Code Doom: Revenge

by Nomaddum

Two worlds are mired in war and destruction. The day of the most terrible prophecy is near. And only the most valiant heroes will be able to fight the great evil. And while the legendary Doomslayer sleeps, humans and Autobots strive to free the Earth from the tyranny of Britannia and its true masters - the Decepticons. Crossover Doom x Code-Geass x Transformers

6. Chapter 5: The Debut

Warning: I do not own the rights to Code Geass, Transformers and Doom, these rights belong to Sunrise Studio, Hasbro and id Software.

Lunapuresoul, thank you for the offer, but unfortunately I will not be able to contact you, as these social networks are currently blocked in my country. I hope you enjoy this chapter.

" Command..." - Geass voice commands.

(OST...) - Musical themes and songs used in fanfiction.

---

Chapter 5: The Debut

Lelouch stood as if he had turned into stone, his gaze fixed on a single point - the image of a slightly tanned youth, dressed in a straitjacket, which prevented him from even standing up. But the expressive and sharp green eyes, the chestnut hair and straight eyebrows - all these features spoke of the same person, whom the former prince believed to have died in Shinjuku.

"Suzaku?" - he mentally said to himself in shock, not believing his eyes and ears.

Suzaku Kururugi survived the ghetto massacre, but now his life was once again on the verge of being sent to the next world on false charges. Lamperouge slightly shifted his lilac eyes, looking at the one who led the procession of the convoy, consisting of a ceremonial transport and four Sutherland Nightmares, whose metal shoulders and factsphere differed in a scarlet matte shade from the more standard models intended for the entire British army. He knew the turquoise-haired Briton, for rumors about him spread throughout almost the entire society of the Empire.

---

A few hours before.

Kururugi sat on an iron chair in a practically empty gray room. Why practically? Because inside, in addition to the seat, there was a weak light bulb and an ordinary metal table, on which were the Briton's clasped hands and the so-called "evidence" in the case of the murder of the third prince Clovis.

- Do you know anything about this weapon, Suzaku Kururugi? - the turquoise-haired officer asked him, holding a pistol in his hand.

He himself knew perfectly well that this young soldier had not committed a crime, but his biography and family ties could be an excellent help in advancing his ambitious plans.

- It was from this gun that Prince Clovis was killed. Ballistic examination confirmed this. I also took the liberty of making inquiries about you. And as it turned out, you are the son of the last Prime Minister of Japan, Genbu Kururugi. Your motive here is obvious.

Suzaku was adamant, since he had never seen this gun in person and was in a completely different place at the time of the third prince's death. And the fact that his father was the Prime Minister of independent Japan meant nothing. He did not understand why they decided to accuse him, but he felt that something was wrong.

- That is not so, sir. I have never seen this weapon in my life. - he firmly tried to assure, but in response he received a kick from another British officer, as a result of which he fell from his chair to the floor. - Your fingerprints were found on it. You are also accused of killing the soldiers of the Imperial Guard, confess to your actions and then we will judge you as a honored Briton, and not as the eleventh. - the officer set the condition with a bored expression, realizing that the boy would refuse to obey.

- I did not do it! - Suzaku objected in a raised voice, but again remained deaf when another kick sent him to the kingdom of Morpheus.

---

After seeing the news, Lelouch took his sister to the bedroom, preparing her for bed: he made the bed, put pajamas on her, and now put her to bed like a small child. For him, this had become a habit, considering the fact that she was paralyzed and blind. However, despite this, the youngest Lamperouge heard very well, but what she had to listen to from the TV made her worried. For obvious reasons, of course.

- Onii-san, was Suzaku the one they were talking about on the news just now? - Nunnally asked.

- Yes, it looks like Suzaku is still alive! - Lelouch answered, although he himself was still in shock.

The girl felt both relief and fear at the same time. Suzaku Kururugi was the first friend of both her brother and her to appear in her life after her exile from her homeland. They were practically inseparable together, but their friendship was cut short when Britain turned Japan into another colony, separating her and Lelouch from the Japanese. Nunnally prayed that they could meet again, but this cruel world is trying to separate them.

- We haven't seen him since the end of the war. - She said nostalgically, feeling Lelouch cover her with a blanket. - Onii-san, what they say is not true, right?

- Of course not. Suzaku would never do anything like that. - The young man answered in a caring tone, feeling guilty before his sister, because it was he who killed Clovis, but at the same time made his best friend get caught in the crossfire, although he should have been in his place. - It's a mistake.

- Yes, that must be it. - Nunnally calmed down, smiling slightly.

- True. So good night, Nunnally! - the guy said, gently taking her hand.

When she fell asleep, Lelouch turned off the light, painting the bedroom in the dark tones of the night, went out into the illuminated corridor, closing the door behind him. His pocket immediately jingled, foreshadowing a future dialogue with his allies.

- Hello? - he answered, seeing an unknown number.

- I suppose you already know about today's news? - asked the clear and deep voice of the Autobot leader.

- Yes, I saw the report this morning. Soon, Bumblebee and I will be heading to your Ark.

- Got it.

The call ended. Lelouch sighed heavily, anticipating his future appearance on stage, where he would have to try not to fall flat on his face and try to pull his best friend out of trouble.

---

Somewhere in the Shinjuku ghetto.

Not only the Settlement learned of the death of Prince Clovis, almost the entire ghetto was on its ears due to the appearance of Suzaku Kururugi as a suspect in the assassination attempt. Many Japanese knew that this young man was the son of the last Prime Minister of Japan, and why they hoped that he would become a symbol of resistance against the occupying forces of Britannia, but some doubted his heroism, hearing the phrase - "a Honored Briton", because it meant one thing - betrayal and renunciation of the Motherland. However, the most ardent patriots generally considered this statement an insult, considering how much effort the rebels put in to destroy the prince's troops in the ghetto. Especially now, when the crimson-haired Japanese man named Shinichiro Tamaki went absolutely crazy, throwing an empty aluminum can of "Energy" energy drink, which the rebels had recently bought at a special shopping center sponsored by the "UAC Charity Foundation", at the wall.

- That's why we should have made that damn statement earlier! All the glory would have gone to us! - as quickly as he said everything, he left the room just as quickly, leaving his friend alone with his thoughts.

With a heavy sigh, Ohgi looked at the photo they had taken three years ago. He couldn't suppress his nostalgia for the long-dead older brother of his girlfriend and comrade, who was not afraid to challenge Britannia, taking on the burden of the leader of their group, unlike him. And it was not for nothing that Tamaki roared at him like that. They could have taken on this high-profile murder, but alas, they were out of luck.

- Eh, Naoto, I'm not cut out for this role. - he said to himself, staring at the captured image of a red-haired guy sitting peacefully on the ground. - Well, I'm not a leader!

---

The ship "Ark".

A multi-colored tunnel with a ringing roar opened with just one pull of the lever, letting in from the mainland a yellow and black car and its passenger, who again had nauseating spasms in his stomach. The door of the car opened when the black-haired guy got out of it, writhing painfully, like some old man.

- Hey, are you okay, dude? - Cliffjumper asked worriedly.

- Yeah... - Lelouch answered with difficulty, after which he finally lowered himself. - ...phew, I haven't had time to get used to such teleportations yet.

Fixit, seeing the guy's condition, thoughtfully put his hand to his chin.

- Hm, it seems that the properties of the Groundbridge's vortex have a side effect on organic matter, since the bridge itself is intended only for Cybertronians. I'll make a note of this.

- Later, Fixit, now we must focus on a more important matter. - Ironhide interrupted him, after which he turned to the former prince. - So, Britannia has finally published news of Clovis's murder. And they blame Suzaku Kururugi for this. - the Autobot veteran answered, peering into the reports of the British news channel "BNC", among which the face of a young chestnut-haired Japanese man appeared.

- But you and I know perfectly well that this is not so. - Lelouch continued, folding his arms across his chest.

- We did a little research. - Optimus spoke, nodding to Ratchet to change the screen, showing the Kururugi family tree. - Suzaku is the son of the late Prime Minister Genbu Kururugi, who became the last leader of an independent Japan.

- And considering that it was to Japan that you were exiled along with your sister as instruments of negotiation, are we right to assume that you were acquainted with this Suzaku Kururugi? - Ratchet asked rhetorically.

- True! - the former prince confirmed, recalling the days spent together in their childhood. - For some time, we were close with him, as friends, but after the end of the war, we were separated. Nunnally and I were taken in by the Ashford family, while Suzaku was taken in by the Great Houses of Kyoto.

- The Great Houses of Kyoto? And aren't they a gang of collaborators who sided with Britannia after the invasion? - the Autobot veteran asked with almost undisguised contempt.

- The Great Houses of Kyoto is an organization of six influential industrialists who control the entire industrial sphere of Area 11, including the mining industry based on diamond mining... energy... - Fixit hit himself on the body. - ... sakuradite. And directly subordinate to the administration of the Britannian Empire.

- That's just one side of the coin. - Lelouch intervened, surprising almost all the Autobots with his statement, except Optimus. - Maybe after the war they accepted citizenship of Britannia, but in reality it's just a public facade. I know the leader of Kyoto, he would never trade Japan for anyone else. - he firmly assured everyone of the incorruptibility of his temporary guardians.

- That is... they use connections with Britannia to help the rebels? - Arcee suggested, to which she received a positive nod.

- Exactly. They cooperate with Britannia to maintain control over the world's largest deposits of sakura... - the guy hesitated, coughing. - ahem... energon, which in turn allows them to get the most advanced technology and equipment for the rebels.

- Everything is as I said, Lelouch. The Great Houses of Kyoto own almost all of Japan's energon deposits, which make up seventy percent of the world's total. - Fixit confirmed with statistical data obtained during the energy analysis.

In response to this, the red bot whistled in amazement.

- Wow, that's a number! - he said.

- Well, okay, everything is clear with the houses of Kyoto. - the veteran Autobot changed the topic. - Then what about this Suzaku Kururugi? What did he do wrong, besides the fact that he is the son of the late Prime Minister?

- Precisely because of this! - Lelouch surprised the Autobots again with his vague statement.

- [Explain?] - the yellow scout squeaked questioningly.

- Suzaku would never do something like that.

- Why? - Bulkhead took over.

- Because otherwise I wouldn't be here. And besides, he was seriously wounded by the soldiers of the Imperial Guard, so it's unlikely that he wouldn't have managed to get to Clovis during our battle.

- If that's so, then why was he accused? - Warpath didn't get it.

- It's all about the initiator of the investigation. I recognized him. This is Jeremiah Gottwald.

- Jeremiah Gottwald? - the Autobot asked with interest.

- In addition to the fact that he is an officer in the Britannian army and currently the acting governor of Area 11, he is also the leader of the "Purebloods." - Lelouch explained.

- And who are these? - An unofficial faction of Britannian society that includes those who support the racial superiority of the original Britannian citizens.

The reaction of the Autobots was not long in coming, however, each had his own form of irritation.

- Oh, Primus! Let me guess, these idiots believe that only pure-blooded Britons have the right to live, and everyone else is just dirt on the path of their undivided dominance, right? - Cliffjumper asked rhetorically, rolling his eyes in displeasure and pressing his hand to his face.

- For lack of a better term, yes. - Lelouch admitted this, sharing the general indignation, given his current position in society.

- And given Suzaku's status, you assume that the Purebloods will use his involvement in the murder of Clovis as an excuse to abolish the system of granting "numbers" the status of "honored Briton." - Prime spoke up, understanding the course of the enemy's subsequent actions.

- Which in turn will force many of the well-off Britons to return to the ghetto, as the same eleventh. Without the right to obtain the desired benefits: a good home, normal food and a chance to find a well-paid job.

Although Lelouch considered the actions of the "Purebloods" disgusting, the system that Britannia offers is, in his eyes, the highest manifestation of hypocrisy and deceit. In order to survive, people are ready to abandon all those values that made them who they are, and this is language, culture, traditions, life and even ties with their country and people. This is how the Empire seeks to legalize its colonization and the blatant genocide of the Japanese people.

- Damn cons' wannabes! - growled the green thug. - I would give everything, just to get a chance to send these bastards home! Lelouch smiled slyly in response, feeling an unprecedented surge of enthusiasm in his soul:

- As tempting as it may sound, Bulkhead, I have a more subtle and humiliating way to deal with them.

The demonstrated smile of anticipation of the future action made some of the Autobots chuckle, realizing that their friend had planned something vile and very extravagant on this account.

- Let me guess, you're going to save your friend in front of everyone, huh? - Cliff asked with a grin, to which he received the same sly smile.

- If you have a plan, then it's time to share it, because I doubt that the power of your eye will be enough to deprive a huge crowd of people of their will! - Arcee said, kneeling down.

- My eye is indeed an integral part of the plan, but my real secret weapon is you! - the former prince declared, spreading his arms and addressing all the Autobots, who were somewhat taken aback by this exclamation.

- [So you want us to help you save your friend?] - Bumblebee squeaked clarifyingly.

- That's right. You see, I want to destroy Britannia no less than you do, but even with such power as mine, I can hardly resist the entire empire alone. I need your help.

The intention of the Britannian prince caused great surprise in the Prime team, considering the fact that the guy and the rebels easily dealt with the Britannian troops even with little participation of the Autobots. But if he asks them to help like that, then his plans are more thought out and without their intervention he will hardly be able to do anything. Most of them agreed to join his little show, except for Ratchet, who was skeptical about this idea:

- Optimus, while I agree that the actions of the "Purebloods" are cruel, but you yourself know very well what will happen if we announce ourselves to the whole world. Megatron is unlikely to ignore something like that.

- Which will subsequently lead to the intervention of the Decepticons in the conflict between Britannia and the rebels. - Ironhide added on his own, sharing the medic's skepticism, but maintaining a fighting spirit in his spark.

- We knew what we were getting into when we decided to help the rebels in Shinjuku. The Decepticons will intervene in the war one way or another, it is inevitable. However, I cannot allow someone innocent to take responsibility for an act he did not commit, and I also cannot allow others to become victims of the exorbitant ambitions of radicals who consider one people superior to another.

Lelouch was very impressed by the Autobot leader's resilience and fearlessness in the face of various risks and obstacles. In his eyes, Prime was most like an ideal noble knight, ready to protect the weak and confront those who abuse power. In some ways, he even saw in him a reflection of what Britain could have become if it had abandoned its path of destructive and aggressive wars. However, the guy was still worried about one very serious detail that he constantly heard from the other Autobots, who spoke with trepidation and fear about their enemies.

- Listen! - He attracted the attention of the team. - You often mention your enemies as if they were truly terrible. If so, then can we find out how strong they are, so that in the future we can be prepared for their intervention? The bots glanced at each other, but said nothing, surprising Lelouch, until an orange minicon jumped out:

- To be honest, we ourselves don't really know.

- We haven't seen a single con since the end of our last battle during the Exodus. - Ironhide continued.

- We don't know how many soldiers they have or what weapons they have. - Cliff answered disappointedly.

- And all we know for sure is that Megatron himself is here. - Arcee said, sharply waving her finger downwards.

- Yes, I heard about him from Bumblebee. But still, I would like to know more about his capabilities. - the former prince asked, feeling that the information his partner had told him was not enough to understand his possible opponent.

However, instead of words, several seconds of deathly silence followed, during which the Autobots exchanged glances between each other and with the yellow scout.

- You haven't told him yet, right? - Ironhide asked rhetorically.

- [I thought he wasn't ready to hear it yet.] - B admitted shamefacedly, with a hint of regret, turning his gaze to the puzzled youth.

- What? What are you talking about? - Not understanding their tone, he addressed everyone.

- Lelouch, the Decepticons are the most terrible threat the Universe has ever known. - Optimus began, kneeling down. - Their own beliefs about the survival of the strongest led them to commit many atrocities all over our planet. - He answered with a seal, confusing Lelouch even more.

- You mean war crimes? - he suggested, although he knew that the Autobots would say something worse.

- No, Lelouch. They did what is considered truly evil! - Cliffjumper said with a hint of grief and anger, clenching his fist. - Megatron and his minions poisoned the core of Cybertron for the sake of power over us all!

Lelouch's pupils shrank from shock, horror and disbelief. He could accept that the Autobots' enemies used some kind of weapon of mass destruction that destroyed an entire city, but it never occurred to him. Is it possible? To poison the core of an entire planet, even the most inveterate conquerors of antiquity and modern times did not have such a fantastic idea.

- How... poisoned? - the guy said intermittently, feeling his arms and legs trembling.

- Just like that, they penetrated into the very heart of the planet and poisoned the spark of our creator Primus! Megatron did not care that constant battles on the surface were destroying Cybertron, he wanted power over everyone, but as a result, he destroyed our world, forcing us all to leave it! - Warpath exclaimed angrily, remembering the day when he, Prime and Ironhide watched as the spark of their home faded.

"I can't believe it! They had no qualms about destroying their own world, and now they're going to do it to ours?!" - Lelouch said to himself in shock, feeling all the pain, fear and rage in his allies' voices. - Are you saying that M-Megatron can destroy our planet too?!

- Megatron poisoned our planet without a doubt, so why do you think he'll show mercy to you? - Ratchet asked rhetorically. - The only reason Earth still exists is probably because Britannia entertains him, since they mine energon for his army, thereby freeing him from having to do his dirty work!

- The Decepticons are a bunch of hypocritical idiots, and Megatron is a real psycho, for whom ambitious ends justify the means! - the Autobot veteran exclaimed angrily. - Your father is terrible, kid, but believe us, the leader of the Decepticons is much... much worse!

Lelouch sweated so much from all these revelations that even a whole drop slipped off his head. He was given a clear picture of the world of transformers, because the Autobots showed themselves from the best side during the battle in Shinjuku, not only helping the rebels, but also saving people from death. And if the Decepticons, as the bots say, are so crazy and greedy for power, then the threat of destruction looms over the Earth and humanity. Supporting the ideology of supremacy, the greedy and cruel nature of power, intolerance to dissent and the doctrine of complete subjugation of the world - the Decepticons and Britannia are truly a very different quartet in terms of uncompromising conquest of worlds and deprivation of the rights and freedoms of all sentient beings in the universe.

- If what you say is true, then we have more reasons to work together! - Lelouch declared, shuddering at the mere thought that the world he wanted to build for his sister could be wiped off the face of the universe because of the Decepticons. - I know Britannia, and you know the Decepticons! Perhaps we will have a chance to defeat our enemies if we join forces in the fight for the independence of Japan.

The Autobots understood the zeal of the boy and shared it themselves, but everything is not as simple as it seems at first glance.

- Even if you say so, Lelouch, and even if we agree, we are outnumbered on both sides. - Arcee was skeptical about this.

The former prince himself understood that they lacked the numbers to fight. There are at least nine Autobots on the Ark, but one is a minicon and is not designed for battles by size, the other is generally a medic and scientist and should be on the ship to help his comrades with treatment if necessary. Only seven bots remain, but Lelouch has only seen the work of six of them. Only the red-silver giant with a pipe in his chest remains unknown to him.

However... there were only alien robots here, and he remembers that the so-called "terrorists" also showed good results in that battle. Especially one red-haired girl, who fought on her nightmare, like a professional pilot on an airplane.

- You're right, there are only nine Autobots on this ship, seven of which are capable of fighting. No offense, Ratchet! - Lelouch awkwardly apologized to the white and orange medic, who only nodded in understanding, since he himself realized that he was not able to help his friends on the battlefield. - But... - the opposing alliance attracted the attention of the team. - ... I can recall a group of rebels who gave a good fight to the Britannian army, and if you add several hundred oppressed Japanese to this, then we will get a full-fledged armada.

Team Prime was not very surprised by this idea, considering that they were discussing it just yesterday, but the way their little friend expresses himself makes some, especially Ironhide and Cliffjumper, smirk.

- I assume you have already found candidates for us, right? - the red horned bot asked rhetorically.

- [Lelouch has already made an appointment with that Kallen girl and her friends.] - Bee answered. - [We can use this as a basis for a future alliance!]

- Bumblebee, this isn't just about getting the humans on our side, - the veteran Autobot interjected. - This is about an all-out fight against Britannia's tyranny. We must let them know that they too can fight against the Empire.

- And that is precisely why I intend to save Suzaku! - Lelouch spoke up again, intriguing Cliff.

- Ah, I think I understand your plan! - he guessed. - If we save your friend, we will knock Britannia off its feet, showing the world that they are not so invincible. Dishonor them by saving a false accuser. A devious strategy! Hehe!

- Lelouch could only smile devilishly, anticipating the future shame of the purebloods. The other Autobots followed Cliff's example, sensing that their debut would make a splash in terms of performance efficiency.

- Then sign me up too! - Bulkhead laughed, hitting his chest.

- I'm all for it! Let's show those half-cons how Autobots fight! - Arcee agreed with a grin.

- The rest of the bots, including Warpath, nodded in approval until Optimus decided to put in his word:

- Very good! - he rose from his knee. - From this moment, our liberation war with Britannia and the Decepticons has begun!

- Glad to hear it! - Lelouch said, expressing a sincere smile. - But I must clarify something. - The serious tone made Team Prime turn their attention back to the former prince. - To implement the plan, I will need the help of all seven, including him! - he pointed at Warpath, who was slightly taken aback by such a sharpening of attention.

- Mine too? - the bot said in surprise.

- Yes, what's wrong?

- Um, Lelouch, are you sure? I understand, of course, that any help might be needed for the sake of the plan, but... - Bulkhead tried to speak uncertainly.

- Do you have any problems with him? - the former prince asked, puzzled.

- With Warpath himself? No! It's just that his alt-form is very... specific for our case. - Ironhide explained vaguely, making Lelouch even more stupefied, who looked at the red giant.

- Specific?

- You see, kid, I... argh, okay, I'll just show you!

Warpath stepped out of the group, only to transform into something Lelouch didn't expect to see at all. His face contorted in shock, causing his lower jaw to drop to the ground, and his body to lose its balance and fall on its butt. His eyes were so wide that they even looked like golf balls.

"HOLY SHIT!" - flashed through his thoughts in a loud scream. - This... explains... a lot!

Warpath returned to his humanoid form once again, seeing Lelouch sitting stunned on the cold floor, trying to process the newly-minted information. But then the shock was replaced by raging enthusiasm, for the alt-form can cause real terror in both soldiers and people, for with such a weapon, his future army can repel even such nightmares as the one that destroyed the Sutherlands in whole packs.

- Warpath, it's a form, it's not earthly, right? - Lelouch clarified, because he knew that neither Britain nor any other superpower on Earth had such technology.

- Yes, I haven't had time to find a suitable earthly transport yet, and I don't really want to use Britannia's technology. I'm afraid of scaring innocent people! - the red bot spoke honestly.

- Logical. However, after your answer, I had a great idea! - the former prince said, smiling slyly again, surprising all the Autobots.

- What kind? - Ironhide asked with interest.

- About this later, now... - the guy took a flash drive out of his pocket. - ... I would like to discuss the details of our plan. Is there a connector for a flash drive here?

- Yes, it's right here! - Fixit called him over, pointing to the descending platform. - Since we will be working with humans in the future, I have designed special platforms so that you can easily reach any console of the ship. - They approached the panel together. - Ratchet and I also took the liberty of, so to speak, "downgrading" our technologies so that you could access them more easily. This should provide us with a reward...achievement... - the minicon comically hit himself on the head. - ...an advantage!

The former prince nodded approvingly in response and, at the direction of the orange minicon, inserted a miniature storage device into the connector of the computer panel. The folder with the file opened, showing its contents on the screen. The Autobots squinted as they looked at the image, after which everyone had a separate reaction to what they saw. But the only one who could not contain his emotions was Warpath, who laughed throughout the entire compartment of the ship, catching Lelouch off guard.

- What... is this... in the name of the Allspark... is this? - Ratchet asked restrainedly and intermittently.

- It is obvious that I will have to disguise myself in the future. - The former prince began to explain. - Think about it, a Britannian prince, presumed to have died during the invasion, is going to lead a rebellion against his own empire, which these same rebels hate with all their souls. And I would also prefer not to expose myself and Nunnally to danger! And hey! - he exclaimed at Warpath, who was clutching his stomach. - Stop laughing like a horse!

- Sorry, kid, it's just that the way you see yourself as a leader makes me laugh! - the red giant answered, barely holding back his laughter.

- Look, Lelouch, we understand your situation, it's just... - Arcee hesitated, awkwardly looking away from the image on the console.

- What? Can't you do it? - Lelouch asked, puzzled.

- No, we can do it, it's just... um... - Fixit wanted to say, but somehow his tongue did not turn.

- What? Something's wrong?

- Um... how should I put it... - Bulkhead hesitated, his eyes darting from side to side in panic.

- What were you thinking when you made that sketch? - the veteran Autobot said sheepishly, hiding his face behind a servo. - It's too bright for my liking!

- I like it! - Cliff replied in a seemingly more favorable tone, until he said this: - That would definitely scare a lot of bad guys... but at least you'll look like a drama queen!

Lelouch became indignant, feeling that his style was not to the Autobots' liking. Then he turned his gaze to his yellow partner, but he, too, commented on the former prince's choice with his traitorous skepticism:

- [Sorry, buddy, but I have to agree with them! No doubt this will turn some heads... but... let me ask, are you really going with the sci-fi theme of Count Dracula or is this something else?]

Optimus ignored the discussion altogether, focusing more on the upcoming action, for he understood that by rescuing Kururugi, his team was essentially revealing their existence to the entire world, which would force his worst enemy to enter this confrontation with even greater tenacity and ferocity.

---

The next day.

School was canceled at the Academy in honor of the Day of Mourning for the death of the Viceroy of Area 11 - the third prince Clovis la Britannia, who died as a result of what was called a "dastardly stab in the back by the honored Britons." The Purebloods did everything they could to spread this lie to all the blood Britons. The Holy Britannian Empire flags were taken down in the settlements, the announcement of the prince's death and the subsequent minutes of silence were heard everywhere. The media published everything that could attract the attention of the entire Area, including false evidence of Suzaku Kururugi's involvement in the murder. Even in schools, classes were cancelled due to this incident. Instead, the students were gathered in the assembly hall, where, in addition to them, there were also representatives of the Purebloods, selling overly dramatic nonsense:

- This was a truly tragic incident! We lost our viceroy of Area 11, Prince Clovis, who was so loved and respected! However, we must overcome this sadness, let it give us strength to continue to follow the will of the now deceased third prince!

The most naive and the most patriotic students shed tears over the death of a real monster who organized mass murders in the ghetto. But no one knows about it, no one suspects what the Empire's soldiers were doing behind the walls of a technological settlement built as a city of the future. Moreover, they began to look askance at the Honored Britons, sensing a catch from them. The tension between the children of the honored and the purebloods grew with every second. Only a few remained calm when the minute of silence was knocked, ignoring the whispers of their peers. There were also those who did not care at all about what was happening outside the Academy and the Tokyo settlement. But even among them there were those who knew the true reason for everything that happened. And these were Lelouch and Kallen, who did not show a drop of patriotic sympathy. One secretly fought on the side of the rebels, the other is generally the true killer of the prince. But the Purebloods had made a good move by branding Lamperouge's best friend a criminal. He had no idea that Suzaku was the pilot of the white knightmare, but he also knew that Jeremiah Gottwald and his followers had decided to take advantage of his special status to destroy the citizenship grant system. And if nothing was done, Suzaku would be shot as a traitor, unless of course he was declared the eleven, thus depriving him of the status of "honored".

As soon as the ceremonial mourning ended, Lelouch left the assembly hall with his friends from the student council and Kallen, heading to the cafeteria to have a snack. Having taken a table and prepared to begin the meal, Lelouch was attracted by the noise of students standing in front of the television to listen to the report. The former prince might not have paid attention to the news if he hadn't seen Nina Einstein, a quiet and shy girl with glasses and dark green hair, looking in the same direction, fascinated. And he wasn't the only one who noticed it, as the head of the student council got there first.

- Nina, why aren't you eating? - Milly asked in surprise, waving her hand in front of the brunette's face.

- Huh? - she said, not immediately realizing that she had been called. - Oh, s-s-sorry... it's just... there's a report... - the girl didn't finish, shrinking a little from embarrassment.

This time, Lelouch looked at the TV, sharpening his violet eyes. And as it turned out, the TV was showing an interview with representatives of Einstein's idol - the United Aerospace Corporation, or simply UAC.

This company is the largest commercial enterprise in the world, with branches in almost all cities of many countries, including Britannia. Despite its name, UAC is a monopolist in many areas of human activity: in medicine, mechanics, engineering and even metallurgy, covers almost all types of transport industry: ocean, land and even sky. It is this company that is the discoverer of the most powerful energy source, which was later named Sakuradite, in honor of the plant under which UAC scientists discovered this mineral. It was with its discovery that the development of the company began, as the dominant force in the space industry, which gave it its current name. The authority of the company, as the only supplier of modern technologies, is undeniable. It was they who created the energy carrier "Yggdrasil Drive", which later became the battery for nightmares. It is UAC that has the merit of creating a device that allows aviation to remain motionless in the air, which was called "Griffin". The UAC headquarters were on Earth, first in Britannia, and then, after the discovery of sakuradite, it was moved to Japan, since the old government signed a contract according to which the state received the right to export this mineral, and the UAC in turn received the opportunity to create technologies based on it. However, to make everything look fair, the UAC began to distribute the created devices to other countries, one of which was Britannia. But as everyone now knows, the Empire used the "Yggdrasil Drive" to create new combat units for its army based on it.

The corporation also created the first prototypes of humanoid machines, which were provisionally called "ExoSkeleton" or "ES", but Britain decided to use the new development, turning the contract for the provision of services in the extractive industry to its advantage. The first "ES" came under the complete control of Britannian industrialists, who in turn allowed their own scientists to disassemble the machines for subsequent study. The result was that the "ES" created by Britannia were renamed "Knightmare Frame", which were later used to capture Japan and its largest sakuradite deposits. Realizing that Britannia could use them to nationalize the UAC, and the corporation was not a private military company and did not have its own armed forces, the founder and head of the company Samuel Hayden announced the evacuation of the entire headquarters and American branches. Using their developments and contracts with the governments of the European Union and the Chinese Federation, most of the UAC employees were sent to Mars, leaving only a few scientific departments and the so-called "UAC Charity Foundation" on Earth, which is essentially a subsidiary organization that works both as a recruiter and a volunteer, helping many residents in ghettos and reservations in different countries of the world.

And now Lelouch watched as representatives of the foundation gave interviews to Britannian journalists:

- Please tell me, how does the UAC intend to act now after the death of the viceroy?

- The death of the third prince Clovis is a tragedy for the entire Britannian Empire, but even despite this incident, the UAC does not intend to stop the supply of food and medicine to both Shinjuku and other ghettos. - answered the European with blond hair.

- And even despite the fact that the killer is the eleven himself?

- First of all, I must say that in the UAC It is not customary to call people by their Area numbers. We advocate for the equality of all our employees, regardless of their nationality and race. There are a huge number of Japanese among our volunteers. - the company employee answered with a hidden note of indignation.

- Then can you tell us what your employees think about this?

- Just like the rest of the archipelago, they fell into shock and disbelief, but refused to comment on the situation.

- Based on your previous statement about the equality of all people, can we say that the UAC supports the actions of terrorists?

- No! - he said sullenly. - The United Aerospace Corporation does not support terror, the victims of which are peaceful residents of both settlements and ghettos. However, allow us to ask a question to the government of the entire Area 11 ... - the employee came closer to the camera operator. - ...it is in your power to change the fate of the Japanese, so why don't you use your resources to restore what was destroyed, or will your answer be the same: because they are the elevens? It is precisely because of this attitude that terrorism is born, it is a reaction to the inaction of the authorities and to the fact that the Japanese have lost the right to call themselves that.

- So you condemn Britannia?

- We condemn the government's inaction. If you do not want terrorist attacks to continue, then at least restore what was destroyed by the war. The Empire may have conquered Japan, but it did not conquer those who have always formed the backbone of the entire state - its people. No matter what technology Britannia uses, the rebellious spirit cannot be killed by force, because one will be replaced by another. This is our answer to what is happening in Area 11.

The camera operator began to shrink, eventually giving way to the news anchor, who somewhat confusedly commented on the interview with the UAC representatives. Kallen chuckled to herself, seeing that it wasn't just her fellow rebels who understood the true nature of things happening outside the Tokyo Settlement. Even her brother Naoto admired the UAC, which helped the poor people of the ghetto in every way possible and allowed their compatriots to both speak their own language and experience themselves as Japanese: wear traditional clothes, eat national dishes, sing Japanese songs and hold up the Japanese flag, since neither the Settlement nor the ghetto allowed such things. But what was more important was that the corporation had influence in the field of education as well, as Kallen learned that with the help of the Charity Foundation and the NAC, special courses had been introduced at Ashford Academy for those who wished to interact with the Japanese in the fields of industry and social activities. In other words, despite its status as a scientific and technological enterprise, the United Aerospace Corporation was a force to be reckoned with by all the world's superpowers.

Lelouch did not react to this statement in any way, considering the UAC to be another manifestation of hypocrisy, since, despite all the words about equality and helping people, the corporation simply uses the plight of the numbered in order to later attract them to its ranks. However, he also showed a modicum of respect for them, since, unlike Britannia, the corporation did not hide its intention to attract free labor into its ranks.

- Yeah, these guys don't mince their words! - Rivalz said with a dejected sigh.

Shirley understood that there were individuals in the Academy who fiercely defended the doctrine of superiority, insulting and humiliating students who were the children of the honored Britons, and in some ways she agreed with the position of the UAC employees, but at the same time she did not like the way the corporation spoke about Britannia itself, as if putting everyone under the same comb. Fenett never condemned other students just because they were of a different nationality, but apparently her own attitude towards people does not change anything if Britannia imposes this terrible way of life on other numbered ones.

- But not all Britons are so terrible! - the brown-haired woman said sadly.

- Only, those who hold government posts do nothing to change the situation of the Elevens, - Lelouch joined in. - The UAC is not trying to condemn all the Britons, but rather is trying to show people the objective reality in which Britannia shows itself from its worst side.

Milly saw flashes of malice and anger in her deputy's eyes, hidden under the facade of frivolity and intellectuality. She understood his hatred perfectly well and knew perfectly well that he would not forgive the Empire and especially his father for what they did to his family. Such is the nature of this state - there is no place for love or honor in it, and the so-called sermons about chivalry and aristocracy are just empty words aimed at distracting people from public affairs, making them rivals with each other. In other words, the hidden motto of Britain: "Man is a wolf to man."

---

Area 11

Camelot Division Engineering Department

Cecile Croomy looked dejectedly at the empty white Knightmare, more like a giant, clad in white and gold armor, behind which the humped pilot capsule bulged. Why was she so dejected? It was simple: the pilot, who showed ninety-four percent compatibility in the simulator and was ideal for piloting Lancelot, was now behind bars, accused of murdering the third prince, but Cecile knew that was not true. She personally saw what was happening through the Knightmare's camera. Suzaku was in a completely different place at the time of Clovis's death and could not have killed him. Something was wrong with this investigation, especially when their special forces were not allowed to participate in the search for evidence. They were not even allowed to give a testimony. But no matter how much Krumi tried to puzzle over it, she couldn't get an answer, considering the fact that the officers had simply grabbed her, twisted her arms, and then dragged her into a truck, saying without explanation that Kururugi was accused of murdering the governor of Area 11.

With a heavy sigh, she turned around, noticing that her boss, a white-haired man in glasses, was staring in fascination at the system panel, where footage of Lancelot's last fight had appeared.

- Lloyd, are you still... - she didn't have time to finish, as she was immediately cut off by Asplund.

- Just look! - He rewinded the recording to the moment when a bright yellow and black car flew at Lancelot, turning into a huge humanoid robot at the end, hitting his brainchild right in the face. - This thing turned from a car into a nightmare in an instant! It's simply impressive!

Lloyd literally radiated the aura of a mad genius who cared only about his own toy or something that could not be explained. He, like a child, watched the same movements, which sometimes made Croomy either get goosebumps from fear, or show darkened closed eyes with a bright and, one might say, radiant smile, while veins on her forehead bulged, forming something like a cross. However, now she just looked at the screen with alarm, not understanding what attacked Lancelot in the last battle.

- Are the Nightmares capable of such a thing? - she asked the question more to herself than to her interlocutor.

- I don't think it looks like a Nightmare. - Lloyd answered, putting his subordinate into a stupor. - Look! A couple of movements on the panel and the camera recording was enlarged at the very moment when the yellow-black robot struck, moving its round, shining blue eyes. The blue-haired girl was even more stunned, not believing her eyes.

- These are... what... eyes? - she said in shock.

- Yes. They follow Lancelot's movements. Besides... - Lloyd scrolled the recording forward, to the very end, when the white Nightmare's opponent turned to him, showing his angry look. - ... the expression on this mech's face changed during the fight, as if it were alive! Not to mention that the reaction time of this thing is much better than any Nightmare!

Croomy had only one guess on this matter, but she considered it doubtful, given the fact that her former mentor spoke out against any violence.

- You think this... - she wanted to say, but Asplund quickly understood the course of her thoughts.

- I doubt that this is Hayden's doing. He is too fixated on space exploration. - He immediately rejected this version, believing that the object that attacked Lancelot was something more than just a mech with built-in facial expressions.

And Cecile herself understood perfectly well that this was impossible. Not only because Professor Hayden is a pacifist, but also because all of the current UAC developments are currently being carried out not on Earth, but on Mars. And this is several hundred million kilometers of space filled with various space bodies. The fastest UAC ships can return to Earth in a maximum of forty days. However, the recent creation of the Powerful Acceleration System, or the "PAS" engine, made it possible for space shuttles to fly at a speed equal to half the speed of light, which is a breakthrough in the field of space travel. This means that the UAC fleet could cross the direct path between Earth and Mars in literally a few days, which Croomy repeatedly noted in her mind, listening to and reading the news feeds of the official website of the corporation. But even despite this, the girl doubted that the UAC would support terrorists, thereby spilling the blood of innocent people, which she considered both her own compatriots and all the numbered ones.

But meanwhile, the recording they had was irrefutable proof of Suzaku's innocence.

- Have you tried to show this recording to the authorities? - asked Cecile.

- Yes, I tried, but since we are an irregular group, we have no say in this matter. Even if we showed them this recording, they would try to hide it. A machine we know nothing about is obviously stronger than any Briton. A Nightmare capable of repelling the Seventh Generation would certainly cause a scandal not only between the military and the Elevens, but also with Britannian faces if word of this leaked out. However, it's a pity. If something like this exists, I would like to take a closer look at it! - the Count sighed dejectedly, thinking that he had missed the perfect opportunity to behold this incredible creature.

- But... then, what will happen to Suzaku?

- His fate is practically sealed. No matter how you look at it, General Bartley is now out of favor, and the Purebloods are in charge, according to whom only the Eleven can be the criminal who killed Prince Clovis. And if this is confirmed, then everyone will agree with Margrave Jeremiah's demand to eliminate the salary system. Oh, what a pity! - He looked at his gear-shaped souvenir, which he received during his student days at the Pendragon Technical Institute. - After all, it turned out to be an ideal gear.

---

- Hey, Lelouch, what are you going to do now? - Cardemonde addressed the former Prince in a friendly manner. - You shouldn't waste a day when all classes are canceled! But you know, there are people who want to take revenge on you!

- Don't you dare gamble again! - Fenett said indignantly. - Lulu, you already have a car!

- Come on, Shirley, don't be such a bore! - the blue-haired guy smiled frivolously.

- No, she's right! - Lelouch agreed, turning his gaze to the side.

- What? - Cardemonde said confusedly.

- I've had enough gambling. I've already got more than enough money, and I have a car. - Lamperouge explained, watching the leaving student.

By leaving student he meant a red-haired girl with a fit figure and dressed in the standard Ashford Academy uniform, except for turquoise stockings. However, his observation was interrupted by a sudden vibration in his right pocket. There was an unknown number on his cell phone, which Lelouch answered immediately, thereby attracting the attention of his friends:

- Hello?

- We are ready, Lelouch. - the clear and deep voice of the leader of the Autobots was heard.

- Got it. Goodbye.

Having finished the call, the guy immediately began to answer Shirley and Rivalz's questions:

- Lulu, did something happen?

- No, everything is fine, it's just a driving instructor!

- Are you learning to drive? - Rivalz asked, raising an eyebrow in surprise.

- That's right, I just thought, what's the point of having a car if you don't have a driver's license.

- Yes, I think you're right! - the girl sighed with relief.

- Do you mind if I go with you? - Cardemonde begged.

- Sorry, but this is personal.

---

A few hours later.

Tokyo Tower, or as it was officially called "Tokyo TV Tower" was a symbol of the great achievements of the former Japan, a calling card to the old capital of an independent state. But now it is half destroyed, and instead of television broadcasts there is a museum called "History of Area 11", which contains photographs and exhibits from the time of Britannia's invasion of Japan seven years ago. What was once considered a symbol of Japan's power has ceased to exist. Not only that, but the announcer tells it all as if Britain had performed a righteous act of liberating the Japanese people from their primitive and barbaric way of life, as if civilizing yet another land in its own image.

It was all nonsense, considering the plight of the people in the ghetto who refused or were unable to become "granted" Britons. That's what Kallen thought, dressed in her school uniform and looking blankly at the museum exhibits, checking the time on the wall clock, which showed 16:01. The meeting time had already arrived, but the girl could not understand why she had to come here and why only her.

"Sixteen hundred hours, Tokyo Tower, why here?" - she wondered.

In another part of the room were those she had called with her, as insurance in case this turned out to be a trap.

- It was Suzaku Kururugi who contacted us, right? - asked one of the disguised rebels.

- Don't jump to conclusions! - the current leader of the Kozuki group, Kaname Ohgi, cautiously cut him off.

- He could have been arrested after the call from Kallen! - suggested the blond Japanese Yoshida.

- It's dangerous for us to be here! - warned another guy with dark turquoise curls named Sugiyama.

- Miss Kallen Stadfield from Ashford Academy, please go to the reception to collect your things! - the announcer announced through the loudspeaker, attracting the attention of the girl's friends, who, as it turned out, quickly went towards the observation deck, where the very reception was located, in which there was a Britannian girl in the official uniform of the museum employees.

- Hello, you are Kallen Stadfield, right? - asked the employee, after which she received a nod in confirmation. - Good! - she reached for the shelves behind the counter, from where she took a mobile phone. - Here is your phone! Is it yours?

- Uh... yes, thank you very much! - thanked Kozuki, taking the means of communication from the counter and leaving for the observation deck. The only thing she saw on the phone screen was the name of the subscriber, which caused the girl even more questions than answers.

- Zero? - She glanced at her commander's approving nod, and then answered the call. - Yes, I'm listening!

- Go to the south exit, our old friend will meet you there. - That voice spoke again, causing Kallen to fall into a stupor and distrust even more.

But there was nothing to be done. Since he had called them, it meant that they would soon meet face to face.

Having left the tower from the south entrance, they immediately noticed something shocking. The same yellow and black muscle car that Kallen had seen in Shinjuku drove up to them.

- This is... - the girl wanted to say, but Kaname beat her to it:

- The same car that helped us in the ghetto.

- But who's driving? - their comrade asked.

But the next moment the group was dumbfounded, because the open doors of the muscle car revealed an empty interior, in which, apart from the steering wheel, passenger seats and radio panel, there was nothing else. The Japanese even had their eyes popped out of their sockets.

- Empty ?! - said Kallen, not believing her glasses.

- But how ?! He literally just drove up to us! - the blond rebel rubbed his eyes.

And then Kozuki's new cell phone rang again, showing the same subscriber. The girl, despite the shock, managed to answer the call:

- Don't worry, it's safe. I need you all to get into the car. - assured the mysterious "Zero".

Kallen didn't know how to react to such a surprise, especially considering that the car was completely empty. But some assumptions still managed to settle in her head:

"Maybe the car is controlled remotely? Or some special kind of self-driving equipment?"

There were countless questions, but there were still no answers, just another thread that pulled Kallen into some tangled tangle of mysteries and riddles, in which she involuntarily became a seeker on par with her comrades, and this Zero - a puppeteer who does not allow himself to be revealed prematurely. But still, curiosity gets the better of it, which is why the rebels enter the car. After that, the doors closed, and the car, as if coming to life, moved from its place, which caused even more amazement among the Japanese when they saw how the steering wheel turned to the side by itself. Anxiety grew more and more with each passing second, until another call from Zero appeared on the phone:

- You don't have to worry, you are safe. As for the answers to your questions, I will give them when we meet, but for now enjoy the ride.

---

Tokyo Settlement, Governor-General's Palace.

The day before, at the main headquarters of the Britannian occupation authorities, a private conversation was taking place between the acting viceroy and, in fact, the current leader of all of Area 11, Jeremiah Gottwald, and a member of the press service of the Britannian television station "HI-TV" Diethard Ried, in the presence of two of Gottwald's associates - Villetta Nu, a dark-skinned woman with silver hair and yellow eyes, and Kewell Soresi, a fair-skinned brown-haired man with blue eyes:

- The memorial program about His Highness was done very well, although overly sentimental in my opinion. - Jeremiah commented, turning his face to his interlocutor, maintaining his stoic expression.

- Your Excellency, the audience tends to adore tear-jerking programs. - explained the Briton, whose front lock was combed so that its base was raised up, while the end was let down.

The leader of the radicals only chuckled, smiling weakly at Ried's comment:

- The words of a seasoned TV man, but I cannot help but note your talents! You did an excellent job in such a short time, someone would even have thought that you expected Prince Clovis to die.

Such an assumption could not help but make Diethard feel uncomfortable, considering that Gottwald now considers almost every TV man a possible spy for underground resistance groups. But despite his anxiety, he still managed to give an answer to this remark:

- I'm afraid that preparing notes on memorable programs for important people is a common thing, Your Excellency. - he said, bowing politely.

- Really? You did the same for me, right?

- Now we can do the same for you, Your Excellency!

The words didn't hurt Jeremiah's pride very much, but he still found the strength and interest to ask the journalist a personal question:

- Are you saying that I wasn't an important person for you before? That's very honest of you.

- I'm afraid that's true, considering your current position as acting viceroy.

- Have you ever thought about becoming a military man? The army needs officers to work with information.

- Unfortunately, I have to refuse, since I don't consider myself suitable for such work! - Diethard politely declined, despite the arrogant smile of the pure-blood leader.

- Do you prefer the civilian sector? Well, okay, but I have one more request. Tomorrow evening, Suzaku Kururugi will be taken to a military tribunal...

- If you want to show off, why not gather patriotic Britons on the side of the road? - You catch on quickly, Diethard, it makes it easier for us to have a conversation. Make sure the criminal's face is clearly visible on camera! - Jeremiah said in a more commanding tone.

- Lord Jeremiah, there are those among the Elevens who consider Private Kururugi a hero. - Villetta spoke up, feeling that she needed to raise this topic. - They might consider releasing him.

- There is no need to worry about that, I will personally be present in the escort, being in my Sutherland. - the Briton assured, after which he declared with hot determination: - If these troublemakers dare to appear, I will immediately execute Kururugi on the spot.

- You should think about who exactly will try to stop you, Your Excellency.

- You mean that very statement of the UAC representatives? - Jeremiah chuckled relaxedly. - Those lab coated dudes won't have the guts to stop us, especially considering they don't have any Nightmares at all.

- I wouldn't be so sure if I were you, - Ried said, which attracted the attention of all the purebloods, after which he showed some photos. - These pictures were taken in Saitama and Kagoshima.

The three carefully examined the contents of the images, their eyes narrowed in annoyance. The pictures showed massive mechs armed to the teeth, which were comparatively smaller than the Sutherlands, but thick enough with armor to withstand their shots. They were armed with a cannon-arm, reminiscent of the barrel of a tank, and on top of them were heavy machine gun turrets.

- That's all I have for now, Your Excellency. We'll have everything ready by tomorrow evening. - Diethard said, after which he left the office of the Governor of Area 11, leaving the purebloods alone with their thoughts.

- Since when did the UAC have their own nightmares? Did our Motherland allow this? - Soresi asked.

- They don't look that dangerous, given their huge size and small stature. - Villetta spoke up.

- Don't forget that it was the UAC that created the first prototypes of mechs, while Britannia created its own nightmares based on them, so in fact the corporation only continued its own developments. - Gottwald explained, closely examining the humanoid UAC machines.

- Do you think they will try to interfere? - Kewell asked.

- No, there are no stupid and reckless people in the UAC, but this does not mean that terrorists do not use their technology.

- You mean those recent rumors about NAC's ties to the Japan Liberation Front? - Nu suggested.

- The corporation signed a contract with the head of Kirihara Industries for unlimited use of sakuradite in their own research, which in turn obliged the UAC to provide NAC with the necessary equipment for mining and processing the mineral, and for this they needed experienced specialists in the field of piloting mining nightmares. I can't say that the UAC and Kyoto are in cahoots, but one way or another, the latter may be using the corporation's technology to create their own prototypes of nightmares, and since NAC serves our Empire, receiving sakuradite and our developments in exchange, then, if the rumors are true, they supply the terrorists with the necessary means for both defense and attack.

Gottwald's theory took place. Despite the words of UAC representatives about non-interference in the showdown between the authorities and terrorists, NAC can easily use their own position as an intermediary between the administration and the rebel leaders to create their own machines. And if this turns out to be true, then in essence Britannia has made itself a very dangerous enemy in the form of hypocritical industrialists secretly supporting the remains of old Japan.

- Kewell, inform our people to increase the number of Sutherlands accompanying the convoy.

- Yes, Lord Jeremiah! - Soresi obeyed, bowing politely to Gottwald and leaving the office.

"The last thing we need is for the UAC to put a spoke in our wheels!" - Jeremiah muttered mentally, looking again at the mechs in the photograph.

---

The yellow and black car drove along the overpass that ran on the border between the settlement and the ghetto, which was repeatedly noticed by the rebels sitting inside, whose sense of discomfort did not drop an inch. And all because no one was holding the steering wheel or the gas pedal, for they moved on their own, leaving them dumbfounded with every turn and shift. But they had little choice but to resign themselves to the mysterious man who had called them to meet, but instead they were now driving serenely on the border, unable to do anything, and without receiving any injuries.

However, they did not have time to be bored for long, because in Kallen's pocket the phone vibrated again, the girl hastily snatched it, and then answered the call:

- What now?

- Look to the right. What do you see?

The eyes shifted to the right, beholding a technologically advanced city with shiny high-rises and clean streets.

- I see a city of the Britons. - Kozuki answered with bitter malice. - A city of robbers, built on our bones.

- Now look to the left.

The blue diamonds slid to the left, seeing huge ruins and abandoned streets with a huge amount of rubble, garbage and even greenery growing from under the concrete.

- I see our city. - the girl answered with bitter sadness. - The shell of the old city, disfigured by the Britons!

- A worthy answer! - a mysterious voice praised her. - You are almost there, five minutes left.

After the next five minutes, the yellow and black muscle car drove out of the settlement towards the crumbling ghetto, in which there were practically no residents left after the recent massacre, arranged by the murdered Prince Clovis. However, in some places, life still flickered. For example, Callen's eyes briefly caught the moment when a group of people in bulletproof vests and with white helmets on their heads helped rake a pile of rubble to pull people out from under them. The girl immediately realized by the white helmets that these were volunteers of the "UAC Charity Foundation" who were helping people in need. She was somewhat pleased, because it proved that in this world there are people who care about the fate of those who suffer from the terror of Britannia.

After what she saw, Kallen began to notice only ruins, which is why she again fell into despondency, until the subsequent path took her group to a former industrial zone, stopping in a dark and foggy alley, where, except for them and homeless animals running past, there was no one. The doors of the car opened, allowing the rebels to finally get out into the fresh air. However, the next moment, the gaze of all four froze on a human figure that appeared from the fog, dressed in a very long cloak, hiding everything except her head. She stood with her back to the Japanese, showing no signs of life, standing in place, like a statue.

- Was that you? - Kozuki broke the deathly silence. - Were you the one in Shinjuku back then, and were you the one who achieved a ceasefire?

- Hey, we're talking to you! - one of the rebels exclaimed, feeling that the man standing in front of them was simply ignoring them.

But the next moment, all the Japanese froze in stupefaction at the sight of the image that appeared before them. The body was draped in a black cloak with spikes along the shoulders and back, a tight-fitting dark purple suit with golden outlines and a white tie. On the hands were dark-colored gloves. But all this faded into the background when the man's face was in the foreground, for it was hidden under a mask, the appearance of which greatly amazed the people. It was almost spherical, with spikes extending upwards, making something like a kind of crown, and in the center there was a sphere, most likely a lens for the mask, because in color it was distinguished by a lighter shade, reminiscent of the color of indigo.

- What do you think of a tour of the Settlement? - he asked, trying to convey the tone in which he had spoken before on the phone and radio.

- Tour? - Ohgi said, puzzled.

- Hey, it couldn't have been that buffoon! - said the rebel.

- Have you managed to fully understand the difference between the two facts: the settlement and the ghetto? - asked a good question the mysterious man in black.

- Yes, there is inequality between us and the Britons, a blatant inequality! - Kaname answered firmly on behalf of everyone. - That's why we fight in the ranks of the resistance!

- And that's all? - the stranger asked, leaving the Japanese dumbfounded. - Unfortunately, you are mistaken!

- What? - the leader of the group said, puzzled.

- Britannia cannot be defeated with terrorism, and for Britannia, this is nothing more than the childish games of naughty children!

The comparison caused incredible anger in the rebels, as if they had just been spit in the face.

- Children? You dare call us a bunch of children?! - the rebel exclaimed with a fierce look.

- What you are doing is simply pointless violence, because of which innocent people suffer. Think for yourself, how can you call people rebels if because of their actions those they swore to free from the tyranny of Britannia suffer?

- Stop talking nonsense! - Kallen suddenly roared. - It's easy for you to say, try doing it yourself, but how can you trust someone who doesn't even show his face?

- She's right! Take off your mask!

- Okay, I'll show you... - the rebels were already beginning to hope that the stranger would show his face, but it was not to be. - ...However, I will not show you a face, but how we are going to resist Britannia!

The Japanese blinked in confusion, barely hearing the word "we". And it seemed that in this foggy place, apart from themselves, this stranger and that car, there was no one else.

- We? - said Kozuki, raising an eyebrow in surprise.

---

(OST "Arrival to Earth" - Transformers 2007)

---

However, the next moment, headlights shone behind the mysterious guy, which confused the rebels. The roar of an engine was heard when a tractor with red and blue paint came out of the fog. Then other lights appeared on different sides of the alley, surrounding them along the entire perimeter. The situation became very tense, as the Japanese saw their old acquaintances in the cars. These were the same "drivers" who had helped Kozuki's group in the Battle of Shinjuku, completely defeating the Britannian forces. But were they all related to the man who stood before them so calmly, as if he had expected their appearance?

Kallen's eyes darted from one direction to the other, becoming more and more shocked each time, especially when she noticed the same blue motorcycle whose driver had saved her in the ghetto. However, there was no one on the seat now, but the bike continued to slowly approach with its headlights on.

"It's the same bike, but how did it..." She didn't have time to finish her sentence, as her stunned gaze turned to the standing man.

Even that yellow and black car closed its doors, moving back towards the surrounding cars, which caused even more shock among the Japanese. They resembled a group of lost children who were lost in the forest and could not figure out where to go.

But then the situation took an unexpected turn when the red and blue truck stopped right behind the stranger in black and turned off its engine. However, what happened next made all four of them fall into a stupor. From the front of the truck, where the engine is... or rather, should have been, metal arms came out. The entire body began to break apart, the internal parts of the truck were transformed, moved, knocked against each other. The back part, where the wheels were, turned into legs. The eyes of the Japanese became so round that they even began to resemble golf balls, and the mouth was so open that it even seemed that the lower jaw of the rebels was about to fall out. What was happening was beyond words, and the rebels themselves thought that they were dreaming, but the air they were breathing was real, so they did not sleep. As soon as the entire transformation process was completed, a huge, metallic and humanoid figure stood before the people, which was probably the size of a ten-story building, with a face that expressed incredible calm.

It would seem that the shocks ended there, but the Japanese rejoiced too early, because in the next seconds the same thing began to happen around them. Absolutely all the cars, including the yellow muscle car with the blue motorcycle, transformed. Each robot had its own size, body structure and even face shape, but each of them inspired fear, horror and trepidation in the rebels, so much so that all four of them pressed their backs to each other.

- What the... h-heck?! - Kozuki stammered, feeling her knees tremble.

- These... things... have become... n-n-nightmares?!" one of the rebels shared her shock, horror and disbelief printed in his eyes.

The red robot, who had small horns on his head, heard this question and laughed, saying:

- You know, I already consider comparing us to nightmares an insult!

"IT TALKS?!" - the Japanese shouted in unison to themselves.

Seeing the face the rebels made because of the red bot's comment, the maroon mech, who had huge guns on his shoulders, confidently declared:

- Believe me, kids, we are capable of much more than you can imagine.

- They are not nightmares! - the man in the mask finally spoke up, spreading his arms in the direction of the giant robots. - Calling them that or drawing an analogy with Britannian combat units would be an insult to their race! The hulls of the Nightmares are nothing more than lifeless shells, designed only to sow chaos and destruction. And these creatures are more advanced and noble, unlike those very Britannian pilots.

Barely recovered from the shock, Ohgi looked at the tallest and most impressive figure, which was once a red and blue tractor, after which he somehow managed to ask a question:

- Who... no... what are you?

The giant mech knelt down, saying:

- My name is Optimus Prime! We are autonomous robotic organisms from the planet Cybertron!

"Cyber-what?" - Kaname could not make out, confused in pronunciation. - Are you... aliens?

- You think correctly, boy! My name is Bulkhead! - pointing his finger at himself, the green brute introduced himself.

- I am Arcee. - quickly introduced herself, as it turned out, the blue Autobot, crossing her arms on the ledge, resembling a bust.

- Ironhide. - folding her hands on the sides of her waist, the maroon bot with large guns on his forearms introduced himself.

- My name is Cliffjumper, and for my friends just Cliff! - the red horned robot responded cheerfully, smiling from ear to ear. - And this guy's name is Bumblebee. But unfortunately, he is not able to speak to you in human language, since he has lost his voice module.

The statement attracted the attention of the Japanese, who looked in surprise at the yellow Autobot, who only waved at them, thereby expressing his friendliness.

Kallen turned her head again, this time towards the red and blue giant, who was still sitting on one knee, restrainedly examining each rebel, who looked as if he had seen something terrifying. But after a while, the girl managed to absorb the information that had come her way, after which she finally turned to Prime:

- W-why are you here?

- To save your planet! - Optimus answered, whose clear and deep voice somehow evoked a feeling of calm and impressiveness in the Japanese, as if this bot was simply oozing charisma.

- From Britannia? - Ohgi also came to his senses, allowing himself to continue his questioning.

- Yes... and no! - the man in the mask answered, once again putting the rebels into a stupor. - Britannia, no matter how terrible and cruel it is, is nothing more than a puppet controlled by an even greater evil: the Decepticons!

- The Decepticons? - Kaname said skeptically.

- Exactly, our planet was once a mighty empire where peace and justice reigned, until Megatron, the leader of the Decepticons, betrayed us! All who ever challenged them were subsequently destroyed, and after thousands of years of bloody battles, the war destroyed our world until darkness and death reigned! And now Cybertron is nothing more than a barren desert, unable to create or support life!

- These Decepticons... are they the same as you? - Kaname asked, causing some surprise among the Autobots.

- We are from the same planet and they, like us, are also capable of transformation, so in a sense - yes. " - Bulkhead replied, although he was disgusted inside that the Autobots were being compared to their sworn enemies, although he couldn't blame the humans for that, considering the fact that the Decepticons had hidden their existence from the rest of the world very well.

- And other than those two factors, there's nothing else that connects us! - the veteran Autobot exclaimed insistently, in order to spare the rebels the need to ask such questions. - The Decepticons want nothing more than absolute domination over everything. They think that the only constant in the universe is the survival of the strong and the oppression of those they consider worthless weaklings who can easily be trampled into the dirt. Doesn't that sound familiar?

The revelation of the truth about the Decepticons shocked the rebels, who had always considered these words to be the main commandments of the doctrine of racial superiority of all of Britain, depriving the Japanese people of all rights and freedoms.

- Wait! You mean to tell me that Britannia, that despotic Empire that invaded our country and practically reduced it to rubble, is just a cover? - Ohgi asked again, not believing his ears.

- That's right! - Zero replied, which stunned the Japanese. - But, ironically, few people in Britannia itself know about the Decepticons. Most likely, only the Emperor knows about them, while the rest of the imperial family remains in the dark.

- Why are you telling us all this? - Kallen looked closely at the guy in the cloak, addressing everyone, sensing something familiar in this man.

- Because we are going to enter into battle with Britannia and the Decepticons. - Arcee stated, to the general surprise of the rebels. - But even if we only face the Empire, we are outnumbered by both sides, and there are only a handful of us.

- That's why we are going to create an army! And guess who our first recruits will be? - Cliff asked with rhetorical excitement, astonishing the people.

- Wait! You want us to join you? - Realizing the course of the entire conversation, Kaname asked.

- That's exactly why I gathered you here! - said the guy in the mask.

The four were faced with a difficult choice: join the movement of this mysterious masked man and his equally mysterious giant alien robots, or refuse, thereby ignoring the reality that surrounded them. This guy was right about one thing - Kozuki's group was simply aimlessly wandering from side to side, trying to fight back against the Britons, while the Empire itself simply did not pay attention to them, considering them just a bunch of kids who were given weapons that they use only for pointless battles with the British army. They claim to fight injustice, but how do they plan to overcome it if they have nothing but intentions? No plan, no strategy, not even widespread support among their compatriots, because the group consists exclusively of Naoto Kozuki's friends. It is small in number and does not carry much weight in the entire resistance movement. On the one hand, they are being told the truth, but on the other, it is simply impossible to accept, especially when you are faced with metal titans who claim that the Empire, which has deprived you of everything: your home, your country, your family, is just a puppet in the hands of some alien group.

That is exactly what Kallen thought, clenching her fists and gritting her teeth from the rising anger.

"Are you kidding me?! I am supposed to believe that the Britain I know, which took my brother away from me, destroyed my home and family, is just... A PUPPET?! " - the girl was mentally indignant. - In your opinion... we should believe you? Do you really expect us to take your word for it?

- And you are not embarrassed by the fact that you are talking to us? In your opinion, this is not enough to understand that we are telling the truth? - the blue fembot commented skeptically, looking closely at the red-haired girl.

- But she's right! - one of the rebels intervened, standing up for Kozuki. - Give us at least one reason why we should trust you.

- Exactly! One of you doesn't even show your face, let alone alien robots! - another rebel supported, pointing at the guy in the mask.

And finally, Ohgi took the last word, also skeptically, although not so emotionally, saying:

- I agree with my comrades, although you claim that Britannia must be stopped! Tell us, in your opinion, should we stop the Empire, occupying a third of the world? It's impossible!

The Autobots sighed in despair, for they expected that the Japanese would not believe them, given the fact that they had recently flatly refused to show their faces to them, while the rebels themselves were trying to be open and willing to engage in dialogue. Skepticism arose from the futility of resistance and the impossibility of changing anything in their lives, in addition to endless battles, sorties and sheer survival in conditions of devastation, hopelessness and the absence of any hope for change. And such shocks as the death of Clovis, the tightening of the regime and the appearance of aliens, led by some shady guy in a mask, completely knocked the rebels off their stride. Cliff and Bumblebee looked at their leader with concern, who nodded affirmatively, thus saying that the situation was under control, after which the scouts retreated in unison, allowing Prime to take over:

- If you consider our words insufficient, then how about we hold a demonstration?

The Japanese raised an eyebrow in surprise, looking at each other, and then focusing their gaze on the red and blue bot.

- A demonstration? - Kaname asked, perplexed.

- Suzaku Kururugi is not guilty of Prince Clovis's death. - Lelouch declared, which provoked a stunned reaction from the four rebels. - That honor belongs to me!

The pupils of each Japanese shrank in shock and disbelief. No one expected that the one who was the true killer of the Viceroy of Area 11 would appear before them. But at the same time, it began to make sense, because according to the news, the murder was committed on the same day that the prince's army entered Shinjuku, supposedly to eliminate the consequences of a massive chemical attack. And at the same time, Kozuki's group received a message from the third prince himself about a ceasefire. It was then that the Britons discovered the body, publicly announcing that Clovis had been shot in his mobile base. And this means that the masked guy could not have been caught so easily by either soldiers or the Empire's special services, since such giants as these alien creatures were behind him. It seems that this smells of some kind of conspiracy on the part of Britannia, because it was not for nothing that the news mentioned who Suzaku Kururugi was by origin.

- If you consider these words untrue, then we have only one request - just watch us. Watch us save Private Kururugi without spilling a drop of blood.

---

Somewhere in Area 11

Japan Liberation Front Headquarters.

The Japan Liberation Front is the largest rebel group in the entire archipelago, with an army of thousands, advanced weaponry, and extensive influence in all provinces. The group's reputation reaches as far as the remote islands of Kyushu, their authority is unquestionable, and their leaders are considered true heroes, given that most of the officers and leaders are former military men of old Japan, who fought bravely and persistently for the independence of the entire country during the British invasion. Strong connections with a group of industrialists, formerly known as the "Six Great Houses of Kyoto", have provided the Front with a virtually uninterrupted supply of necessary equipment, provisions, and weapons. NAC also supplies them with modern military equipment, including modified Britannian Nightmares, which formed the backbone of all modern armies in the world. However, the Front has now gone into hiding due to recent events taking place in the Tokyo Settlement. And it was precisely for this reason that the entire leadership of the group was summoned, among whom was the well-known Major General of the former Japanese army, and now the leader of the "JLF" Tatewaki Katase - a gray-haired, gray-eyed old man with wrinkles on his cheeks, dressed in a green general's uniform from the times of old Japan, was now sitting in a fairly well-known and essentially traditional "lotus" pose, thoughtfully reflecting on what was happening outside their headquarters along with the rest of the headquarters.

- He killed the Britannian prince! Kururugi Suzaku is a hero! - declared one of the Japanese officers.

- But he is a honored Briton! - another objected.

- Isn't he the son of the late Prime Minister Kururugi-sama?

- So what? This bastard betrayed Japan, giving it over to be torn apart by the enemy! Our people do not know about this!

The general felt in his gut that something was wrong. The whole situation around Prince Clovis was very suspicious: the theft of a secret weapon, the massacre in the ghetto, the murder itself, and now this quick exposure of the culprit, who turned out to be young Kururugi, who voluntarily converted to British citizenship - they literally said that there was something more to it.

- The events in Shinjuku were the result of the actions of the Kozuki group, right? - Katase clarified with his subordinate, Lieutenant Colonel Josui Kusakabe.

- Yes, General-sama! - the officer answered, kneeling down. - The group is currently led by a man named Ohgi!

The gray-haired Japanese thought again, because in addition to Naoto Kozuki, the group included several other young Japanese and Naoto's younger sister, but neither the elder Kozuki nor Kaname himself reported that Kururugi had joined the Resistance, given his bizarre views on the world. But the old man decided to make sure of it:

- Have you heard anything from the Kururugi clan?

- No, sir! - Kusakabe answered calmly. - They have severed all contact with him since he joined the Britannian army.

After answering, Tatewaki turned his head towards the one who was sitting apart from everyone else, with his legs folded under his hips. He was meditating peacefully, simultaneously listening to the babble of the JLF officers and simultaneously thinking about something else. This officer looked as if he were a samurai from the time of the shogunate - a tall and strong man with combed spiky hair, dressed in the official uniform of a Japanese officer. This was none other than Kyoshiro Todo.

- What are your thoughts, Todo-san? - the general addressed him, thereby focusing the attention of all the officers on the famous hero of Japan.

The Japanese opened his eyes, saying indifferently:

- We are not obliged to attend his public execution.

- What cowardice! - Kusakabe was indignant. - And you call yourself "Todo the Miracles"?!

- There is a difference between "miracles" and recklessness. - the lieutenant colonel retorted calmly.

---

The day before the trial

Suzaku was kept in a special cell for prisoners, in which there was practically nothing except an empty bed and armored glass blocking the exit to the dark corridor. However, the disgraced Japanese was not alone in the room, as an old British acquaintance with lavender hair and blue eyes, dressed as always in his signature lab coat, decided to visit him:

- Congratulations! - Lloyd said frivolously, drawing Kururugi's attention to himself. - The two you asked me about are not on the list of the dead!

- Thank God! - Suzaku said quietly, sighing with relief at the thought that his best friend and that green-haired girl had survived the battle.

- But you yourself were not so lucky. There will be a formal investigation, but everyone is against you. - Asplund gave a disappointing verdict.

- But the investigation establishes the truth! - the young man stated decisively.

- I think that in this case, no one will know the truth. - Lloyd answered with a heavy sigh. - And no one will look for the truth!

- And what about the nightmare that attacked me in Shinjuku? There should be a recording of what happened, right?

- Yes, we have footage, but I doubt that it will help you in any way. Most likely, they will simply try to hide it from human eyes so that the military does not have any problems. - Asplund said, sitting down on a chair.

- If you want to say that this is how this world is arranged, then I will not regret leaving it! - Suzaku firmly assured, in whose eyes a spark of determination and fearlessness flashed.

---

Present time

Day has long since given way to night, and the Tokyo settlement, which was illuminated by the whiteness of the upper floors during the day, has turned into a city of lights, where old architectural traditions and modern technologies merge. One of such attractions is a suspension bridge passing over monorail tracks. Its towers are made in the Art Nouveau style, which symbolizes Britannia's commitment to old traditions, linking the events of the past, present and past into a single chain. But people did not come here to gawk at the architectural composition. They had gathered to witness the "righteous" trial of the criminal who had dared to take the life of their great patron, the Governor-General of Area 11, the third Prince Clovis. Each person patiently but reverently waited for the moment to express all their anger towards the accused. However, only those who were ardent supporters of patriotism, racism and Darwinism stood on the side of the road. But they were not the only observers of today's event, the entire Area 11 stood in front of the television screens: various rebel groups, residents of other settlements and ghettos and even distant refugees in other countries watched intently as Britannia once again demonstrated its inflexibility and invincibility. But it was not only the Japanese and the Britons who watched what was happening.

---

Mars City Station, Planet Mars

Almost all the complexes where the break was announced were completely silent, as the UAC employees were excitedly staring at their touch screens, occasionally sipping a drink or chewing on food served from the cafeteria or vending machines. The atmosphere was very tense, people were holding their breath, especially the Japanese, who did not understand what was happening in their homeland. It was calmer in the office of the head of the corporation, where all of its management had gathered, with the exception of Campbell, who was currently in Hangar 113, helping his comrades from the personal squad set up their own mechs. Among them stood out a Japanese girl who looked to be about 16-17, with dark hair down to the bottom of her head and red eyes. She had a slender figure with toned hips. Although the squad members were currently resting, they were very interested in the events happening on Earth. Unlike the others, Campbell already knew about the details of the investigation, but he didn't care that Kururugi was about to be shot, rather he was glad that a man like Suzaku would finally go to hell. And the Japanese woman didn't care at all about what was happening in her homeland, she was fixated on the pendant-loket, which contained a photo of her with some boy with blond hair.

But while the hangar was watching intently, fermentation was already in full swing in Hayden's office:

- At any moment, now at any second! - the correspondent excitedly reported. - Look at these crowds on the side of the road. They are all waiting for the man accused of murdering Clovis! Waiting for the honored Briton Suzaku Kururugi to pass by, waiting for the former eleven, who spat on the mercy of our beloved viceroy!

- Oh-oh, it's like the end of the world! - Monkevich said irritably.

- They didn't waste any time, look how many people they've gathered. - said one of the other leaders sitting behind the main characters.

- Most likely, all these people are ardent supporters of discrimination against the Japanese. Apparently, the Purebloods are counting on the audience to support their supposedly "righteous" cause! - Aldridge answered sarcastically.

- A circus, and nothing more! - someone said behind.

- Professor, do you think Lelouch will try to save his friend? - Olivia asked with interest, looking at the standing Scotsman, folding his arms across his chest.

- It's impossible! The Purebloods have numerical superiority, and even if the prince has a plan, it is unrealistic to implement it, considering the fact that in addition to the military, there will also be civilians there! - Swann analyzed.

However, Samuel had a different opinion on the matter:

- No matter how suicidal this operation is, Lelouch will not abandon his friend in trouble.

- And how will he do it? Will he burst right into the road and say: "Hello, I came to you to save my friend!", is that it? - Victor asked sarcastically.

- Perhaps. - Hayden answered, surprising his colleagues. - Considering how successfully he organized the defense in Shinjuku, perhaps here too he will demonstrate to us how a person can do the impossible.

Pierce and Swann looked at each other in confusion, after which they decided to completely immerse themselves in the role of a spectator of this spectacle. Samuel himself said to himself:

"Let's see how you play the game with the Autobots this time, Lelouch."

---

Reporters and cameramen worked at the limit of their capabilities, waiting for the convoy to appear, on board of which the defendant was supposed to be.

Diethard watched his colleagues' cameras in his TV van, concluding that he had once again shown himself to be a hypocrite, ignoring the true meaning of this whole event. All these people, despite their patriotism and loyalty, were just extras to stir up the entire population of Britannia and thus calm down more liberal and tolerant figures, although Reed remembered very well the incident that had happened in Area 5 five years ago. He had been an ordinary journalist then and did not know that the then governor of the Area would turn out to be only a victim of noble intrigue, falsely accused of revealing information.

A few seconds later, he was told on the comlink that the convoy was approaching. And then a group of Sutherland Nightmares appeared in the camera lens, inside of which was a transporter carrying Suzaku Kururugi.

- I... I can already see! - One of the reporters exclaimed in amazement, spotting purple mechs with red shoulder pads in the distance. - That's the suspect Kururugi! Suzaku Kururugi will be here soon!

---

- Look at those narcissists! - one of the leaders commented angrily.

- It seems that this Gottwald is not only a radical racist, but also a narcissistic vain man. - Monkevich said, folding his arms over his chest.

- The Purebloods are trying to emphasize the importance of this event in order to attract the attention of other politicians. All these people were gathered specifically to emotionally attract new supporters. - Hayden explained.

- And thus cause unrest among the Britannian civilian population, which in turn will strengthen the course of discrimination and apartheid against people of non-Britannian origin. - Swann picked up on his thought.

- He was interrogated well, considering the abrasions and bruises on his face. - one of the UAC leaders noted, seeing the beaten Kururugi wrapped in a straitjacket on the screen. - I wouldn't be surprised if they were just trying to break his will.

- One way or another, if the sentence is carried out, the fates of tens of thousands of elevens will be decided in the next 24 hours - Hayden delivered a disappointing verdict, hearing the angry cries of the crowd of Britannian citizens through the report.

---

As the convoy approached the people standing on the side of the road, the cries filled with hatred and rage became louder, turning into words of abuse and curses. So much did the Britons mourn the loss of the prince and so much did they despise the one who dared to take their patron away from them. But not all of them shared this general enthusiasm. At Ashford Academy, the entire student council was currently in session, except for Nunnally, who was excitedly listening to the radio in her bedroom, and Lelouch, who said he would be late for driving lessons. None of the students, with the exception of Nina, shared this pompous performance, since many did not understand the meaning of all this showing off.

Their indignation was shared by Cecile Croomy, who, together with Lloyd, was still sitting in the headquarters of the special corps, watching what was happening, like a spectator at a theatrical performance.

- This is just madness, we know that Suzaku is innocent! - she said with excitement, distorting her girlish face in a grimace of sadness.

- The court found our testimony inadmissible, we can't do anything. - Asplund answered, not looking up from the recording of Lancelot's fight with that yellow and black robot car.

- But...

- Tell me, is it humanism or altruism that is speaking in you now? - he asked jokingly, causing a storm of discontent in the girl.

- How can you make a pun at a time like this?! - Krumi exclaimed, tearing herself away from the computer.

- What else can we do? You yourself know perfectly well in what direction events are developing. We cannot contact our patron while he is busy at the summit.

---

The people's anger grew even louder, so much so that even the reporters were taken aback:

- The voices of contempt are getting louder! The voices testifying to the people's love for their prince are passing judgment on a terrorist!

- Suzaku! - Lelouch's sister exclaimed anxiously, feeling how moisture was slowly beginning to accumulate in her eyes.

---

After meeting the mysterious masked man and the alien robots, Kozuki's group returned to their comrades in the ghetto, first to tell them what had happened, and then to watch together this fantastic rescue of the innocent Kururugi. The entire team stood and sat in front of the old and almost decrepit TV screen, which surprisingly showed the live broadcast very well. Most were skeptical about the idea of rescue, since given the huge amount of equipment, like the Sutherland Nightmares, of which the rebels counted just over a dozen, and the presence of hundreds of people on the road, the operation was almost unrealistic. And these strange types generally promised that not a drop of blood would be spilled: neither civilians nor military.

- Margrave Jeremiah, whose personal participation in the investigation helped to unravel this case, will conduct the trial as acting governor. - the announcer commented as the camera focused on the Briton with turquoise hair and orange eyes.

- They won't be able to do it! - said a red-haired Japanese man named Shinichiro Tamaki. - There are too many Sutherlands to save even one person!

- Nevertheless, they gave us their word. To make the impossible possible. - said Kaname, who had a premonition that these guys would be able to do the impossible.

Kallen didn't say a word at all, still digesting what happened yesterday. At first, she thought that defeating Britannia was too fantastic a goal, but meeting aliens was not in her interests at all, especially when these same aliens are able to change their appearance when they deem it necessary. And she generally considers this task impossible. But still, Kozuki is skeptical about her beliefs, since the creatures she saw were very huge, if not larger than the Britannian Nightmares themselves. And if they said that they could do it, then why not try to trust them?

---

The Ship "Ark"

Ratchet and Fixit closely watched every movement of the objects through the touch screen, patiently but tensely waiting for their signal. Each of them was worried in their own way about the whole plan that their ally, the former prince, had come up with, but they decided to trust the decision of Prime, who was not on the ship at the moment.

- Ratchet, do you think they will succeed? - the minicon asked excitedly.

- It's hard to say, but one thing is clear: after this, there will be no turning back! - the Autobot medic firmly stated, holding the control lever of the ground bridge tightly and closely watching the movements on the camera.

---

As soon as the convoy of the Sutherlands and the transport was about to continue on their way, the security post contacted Gottwald:

- Acting Viceroy Jeremiah! - one of the guards rattled off.

- What's the matter? - he said pompously.

- A vehicle is approaching from the direction of the third street, against the traffic lane! As we were ordered, we let it pass, but... - the soldier stopped uncertainly.

- Do you think this is the transport with the terrorists? - the Margrave suggested.

- Sir... this is... the personal transport of Prince Clovis. - the guard answered, somehow coming to his senses.

- The prince? - Gottwald said with slight surprise, until he was again swallowed by a pompous smile. - This guy is a joker! It doesn't matter, let him go straight to us! - then he turned to his subordinates, waving his hand at them. - All vehicles - stop!

---

Almost everyone at the station froze with surprised faces, seeing how the column of nightmares stopped its movement. The hangar also froze in incomprehension of what was happening, that even Campbell and that Japanese woman focused their attention on the TV screen.

- Captain Campbell, they stopped! - one of the fighters noted in surprise.

- What do you mean "stopped"? - Jack asked in confusion, walking through the crowd of his soldiers, while the Japanese woman squeezed her head through the shoulders of her comrades.

- Literally, sir! They're standing! - said another pilot of his mech, pointing to the Sutherlands standing in the middle of the road.

There was a similar picture in Hayden's office. Pierce, Aldridge, Swann, Monkevich and the other three heads of the entire complex froze in stunned silence, seeing that the column of British mechs had stopped moving. But Samuel quickly realized what was really going on.

- What's going on? - Monkevich asked in confusion.

- Why did they stop? - Olivia also wondered.

- Professor, what are they doing? - Elliot asked, seeing a crooked smile on the face of the head of the corporation.

- They've started acting! VEGA turn the drone thirty degrees to the right! - Hayden ordered, to the general surprise of the rest of the people.

- Got it, I'm on task. - the AI's electronic voice responded when the screen was turned to the right.

The eyes of the UAC leaders saw something unprecedented.

- Damn it, where did he come from? - Monkevich was the first to speak out.

---

- This is an unscheduled stop! Did something happen? - the reporter didn't pay attention.

And then, to the general shock and surprise of the entire crowd, a white van emerged from the horizon of the road, with an open front and a large body in the back, more like a house on wheels. The car was painted in gold fairings, stretching from the radiator to the back of the retro car. And above, right in the foreground, the flag of the Holy Britannian Empire was illuminated, and on the top of the house there were blue banners with a sharp end.

- This is Camera 5, a car is approaching them! - said another reporter, pointing to the approaching luxury car.

- This is... Prince Clovis' personal transport! And it's heading straight for the convoy! - another reporter exclaimed in shock, not believing his eyes.

Having stopped at some distance from the group of nightmares, the prince's car turned off its engine. The situation abruptly changed its perspective from angry and hateful exclamations to silent surprise and incomprehension. Even Diethard began to closely examine the white transport, feeling that something was wrong, especially when he noticed a very interesting detail - there was no one behind the wheel. In other words, the car was driving on its own, as if alive.

"Hmm, maybe remote control?" he suggested, remembering a scientific article that talked about creating a remote control for ground vehicles.

However, Gottwald did not notice this detail, who still pompously addressed the supposed "driver" of the supposedly stolen Clovis car:

- Come out! How dare you steal His Highness's car?!

But at that very moment, to the general shock of those present, the body of the car literally burned. Instead of a white and gold coating, a red and blue tractor truck appeared, without a rear camper, which disappeared completely, as if made of cardboard and paper. And in place of the Empire's flag stood a man in a dark cloak and a mask with a lens in the form of a purple ball. All the people gasped at once from such surprise that even Jeremiah's eyes widened.

- I.. am... Zero! - exclaimed the mysterious man, surprising the people even more.

- Zero? - Villetta said out loud in her cabin.

- Zero? - the UAC employees said in unison.

- Who the hell is this Zero? - asked one of the members of Campbell's squad.

- Zero is the Britannian pronunciation of the number "zero", but it also means a person who is a nobody, that is, he has no first name, last name, or anything else! - answered his comrade, looking confusedly at the screen, which showed a close-up image of a mysterious guy in a mask.

- Who is this? - one of the reporters said in bewilderment. - A man calling himself Zero blocked the road!

The entire zone froze in place, focusing all their attention on the masked man who stood in the way of the Purebloods. Ashford Academy, the underground rebel bases, all the settlements and ghettos watched the terrorist's actions with both excitement and confusion.

- What the hell is going on? - Rivalz asked.

Nunnally jumped when the sounds of a surprised crowd were heard on the radio.

"What happened?" she wondered.

Kozuki's group was also stunned, especially Ohgi and Kallen, seeing not only a familiar person, but also that red and blue truck.

"What are they doing?" the two said to themselves almost in unison.

- What the hell is this guy doing? - their friend Tamaki did not understand.

The JLF officers were also watching the mysterious figure so closely that even Todo, who was standing aside, perked up his ears and eyes.

No one understood what was going on at all. The reporters called the mysterious guy's actions stupid, while Kururugi wondered:

"Is he the eleven?"

However, none of the people present suspected that under the mask was a former member of the British Imperial Family, an exiled prince sent to Japan as a tool for negotiations, and now standing before everyone in the guise of his new alter ego. His plan was going as planned.

"Suzaku! It's my turn to return the favor!" - he thought to himself, looking straight at the seated Japanese man, surrounded by guards.

The same thought was also thought by the one on whom Lelouch stood, carefully watching the movements of his opponents:

"Now or never!" - the leader of the Autobots said to himself.

And just at that very moment, the head of the Pureblood radicals, Margrave Gottwald, took the bait, grinning at the foolish prank of this impudent fellow:

- Zero, your little show is over! - he exclaimed, firing a shot into the sky, thereby calling to his aid four more Sutherlands, who descended on the ropes of their own transports right onto the road, surrounding the truck and pointing their guns directly at Zero.

People gasped from such surprise. No one could have predicted such an outcome. Kaname and Kozuki in their group and Hayden's colleagues were especially horrified, jumping up from their chairs.

- What is he doing?! He's surrounded on all sides! - Aldridge exclaimed.

- He has nowhere to run, the Sutherlands will leave no trace of him! - Monkevich hissed.

- Professor... - Olivia became worried.

- Waiting. - the former seraph said, drawing out his voice mysteriously.

- What, professor? - Swann became interested.

- Waiting for Lelouch to call his allies.

The leaders looked questioningly at their leader, then moved the arrows to the screen, in which the prince under the mask was surrounded by a tight ring of four purple-colored nightmares, with red shoulder pads and a fact sphere. The situation heated up even more forcefully, but Zero did not even flinch. Perhaps his cloak flew apart under the influence of air waves, revealing a very nice purple suit of a socialite. Jeremiah had already begun to feel the taste of victory when he demanded something from the terrorist:

- But before we tie you up, take off your mask. I really want to see the face of the impudent man who dared to interfere with the administration of justice.

And it would seem that the fool obeyed the Margrave, being under the huge barrel of a machine gun, but at the same second when his hand, one might say, touched the surface of the mask, he suddenly put it above his head, pressing his thumb and middle finger to each other.

---

(OST "We Have Returned" - Transformers: Prime)

---

Click and right above the heads of the Sutherlands and the puzzled pilots, a transparent funnel, harmoniously shimmering in different colors, like a rainbow, popped out with a roar. But the oddities did not end there, on the contrary, there were even more of them. Right out of this funnel, contrary to all known laws of physics, a group of cars flew out, which, right in the air, did the most fantastic thing in the world. They... all... transformed. The bodies became humanoid bodies with full-fledged limbs and facial expressions. No one even had time to utter a word, as Arcee, Cliffjumper, Bulkhead, Ironhide, Bumblebee and Warpath, who flew out in his natural form, landed around the tractor, turning their hands into blasters, with the exception of the last bot, who only showed his fists. And finally, the final chord in this performance was the transformation of the red-blue tractor itself, which turned into the famous leader of the Autobots Optimus Prime, who grabbed Zero on his hand and moved him to his shoulder, until his left hand became an ion blaster.

And at that very moment, shock and horror seized the frightened crowd, which almost succumbed to panic, but their open mouths and contracted pupils indicated that they were all scared to death. Even the Purebloods shuddered, barely seeing how the former machines became overgrown walking robots.

- WHAT THE HELL?! - exclaimed the horrified Jeremiah, almost falling off his nightmare.

- Lord Jeremiah, these are the same machines from Shinjuku! - dumbfounded Nu, trembling with fear.

Suzaku, having recovered from the shock, immediately noticed the familiar yellow-black fur:

- Wait, it's... - but he was interrupted by an electric discharge from the collar that was attached to his neck.

A similar reaction was observed throughout Area 11. What is the Area, the entire complex reared up as soon as they saw these giants on TV. Someone spat out an entire cup of tea or another drink, someone choked on food, and someone was so scared that he even fell off his chair. This happened to Aldridge, who in his old age had seen a lot, but did not expect to see the appearance of a giant robot on live television.

- It's... It's... them? - Monkevich asked, stuttering from shock.

- I can't believe, they really exist! - someone in the back row said.

- Professor, but why... - Olivia tried to understand.

- In order to resist the Britannian forces and gain the support of the population, the Autobots had to show themselves to the whole world. - Hayden answered calmly.

The situation suddenly swung in the other direction, stunning absolutely everyone, even the steadfast Campbell and his team. Even the JLF officers did not expect such an outcome, Todo even looked towards the TV for the first time during the entire management meeting, also widening his eyes from the picture he saw.

Kozuki's group was completely stunned, not believing their eyes.

- What the hell are they doing?! - Tamaki blurted out in one breath, getting up from his chair.

Kallen and Ohgi did not have the heart to say anything, because they themselves did not think that the Autobots and this Zero would commit a completely crazy, but at the same time fearless act.

---

The Camelot division had the same reaction. Cecile, having barely seen the group of robots, almost snatched the computer out of her hands, exclaiming in shock:

- Lloyd... you... see this?!

She turned in his direction, seeing his slack jaw, which was immediately replaced by a cheerful and excited grin.

- Our transformer friend is back! And as it turns out, he is not the only one! - he said impressedly.

---

To the even greater shock of everyone, one of these "transformers" spoke up:

- Any problems? - Bulkhead asked, closely examining the fallen Knightmares of Britannia.

Having examined the situation from all sides, Cliffjumper whistled and gave his comment:

- Wow, and the situation looks like a stalemate! Just like in the Wild West!

- They... They can talk?! - Villetta said out loud.

- What... What are you... - Jeremiah stuttered, unable to understand what was standing in front of him now.

- You know, the phrase "What are you?" is already starting to sound like a broken record. - Cliff answered with quiet irritation. - I may be a chatterbox, but repeating myself is not my style!

Although it was sarcasm, Arcee smiled wryly, appreciating her partner's joke. But after him, the largest bot from Team Prime came onto the stage, finally introducing himself on behalf of his fellow tribesmen:

- My name is Optimus Prime. We are Autobots - defenders of the innocent and the weak, warriors for freedom and justice. And at the moment, we are confronting the occupying forces of Britannia, who are holding the Earth in a deadly noose.

"Warriors for freedom... and for justice?" - Suzaku said mentally, not understanding the meaning of these words.

Gottwald's expression turned into a grimace of anger at the same statement, despite the fear radiating from his eyes.

- I don't know what kind of game you freaks of nature are playing, but it ends right here! - he exclaimed, pointing his gun at Optimus, completely forgetting that his bullets couldn't damage the Autobot leader's skin.

However, this served as a signal for the rest of the Purebloods, who, having recovered from the shock, again aimed their guns at Zero and his allies.

- Are you planning a massacre? - Zero asked with feigned interest, spreading his arms, thereby embracing the people around him. - Need I remind you who you have gathered here for the honor guard of the condemned? Maybe you do not care about the fate of the Japanese, whom you sentenced to expel the ghetto after this trial, but are you really going to endanger your own Britannian citizens, whom you swore to protect?

Jeremiah was very hurt by this truth, since Gottwald himself, without realizing it, created the conditions for Zero and his Autobots to take hostage hundreds of people who were gathered precisely in order to show the entire Area that power belongs to the Britons. However, the Autobots had no intention of using civilians as leverage, but as ironic as it may sound, the situation required blackmailing the Purebloods. This was their only weak point at the moment, which Lelouch decided to take advantage of by explaining his plan to his allies. But this was only the first stage of the plan, the main highlight of the program was still waiting to be released.

And Diethard, listening to Zero's speech, was so enthusiastic that he even demanded that his colleagues shift all the blame to the image of the mysterious stranger:

- Team Six, turn the sound up to full volume! Point the camera right at his face!

- But sir, it's too dangerous! - the cameraman answered cautiously.

With an irritated hiss, Reed decided to take matters into his own hands, flying out of the van with the camera he had grabbed.

- Pathetic amateurs!

The leader of the Purebloods, realizing that he had been cornered, made the right decision. He lowered his gun, allowing negotiations with the terrorists to begin:

- Okay, what are your demands?

- First, lower your weapon. - Ironhide spoke.

- Give us Suzaku Kururugi. - Arcee continued for him.

- And we will let you leave, saving face. - Cliff said with a cheeky smile.

The demand caused a storm of indignation and outrage among all the Purebloods who had spent so much effort to create a story about the murder of Clovis. They do not intend to fall on their faces when the finish line is so close.

- Leave with our prisoner?! Never! - Viletta flatly refused.

- Do you seriously think that we will let him go?! - the Margrave was indignant, squeezing the handle of the pistol. - This man is accused of treason for the murder of Prince Clovis! We cannot give him up!

- Oh, come on, don't get on our nerves! - the green thug exclaimed irritably. - We all know that it's not true!

- Exactly! - Zero agreed with his comrade. - We know that the real reason for this entire process is your exorbitant ambitions to advance the program of racial superiority of the Britons over the Elevens. - He stated, causing horror to appear on the faces of Gottwald and the other Purebloods. - You couldn't find the real killer and decided to take advantage of this by making Private Kururugi a scapegoat, and since he is Japanese, it would make sense to do so.

---

The situation took another unexpected turn, causing shock and disbelief among the Britons, both those present on the bridge and those in other cities of Area 11. Not to mention the Britons, many Japanese from the ghettos and other underground groups did not think that they would be so easily framed just because they were not purebred subjects of the Empire. Even on Mars, many liberal Britons and Japanese workers were perplexed.

- So they framed Kururugi? - the Briton asked his Japanese colleague.

- I don't know, man, I have no idea what's going on! - the Japanese said, trying to somehow make out all these words.

But in Hayden's office it was surprisingly calm, since everyone understood that what Zero said was the truth. By the time the intentions of these "under-purists" were revealed, Campbell had entered the office to see the faces of his colleagues.

- Do you see it too? - he asked rhetorically.

- If you mean these giant robots that can change their appearance on the fly, then yes, we see them. - Swann answered dumbfounded.

- Lelu... - Pierce corrected herself. - ... Ahem, that is, Zero just revealed the true goals of the Purebloods to everyone.

- And before that, he and the Autobots demanded that Suzaku Kururugi be handed over to them. - Monkevich reminded, coming to his senses by drinking a glass of cooling water.

- And I suppose they refused, right?

- Not yet. - Samuel answered with a grin, thereby attracting the attention of his colleagues.

- Not yet? - Aldridge said in bewilderment.

- True, Zero hasn't revealed all his trump cards yet. I mean one of these bots. - He pressed the zoom button, causing the drone's camera to show a red and silver big guy with a hole in his chest.

- Who is it?

- You'll find out soon.

---

However, the Prime team did not stop at revealing the intentions of the radicals, and the leader of the Autobots himself took up the baton of explanations:

- In addition, Suzaku Kururugi is the son of the last ruler of independent Japan, which essentially makes him the unofficial "prince of the Japanese people". And if he were found guilty of murdering Clovis, this would give your faction the opportunity to cancel the system of "granting citizenship" to all numbered ones, which would also force those who acquired the status of "granted" to go back to the rotting conditions of the destroyed ghettos. Is our assumption correct that you intend to continue your hunt for the natives only because they are not like you and are weak?

Gottwald's body was shaking like an aspen leaf in the wind. He did not understand how he could be exposed so easily. The plot he and his comrades had been preparing for so long was now public knowledge, and their position as noble officers was about to be shaken.

"It's been exposed! Lelouch has put him in checkmate!" Bumblebee said to himself, grinning.

But the surprises didn't end there.

- But despite your vile attempt to slander the Japanese, Prince Clovis is not a victim in this story. All this news about Shinjuku and the poison gas is nothing more than a propaganda lie! - Zero exclaimed indignantly, once again attracting the attention of all the inhabitants of Area 11. - He was never there! All the deaths that occurred there were your fault! Clovis, trying to somehow hide his mistakes in the fight against the rebels, decided to cover them up with the blood of innocent people, exterminating almost the entire ghetto.

The statement once again provoked a wave of disbelief among the British. No one could believe that the beloved and pious governor of Area 11 had committed such a terrible crime. However, the volunteers from the UAC Foundation currently in Shinjuku confirmed the words of the mysterious Zero with their nods and cries of supportive anger.

- He speaks the truth! - exclaimed one of them.

- These freaks killed many innocent people! - shouted another.

- Damn Britannia with its damn racist ideology! Let them die in hell!

Even the Autobots themselves could not help but leave unfortunate comments:

- And you, Purebloods, were his tin soldiers who did all his dirty work for him. - Arcee exclaimed angrily, looking at her yellow friend and nodding to show him the recording of the first battle with Gottwald, which of course Bee did:

"- However, this was to be expected from the dirty elevens, because of whom Prince Clovis shed tears for our fallen relatives. You, like stupid dogs, need to be trained all the time so that they finally understand. This land belongs to Britannia."

- What does this mean? Have you completely lost your minds?! - Tamaki exclaimed furiously, having heard this recording.

Kallen remembered the moment when Gottwald knocked her Glasgow to the ground with one shot from his rifle, which caused her to burn with anger from this comment.

Suzaku was also perplexed:

"Are there really such terrible people?" - he wondered. The phrase became a trigger for all the Japanese of Area 11 and Mars City Station, who began to openly scold the Purebloods. Even the Britons, who were next to their Japanese workmates, were outraged by such an openly racist statement.

The Purebloods finally fell under the general gaze of contempt from the complainants, while the residents of the settlement who supported them now looked at them with distrust. Kewell was so horrified by all these revelations that he even began to sweat. Villetta was shaking all over with shock, feeling that they had simply been fooled. Jeremiah had the face of a man who had just seen death in front of him. He thought he had everything under control, but Zero showed him that the only one who had won here was himself.

- As for the real killer. - Zero spoke again, focusing everyone's attention on himself.

At that very moment, Diethard jumped out onto the road, turning on the live broadcast from his camera, thereby allowing the residents of the Area to see the face of the mysterious guy in the mask up close.

- The man who killed Clovis, on whose orders hundreds of innocent men, women and children died, was... me! - he confessed, seeing Reed and looking straight into the camera.

Diethard smiled broadly, for the first time in his years of television career, excited by the incredible sensation that the world had never known before.

"He turned everything upside down, turning the entire process into a show!" - Diethard summed up, fascinated, without taking his eyes off the camera, which contained the image of a man and humanoid machines that did the impossible - put Britannia in a bad light in the eyes of its inhabitants.

---

Even the leadership of the UAC was seriously surprised by the confession.

- Is this guy crazy?! - the Pole exclaimed in confusion.

- No, I think he's got it all under control, - Jack suggested, thoughtfully putting his fingers to his chin. - Judge for yourself, he's surrounded by a group of huge transforming robots, armed to the teeth with blaster weapons. As for me, they're the perfect cover for him.

---

Zero's position was indeed very good. The Autobots, who had formed a tight ring around Optimus, served as an excellent shield for the masked terrorist. Not a single bullet would be able to hit him, and the freedom fighters would not feel any serious damage to their hulls due to the weakness of the Sutherlands' weapons. However, Prime was not going to start a bloodbath right on the bridge, in the presence of civilians:

- But we're not here to endanger innocent people. - He returned his left hand to its original form. - Give us Suzaku Kururugi, and we'll leave in peace. - At the same time, if anyone is to blame for the death of these people, it is you! - Zero added. - One person and you will save yourself from a humiliating defeat, I consider this a good deal.

However, at this point, contrary to common sense, Jeremiah in a fit of despair shouted:

- You have gone mad! Disguised as His Highness's transport, you are simply mocking us! You will pay for this!

The Sutherlands again pointed their cannons at the Autobots, which forced the latter to prepare their energon blaster charges for return fire. Some Purebloods, in particular Nu and Soresi, in response to this grinned angrily, watching the actions of the Autobots with disgust.

- Are you sure? Do you want your masters, Decepticons, to know about Orange? - Zero asked with interest.

Jeremiah was slightly stunned by this, not understanding the essence of what was said, since he did not know about any "Orange" at all. The other Purebloods and people began to stare in bewilderment at Gottwald, then at Zero, also not understanding the meaning of the above. Even the UAC employees blinked their eyes, looking at what was happening in confusion.

- Orange? Decepticons? What are they talking about? - asked the soldier guarding Kururugi.

- Um, no idea. - answered him comrade, shrugging his shoulders.

- But if words do not convince you, then what about our trump card? - asked Lelouch, snapping his fingers, thereby warning Warpath about the final chord of their plan.

In response, the red bot put away his guns, leaving the group towards the ring of encirclement of the Nightmares.

- S-stop, terrorist! - exclaimed one of the Sutherland pilots, frightened by the impressive size of the robot with a hole in its chest.

- Oh, guys, I don't really like to offend small and weak creatures! Too low even for a bot like me! - said Warpath, hitting his fist into his palm. - But considering your position as bad guys, killing people left and right, I will make an exception for you!

Kozuki's group was surprised that one of the Autobots came straight to the Pureblood unit. Kallen and Ohgi were most surprised, since they did not have a chance to see this Autobot among those who met them in the alley.

- What is this guy doing? - Tamaki wondered.

The Purebloods were outraged by such impudence of one single bot, who left his team, as if he was sure that he could handle an entire squad of Sutherlands.

- You... who do you think you are? You think you can handle us alone? - one of the pilots became bolder, pointing his gun at him.

- Oh, you want to compete with your gun? I personally don't mind, but as Optimus said, we will not endanger the lives of innocent people. But that doesn't mean I can't show you... my... gun!

---

(OST "You're A Soldier Now" - Transformers 2007 3:05-3:29)

---

Warpath did something again that no one expected. Slightly jumping on the spot, the red bot transformed: the joints of his legs straightened, becoming the lower part of the transport body, his head hid inside the body, and the chest part turned into a turret with a large barrel. Before the eyes of the Purebloods, before the eyes of all people, there literally appeared an alien tank without tracks, levitating above the surface of the earth.

The faces of the Britons froze in a grimace of absolute horror and shock. No one could have imagined that the Autobots would have such a serious ace up their sleeve.

Monkevich, having barely seen Warpath's alt-form, threw the contents of the glass out, accompanying everything with the sounds of splashes and streams of water and the coughing of his own larynx.

Gottwald turned into a stone statue, so much so that the pistol fell from his hand. Diethard almost fell off his feet, simultaneously filming the Autobot's alt-form at close range with anticipation and horror.

- WHAT THE...?! - Tamaki shouted in shock, stepping back with his jaw hanging open.

His comrades also froze with their mouths open and their eyes wide, as if they had seen a ghost in front of them.

- This... this... is a tank?! - the reporter exclaimed in horror. - The terrorists have a tank?

The entire student council moved away from the TV from such a surprise, with the exception of Rivalz, whose jaw flew off and his eyes popped out.

- HOLY SHIT! THESE GUYS HAVE A TANK! - he shouted across the room.

Cecile dropped her laptop, so scared by what she saw that she literally hid behind a chair. And Lloyd just fell on his butt, slightly distorting the position of his glasses.

- That... I... definitely didn't expect! - he said in a dumbfounded tone, adjusting them.

Seeing Gottwald trembling with fear at the sight of Warpath's huge barrel, he grinned under his mask, tapping Prime on the shoulder, thereby indicating the last point of the entire operation. Optimus understood the sign, after which he left his group, passing by Warpath standing on guard and the stunned Britannian pilots, who could not say anything, afraid of provoking the walking disaster with a huge gun.

- If anyone dies here, it will all become public knowledge. - Zero said as he approached the bewildered Margrave. - The Emperor himself and even Megatron will know about this. If you don't want that to happen...

- What? - Jeremiah said, coming to his senses. - What are you talking about?

When Prime was close enough to the Margrave's Sutherland, Lelouch activated the slit in his mask, allowing his left eye to come out and revealing the symbol of a red bird that filled the eyeball.

- Do your best to let us leave with the prisoner! - the former prince ordered, causing a red mark to fly out of his eye towards Gottwald's eyepieces, in which, after a few seconds of distortion of the brain neurons, rings of the same color were formed, thereby warning of the enslavement of the Pureblood's mind.

- Hm, yes, okay. - Jeremiah weakly agreed. - Hey you, give them the prisoner!

The words caused a strong resonance both among the people and among the Margrave's comrades.

- Lord Jeremiah, what are you ordering? - Viletta exclaimed in confusion.

- Give them the prisoner!

- But, sir... - the soldier protested uncertainly.

- Give them the prisoner, immediately! - he ordered in a higher tone.

- What are you thinking, making this deal, Lord... - Kewell tried to reason with him, but it was no use.

- Lord Kewell, this is an order! - he exclaimed menacingly, from which Soresi himself was slightly stunned.

The guards reluctantly untied Kururugi's bonds, which in turn allowed the Autobots to lower their weapons, and Warpath to return to his original form. Everything went like clockwork. Zero was no longer worried about anything, having climbed down from Optimus' shoulder to meet the approaching Suzaku.

- Who are you... argh... - he groaned from the pain in his neck when the collar shocked him.

- As I thought, they did not allow you to speak. - Lelouch sighed with relief, using a kind of master key that opened the collar lock, thereby freeing him from the inability to speak.

However, the Purebloods were not going to give up so easily, despite the fact that in front of him stood a literally transforming tank.

- If they leave, we will be disgraced! - Villetta said to herself, sliding into Sutherland's cabin.

Seeing the mobilization of the Purebloods, Optimus turned to his ally:

- Zero, it's time! - he transformed into a truck, opening his door for fellow travelers.

- Well, we'll talk later. - Lelouch said, accompanying his friend into the tractor cabin.

- You cowardly Elevens! - Nu shouted, trying to shoot the fugitives, but her cannon was thrown back by a blow from Sutherland Gottwald. - Lord Jeremiah, for what?!

- I ordered you not to interfere! - the Margrave exclaimed angrily.

- No, we can't let them get away! All pilots open fire! - Kewell ordered, crawling into his nightmare.

Obeying the order, the Sutherlands began to pour lead on all the Autobots, who responded with fire from their energon cannons. Because of the firefight that began, people ran in panic in different directions so as not to get caught in the crossfire.

- Autobots, forward! Cover Optimus! No one will die today!

And the chaos began. The Autobots rushed into close combat with the British Nightmares, completely ignoring the shots from their machine guns. Warpath was about to run at them, when he immediately heard a familiar voice in the comlink:

- Warpath, use your blasters, but don't become a tank. We don't need civilian casualties. - Zero said.

- Got it. I won't need it! I'm comiiiiiing! - he exclaimed, rushing at the Sutherlands like a walking battering ram, sweeping them away in his path.

The other Autobots had already managed to close enough distance to engage the wayward Purebloods in a fist fight. Bulkhead, transforming his arms into maces, ran at the nearest Sutherland, slamming him into the main body, thereby knocking him off his feet, and then finishing him off with a blow to the head module.

Cliff and Arcee were surrounded by a group of three Sutherlands, but these two had their own tricks that got them out of even worse scrapes.

- Cliff, give me a lift!

The red bot smiled slyly and put his hand on his partner's leg, throwing her into the air, stunning the unsuspecting pilots. The Autobot took advantage of this, making two well-aimed shots at the heads of the Sutherlands, but hitting the third one behind him.

- Gotcha, bastard! - the Briton exclaimed triumphantly.

- Nope! - Cliff rejected, pointing his finger upward.

At that very second, a blue Autobot appeared above the Nightmare, disarming the enemy with her blasters, after which she slammed the mech into the asphalt with her feet, finishing him off with a hook to the head module. The final chord in the battle was the command gesture "high five".

On the other side of the road, a heated battle was going on between Bumblebee and Kewell's Nightmare, who proved smarter than his comrades, launching his Slash-Harkens at the bot. But the scout was quicker, dodging the harpoons by turning his body to the side. Then Bee grabbed them, thus not allowing Soresi to increase the distance between them. Pulling Sutherland with all his strength, the yellow scout gave him an uppercut with his legs, which threw the nightmare back, thereby causing him serious damage.

- [That's it!] - Bee squeaked triumphantly.

Ironhide was driving towards the three Sutherlands, who tried to shoot him with their machine guns, but the veteran Autobot completely ignored their bullets, but he was forced to transform at the same second when the pilots launched six Slash-Harkens. As soon as his arms transformed, he immediately used them to throw himself into the air, just at the very moment when these harpoons of death flew under him, thereby catching the Britons by surprise. Having flown over the heads of the bewildered Sutherlands, Ironhide disarmed the trio with the help of his hand cannons, after which he hit one in the head module, immediately knocking out the mech, and sent the other two flying with a roundhouse kick. When they crashed to the ground, the bot veteran approached them, contemptuously spitting:

- Britannian punks!

Shots at the modules and goodbye to the Sutherlands, who lost control, remaining motionless and thus caulking the living pilots.

Warpath was having the most fun, having deliberately driven himself into a circle of Sutherlands in the amount of seven units. When one of them tried to throw a Slash-Harken at him, the big red bot simply grabbed him, after which he pulled the mech towards himself, excitedly saying:

- You are the one I need!

The pilot did not have time to protest, as the Autobot knocked him to the ground, and then grabbed him by the legs to use him as ballast. Spinning sharply, he sent all the nightmares flying at once, which ended in a total knockout. And at the same time, the bot laughed heartily, feeling the joy of being able to use his fists for their intended purpose after so many years.

- Let go! - Sutherland's pilot asked in a pleading tone, feeling dizzy and nauseous.

- As you say! - said Warpath, seeing another whole nightmare nearby. - Hey, catch!

Villetta didn't even have time to understand what was being discussed when she saw through the scanner how Sutherland was flying into her face, which subsequently knocked her off her feet without any chance of subsequent recovery.

- Strike! - the red bot shouted cheerfully.

It all ended with the Purebreds suffering a crushing defeat, suffering, albeit with a fatal outcome, catastrophic losses. And just at the end of the battle, a ground bridge opened in front of Optimus, foreshadowing the end of the battle. Seeing it, Ironhide commanded everyone else:

- Autobots, retreat! Mission accomplished!

Following the veteran, the rest of the Prime team transformed into ground transport and rushed at full speed towards the portal. However, the recovered Kewell, seeing the enemy retreat, tried to pursue them.

- Fools! You think you can ... - he could not finish, as he received a blow to the body, coming from Sutherland Jeremiah and forcing Soresi to move back.

- Lord Kewell, so will you obey the order or not? One more act of disobedience and you will go to court, is everything clear? This concerns everyone!

And on such a tense and misunderstanding note, the battle for one single hostage ended in a complete and unconditional victory for the Autobots and Zero.

---

Note: The Autobots did the impossible: they uncovered the Purebloods' conspiracy and saved Suzaku Kururugi from certain death. But most importantly, they showed desperate people that Britannia is not invincible.

However, now they have to wait for Kururugi and the other rebels to respond: should they join the resistance movement or not?

But one way or another, now the whole world has learned about the existence of transformers. And since they have shown themselves, it means that the Decepticons will appear very soon.

P.S. We are one step closer to completing the arch. Of all the chapters I've written in this arch, I liked this one the most, as I laughed a lot in it, especially at the moment when Warpath showed everyone his alt-form.

I added Warpath here to expand the plot and develop the fanfiction and characters. And believe me, this gun-shooting enthusiast will play his part. In the next chapter, we will meet both familiar characters, in particular, the pink-haired princess, whom we all love, and completely original personalities associated with both the UAC and the main characters.

So, Lelouch Vi Britannia commands...

RIP AND TEAR!