've obtained quite the reputation."
"And you as well, having betrayed your nation and your family." Optimus replied. "And now you seek to enslave a child in order to hand over an entire nation to Megatron."
"While Britannia's fate was rather… unfortunate, they had it coming. Their constant need for pointless conquest and destruction would have ultimately destroyed our world." Schneizel said, casting a glance at the glaring remains of the royal family before addressing Optimus again. "As for the circumstances surrounding the young Empress, I'm merely seeking a compromise where no fighting is involved. The people of the Chinese Federation will be spared, and I'll see to it the Empress is well taken care of. I would have thought someone as idealistic as you would appreciate my efforts for trying to maintain peace."
"Peace through tyranny, is not peace at all." Optimus disagreed.
"Did you come all this way, to debate philosophy with me, Optimus?" Schneizel asked. "While I certainly wouldn't mind such a conversation, there are easier ways to go about this."
"I have not come to debate with you, Schneizel." The hologram of the Prime said. "I have come with a challenge. A game of chess, to be specific."
"Chess?" Schneizel asked, causing even Starscream and the other Decepticons to look in confusion.
"Indeed. If I win, you will call off this arrangement and release young Tianzi and anyone she wishes to our protective custody." Optimus said. "We all know that the High Eunuchs are using her as a puppet, and they hold the power. So, you can still come to an arrangement with them, even without the child in their possession."
Tianzi looked in surprise, even gasping. 'H-He… he's doing this… for me…?' She glanced towards Kaguya, almost instinctively as she gave a smile and a wink, followed by a nod and a smile from Sayoko as well.
'He thinks he can just steal our toy away from us!' One of the High Eunuchs thought. 'He knows the people support the Empress, and if she goes with him, they'll flock to the Autobots and Black Knights! We will not allow this!'
"I'll agree to your terms, Optimus Prime." Schneizel said. "However, if we're playing over the custody of individuals, I have my own terms. If you lose the game, you must surrender yourself and Zero to us."
"I cannot make that promise for Zero." Optimus replied immediately. "He is not with me at this time and attending to business elsewhere. I will not make any agreements behind his back. However, I will still offer myself as collateral, should I lose the game."
"Fair enough, I suppose." Schneizel accepted.
"Schneizel, I feel I must protest!" Starscream told his companion. "This is undoubtedly an Autobot trick!"
"Perhaps, but we lack a means to prove that." The former Britannian prince said to the Seeker commander. "Besides, we have the advantage here. Neither the Autobots nor the Black Knights can enter the Forbidden City, and our forces have complete control over the entire area. So, I don't suspect a trap." He turned toward Optimus. "Is there a way for us to compete in your game, considering you are undoubtedly broadcasting from such a far distance?"
"There is." Optimus confirmed as the drone displaying his own hologram began to condense it so that the Optimus-hologram shrank down to be on equal height to that of Schneizel, while also broadcasting a holographic chess board in-between the two of them.
Schneizel smiled in amusement. "What a fine evening of entertainment this has turned into."
It didn't take long for the game to start. A chair was brought up for Schneizel as he sat on one side of the holographic chess table, taking the solid pieces; while Optimus sat across from him in his own solargraphic seat, taking the transparent pieces. They would voice their pieces to move to the desired spots, and the hologram would move the pieces to the user's wishes. Everyone watched the game with anticipation.
As they watched, Sayoko had used her secret device to send a code to Xingke and the others what was happening, and keeping an eye out for any hidden messages Optimus may give her or Kaguya to relay to Xingke.
"Rook to E-7." Optimus instructed, with one of his rooks moving to remove a bishop from Schneizel's side.
"Pawn to B-3." Now it was Schneizel's turn, one of his pawns moving to cut remove the other rook from Optimus' side of the board.
'Lelouch and the others were quite correct.' Optimus thought. 'Schneizel is a master of this game, it's understandable why Lelouch was unable to defeat him in the past. However, my intent is not to defeat him.'
"King to D-5." Optimus movement of the king was a surprise to even Schneizel. Optimus wasn't moving his king into a dangerous position, but the king wasn't even in danger yet.
"You're moving King so early?"
"If the king does not lead, how can he expect his subordinates to follow?" Optimus voiced his reason.
"I see… a leader has to set the best example, and I agree." Schneizel seemed to understand. "That being said, I'll do the same. King to A-4"
Optimus was somewhat surprised at Schneizel performing the same action himself; however, his intent still was not to win. The message had been delivered.
'Moving the king… that's Lelouch's move!' Sayoko recognized the signal and began to relay the information to Xingke via her device.
As the game continued; Starscream, Thundercracker, and Onslaught found themselves looking at every possible detail in each move, trying to catch something that could be seen as an enemy code. Even Kanon found himself caught in the action.
'He's good. Schneizel has never gone this long in a game before.' Kanon thought.
'I know the Prime is planning something, but what?!' Starscream wondered. 'Is it the movement of the pieces? Is he trying to gain an idea of Schnzeiel's strategy through this game?'
'Optimus Prime is a master strategist. I have little doubt this game is a farce of some sort, but still… for someone to actually match him like this… I'll give credit to Schneizel, he's good.' Thundercracker tried to analyze the match himself.
'This game is practically a fight between these two. I can't honestly tell who's going to win.' Onslaught looked rather intrigued.
It was a stubborn match between the last Prime and former Britannian prince. One-by-one, most of their pieces had been removed, save for each of their kings, and a couple of pawns. At the moment, Optimus' king was separated from Schneizel's king by a single space.
"So, it would seem neither of us can advance any further." Optimus noted.
"Hmm, we'll get into a three-fold repetition at this rate." Schneizel muttered.
"Perhaps we shall call it a draw?" Optimus requested.
"I think not." Schneizel said. "You would do well not to underestimate the white king, my friend. King to H-5. Checkmate."
"Wait… if Prime moves his king forward…!" Kanon stuttered.
"He'll capture Schneizel's king!" Starscream finished.
"Hey, can you even do that?" Onslaught asked Thundercracker. "I don't know much about chess, but can you purposely set your own king up for check?"
"Technically, that move is considered illegal in the game." The blue Seeker replied. "But I have a feeling there's more to it than that."
Optimus honestly did not see that move coming. Was Schneizel deliberately loosing the game? Was this a test of sorts? It seems he had underestimated Schneizel. Though he is no warrior, it seems Schneizel was unpredictable in his own way. However, he didn't need to win. The hologram of Optimus merely glanced forward toward Kaguya, who appeared to be running her hand down her hair to straighten it out, sending a message his way.
'Kaguya has received the message. So, the next move for this game won't matter. The true match has already begun.'
"Initiate self-destruct."
With that command, the drone burst into flames and fell to the ground as the holograms shorted out. Schneizel stood up and stepped back in surprise as everyone else, human and Decepticon, looked in shock.
"So, does that mean he forfeits?" Onslaught asked. "Seemed a little too easy."
"And with the drone destroyed, we can't retrace it back to its source!" Thundercracker stated
"That coward, Prime!" Starscream growled as he began to relay instructions to his troops. "Fan out! Search the entire perimeter!"
"Belay that order." Schneizel countered as he straightened himself up, speaking calmly. "I have a feeling Optimus had already achieved what he needed to. We'll continue with the wedding as planned, no need to waste any time or resources chasing a trail that has already become cold."
Starscream growled but realized that Schneizel had a point. "Of course."
Despite the chess game coming to an end, a smile formed on the former prince's face. 'That game was honestly the most fun I've had in years. It's been a while since anyone's challenged me like that. I can see why Lelouch looks up to him. Of course, we both know this match was only the beginning. The real game, will likely begin tomorrow. Well Optimus Prime, it's your move.'
"I've got the message." Xingke received the code from Sayoko and began to relay it to his fellow conspirators. "'Secure the Empress tomorrow at the ceremony. An Autobot will meet you in the city should the Empress be placed in danger. Once she is secure, I will meet you on the city's outskirts and I ask that you follow my lead. Till All Are One.'"
"That's it? Nothing else?" Zhou asked.
"Xingke, are you certain you're not putting too much faith in this alien?" Hong Gu also asked. "We're putting not only the future of our entire country in his hands, but even the life of the Empress."
"It's a gamble, but we all would have made a move to rescue her even if the Autobots and Black Knights were not involved." Xingke told them. "It's a risk that we have to take. Let's just hope it's the right one."
The Next Day
It was the day of the official wedding ceremony. Like the party the previous night, the ceremony was held outside as multiple seats had been set up for the former Britannian nobility and that of the Chinese Federation who support the High Eunuchs. Starscream stood close to the ceremony as Schneizel stood on stage with Tianzi, clad in a white wedding dress. However, just before the ceremony could begin; multiple explosions erupted from outside the Vermillion City, just in front of the main gate.
"Thundercracker, Slipstream, Combaticons!" Starscream ordered over the comns. "Investigate immediately!"
"We're already on the ground!" Thundercracker replied as he, Slipstream, and the Combaticons were engaged in a firefight with their enemy. "It's the Autobots and the Black Knights, and it seems they're being aided by rebels from the Chinese Federation!"
It was true, the seven Decepticons fired their respective Enegron blasters at the group of rebels led by Ironhide and Warpath, alongside Tohdoh and Ohgi in the Zangetsu and Gawain Nerion respectively. They were also being assisted by a group of Chinese Federation Knightmares, the Gun Rus, two of which were piloted by Zhou and Hong Gu.
"Is it too early for us to object to this marriage?" Warpath joked as he transformed into his tank mode and opened fire. "Kablam!"
Starscream growled. "All units, get to those gates immediately!" Upon his order, the ships circling the Forbidden City flew outward toward the gate as Kanon and the High Eunuchs quickly approached Schneizel and Tianzi.
"Your majesty, we need to get you to safety!" Kanon told him.
"Please to see to everyone else's safety first." Schneizel said calmly as most of the wedding guests were already in a panic.
"But your highness… what of our deal? One of the Eunuchs questioned.
"We'll work that out later." Schneizel assured as he gently tried to reach for the frightened Tianzi. "My dear, please come with…"
Suddenly, a kunai was thrown at Schneizel's shoulder, knocking him down as Sayoko suddenly leapt in between Tianzi and all the men present, catching Starscream's attention as well.
"You will not lay another finger on this child!" Sayoko declared as Kaguya was quickly came to Tianzi's side as well.
"Schneizel…" Kanon was by his downed master's side.
"Do not worry… bullet proof vests and all." Schneizel assured as he was already on his feet, revealing the armored vest underneath his white robe.
"Treachery!" Starscream aimed his Energon blaster at the three females, only for his attention to be drawn to a large explosion from a nearby building as a blue and gold Chinese Knightmare emerged from the smoke and hovered in the air.
"We ask this question!" The pilot inside the Shen Hu declared. "By the voice of Heaven, the roar of the land, and the hearts of the people! How does this marriage represent the will of the Chinese Federation?!"
"Xingke, have you lost your mind!?" One of the High Eunuchs questioned.
"Clearly, he is a sympathizer of the enemy!" Starscream was ready to open fire on him, only for the Shen Hu to fire a pair of electric Slash Harkens from its wrist at Starscream, the force of the impact sending him crashing across the ground. Already the High Eunuchs, along with Schneizel, and Kanon were being escorted away by their guards, but still maintained a relatively close distance to see what was happening as the Shen Hu flew toward Tianzi, Kaguya, and Sayoko.
'It doesn't matter if she doesn't remember our promise.' Xingke thought to himself. 'I made an everlasting promise to her majesty in return for sparing my life! A vow I swore on my heart! I must save her! I will take her to the outside world!'
However, before he could get any closer, the Shen Hu was blasted back by an Energon blast. As Xingke recovered, he heard Tianzi's screams as he looked in horror to see the frightened girl in the metallic grasp of Starscream.
"Your majesty!" Kaguya exclaimed as Sayoko pulled her closer to the Shen Hu.
Starscream smirked evilly as he aimed his Energon blaster right at the girl in his grip. "One step, and your precious Empress is scrap."
"You filthy coward!" Xingke shouted. "Release her at once!"
"Or you'll what? Shoot? And endanger this child?" Starscream sneered. "How pathetic, even if you aren't truly aligned with them, you share the same sentiments as the Autobots and their Black Knight pets. All the power you can imagine, and yet you value the lives of these weaklings above all else."
Xingke clenched the controls on his Knightmare, wanting nothing more than to end Starscream's life right here and now. But he couldn't do anything without risking her life. What should he do? What should he do?
"Xingke!" He gasped in shock as the teary-eyed Tianzi held up her pinky finger. "Xingke! Xingke! Xingke! Xingke!" Despite being held at gunpoint in the literal hands of a giant, she had absolute faith in the young man she had grown so fondly of.
'She remembers… She remembers!' His vow remembered and reciprocated, his strength and will renewed. 'I'll save her! In my heart, there is no more doubt!' The Shen Hu aimed its weapons at Starscream.
"Shut up, you wretched brat!" Starscream shook Tianzi in his hands but gave a yelp as he saw the Shen Hu reading its weapons. "I'm warning you! Not a step forward!"
"Is that any way to treat a little lady?" The Seeker leader turned around in shock to see a metallic fist impacting his face, knocking him down and releasing Tianzi from his grip. Fortunately, the girl was caught in the gentler gasp of the female Aerialbot, Windblade. "Don't worry kid, I gotcha." She assured with a smile, offering her other hand to Kaguya and Sayoko as they climbed on.
"Thank you, Windblade." Kaguya nodded with a slight giggle. "How did Starscream not even notice you?"
"He was busy monologuing. Self-absorbent guys like him always get distracted by themselves." Windblade joked as she transformed into her jet-mode, safely putting all three in her cockpit. "Time to go." She told Xingke.
"Right, thank you." Xingke said as the Shen Hu followed Windblade's jet-mode out of the city.
"Ironhide, we got the Empress! Meet us at the rendezvous point!" Windblade communicated.
"Acknowledged." Ironhide communicated back as he and his team were pinned behind the rocks for cover as the Seekers, Combaticons, and their troopers shot at them. "The kid's out! Time to go!"
"Got it!" Ohgi replied as he pressed a trigger, detonating several pre-placed bombs around the entire perimeter of the Forbidden City, not only shaking up the entire area, but also creating a large smokescreen that enabled the Ironhide and Warpath to transform and drive away with the Zangetsu and Gawain Nerion right behind them, along with their small army of Gun-Ru's.
By the time the smoke cleared, the Decepticons looked around to see their enemy escaped. "They got away!" Vortex cursed.
"Search the area! They couldn't have gotten far!" Onslaught ordered as Slipstream contacted their leaders.
"Starscream, Schneizel, what in the Allspark happened?!"
Back inside the city, Starscream pulled himself up with a growl. "Several Chinese Federation soldiers launched a coup! They have fled with the Empress! Have all our forces level the entire perimeter! Smoke them out!"
"Belay that order." Schneizel approached, speaking calmly over the communications channel. "They won't get far."
"How can you be so certain?" One of the Eunuchs questioned as they and Kanon approached him.
"How could they even get into the city?! That Anti-Groundbridge device should have prevented them from entering!" The most overweight Eunuch stated.
"The device has a limited range." Schneizel explained. "More than likely, the Autobots and Black Knights were able to Groundbridge as close as they could get and simply used their transportations to close the distance. They likely even have their own temporary base set up nearby. They'll take the young Empress there to see she is secure before returning to their main base."
"And how would we find said base?" Starscream questioned.
"Because Tianzi will lead us right to it." Schneizel reached into his robe to pull out a small hand-held GPS-like device. "I had a feeling that Kaguya was involved with the enemy, given her family's history; but more importantly, I've noticed Xingke's loyalty is toward his Empress over all else. So, I placed a small tracking device on my young bride-to-be before the ceremony."
"You anticipated the enemy would attack and planned accordingly." Kanon smiled, not surprised in the least.
Starscream chuckled. "Oh, that is quite devious. I love it!"
Meanwhile; Windblade's Jet-Mode flew alongside the Zangetsu, Gawain Nerion, and Shen Hu; with Ironhide and Warpath's own vehicle modes driving down the path below with their own Chinese Federation allies right behind them in their Gun-Ru's.
"Is the Empress safe?" Zhou asked.
"Yeah, got her here with Kaguya and Sayoko." Windblade replied.
"Now comes the hard part." Ohgi said. "But first we have to get to the rendezvous and quickly."
"It doesn't matter how fast we go." Tohdoh commented. "They won't attack until we meet up with Optimus and the others."
"Are you certain they're tracking us?" Hong Gu asked.
"Based on what we've heard about Schneizel, I wouldn't doubt it." Ironhide said. "Pretty easy to see who's really running this operation."
"Yeah, if Starscream were in charge, he'd burn down the entire Chinese Federation by now." Warpath commented.
"But given that display we gave him back there; I wouldn't be surprised if he were a little on edge." Kaguya commented.
"A little?" Windblade questioned with a chuckle. "That guy has a spaz attack every time things don't go his way, which is pretty much all the time."
"Makes me wonder how someone like him maintains such a high-ranking position in the Decepticon army." Xingke said.
"Probably just a punching bag for Megatron." Ohgi joked, resulting in Warpath laughing.
"Starscream's no Megatron, but he's far from predictable. We all know not to underestimate him by now." Ironhide said seriously, so let's keep moving.
"Rodger." All the soldiers said as they proceeded down the path.
While everyone appeared to maintain a cool demeanor, Tianzi looked more than a little tense, and nobody could blame her given all that just happened in a few seconds from an arranged and forced marriage literally exploding, to being taken hostage by a giant alien robot, and being rescued by other giant alien robots; it was simply too much for the young girl as she held her sides somewhat tensely.
"Your majesty, it's okay." Kaguya assured as she gently placed her hands on Tianzi's shoulders. "I know they might look scary, but don't you worry. The Autobots are nothing like the Decepticons."
"We promise that you're safe." Sayoko added. "Nobody is going to hurt you."
Though Tianzi did know to trust Kaguya, and she could see that if Xingke was working with them, the Autobots and Black Knights couldn't all be that bad. But it was still somewhat nerve racking.
"Hey, I heard you spent your entire life in that forbidden city and haven't even left it, right?" Windblade asked.
"Y-Yes…?"
"Well, now you are. Just look outside." Windblade said.
Tianzi happened to glance out the cockpit, and gave a gasp of awe as she saw the landscape around her. "I'm… really outside the city? Outside the palace?"
"Yep." Windblade confirmed.
"Sorry your dream had to come true under these extreme circumstances." Kaguya said. "But look at it this way, now you've got a whole new world to explore."
"And tell you what, kid. Once this whole mess here is taken care of, I'll fly you across the skies so you can get a good view of the world." Windblade said.
"Really? You mean it?!" Tianzi asked in amazement.
"Promise." Windblade assured. "Assuming your bodyguard is okay with it."
"So long as the Empress allows it, I'll follow her to the ends of this world and beyond." Xingke said, communicating from his Knightmare, his face appearing on the screen of Windblade's cockpit for Tianzi to see.
"Xingke… You kept your promise…" Tears of joy were already in her eyes. "I'm so happy… Thank you!"
"Don't thank me yet, your majesty. This battle is far from over." Xingke told her.
It wasn't much longer before the group made it to the rendezvous point. It was a man-made structure built into the base of a mountain. This was the Mausoleum of the 88 Emperors.
Optimus Prime stood alongside a gathering of Black Knight Knightmares as he saw Ironhide's team arrive on the scene. The Autobots all transformed as they, the Zangetsu, the Gawain Nerion, the Shen Hu, and all the Gun-Ru's allied with them met up.
"Mission success, Optimus." Ohgi reported.
"Good." Optimus nodded as he glanced toward Windblade who helped gently set Tianzi on the ground with Kaguya and Sayoko. The young Empress couldn't help but gasp as she looked up at the Autobot leader for the first time. Though she saw his hologram the previous night, it didn't compare to the real thing standing before her. Yet, despite his imposing figure, he bore a kind and gentle smile.
"Hello your majesty. I am please you are alright." Optimus said.
"Y-You're… Optimus Prime…" Even though he was physically imposing, the way he was speaking to her in such a gentle tone, and the look in his fierce yet caring eyes told her that he was a warrior with a strong and noble heart. Despite being different eyes entirely, they carried the same spark as Xingke. The spark that said they would always do the right thing and would not let anyone else tell them otherwise. That look is what endeared her to Xingke in her toddler years, and now it endeared her to Optimus. She couldn't help but smile in his presence.
"Kaguya, Sayoko, please escort the young Empress inside and to safety." Optimus requested.
"Of course. Come along, your majesty." Sayoko gestured to her.
"B-But…"
"It's alright." Xingke stood up from the cockpit of the Shen Hu and gave the small girl a smile. "Go on your highness, we'll handle everything out here." She nodded back as Kaguya and Sayoko led her into the Mausoleum. "I have to admit, I never expected this place where we would take our stand."
"The Mausoleum of the 88 Emperors." Zhou said. "Our nation's greatest emperors were buried here. It holds great symbolic value."
"I doubt the Decepticons will care when they attack." Windblade said. "They'll probably level the whole mountain to bury us with it."
"You might be right about that. Because here they come!" Ohgi stated, picking up multiple enemy signals from his Knightmare.
They all looked forward to see a whole army approaching them. The two previous Decepticon ships were in the air alongside the Avalon, operated by Schneizel's crew, with Starscream, Thundercracker, and Slipstream's jet-modes present as well. And below was a massive Chinese Federation mobile fortress shaped like a pyramid called the Longdan, under the command of the High Eunuchs. All around the massive fortress was a small army of Gun-Rus piloted by the soldiers loyal to the High Eunuchs, along with several Vehicon ground troopers being led by the Combaticons.
"That's a lot of bad guys." Warpath noted.
"Here's hoping it all goes according to plan." Ironhide added.
"The fate of an entire nation filled with millions of people hangs on the balance." Optimus declared as he drew his Ion blasters. "Autobots, Black Knights, stand your ground!"
With that declaration, all the present Autobots and Knightmares armed themselves and prepared for the siege to come.
As Starscream's jet-mode hovered close to the Avalon, he contacted Schneizel as well as the High Eunuchs.
"Well, well, it seems the enemy is making a valiant last stand." The Seeker commander noted.
"It seems rather odd to have such a minimal force protecting their base." Schneizel noted.
"We do know that they are also operating in the EU, hoping to get that superpower on their side." Kanon voiced his opinion. "Perhaps their numbers are simply stretched too thin."
"Hmm, perhaps." Schneizel began to think. 'It seems a little too early to declare a last stand, just what are they planning.'
"Well, it doesn't matter." One of the High Eunuchs declared from their mobile base. "We can just kill them and the Empress and make it look like the Autobots and the Black Knights were responsible."
"And make her a martyr of the pathetic people to rally behind us." Starscream said with a sneer. "Then let us begin. All units, commence attack! Open fire!"
With that, all land and air-based armaments from the Decepticon and Eunuch forces fired onto the Mausoleum. However, all projectiles exploded before they even made contact with the mountain. The result was a massive Energon shield that appeared to be projected from something inside the mountain that they couldn't see.
"A shield generator…" Schneizel observed. "Now that makes more sense. Even if they cannot win, they at least have a fall back."
"That is the very same generator they used to defend their precious Ark, a weapon of our creation!" Starscream growled. "Then we'll take a more direct approach!"
Upon his declaration, Starscream, Thundercracker, and Slipstream flew forward with a large group of Seeker Vehicons right behind them with the two Decepticon ships as well. On the ground, the High Eunuch's forces, and the Vehicons that transformed into cars and tanks, all pushed forward with the Combaticons leading the charge. However, the five vehicle modes of the Combaticons quickly came close together as Brawl and Swindle transformed into a pair of legs, with Onslaught leaping to connect to the legs as well as Vortex and Blast Off to form a pair of arms and merge into a familiar Combiner.
"Aw yeah! Bruticus is in the house!" The Combaticon Combiner stated as he charged forward.
The siege had begun as all the Black Knight Knightmares, along with the Gun-Rus from Xingke's faction, returned fire from the base of the mausoleum. Even a few Akatsukis appeared on the sides of the mountain to fire upon the aerial forces that were incoming toward them. Several explosions lit up the whole area.
On the ground, Warpath and Ohgi's Gawain Nerion had transformed into their respective tank-modes and laid down the heavy artillery to take out some of the front-most enemy units that came their way; but this barley slowed the enemy's advance as several Vehicons entered the perimeter and transformed to return fire with their Energon blasters, prompting Warpath to do the same and engage in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy.
Ironhide joined Optimus in concentrating their firepower on the incoming Bruticus, who brought up his helicopter-blade shield on his left arm to cover himself. However, this appeared to leave him vulnerable for Xingke's Shen Hu to come in and open fire with its Baryon canon built into its chest. This did manage to score a hit onto Bruticus' side, knocking him back, but the Combaticon Combiner pulled himself up with little issue.
"Hah, that tickled." Bruticus waved off the smoke from his side, revealing there was barley any damage.
'Somehow, I knew it wouldn't be too easy.' Xingke thought as his Shen Hu drew its retractable short sword and flew in to slice at Bruticus' face, but he brought up his right arm to unleash a flame-thrower attack; quickly forcing Xingke to draw his Knightmare's electric slash harkens, which he spun around like a makeshift shield to block the intense heat; but the force from the attack was enough to send the Shen Hu back quite a distance.
Optimus quickly rushed Bruticus from below, drawing one of his blades to slice at his right knee as Ironhide fired both his Energon canons into Bruticus' left knee, bringing Bruticus down. But he was far from done as he lifted both his arms and slammed them on the ground to unleash a powerful Sonic Pain Wave Attack. This sent both Optimus and Ironhide flying as they landed hard on the ground with sufficient force to create a pair of large craters on impact.
"Yeah… gonna feel that in the morning…!" Ironhide groaned.
In the air, Windblade's jet-mode flew alongside Tohdoh's Zangetsu as the later spun her vehicle mode in a barrel roll formation, while also firing several missiles and machine-guns to take down several incoming Seekers while Tohdoh pressed the advantage, the Zangetsu drawing a sword to slice and cut one Seeker Vehicon in half before firing his missile-tube launchers to destroy several more. However, the Zangetsu was quickly blasted in the side by an enemy's own missile attack, causing Tohdoh to grunt from shock as he tried to steady his black Knightmare while Windblade flew in to cover him.
"You okay in there?" She asked as she transformed into her Cybertronian mode and hovered in the air alongside the black Knightmare.
"I'll live." Tohdoh replied as he straightened out his Zangetsu.
"But not for long, I'm pleased to say." Starscream said as he hovered in the air in his own Cybertronian mode as well with Thundercracker and Slipstream by his side. "Kyorshiro Tohdoh, we meet once again."
"You'll have to be more specific." Tohdoh replied. "All you Decepticons look alike to me."
'Ah snap.' Windblade mused internally. She was certain Tohdoh knew who Starscream was, but only acted oblivious to egg him on. 'Welcome to the 'mock Starscream club' Tohdoh.'
Starscream's form shook with rage. "Destroy him!" He, Thundercracker, and Slipstream fired their Energon blasters at the Zangetsu, which quickly deployed its Radiant Wave Shielding unit to block the initial blasts before flying forward, spinning around while firing its Slash Harkens to knock back Thundercracker and Slipstream, followed by a quick sword-strike to Starscream, the force knocking him back before flying to press the advantage, but Tohdoh was quick to draw his Knightmare's katana to block the blade-strike from Thundercracker who flew at him in retaliation.
Windblade meanwhile had transformed into her jet-mode to fly and gain some distance from Slipstream in her own jet-mode, who fired her Energon blasters at her, even as Windblade flew straight up towards the clouds. However, once they were high enough, Windblade transformed and drew her swords as she fell towards Slipstream, landing on her jet-mode as the female Seeker tried to shake her off. Windblade tried to bring down one of her swords onto Slipstream, only for her to transform and shake Windblade off, the two grappling with each other as they fell closer toward the ground; but Slipstream was able to kick Windblade off before transforming and flying away with Windblade doing the same to give pursuit.
Despite appearing to make such a valiant last stand, the long-distance weapons from the Avalon, the Decepticon vessels, as well as the Longdan, made it difficult for the Autobots, Black Knights, and their allies to press the advantage. Not to mention the sheer numbers from the enemy's infantry forces outnumbered them almost ten to one. It didn't seem like victory was a possibility for the heroes, which is why the High Eunuchs weren't surprised to receive a call from the masked man named Wizard, who's face appeared on the screen of the Longdan's control room.
"Hmm, not quite the masked man we'd hoped to be meeting." The overweight High Eunuch noted. "So 'Wizard', you speak for the rest of your forces when you admit you're outmatched? Well, we won't accept your surrender. It's too late now."
"So, you insist on continuing this battle?! Even if your own Empress will die in the attack?!" Wizard questioned.
"The Empress is merely a system. There are plenty of others to replace her." The overweight High Eunuch replied.
"So, you can't use her as a bargaining chip." The shortest one added.
"But you attempted to sell her to the former Britannian prince Schneizel to gain favor with the Decepticons!" Wizard stated.
"Of course, we did." Another High Eunuch added. "The Decepticons are clearly the most powerful force on this planet, it only made sense to join the winning side."
"And what about the land of the Chinese Federation?! You're selling that to the Decepticons, as well?!" Wizard continued to question.
"Land is nothing but dirt, after all."
"Correct, once this battle is concluded and the Empress dead, we'll be Honorary Decepticons."
"And what of the people you swore to protect?! Millions of innocent men, women, and children?!"
"Tell me, Mr. Wizard, when you walk down the street, do you worry about stepping on the ants?"
"You throw away paper that clings to your bottom, don't you? It's the same thing?"
"And what of young Tianzi's parents?! The former Emperor and Empress that you swore to serve! You would betray their memory!?"
"Oh, you naïve fool, have you realized? It wasn't an accident that claimed their lives."
"…You killed them? You killed your own Emperor and Empress, now you're about to kill their only child?! Sell off their land and people?! All for power?!"
"Oh, an idealist. I wasn't aware your ranks had any. There's no room for such foolish things in this world."
"Indeed, masters and commoners will always breed."
"Like insects!" A Eunuch said as they all laughed maniacally.
Bruticus swung his arm toward the Shen Hu with enough force to knock it out of the air and send it skidding across the ground close the opening of the mausoleum, which caused the young Empress to gasp in horror.
"Xingke!" She ran from her spot back outside, even as Kaguya and Sayoko tried to stop her.
"Your majesty!" Kaguya ran after her as Sayoko leapt and flipped above Tianzi and landed in front of her to grab and keep her from getting any further.
"You can't go out there! It's too dangerous!" Sayoko told her.
"Please! You have to stop this! Xingke! Xingke!"
He heard his name being called as his barley functional Knightmare screens zoomed in on the struggling girl as Sayoko and Kaguya pulled her back.
"Your highness, don't come any closer!" Xingke stated as he tried to pull the Shen Hu up, with Bruticus looming closer. Even with Optimus and Ironhide firing more Energon blasts at him, Bruticus delivered another Sonic Pain Wave Attack, which they both barley avoided as they transformed to move away, but the shockwave still knocked them back quite a distance. Already the Combaticon Combiner loomed well over the blue Knightmare, much to Tianzi's horror.
"Like a bug." Bruticus lifted his left foot, ready to stomp and crush the Shen Hu and it's glaring pilot inside.
"NO! XINGKE!"
Tianzi's cries were heard, even as something massive exploded out from the side of the mountain above Bruticus. He looked up in surprise to see a large mass falling down to land on top of his chest, kicking him down and knocking him flat on his back before the mass landed in-between the downed Bruticus and the Shen Hu.
Xingke gasped in shock, with Tianzi looking in absolute awe with shaky eyes; while Kaguya and Sayoko shared knowing smiles. The recovering Optimus and Ironhide also saw who had just arrived onto the battlefield and knew instantly that the charade of 'losing' this battle was over.
"Hey, big guy. Pick on someone your own size!" Grimlock declared to the downed Bruticus.
Just as Grimlock appeared; two large explosions erupted from the western and eastern sides of the mountain, halting all the battles as every human and Cybertronian turned to see the sudden appearance of Autobot and Black Knight reinforcements, having been in hiding underground and waiting for the right moment to strike.
"So, we're done waiting around, right?" Wheeljack said as he drew his dual swords, standing alongside Hot Shot, Chromia, Drift, and Zi-Dien's Gekka Shiden on the west side of the mountain, with a small army of Wrecker-Aktasukis right behind them, and Tamaki's personal unit at the lead.
On the east side stood the Galeschin Conquista, piloted by Nonette; the custom Vincent piloted by Cornelia, with Guilford's Akatsuki right by her side, and another small army of Black Knight Akatsukis behind them, alongside the command model Akatsukis piloted by the Four Holy Swords.
"Yes, I believe the time to strike is now." Cornelia smirked.
And they weren't the only ones making a surprise appearance. Emerging from the opening of the Mausoleum, passing over Tianzi, Kaguya, and Sayoko as they moved back, and now floating up and above Grimlock was the aerial carrier known as the Ikarauga. Standing on its deck were Silverbolt and Air Raid, with Wizard's own Agravain in the middle of the two Aerialbots.
On the bridge of the vessel appeared to be Chigusa in command with Diethard at the controls next to her, with several young female Black Knight operators, and even Rakshata sitting casually on a sofa.
"Aw yeah, now it's a party!" Warpath said as he and Ohgi's Gawain Nerion stood closer together. "Hey Starscream! Look who's here!" He called up to the head Seeker, pointing towards the massive Autobot that was known as Grimlock.
The second Starscream saw him, his face paled, instantly being reminded of the beatdown the Dinobot gave him after trying to persuade him over to his side. "W-We have to get out of here!" He accessed his comns out of pure fear. "A-All units… prepare to retreat!"
"Reinforcements?! Now?!" One of the High Eunuchs exclaimed.
"But we had them! How could they have mobilized a counter-attack so quickly?!" Another Eunuch questioned as they received an immediate and sudden alert on their radio, which one of their soldiers intercepted.
"Emergency alert! Riots have broken out in Shanghai!"
"Street riots?!"
"They're rioting!? In Shanghai?!"
"It's not just Shanghai! Beijing! Burma! Islamabad! And there are fourteen other areas that we're still confirming! People are rising up everywhere!"
Even Schneizel was receiving the same reports from the bridge of the Avalon, seeing footage of people rioting against the military forces and government in the aforementioned cities and areas all across the Chinese Federation.
"These riots occur just as the enemy's reinforcements arrive? Hardly a coincidence." Schneizel commented.
"My lord, we've intercepted a communication between the High Eunuchs and Black Knights." Kanon reported. "It seems it's been broadcasted all across the country."
"Patch it through." Schneizel ordered.
The screen in at the front of the bridge played the recorded broadcast of the conversation between the Eunuchs and Wizard.
"The Empress is merely a system. There are plenty of others to replace her."
"And what of young Tianzi's parents?! The former Emperor and Empress that you swore to serve! You would betray their memory!?"
"Oh, you naïve fool, have you realized? It wasn't an accident that claimed their lives."
"…You killed them? You killed your own Emperor and Empress, now you're about to kill their only child?! Sell off their land and people?! All for power?!"
"Oh, an idealist. I wasn't aware your ranks had any. There's no room for such foolish things in this world."
"Indeed, masters and commoners will always breed."
"Like insects!"
"I see… this was their plan all along." Schneizel seemed to figure out. "Not only to save the Empress, but to paint the High Eunuchs and our own forces as the villains."
"Optimus, it worked!" Chigusa contacted the Prime. "The whole nation heard the Eunuchs' confession!"
"The starving masses of the land have risen up against their oppressors!" Diethard added.
"Excellent. Now is the time to push forward! Autobots, Black Knights, attack!" Optimus ordered as all their forces, including Grimlock, and the Ikarauga, went on the attack against the surprised and unprepared enemy forces.
"Hell yeah! Time to get this party started!" Tamaki shouted as he decided to turn on his own personal radio, playing 'Immigrant Song' by 'Led Zeppelin'.
Grimlock transformed into his Tyrannosaurus Rex mode as Bruticus recovered. Before the Combiner had the chance to go on the attack, Grimlock charged with a roar, slamming his head into Bruticus' chest to push him back quite a distance as all the ground and air units flew around them to engage the enemy. Bruticus managed to dig his feet in the ground and halt Grimlock's advance before grabbing him by the face, but the Dinobot was strong enough to try and shake Bruticus' grip, putting up quite a fight even for Bruticus.
Optimus used this to jump and run up Grimlock's back, drawing his Energon axe before leaping up high to drive his axe into the shoulder-neck area of Bruticus, causing him to holler in pain and let go of Grimlock who took advantage of his freedom to swipe his tail at Bruticus' chest as Optimus leapt down to the ground to swipe his axe into the back of Bruticus' right knee, bringing him down as Grimlock unleashed his fire-breath at him, forcing Bruticus to shield himself with his helicopter-blades; but this left him open for Ironhide to pelt him on the right side with his Energon canons, and for Xingke's Shen-Hu to do the same with his central Baryon cannon.
The Ikarauga was already in the air and opening fire with its missiles, machine guns, taking down several Seeker Vehicons before it aimed and fired its main Hadron heavy artillery cannons from its front, scoring a direct hit on one of the Decepticon vessels, breaking through its shield and causing it to explode.
The second Decepticon vessel attempted to shoot down the Ikarauga with its own missiles, only for them to explode on an Energon barrier being projected around the Ikarauga.
"That Decepticon shield generator we recovered has certainly come in handy. We've already made several smaller versions for our other ships besides the Ark." Rakshata commented with a trolling grin. "That should teach those sloppy Decepticons not to go leaving their toys around."
Silverbolt and Air Raid launched an assault with several flying Akatsukis on the remaining Decepticon vessels, firing missiles, Energon blasts, and machine guns on the ship's shields. The concentrated attack seemed enough to almost break through as the Agravain hovered over it.
"Maybe next time you'll think twice before selling off a child and billions of innocent people." Wizard said as he opened fire with his Knightmare's hadron canons on the cracked points in the shield, finally breaking through and allowing all the flying units to open fire with everything they had and bringing it down in a heap of fire and metal.
From the west side, Chromia used her sniper-rifle with pin-point accuracy to take out the guns of the enemy Knightmares close by, allowing Wheeljack, Hot Shot, and Drift to drive in their vehicle modes and ram down several enemies before transforming. Wheeljack and Drift drew their respective blades to cut down the Decepticons and Gun-Rus that attempted to surround them, while Zi Dien's Gekka joined in the fun with its own swords as well as Drift deployed Jetstorm and Safeguard with Hot Shot relying on his fists and Energon blasters. Tamaki and his army of Wrecker Akatsukis also provided covering fire with a barrage of missiles to blow away a chunk of the enemy forces.
On the east side, Cornelia and her forces charged forward with her and Guilford joining the four Holy Swords in carving a path through the enemy with their Knightmare's respective bladed weapons. Nonette's Galeschin Conquista flew in the air as it drew its VARIS rifle to open fire on the ground around them, lighting up the area with explosions.
"The time has come for us to take the offensive! Let's not waste it!" Nonette declared.
"We're not trapped here!" Tohdoh stated, his Zangetsu slicing its sword at Thundercracker, who tried to block it, only to be left open for a sudden spinning kick from the Zangetsu to knock him down as Windblade flew straight toward Slipstream before transforming to land a powerful kick on the female Seeker's vehicle mode and send her rolling out of the air and crashing onto the ground.
"Kablam! Kablam! Kablam!" Warpath exclaimed in his tank-mode as he and Ohgi's Gawain Nerion fired onto Bruticus' back, forcing him to turn around and allow Grimlock, still in his T-Rex mode, to rush underneath him at his legs and push through them, actually flipping the massive Decepticon combiner over the Dinobot and knock him face-down on the ground.
"Focus your firepower on the big guy!" Ohgi ordered. "Get him while he's down!"
Just as he, Warpath, Optimus, Ironhide, Xingke, Grimlock, and all other available units, including Zhou and Hong Gu, were about to gain up on the downed Bruticus, he suddenly broke apart into the five Combaticons that made up his form.
"Combaticons! Retreat now!" Onslaught ordered as he, Brawl, and Swindle drove away in their vehicle modes, with Vortex and Blast Off flying above them, trying to get away as far as possible.
Starscream's jet-mode flew toward the Avalon before transforming and landing on its haul. "Schneizel, this battle is a loss! We must retreat!"
"He's right, my lord. Most of our forces have been obliterated." Kanon urged.
"Very well, we're withdrawing." Schneizel admitted with reluctance.
"What of the High Eunuchs? Shall we extract them?" Kanon asked.
"No, leave them." Schneizel ordered. "They've lost the support of their people; they cannot offer us anything else. Leave them to their fate."
'That chess match in the beginning was likely a way from to analyze my tactics, or to pass on a signal to his agents in our midst. He suspected that we'd have a way to trace Tianzi and prepared an ambush, he even anticipated the Eunuchs' over confidence and turned it to his advantage, exposing our intent to the people. Once the people of this nation rebelled, he unleashed his forces to overwhelm ours, saving the Empress and likely gaining support of the entire Chinese Federation.' An impressed smirk fell on Schneizel's face. 'Well played, Optimus Prime. Well played.'
A large Spacebridge vortex opened up to allow the Avalon and Starscream to enter, followed by Thundercracker and Slipstream, along with Blast Off and Vortex with the surviving Seeker Vehicons right behind them. At the same time, a smaller Spacebridge portal appeared on the ground that allowed Onslaught, Brawl, and Swindle to retreat as well with the remaining ground based Vehicons. In a matter of seconds, the Decepticon forces had retreated, and the battle won, resulting in victorious roars and cheers from all the Autobots and Black Knights on the battlefield.
The High Eunuchs screamed as a large glowing broadsword sliced through the roof and outer wall of the Longdan, with the opening being savagely torn open to reveal Grimlock, back in his natural Cybertronian mode, as he glared with glowing red optics at the band of cowards below him.
"So, you're the worms that attempted to sell out your own people, and even try to kill a child." Grimlock snarled. "I've never seen a more pathetic bunch of lifeforms."
"Please! We'll give you anything you want! Just don't kill us! Please!" The fat High Eunuch begged.
"That pleasure belongs to someone else." Grimlock growled as he stepped aside and allowed the Shen Hu to enter.
"You're Decepticon allies have abandoned you! So, tell me, how does it feel to be helpless?!" Xingke exclaimed as he stepped up from his Knightmare's cockpit with a sword in hand. "To know that your lives are no longer yours! Now you know how her majesty feels, along with millions of people you attempted to sell out!"
He didn't even give the Eunuchs a chance to beg as he leapt from the Knightmare, cutting down the fat Eunuch first before moving onto the others. They all screamed in fear and agony as they were swiftly cut down, their blood sprayed across the floor and walls. Even as their soldiers and guards tried to defend them, Xingke was quick to slice and kill them as well. In less than a minute, all the High Eunuchs were dead.
"Feel good?" Grimlock asked.
Xingke turned around with a satisfied smile. "You have no idea."
As the Autobots and Black Knights continued to celebrate, Tianzi slowly stepped outside to look at the battlefield around her. Even though there was destruction everywhere, all the people looked nothing short of happy and excited, even the giant alien robots. And the way the people and aliens interacted with one another, like close friends, even if they were from two completely different species. It was something that amazed her.
She gave a small gasp as Optimus Prime slowly approached her, and kneeled down closer to her level to look at her with concern. "Your majesty, are you alright?"
"Y-Yes…" Tianzi nodded. "W-What about Xingke?"
"He is fine, I assure you. As are his cohorts." Optimus replied before giving an assuring smile. "The High Eunuch and the Decepticons can no longer use or harm you. I promise, you're in safe hands."
The way Optimus looked at her, though his eyes were different than any other person's, she was once again reminded of the kind and gentle look that Xingke would give her. Once again, she felt herself endeared by his very presence. Even though they had only just met, she believed him with all her heart when he said that she was safe. She felt tears of joy form in her eyes as she sank to her knees and cried in her hands as Kaguya came to her and put her hands on her shoulders, giving a gentle smile.
"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Tianzi cried in joy as Kaguya consoled her with Sayoko at her side as well. Kaguya looked up toward Optimus with a smile and a nod, which he returned as he stood up fully.
"That was pretty crazy." Ohgi said as he walked up by Optimus' side and looked toward the Autobot leader with a smile. "Gotta admit, that whole plan of yours, kinda felt like something Lelouch would do. Never expected it would come from you."
"All we did was reveal the truth." Optimus said. "The people deserved to know."
"Yeah, and it won't be easy for the Chinese Federation, will it?" Ohgi asked somewhat rhetorically, but Optimus responded anyway.
"No. There may still be cells loyal to the Eunuchs, and the people may have a difficult time adjusting to this change, but this country now has a chance for a brighter future. I'm certain now that it is in good hands." Optimus said as he looked not only toward Tianzi, but even Xingke as he approached her from his Knightmare. The young Empress didn't hesitate to run up toward him with a hug as she cried into his chest.
Even Ohgi couldn't help but smile. "Yeah… they're definitely in good hands now."
Done.
Well, that all went pretty well, didn't it? I know it seems odd to have what took place in three episodes in the canon series all take place in one chapter. But when you cut out most of the drama and political stuff, there's enough for it all to be condensed into one chapter, and I'm very pleased with how it all turned out.
(Yes, that Led Zeppelin song by Tamaki was a reference to a certain Marvel movie, as well as Warpath calling out to Starscream :D. I just couldn't resist, it seemed like the perfect opportunity)
With this battle concluded, Tianzi is saved, the intent of the High Eunuchs exposed, the Chinese Federation is now free from possible enslavement by the Decepticons. Of course, the war is still far from over. The next chapter is going to deal with the aftermath of both the EU and Chinese Federation battles as Lelouch, Optimus, and their allies lay the groundwork for their United Nations charter to push back against the Decepticons. But, Megatron is not going to take this lying down. He's still got plenty of tricks up his sleeve and is still the biggest threat to the Earth, so the Autobots and Black Knights aren't out of the woods yet.
Also, we are still quite a bit away from the "Geass Hunt" arc where the heroes go after the Geass Order. Don't forget that we still got the Iacon Relics in play, and I've got plans for that. So, I'm sure you can guess what Megatron's next move might be. Until then, I thank you all and I hope you've enjoyed this chapter of Code Prime.
Happy New Year!