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Bridge

Soundwave sent a simple acknowledgement back to Shockwave before turning his attention to his orders. It took only a few seconds to activate a unit of Vehicons. He dispatched four of the drones to the bounce chamber while another four were directed to join him on the bridge. They would assist with ship functions and security. It was standard procedure with the tightening of security on the vessel. At the same time he made sure all sensitive areas were locked down with command codes and updating those codes to make sure Starscream wouldn’t have any sort of access.

The Decepticon turned to face Darkwing and Dreadwind manning positions on the bridge. “Orders from Shockwave. You are to report to bounce chamber and assist in transfer of prisoner Starscream from the surface. Vehicon escorts have already been deployed and Shockwave will join you in short order.”

The two fliers were startled, first from Soundwave actually addressing them and then over what he had to say. Sure, neither of them really thought Starscream was going to come out on top of this power struggle, but they figured his fall would be a bit more dramatic. Being brought before Shockwave in chains was startling and maybe a bit disappointing.

Darkwing was the one to reply to Soundwave. “Sure, we’ll just meet him there. Come on Dreadwind.” The two Decepticons left their posts and filed off of the bridge.

Soundwave turned back to his console and moved to the next part of his orders.

>>”Message received Razorclaw. Permission to board the Thanatos granted. A security detail will meet you in the bounce chamber upon your arrival.”<<

>>”Thunderwing, Commander Shockwave requests a progress report on status of Earthbound Decepticon activities.”<<

With those duties completed he began studying the ship roster for suitable candidates to send down to the Ultrax. Most of the Decepticons on board were busy with other assignments now, several assisting Shockwave in his experiments in the lab. For now he simply compiled a list of Decepticons with the technical aptitude to assist with repairs. Once the current situation with Starscream’s arrival was resolved then these Decepticons could be dispatched to the surface.

It was a pity he could not be present himself to see the seeker chained and defeated. It was surely a sight he would relish and make sure would be permanently recorded to enjoy in the future. He was sure he would eventually see the seeker. His telepathic abilities would make him far too valuable in an interrogation not to. Still, he would like to enjoy the first moments in person. He would have to settle for the next best thing.

“Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Observation.”

The cassette shot out of Soundwave’s chest and transformed. He hadn’t been back long, his mission observing some of the various Decepticons having ended with their being dispatched to various locations. He wasn’t particularly excited about going off to watch more Decepticons, but it wasn’t the worst assignment he had gotten. Besides, even he would be amused to see Starscream humbled. With a lone squawk the bird flew off of the bridge.

*

Corridors

Darkwing and Dreadwind were quiet for a bit as they started their journey to the bounce chamber. Of course it was Darkwing who finally spoke up. “You know, I can’t believe they got Starscream. You figure with someone like him he could manage to weasel his way out of any situation. At the very least I figure he had to go down kicking and screaming.”

Dreadwind looked back at him. “You assume that that’s what really happened? Isn’t it obvious what really took place?” Darkwing shrugged his shoulders and Dreadwind sighed before continuing. “It’s a trap or trick of some sort, even Shockwave thinks it is. Why else send us in first? Starscream is going to bounce up her and open fire on the first Decepticons he sees, namely us. Its all part of his plan to take over.”

Darkwing rubbed his chin. “I don’t know, that sounds awfully elaborate, even for Screamer. I mean he’s got the guts and the sneakiness to try it sure, but could he actually pull it off?

“You said yourself that he always seems to weasel his way out of everything.”

Darkwing nodded. “Yeah, true, true.” He produced one of his rifles and looked it over. “Well I’m glad I’m fully locked and loaded then. I hope when I go down I can at least put a laser between Screamer’s optics.”

Dreadwind just shook his head as the two of them entered the bounce chamber, Laserbeak flying in just behind them,

*

Laboratory

Clutch frowned down at Knockout. It seemed the other Con was taking Shockwave’s comments in stride. Clutch simply wasn’t built that way, he took everything from command pretty seriously, especially from someone like Shockwave. He also had his doubts about how much he could learn from a little shaved off chunk of that special armor, but he’d just have to trust Knockout on that one. Doing that had mostly worked out ok for him in the past, mostly.

His attention snapped back into focus on Shockwave as the Decepticon gestured to him with his cannon arm. It was a bit unnerving to have the weapon so casually leveled at him, but he stood his ground. The orders surprised him a bit as he had been assisting Knockout. Of course that didn’t really involve much on his part and he wasn’t about to argue the point with him. "Yes sir!" he replied, saluting the commander as he left the room.

As he waited for Deathstinger to ingest the new fuel he looked down at Mal Practice. He hadn’t paid much attention to the Decetpicon as he was just another tech-head, and an annoying one at that. He already had to deal with one of those on a regular basis, he didn’t have any interest in adding another.

“We got assigned to the same mission a long time ago. We worked well together, lots of success and profit for the both of us so we stuck together.”

Bounce Chamber

The bounce beam quickly reached its target destination and deposited Razorclaw and his team on board the Thanatos where they were greeted by Dreadwind and Darkwing along with Soundwave’s diminutive minion, Laserbeak. Also present were four Vehicons, the security detail previously mentioned by the communications expert. This was a troubling turn of events, but not an insurmountable one by any means. Clearly, Shockwave had decided to use some of the Vehicons to supplement his own forces just as the lion-former had thought to do so with his own squad. Thankfully, there were still plenty more Vehicons left in stasis that were ripe for awakening and reprogramming.

Once the effects of the bounce had worn off, Razorclaw wasted no more time, taking Starscream by the left arm and guiding the “captured” Seeker Commander off of the bounce pad and towards the welcoming party that greeted them. “I see that Lord Shockwave is taking every precaution when dealing with our prisoner here. That's a very wise decision as he put up one hell of a fight down there before we were able to subdue him,” the Predacon Commander commented as he pushed Starscream over to the four Vehicon escorts. “Watch him carefully. Starscream may be in stasis cuffs, but he is still a viable threat if left unchecked. Now, Dreadwind and Darkwing, take me to Shockwave so that I may brief him on the ultimate success of our mission.”

Skywarp watched from the bounce platform as the Air Commander was lead to the waiting Vehicon security force. The teleporter wasn't the smartest mech around but he could instantly tell that this was already not looking too good for Starscream or the rest of them for that matter. Wasn’t it Razorclaw’s plan to awaken the Vehicons in order to help them fight Shockwave? Apparently, the Military Operations Commander had beaten the idiot Predacon "lord" to the punch. Regardless, the prankster and Nightraven still had their orders from Starscream and those were the only ones that truly mattered.

“Nighty....I mean Nightraven and I are coming, too,” Skywarp interjected, raising his voice slightly in order to be heard. Motioning for Nightraven to join him, the teleporter walked over to where Razorclaw was standing with Darkwing and Dreadwind, stumbling a bit from the bounce effects before regaining his composure. He briefly glanced at the Seeker Commander before returning his attention to the pair of fliers. “We also would like to speak with Shockwave directly in regards to Starscream’s fate. With the Preds around, I’m sure he won’t be threatened by our presence at all.”

Bounce Chamber

Rampage quickly got over the circuit-tingling sensation of undergoing an orbital bounce. He actually kinda liked the feeling, but he didn't linger on it for long. Instead, his optics immediately looked around, as if to see that the ship, their ship, was still in order the way they had left it. It looked that way. He figured it probably was. It just felt different. Colder somehow. But that was probably due to the fact that had the feel of Shockwave and Soundwave's emotionless vibe all over it. It would be good when they were back at the helm and could suitable predify it again.

Rampage looked over at the other Predacons briefly before fixing his gaze on the ones waiting to greet them. He almost instinctively drew his sword and prepared to cut them down, but he knew that wasn't the plan so he avoided the act. Loyal Predacons returning from their mission. Nothing more complicated than that.

Yet, anyway.
___

Dead End tensed as soon as he arrived on board the Thanatos. It was certainly cleaner than the Ultrax. He wasn't all that big on cleanliness though. He couldn't help but think he was far less likely to get a nasty case of rust rash on this ship as opposed to the Stunticons' one.

The welcoming party didn't exactly look all that welcoming.

"We're so dead...," the Stunticon pessimist mumbled.

Bounce Chamber

So this was the welcoming committee? Darkwing and Dreadwind? It felt plenty lacking if Shockwave was expecting trouble. Motormaster had difficulties to even cook up a scenario in his mind where the two miserable glitches could stop even one Predacon, let alone the whole team of Decepticons Razorclaw had led into the Thanatos. They really had no hope even with those Vehicons present. Then again, it wasn't like Razorclaw was going to give the command the large Stunticon was waiting for anytime soon.

Now, while Motormaster saw their welcoming committee as nothing more than inconvenience - there was someone else who was starting already to tick him off. That someone being Dead End, one of his own men.

"Quit your whimpering Dead End." Motormaster grunted, slapping the back of the sullen warrior's head to draw his attention away from thoughts of his possible demise. With some damage caused on Dead End's paintwork, the Stunticon leader figured the morose mech's vanity would take over the feeling of dread he seemed to be struggling against. They certainly didn't need Dead End endangering the whole slagging plan through his whining.

"You're making me look bad." Was added as a low growl to emphasis his earlier command. After all, the Stunticons needed to remember that the worst thing for them to do was to piss off their own immediate superior.

Bounce Chamber

Materializing was the easy part it was the dizziness and what was to follow that would turn out to be the most difficult part of this mission.

With his head still held high and his demeanor ever confident Starscream took a quick glance in Razorclaw’s direction before he slowly turned his gaze to the door. Shockwave. If only the mech had remained on the MIA list. Life would have been so much easier.

The Seeker Commander took a look around noting the four Vehicons and Darkwing, Dreadwind and Laserbeak. He kept his mouth shut as he turned his head and made optic contact with both of his Seekers. The time to advocate on their Commander’s behalf was approaching.

They had their orders and he had no doubt that at the very least Nightraven would be capable of articulating what was necessary...this made the femme only slightly more useful. Skywarp…well, the idiot was of better use as the brawn. If anything were to transpire that would threaten his own life then Starscream was sure he could count on his wing mate to handle things. Being able to teleport wasn’t such a bad thing either.

As the four Vehicons stepped up Starscream puffed out his chest, raised his chin and stepped down off of the platform after he was so rudely shoved forward by the Predacon Commander. As the two forward drones stepped up each moved to grip the Seeker Commander’s upper arms. Unwilling to be dragged around Starscream jerked away from their grasp and sent an angry growl in both their directions.

“Hands off cretins! I am perfectly capable of walking these halls on my own power.”

The two drones in front of the Seeker took quick glances at one another before looking back to the Air Commander who now wore a haughty smirk. It was the force of another rough shove that forced Starscream to finally move toward the door and on to his final destination.

“Mark my words Predacon! This is not over! Not while my spark still pulses!”

A few more shoves and the Seeker was pressed into the corridor surrounded closely by his four unwanted escorts.
____

Nightraven had caught the quick intense glance meant for her and Skywarp and acknowledged it with a slight nod of understanding. She then watched as the four Vehicons surrounded Starscream and very abruptly and rudely escorted him toward the door.

The femme inhaled deeply when the door finally closed on the backs of all five mechs. This was where she and Skywarp’s work would begin it also happened to be where her doubts began to surface. What if Shockwave refused their pleas? Could they even trust Razorclaw to stick to his plan? Those and other questions seemed swirl through her processor while the Predacon Commander addressed Darkwing and Dreadwind.

It was the sound of her name coming from Skywarp that had jostled her from her reverie. She was a bit surprised that the teleporter had spoken first taking the initiative on Starscream’s behalf. Nightraven took a quick glance at Skywarp and gave him a nod. She followed after him as he stepped over to stand with the two fliers and Razorclaw. She noticed his unsteady stagger but forced herself to keep her distance as rushing to his side would only draw unwanted attention to them both. Nightraven stopped just to Skywarp’s right and nodded in agreement with the black and purple Seeker’s demands.

“With our Commander incarcerated and unable to defend himself Skywarp and I wish to advocate on his behalf.”

Nightraven glared at Razorclaw with a fair amount of malice.

“Keeping a close eye on Razorclaw and his band of thugs is also a top priority.”
____

It was a gift that Breakdown could actually appear with his own team and not be seen…not unless he wanted to. But in this particular situation he felt it necessary to blend into the background. The scout had quickly stepped as close to his brother as possible taking extra care to keep Dead End in the foreground. If anything was to occur he wanted to morose mech to take the brunt of it.

“Tell me about it. I bet…I bet instead of Screamer…that we’re the ones ‘ol one eye decides to offline.”

The movement made by Motormaster had Breakdown quickly slap his hand over his mouth and take a few steps away from Dead End as he seemed to be the object of his Commander’s ire. He could only hope that the deranged semi hadn’t heard his own griping.

Oh please don’t let him have heard me.

With any luck he’d make it out of this with his head and spark intact.

Bounce Chamber

Darkwing and Dreadwind were surprised to see the sheer number of Decepticons who materialized in the room from the planet surface. While they had been expecting Razorclaw, Starscream and a couple of others what they got felt like an invasion party. Every single Predacon, a few Stunticons, Starscream and some bonus seekers and, oh yes, Thunderwing. Darkwing tightened his grip on his rifles, although they were still lowered, ready to open fire once the inevitable battle began. Dreadwind merely shook his head in dismay as he waited to be struck down by a barrage of fire.

Both of the fliers were surprised when the barrage of fire did not rain down on them. Instead Razorclaw presented the captive Starscream just like he said he would. Darkwing visibly relaxed, willing to go along with this good luck as long as it lasted. Dreadwind however, ever a pessimist, remained tense and suspicious. He had learned a long time ago that if things were going too well then someone was going to end up dead shortly.

As usual Darkwing was the one to speak up. “We were just ordered to greet you guys here and escort the prisoner to the brig. I believe Shockwave will meet us in the brig or on the way to the brig. Guess he wants to chat with Starscream as soon as possible.” He glanced over at the two other seekers and shrugged his shoulders at them. “Yeah, sure, whatever. Lets just get going then.”

*

Thunderwing staggered for a bit as the disorienting effect of using the orbital bounce washed over him. He quickly recovered though and took in his surroundings. He was mildly surprised that Shockwave himself was not there to greet them. The commander was likely busy completing some sort of test or calculation. Formalities like greeting them upon their return were not an efficient or logical use of his time and energy. It was a pity as there would have been a chance to put a quick end to it all here and now by simply launching an all out attack on him. Certainly they would have numbers and power on their side. It appeared that they would have to be patient and wait for the appropriate moment to strike.

Unfortunately patience was not something he possessed and abundance of at the moment. Blackwind was still out of contact and likely out of commission somewhere on the ship, assuming she was still functioning. She was too important to leave lying deactivated or experimented upon. She possessed the raw power, intelligence and cunning he would need assisting him if he was to take command of the Decepticons. The seeker would be his right hand, commanding her aerial brethren once Starscream was disposed of. Losing here was not something he wanted to contemplate, but he couldn’t risk blowing the mission by running off after her, so he waited.

The Decepticon had received the signal from Soundwave shortly before bouncing up to the Thanatos. Now that he was on board he felt it time to reply, especially since he wouldn’t be ordered to stay on the surface after having already bounced up.

>>”I made contact with multiple groups of Decepticons on the surface, including Razorclaw’s group. After assessing the situation I agreed to join him in returning to the Thanatos with his prisoner. Now that I am on board I can give Shockwave a full report at his earliest convenience.”<<

*

Bridge

Soundwave did enjoy seeing the cuffed form of Starscream as he was pushed across the room. Laserbeak was more then capable of recording the scene and relaying it back to him. It was something the Decepticon would treasure.

The moment was a bit spoiled by all of the other Decepticons present. Razorclaw had seen fit to drag a small army of Decepticons back to the Thanatos with him. It seemed like a gross waste of time and energy. The seeker did not require such a large number of Decepticons to guard over him. Apparently the Predacon leader didn’t feel safe without his team surrounding him. Motormaster had likely accompanied them to laugh at the seeker’s plight now, although why he would bring two of his hated troops with him was a myster. The fact that Thunderwing was with them was also a surprise, and Soundwave did not like surprises.

He received the reply from Thunderwing, the message more of an afterthought now. Still he dutifully relayed the contents to Shockwave.

>>”Shockwave, Thunderwing has returned to Thanatos along with Razorclaw’s group. He is ready to make a report to you at earliest convenience.”<<

(ooc: sorry its not much, but i'm winging this one as its hard to play catchup)

Thanatos - Lab

Contemptor, interested - and impressed - at the show infront of him, particularily at the subjugation of Blackwind, returned his shotguns to their holding points before turning to Shockwave. He looked at Deathstinger and smiled lightly before turning to Mal Practice and nooded at the smaller con subtly.

'Too damned bad I didn't get to test these babies out...It would have been fun to blast a few of these idiots...well except for her...'

"Lord Shockwave, if I may..." The truckformer began "...I would very much insist that I partake of Ore-13 testing."

The large truckformer looked directly at Shockwave's optic waiting for the response from their leader, for he would be the next of the decepticons to take part in the revolutionary new technology that would lead them to victory.

Thanatos--Corridors

Shockwave had sent a simple, non-verbal acknowledgement to Contemptor. In time, he wanted to see how all of the Decepticons--or the vast majority, at least--functioned with the infusion of the ultra-energon derivative. The initial results had been promising, but only until it had been tested inside a wide variety of systems could its real strengths and flaws be fully determined. It was much the same way the advantages and the disadvantages of the triple-changing process had been discovered. The limitations and problems inherent with that process were one of the primary reasons why so few were suitable candidates to withstand the changes.

Shockwave was exceedingly curious to discover which Decepticon would be the first to suffer a full-meltdown, or any other significant aftereffects, from integrating the new form of energon in to their systems.

Continuing forward, Soundwave's transmission was satisfactory on the outside, but reality was that Thunderwing's return only complicated matters, particularly as Shockwave had left him in charge of Earth's operations precisely to keep him away from the laboratory and Blackwind's prone position, at least until such time as the cycloptic scientist had gathered a sufficient amount of data regarding the new shell technology the Warlord was employing.

>>"Satisfactory. Imperative: direct him to the bridge. I will meet with him when my discussions with Starscream are complete."<<

It was not ideal, but it was a satisfactory alternative. Perhaps he would be able to reason with the Warlord on a logical and scientific level regarding the actions he had taken with Blackwind. If not, it would be a useful opportunity for Shockwave to test the efficacy of the ultra-energon firsthand.

Shockwave continued forward a few steps before pausing once more.

>>"Secondary imperative: you are to lock down the laboratory if any mechanoid other than myself appears to break from the assemblage and head in its direction. I will not have Starscream or one of his errant Seekers attempt any form of insubordination while so much critical work is underway."<<

Bounce Chamber

As Starscream was taken out of the room by the four Vehicons, Razorclaw couldn’t help but smirk underneath his faceshield. The Seeker Commander was playing his part all too well, or perhaps he meant every word that he said. It didn’t matter at this point. The Predacon Commander was in a much better position than the former interim leader of the Decepticons currently was. If Razorclaw played his cards perfectly and waited for just the right moment to strike, Shockwave would end up in the same brig directly beside Starscream. Oh, what a sight that would surely be!

When Skywarp and Nightraven abruptly stepped forward to plead on behalf of Starscream, Razorclaw glared at both of them with an intense fire in his optics. This was not a part of the plan, at least it was not the Predacon lord’s idea. It was likely something Starscream had thought of at the last moment to help ensure his safety. Regardless, once again it did not matter. If anything, it gave a viable reason for the presence of the two Seekers, but if they did anything to jeopardize the ultimate goal of this mission then they would be swiftly taken out of the equation just as Shockwave would soon be.

Razorclaw then turned his attention back to Darkwing and Dreadwind. The two fliers were typical Decepticon thugs that simply did what they were told and had no greater ambitions. They were annoying to the Predacon Commander to say the very least, but they too served a purpose in the grand scheme of things and therefore they would continue to function, unless of course they got in the way. “Very well. We will follow you to the brig where I will speak briefly with Shockwave before he begins his interrogation of the prisoner. Lead on.”

And with that, Razorclaw led his troop out of the bounce chamber, accompanying Darkwing and Dreadwind as they headed down to the brig. Skywarp followed behind them with Nightraven at his side. He spared another worried glance in the seeker femme’s direction as his right hand brushed gently by her own. He was careful to not grasp her hand, however, as to not convey their close relationship to those around them. Things were already complicated enough as it were. They didn’t need feelings getting in the way of the overall objective here, which was to make sure that Starscream made it out of this alive and once again found himself in command of all Decepticons.

“You know, Nighty, you are a way better speaker than I am,” Skywarp pointed out as they walked behind the others. Her words to the two fliers moments ago were much more articulated than his own, and he recognized that fact the moment she had activated her vocalizer. It didn’t really bother the teleporter as he was well aware of his true role within the Empire, one of a loyal air warrior that would follow Starscream to the Pit if necessary. “Maybe you should do most of the talking once we see Shockwave. I don’t want to mess things up by saying something idiotic or stupid.”

Bounce Chamber

"Won't happen again," Dead End said as he rubbed the back of his cranial unit gingerly. He had hoped his brief moment of consternation might have gone overlooked by their brutish thug of a commander but...come on now, did anything ever work out in his favor? 'Course not.

Breakdown pretty much echoed exactly what was running through his own processors at that moment. He didn't dare say anything out loud to agree with his fellow Stunticon though. An empathetic nod of agreement was the best that Dead End could muster, lest he once again become a target for Motormaster's continually pent up aggressions.

So...they were headed to the brig, were they? Lovely. Dead End officially began counting down the astroseconds until they found themselves locked up there. If they were lucky.

Who was he kidding? Luck was about as accessible as Maccadam's old oil these days.
___

When Razorclaw began to lead the group out of the bounce chamber, Rampage was right behind him, eager to get out of Laserbeak's field of vision, even if it wouldn't last for long. When Tantrum stepped out, he took up an auxiliary position at the rear on the other side of the door and waited for everyone else to exit the room. The unit began to gradually achieve optimum positioning all the while making it a point to follow through on their standard operating procedures.

Truth be told, Rampage was impressed that one of the Stunticons hadn't already glitched up their little operation.

So far, so good.

(OOC: Baneblade has seen and approved of my post and my usage of him whilst he is temporarily indisposed.)

Thanatos - Lab
Mal Practice wasted no time in getting the other soldiers in the chamber juiced up and running on full Ore-13 power and around the 150-180% output parameters that Shockwave had defined, if only to ensure he had a compete analysis of the physiognomy, metabolic, thaumic and psychological responses as he administered the doses in four even quantities (having taken a careful scan for control at the beginning.)

The five readings each mechanoid had returned were fascinating but, as he turned to Contemptor, he found it hard to hide his pleasure.

Mal Practice was the surgeon who had been expelled and declared criminal by the Autobots for his illegal experimentation on unwilling subjects and was wanted (dead only) on multiple outlying systems for his unethical surgery (and charging extra for anaesthetic) on various alien lifeforms. Mal Practice was also the surgeon who has been put in charge of distributing a volatile and highly hyperactive energy source with unknown side effects. He had dosed the others correctly, well mostly. He figured he may have given Deathdancer a bit more than he should have for her build, but he wasn't stupid - this was a good gig and he didn't want to blow it now, but he was a scientist - scientists are supposed to experiment and luckily (for Mal anyway)Contemptor was next.

Contemptor's shiny new custom-built plasma shotguns meant that the big truck-bot now owed him, and this was the perfect time to collect.

He calculated quietly to himself What do we think happens in the event of a catastrophic overdose scenario? I'd better run a quick simulation... he spent a few microseconds staring into space whilst his optics flickered and his genius brain operated at near full capacity. In a microsecond he had analysed billions of variables learned through millions of years operating on thousands of different alien species and generations of mechanoid. Hmmm. Physical faculties; strength, agility, stamina and fortitude enhancements of an incredible level are a certainty; Levels of emotional and psychological instability and eventual breakdown of reasoning circuitry are also a certainly, but these are hardly hardly important and can be repaired easily enough. Effective coronary distribution system and circulatory failure preventable through reinforcement of circulatory system and thinning internal fluids with 67/23mix of Carboneuride Hexodethalyne and CastrolGTX. Disconnecting the oedema-cautionary routines will also allow maximum red-line potential and prevent early shutdown... So that gives us an maximum dosage of approximately 278.73%
Mal Practice's eyes blazed a Crimson red that was so intense, astronomers on Earth would have mistaken the glow for Mars.



300% it is then.



He began to feverishly flick switches and twist dials and manipulate safety limits, and felt a faint and rather bizarre longing for a thunderstorm. He paused for a second and eyed Contemptor intently, he had not looked forward to a non-invasive procedure this much since Experiment 7, and that had made him illegal in four systems. "I hope you like your new guns Junior, you are about to pay your bill..."

If only the runt could be here to see this, he'll love the 3D holovid though... He set his internal camera's to record - he always recorded his procedures; never let a good cut go to waste.

He had no idea the ship was full of Seekers of all people just yet, but he did know that they had received visitors important enough to warrant Shockwaves personal and urgent attention, and for him to want the Lab locked down, and that meant that any one of the visitors could be a threat to the security of Shockwaves Ore-13 stocks, which was all the excuse Mal needed.

If they are going pose any kind of threat, they are going to meet our Contemptor on one hell of a 'roid rage...

He cackled openly and evilly as he sat the confused Contemptor down and strapped him in, and continued re-calibrating the dosing manifold, reinforcing the patients pumping mechanism and deactivated all the safety cut-outs. Minor alarms began to sound as he overclocked the dosage far beyond its safety parameters. He administered the lubricant dosage to prevent Contemptors cardio-circulatory relay from burning out laced wiht a bit of sedative to take keep the patient docile for a short while at least.
"Never you mind those flashing red lights kid, they only means warning in the 'general' sense. You just lie back and think of well oiled Fembots..."

Chances of this being absolutely hilarious? 100%

[edited a little oversight]
Thanatos Lab/Gungrave - Overdose

Contemptor looked up at Mal Practice from the berth that he was stationed into, all the while as the medic worked his magic with connecting the relays for the new Energon Derivative - Ore-13 - to his body, connecting the major pipelines and energon feeds of his central core and main pump. Effectively setting up for a complete drain of original energon fluid, and preparing for a direct transplant of the new energon into his system.

'Kid'? for rust's sake, the old man was one crotchety old pain in the arse, but in fairness, he did sort out the new plasma shotguns from his damaged plasma cannon. Yeah next time he went fighting in a desert, he would be taking something a lot more upfront and personal. Such a shame that he was a truck and not a tank. Feh, its not like he'd be rushing off to fight in such a desolate, and dusty place. He had still been picking sand out of his gears even after the repair job that Psychout had performed on him in the Med Bay of the Thanatos, but this was something else entirely.

This was new ground for the truck-con. And for once, he was enjoying the fact that he could be at the forefront of something. Not just anything mind you, as everyone can be at the forefront of just a something. This - however, and in a roundabout whatsit and whoosit way - was something that would break them into new ground! A chance of untold discovery and revolution. A chance of...

'Whoa, that was a funny feeling that...oo.. thats nice, sort of warm and fuzzy and like the caress of a few well programmed femme-con's and...hey fancy flashing lights!'

"Never you mind those flashing red lights kid, they only means warning in the 'general' sense. You just lie back and think of well oiled Fembots..."

...Contemptor shook his head and focused his purple optics on Mal Practice in a sort of half scowl. You know, the one that you give someone when you're over tired, or drunk or...well ...just trying to focus on something important ok? It was one of those looks.

His speech was a bit flappy too - like his vocal processors were lagging.

"Shure things Malp...anyshin the docshtor ordershes.." He could hear a giggle coming from somewhere, and there was a pair of insanely glowing red optics coming from somewhere..ah it wasn't important, just getting this turbo boost was the completely important part. Contemptor looked over from his berth at the form of Deathdancer, and gave a smile.

'Well Mal Practice did say to think of well oiled femmecons...although he didnt seem to say anything about...cute...ones...with....a.....'

Contemptor entered that hazy state. Not stasis lock, and not full functionality, but that bit. You know. The one that was in between. Inbetween what, no one knows, but it felt blue and fuzzy, like a fluffy cloud of hope and....

...there was a sudden, hellish rush of pure, unadulterated energy. A full throttle countenance that had Contemptor arching up from the berth, straining at the bonds that were holding him down as his body shook violently with the unexpected surge of potent ultra energon as his mouth opened in a silent scream, light emanating from his mouth and optics. A bright purple light, electric bolts of red and black arcing through the glow as Contemptor had a serious energon high. And what happened next stopped everyone else as what started as a crackle, escaped into a maddening roar. A roar swirled and laced with power as Contemptor's massive hands opened and closed into tight balled fists, each joint in his armour took on the same hellish red and purple glow as his systems surged with the barely restrained power.

"GGGGGGGGGHHHHHHRRRAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!"

The restraints buckled and a large hex bolt went flying, whizzing past Mal Practice's head and then riccocheting off the wall and heading in the direction of Deathdancer as Contemptor finally lay still on the berth. His body letting off steam as his ventilation system kicked into overdrive before finally calming down as his bios read-outs began to chime in on the berth monitor next to him.

There was a hiss as the restraint clasps moved away from the prone truckformer, creaking as they did so because of the damaged caused by Contemptor's violent thrashing. And coming to a halt in a painfully slow manner, there was silence as the large decepticon started to twitch, his actuators, spasaming slightly as his neural network began to come alive like a fully working spectrum - or as the fleshlings would call it "Lit up like a christmas tree" before his optics came online, glowing with the familliar black-red hue - making his purple optics more menacing than before.

Even the scar through his left optic was glowing with the infusion of the energon derviative as Contemptor ran a self bios scan, his vocal processors altered slightly, a more tersely mechannical tone to them as he spoke in a monotonous voice for the first few moments.

"Ultra Energon Derivative Synthesis Complete...
...Ultra Energon Has Replaced Standard Levels Of Inferior Product...
...Systems Functioning At Peak Performance...
...Efficiency at 300%...Maximum Absorption...
...System::Mobile::Talient::Ex-Cel...
...
...
...
...Standby..."

There was a quirky silence before Contemptor moved again, this time his reactions lightning fast as he drew the twins, and let fire at a floating maintenance droid as it darted from one end of the lab to the other.

It exploded in a loud shower of plasma infused sparks as Contemptor slung one of the cannons over his shoulder in an 'I'm a badass' action.

"So Mal... whats next...and where is the nearest scrap....I'm spoiling for a fight!"

Laboratory

Deathstinger tried to not pay attention to Deathdancer childish play as she jumped happily around to know that she was gonna be a test subject. The only testing he should be doing is him, but it was his superiors. As Deathdancer was done, it was now his turn. Lets get this over with as Deathstinger got the new energy and examined it. If he was to get stronger than the Automats would be nothing to him. Overpowering then take them as hostage for experimentation. The thought of it excited him as he injected himself with the energon.

Suddenly Deathstinger dropped on one knee as his energon levels skyrocketed. AMAZING! This was truly amazing as his body begins to glow showing the outlines of the ultra energon coursing through his veins. Deathstinger visor glowed bright red as he got back up. His systems were now getting use to the new ultra energon as began punching the air in a quick motion. Shockwave really has done himself at the moment, once the autobots face them, the battle would be theirs as they wouldn't counter the new ultra energon. He looked at the other decepticons as he was now ready for battle.

"So what's next? I feel like taking an autobot apart for Megatron's sake."

Bounce Chamber

So this was the welcoming party? How nice of Shockwave to not take this seriously enough in thinking it's a trap. However, this is perfect for the group as now they can easily make their way to Shockwave without them thinking we're gonna attack them. Hopefully, Starscream won't double cross Razorclaw in hoping to escape Shockwave's wrath. Knowing Starscream, he'll do that off the bat.

Following Razorclaw to the bridge, he hope to get out of Laserbeak's vision as he is the eyes and ears of Soundwave. That computer always was loyal to the curve, if they can somehow persuade Soundwave to join them, it'll turn the tides. Soundwave most likely won't, but it wouldn't help to try.

Brig

The security doors leading in to the officer's observation deck on the second level of the brig scanned Shockwave as he approached and immediately moved themselves out of his path. The room was quiet and empty. No one currently serving aboard the Thanatos had taken actions that would warrant their being placed here. That would likely change rapidly in the upcoming breems. Starscream would serve an indefinite period here until his trial. Based on the outcomes of that judgement, Shockwave would find a new use for the Seeker Leader or his service to the Decepticon Empire would finally come to its expected end.

Shockwave stood silently, waiting. Though his singular optic continued to take in everything around him, he was almost equally transfixed by his analysis of the current energy readings taking place inside his system. The nature of this energy and what it could mean for their species--and potentially for the restoration of their planet--held a significance that Shockwave could only begin to calculate.

Once his current round of administrative tasks were complete, the cycloptic strategist was determined to return to the laboratory. It would effectively become his "symbolic" throne room, as he would have little reason to remove himself from its confines for the immediate future. Soundwave would be tasked with more important oversights of governance while Shockwave was otherwise indisposed. He would also need to make proper reassignments of those that had returned successfully and otherwise carried out their function to his high standards. Loyalty was to be rewarded in Shockwave's regime, but competence was to be rewarded exceedingly more so.

The new age. The one that had been promised by Megatron. Shockwave would be the one to ensure that it was delivered. Of that much, he was statistically confidant.

Turning to those that had followed after him, the purple Decepticon finally spoke.

"Imperative: ensure multiple cells are prepared. Starscream will be the initial occupant; however, I calculate a 54.7928% probability that any Seekers aboard this vessel will likely object to his incarceration and will, thus, require it as well."

Brig

Skullcruncher and Weirdwolf followed right behind Shockwave and entered the observation walkway on the second level of the brig. While Skullcruncher stayed on the upper walkaway next to Shockwave with his tissue demolecularization gun drawn out and pointed at the ground level entrance to the brig, Weirdwolf jumped down over the railing into the ground level of the brig. From there the eccentric Decepticon tracker quickly moved to access the command terminal of the brig to test if the rarely used cells were in working condition while Shockwave and Skullcruncher waited for their guests to arrive.

Neither of the two Decepticons had exactly been Shockwave loyalists but after getting to taste the ultra energon, the cyclops had earned major point lead in their minds against his immediate competition in his campaign to become the next leader of the Decepticons. Starscream had nothing like this to offer and it appeared that this was hardly the only asset Shockwave held over others vying for leadership. And if the Starscream and his supporters would try something - they'd soon find out how powerful the ultra energon had made Shockwave and his two bodyguards.

"In normal operational condition all the cells are." Weirdwolf said as he lifted his gaze from the command terminal to face Shockwave's unnerving stare. "All cells ready to use are."

Laboratory

Quite delightful, being sane. It had been a full breem. An adequate amount of time. Deathdancer had moved away from the berth Contemptor had found himself strapped into to watch the transfusion of the ultra energon derivative into his systems. The red warning lights started flashing. It made Deathdancer giggle. Had enough time passed for her being sane? It should be. She felt like it had.

Suddenly, she saw that Contemptor was smiling at her. What a peculiar thing to do. She watched him curiously as he entered into a relaxed state. Suddenly, he began spasming, straining against the restraints like a sparkeater on the end of its leash. Soon, the violently shaking Decepticon unleashed a circuit-curling roar. That sounded like fun. She wanted to try it...

Something pinged off of something. Curious, she turned toward the source of the noise and saw a rather large hex bolt flying toward her face. She considered her options. A sane person would try to avoid it. That wasn't any fun though. A sane person would not be standing in place deliberating whether she wanted that bolt to hit her in the face. Ergo, she was not sane.

"Yipee!" Deathdancer squeaked happily just as the hex bolt smacked into the side of her head.

She fell flat on the floor and stayed there for a solid three astroseconds. Then, Deathdancer bounced to her feet and dusted herself off, even though there was nothing to dust off. She swiveled on a heel to face Deathstinger, Contemptor, and Mal.

"So Mal... whats next...and where is the nearest scrap....I'm spoiling for a fight!" said the overzealous Contemptor.

Deathdancer sprang into action and bounced around in front of him with her fists all balled up, as if she was raring for a fight. She feinted a few punches at the hulking mech before stopping on a dime and pointing to Deathstinger.

"You should fight him! Pleeeeeeeease?"

She still had a scythe to grind with Deathstinger for sharing the first part of her name. It was an insult that the poor, poor tactician could barely stand! Her poor sensibilities! A sudden though crossed her glitchy mind.

"Oh, but not here! Go have a smack down in the brig!" Deathdancer pointed at Deathstinger again adding, "Oh, you should go anyway though. Shocky wanted you to go and you wouldn't like Shocky when he's angry. Tee hee!"

Deathdancer smiled and twirled once in place happily.

Bridge

Soundwave continued to relay messages back and forth between the various Decepticons. It was a tedious job, but one he was accustomed to. Even if he weren’t doing the relaying he would be monitoring the communications anyway, this way everyone just knew that he was listening in. Still, he suspected that there was a bit too many high level matters being dealt with for him to remain on this simply duty for much longer.

Starscream’s incarceration along with the return of both Razorclaw and Thunderwing would likely require his personal intervention at some point. His telepathic skill would be quite valuable during any sort of interrogation. There was also a distinct chance he would be needed to test the loyalty of Thunderwing. He was well aware of what had happened with Blackwind and he strongly suspected the other Decepticon would have a negative response to it.

The communications expert moved quickly to obey Shockwave’s latest instructions. Any sort of tampering or movement in proximity to the lab doors would result in a full security lockdown of the room. In addition an alert would be sent to Shockwave and himself immediately upon the lockdown. He sent an acknowledgement back to the Decepticon leader confirming the orders had been followed.

He continued to monitor the feed from Laserbeak as he contacted Ravage. The other cassette had been roaming the ship, keeping an eye on some Decepticons not under direct supervision. With that task done he eagerly accepted his new assignment and moved to follow the entourage of Decepticons to the brig.

*

Bounce Chamber

Darkwing nodded at Razorclaw. He still felt a bit uneasy about the whole thing. He wasn’t exactly a people person to begin with so heaving to deal with this veritable mob of assorted Decepticons was a bit awkward for him. Why they sent him and Dreadwind down here as the official greeting committee was a damn good question. Still, he was doing the best he could, lest he end up chopped up, beaten or eaten. Of course all of those options were still very possible but he’d like to delay them for as long as he could.

“Alright then, just follow us.” He glanced over at Dreadwind, giving him a shrug, before gesturing the Vehicons to move on with the prisoner.

Dreadwind walked next to Darkwing, a tight grip on his rifles even though they were lowered. He still fully expected to die soon. The whole thing felt like a very bad joke and he was the punchline once again. What do you get when you take all the Predacons, a couple of Stunticons, some seekers, including Starscream, and put them in a brig with Shockwave and who knows what else? Nothing good, that was the only thing he was sure of.

*

Thunderwing received his new orders from Shockwave via Soundwave. It appeared that the commander wanted to deal with him personally and quite probably alone. Still, being on the bridge could have its uses, although it left Razorclaw’s group down a man, and a considerably powerful on at that. There was no avoiding it though, not with Soundwave and his minions watching everything, as shown by Laserbeak flying overhead. He would have to play along for the most part to keep the ruse going.

“It seems the commander would like to see me on the bridge. I should be seeing you all shortly. I am sure the interrogation will be entertaining.” He smirked as he brushed past Starscream, keeping up his act, although it would likely be an entertaining show. Hopefully it would also be a convincing one so that the element of surprise would still be firmly in their corner.

The Decepticon broke off from the rest of the group. He would head for the bridge, eventually, but first he wanted to make a quick stop off. While he wanted to try and locate Blackwind he knew that would draw too much attention. For now he would check on his lab equipment still in the cargo bay. At least that would be the official reason he was checking on it. There was something he wanted to retrieve that would prove quite invaluable in the near future he suspected.

*

Laboratory

Clutch didn’t really care that the Decepticon gave no reply to his answer. Frankly the more he was around this motley group of Cons the less he liked him. They all seemed to be in various states of crazy or easily excitable. He could deal with one or the other, hanging around with Knockout had given him that skill, but both at the same time from so many Cons was just asking for trouble.

The bulky Decepticon took his turn with the new fuel. It was definitely a rush, both physically and mentally. He felt like he could take on the entire Autobot army by himself. He swapped his hand out for his hammer, ready to smash something. Unfortunately there was nothing around in the immediate area in need of smashing. Letting out an annoyed grunt he switched back to his hand.

It was then that he remembered Shockwave’s last orders. He was to head to the brig once he had taken the fuel. Giving Knockout a brief nod he quickly brushed pas the other assorted Decepticons and made his way out of the room. Hopefully he could have some fun in the brig and put this new fuel to good use.

Bounce Chamber

After speaking on the Air Commander’s behalf Nightraven shot Razorclaw a quick glare before she turned her attention back to Darkwing and Dreadwind who, as expected, seemed indifferent to both Seekers’ pleas. It didn't matter at this point just as long as he knew where their loyalties lay.

At the announcement that the entire group would be escorted to the brig where Starscream had been taken was only a slight relief. Once their they would be able to watch the goings on, although as much as she knew Skywarp would want to tear all those present to shreds she would have to keep him sated if not for Starscream’s sake then for both of theirs.

The team began to move out Skywarp at her side. She caught his worried expression and quickly took a look around at the others present before looking back and flashing him the barest of smiles. Nightraven let the smile vanish as she felt the light touch of the teleporter’s hand against her own. She quickly turned her attention back ahead but not before another faint smile curled the corner of her lips.

The group moved along in relative silence until Nightraven heard Skywarp address her. She was surprised by his observation in that she should be the one to speak to Shockwave about Stascream’s continued existence. She thought for a moment before responding.

“I…I can try to, but…”

She let out a very low sigh. What if something went wrong? Oh Primus, what if she said something wrong?

“Okay. I just hope I don’t screw it up. The last thing I want is to be the cause of Starscream being terminated or worse…”

Nightraven took another quick glance in Skywarp’s direction and then slowly returned her gaze on the backs of the other mech’s ahead of her.

“…being the cause of you getting terminated.”

Brig

He offered little to no resistance, after all he was still recovering from that unfortunate encounter with that Pit-spawned Predacon. Starscream let out a low grumble cursing Razorclaw and the unfair advantage he had been graced with during their battle.

The Air Commander’s pondering was halted when he and his Vehicon escorts came to a stop at the doors leading to the brig. Where he would spend an unforeseen amount of time entertaining the updated, if only slightly, abacus.

One of his guards entered the security code and the small assemblage waited until the large slabs slid apart granting them entrance. With a slight shove Starscream lurched forward but not before sending the Vehicon behind him a low hiss and a heated glare.

“Ah, I see you’ve spruced the place up. Was that just for me?”

The faceless purple drones paid no mind to the Seeker’s taunts and simply led him on until jerking him to a stop in front of one of the cells. It was then that Starscream turned his gaze up to the officer’s observation deck and flashed those present that trademark smirk.

A grunt escaped his vocalizer when he was shoved forward and deep into the cell. He quickly turned to face the drones, arms still secured behind his back.

“Don’t tell me I have to suffer the indignity of being bound and locked up? Come now, I am incapacitated as it is…my weapons have been disabled and I have no means of transformation. What could I possibly do to escape?”

When none of the Vehicons spoke or moved to grant his arms freedom Starscream released an exasperated sigh.

“Come on! The most I could do is talk you to death!”

It was the drone positioned at the rear that looked up to the observation deck unsure of just what to do.

“Shall we remove his manacles, sir?”

Laboratory

Knockout wasn't surprised when Shockwave had volunteered his assistant to partake in his experiment. After all Clutch was loyal and always willing to prove himself. He only wished that the big lug nut would be willing to do prove himself with his work assisting the mechanic.

With a slight knowing smirk Knockout returned Clutch’s nod and watched as he made his way to the door.

“Bring the hurt, Clutch! HA!”

Thanatos - Lab

Contemptor looked at Deathdancer as she twirled and giggled happily around the laboratory. Being an unhinged mechanoid with violent tendancies was one thing, but to have an insanely manic - and spellbinding smile - whilst doing it? Well that was a different matter now wasn't it? yeah of course it was.

Just as long as you weren't on the business end then that made everything all peachy....

...Just...

The derangedly happy fem-con made a jibe about taking out Deathstinger, and Contemptor patted the jumpy little psychotic on the head and his voice rattled darkly.

"In time, but just stay outta my way or i'll use you for target practice!"

And as if to emphasize his point, the large truck-bot pulled out the twined shotguns and flexed his turbo charged body as a drone flew overhead, mindlessly doing nothing except fluttering around from one room to the next, its chirping beeps announcing its arrival and departure. Contemptor however, saw it as a cruel opportunity as an evil, shark-like grin broke out over his face-plate as his purple optics glowed brightly and with a more sinister colour as he lifted his right arm up, pointing the shot-gun at the drone.

The sad thing about this, was that the drone - completely mindless except in its own tasks - was essentially a sitting cyber-duck, and oh how tasty a cyber-duck would have been at this point. The thought only made Contemptor's optics blaze brighter, and his grin more sinister as the ultra energon, the ore-13 coursed through his central pump, rushing through his mainlines like a human junkie feeling the high from his dosing of narcotics. There was the soft clicking sound of a shell being loaded into place, and then a concussive series of booms filled the room as Contemptor let loose a series of shots, all three hitting their target as the drone feel to the floor of the spotless laboratory, tiny shards and bits of scrap littering the ground as Contemptor spoke only one word before leaving the lab and following in the wake of Shockwave, Skullcruncher and Weirdwolf

"....Pull...."

just like humans, shooting for sport!

Thanatos - The brig

Contemptor entered the Brig using the main access door to the observation walkway that the others had used to enter, and to his left stood Shockwave and Skullcruncher. The latter holding out his demolecularization cannon as their attention was drawn down to Weirdwolf, inspecting the cells in time for their newest arrival. The tracker spoke up as he finished his inspections of the brig as Contemptor moved closer to the other side of Shockwave, passing Skullcruncher and giving the sour-pus a mischievous grin before resting one of his shotguns over one shoulder and the other dangling at his side absently, as if he didn't care. he had a vague idea of who they were waiting for and spoke up, his voice warped by the over exposure to the Ultra Energon.

"Why not just break out the red-carpet for the son of a glitch? After all, hes scraplet food anyway!"

Inside Contemptor things were starting to alter and move into places they shouldn't be, and the effects were much like that of a mutation as the seams and plates in Contemptor's body started to emit a faint glow as other things started to move and warp. It was like a human being over exposed to radiation - the changes were subtle at first, but over time they would become more noticeable. There was nothing major yet, and nothing that would really unnerve the stoic and seasoned decepticons near by, and like the two in the brig, Contemptor had never been a major supporter of one faction. Granted yes he was loyal to Megatron, but his Warden - Vindicator - had been the only one capable of keeping him in check all these vorns, but after a taste of the new energon substrate...

...wait...taste?

No, it was more like an engorgement of the stuff! A full blown, over the top, unabashed injection of turbo charged fuel that made everything just erupt in rapture inside Contemptor. The truck-former ejected the spent round from one of his plasma shotguns and the self loading mechanisim primed another round - the click more audible in the quiet of the brig. There was a dull whine as the plasma charge activated itself - primed and ready.

He responded to Shockwave's comment about the seekers with a cold yet maniacal edge to his voice.

"Why incarcerate the snobbish arrogant slaggers? Why not just line them up in inhibitor bonds and use them for fragging target practice!...But Starscream should be flayed whilst still online, paralised so that he can't get away but feels everything..." he gestured overtly with both his plasma shotguns "I mean, its not like they are of any real use apart from having a barrage of infighting, and thinking they are better than all of us is it?"

Weirdwolf's response from down among the cells took the slowly deranging Contemptor's attention away from his insane ranting about wanting to exterminate seekers or use them as target practice.

It was then that the hissing sound of the main doors to the brig opened up and amidst the throng of vehicons stood none other than Starscream. Contemptor felt his fluids boil as he watched the Seeker commander with that trademark smirk on his faceplate. Oh how he wanted to wipe that look off his face permenantly!

CAPSIZE

Capsize saw his opportunity for the hunt quickly slip away as his prey sped off into the depths of the ocean. Giving chase, he fired burst after burst from his cannons, frustration mounting as the small target of his ire seemed to weave around the seas as if the pressure was nothing. The much smaller Autobot disappeared into canyon, where Capsize's patrol boat form could not follow.

"Curse you, Autobot! No one denies me my trophy!" Capsize transformed, then quickly grabbed a depth charge and tossed it into the canyon.

Yet there was no explosion. Instead, Capsize could only watch as the depth charge was thrown back at him.

"This is for Blue Wave."

Medical Bay

His fists clenched tight, Capsize opened his optics to the world around him. He was in an all too familiar stasis pod, one used for heavy repairs. Had he overestimated his quarry so dearly? Had he finally met a foe he could not hunt? If he was not sent to the Pit, had he been captured? Oh the machinery!

Capsize's first thought was to remove himself from the stasis pod. His interfaced worked with that of the pod, opening the hatch and finally able to move again. His joints felt constricted and creaky, but at least he was functional. A simple diagnostic on his physical chassis showed no problems. He was fully functional. As well as fully annoyed.

Disorientation quickly left him as he made his way out of the medbay and onto the corridors of... wherever Capsize was now. Activating his advanced sensors, he could feel the pulsing of hundreds of Cybertronian signatures. All of them Decepticon.

How embarrassing.

Capsize had to make up for lost time. He had to make up for his failures to Lord Megatron. For now, he had to find an officer and quickly provide aid, but for who? Could it be Megatron was here himself?

There were just too many questions, but right now Capsize only desired one answer. A directive, someone to point him in the way of the hunt. Best to start walking.

The Brig

Once Thunderwing had left the entourage of ‘Cons and headed for the bridge, Razorclaw continued to follow Dreadwind and Darkwing to the brig where the Vehicons quickly lead Starscream into his cell. The Predacon Commander entered the containment facility behind them and immediately cast his gaze up at the observation deck where Shockwave and two other mechs were positioned, watching the proceedings that were taking place below. Razorclaw gave the Military Operations Commander a nod before turning back to his unit. “Predacons, remain down here. I will be up on the second level speaking with our cycloptic leader.”

With his order given, Razorclaw broke away from the rest of the group and headed for the security doors that would lead him up to the observation platform. Registering his presence, the two doors parted and granted him access to the restricted area. Being that the Predacon Commander was once the captain of the Thanatos, it made sense that the system would still accept his high level clearance. Of course, there had always been the possibility that the one eyed scientist had changed his security level while he was gone, but that was thankfully not the case.

Arriving on the upper deck, Razorclaw moved to stand next to Shockwave, giving both Skullcruncher and Contemptor a curt nod before addressing the purple mech. “Lord Shockwave, my Predacons and I are reporting back from our successful mission,” the lion-former began, reluctantly giving the walking calculator a respectful salute. “My apologies for taking longer than anticipated. Starscream put up quite the fight once he had arrived on board the Ultrax. A battle ensued and the Seeker Commander managed to send the ship into warp that resulted in the Stunticon frigate crashing into one of Earth’s oceans. The jump knocked everyone on board out for a few cycles before our systems rebooted. Afterwards, I fought Starscream one on one and bested him in close quarters combat. His injuries were severe, but he managed to survive. Once communications were restored, I contacted Soundwave and requested permission to return with our prisoner.”

Razorclaw lowered his hand and looked over the railing at the assembled Decepticons below. “As you can see, many of the crashed frigate’s occupants accompanied me back here to proclaim their loyalty to you in person, sir. However, the two seekers, Skywarp and Nightraven, have requested an audience with you, as well, but for different reasons. I believe they would like to beg for Starscream’s life. Heh.” The Predacon Commander then returned his complete attention to Shockwave. “Regardless, the Ultrax is a lost cause, I’m afraid. We were able to repair it to a certain extent but it will never fly again. Only a skeleton crew remains aboard for now and will require transportation here once the salvage aspect is completed.”

The lion-former then cast his gaze down at Starscream, who was requesting that his shackles be taken off now that he was secured within his cell. Razorclaw felt a great sense of delight in seeing the Seeker Commander in such a condition. However, the deceitful flyer still had a part to play if the mission to overthrow Shockwave was to be a success. Still, appearances needed to be maintained in order not to arouse suspicion. “I would advise caution when dealing with Starscream, my lord. Even while confined to a cell, he is still a dangerous mech and cannot be underestimated.”

Razorclaw looked back at Shockwave's purple visage, a singular optic burning brightly in the center. It was a cold, emotionless image if he ever saw one. The Predacon Commander couldn't wait to either be looking at it on the other side of a cell's containment field or seeing it snuffed out entirely. “If there is nothing further, Lord Shockwave, I would like to request some downtime for my Predacons in order to rest and recharge their circuits after the long mission. I, myself, still require a few quick repairs that I never received after my battle with Starscream. Unless, of course, you have a new assignment for us, sir.”
_________

Skywarp was relieved when Nightraven reluctantly agreed to do the majority of the talking once they were in Shockwave’s presence. Asking him to spare Starscream’s spark seemed like a useless plea that one would expect from a coward. Not to mention that the cycloptic mech would simply do whatever he wanted anyway regardless of how much begging he received from the two seekers. Still, the Air Commander’s orders were very clear and the teleporter would obey them no matter what. But that didn’t mean he had to do the actual pleading. Although, Nighty seemed just as worried as the prankster was about screwing things up, which could end with them all being thrown in the brig or worse - deactivated.

“I’m sure you’ll do fine,” Skywarp assured Nightraven in a whispered tone. “Way better than what I would say that’s for sure.” His words trailed off once they had arrived at the brig and the Seeker Commander was lead into a holding cell while Razorclaw made his way up to the observation platform to speak with Shockwave as Skullcruncher and another large mech that ‘Warp didn’t immediately recognize stood nearby. At one point, the Predacon Commander glanced down at the pair of seekers, and it didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what he was saying. Even the prankster could tell that they were being discussed by the higher ups.

The teleporter glanced over at Nightraven once again, that worried expression creeping back on to his faceplate. Things were about to get very tense for them at any moment, and it was quite possible that Shockwave could view them as a threat and incarcerate the two Starscream loyalists as a precaution no matter what was said. After all, there were plenty of empty cells left in the brig. “It seems that it’s almost time to make our plea, Nighty,” Skywarp whispered, wanting to take hold of her hand but resisting the urge while amongst so many other Decepticons. “Are you ready?”

The Brig

Nightraven kept her optics on Starscream while the Air Commander was shoved into his cell. The sight was almost too much for the Seeker femme causing her to cross her arms over her abdomen and break off her gaze. Nightraven took to staring at the floor trying to comprehend just how they all got into this mess…how she had gotten into this mess.

The low whispered tone of Skywarp drew her out of her melancholy. She raised her head and cast the black flier a barely noticeable smirk. She then responded to him in the same low whisper as he previously provided.

“Thanks for the vote of confidence. And you know, Skywarp, you shouldn't ever cut yourself short. Think about it…if your life depended on it, or if the life of someone you cared about was at stake I’m sure you’d be able to do what needs to be done.”

The smile she had flashed him quickly faded leaving behind a neutral expression. Nightraven slowly lifted her gaze to the observation platform where she too caught the optics of Razorclaw meeting both her's and Skywarp’s lone forms.

She kept her attention on the Predacon Commander but the feel of Skywarp’s gaze had her looking back to the teleporter. The worried expression on his face only helped to work up her resolve. Speaking on behalf of not only Starscream but all of the Seekers was something she had to do…and do right.

“So it seems.”

Nightraven looked back to Skywarp and gave him a nod.

“I’m as ready as anyone could ever be in this kind of situation.”

She looked back up at the observation platform taking in the imposing form of Shockwave and the other mechs that flanked him. Nightraven drew in a deep intake, held it for a moment and stepped forward. As she passed by Skywarp she gently brushed his hand with her own. She would need all the help she could get even if it just was a fleeting touch.

Medical Bay

Inside a lonely, slightly derelict stasis pod on a dark corner of the bay; a vaguely humanoid figure stirred, starting first with small twitches of it's blocky fingers and then with it's "eyes" clicking open; giving the inside of the pod a ghostly red glow.

A handful of seconds later, the pod's hatch cracks open with an ominous hiss, it's occupant, Ramshot soon steps out of the sarcophagus-like device and steps on the floor of the bay with a dull, metallic thunk of his feet. Walking away from the pod and into the center of the room, the recently awakened Decepticon assesses his surroundings; taking note of the medical equipment and several occupied stasis pods, but with his attention particularly focused on a pod whose hatch was left open.

"I wasn't the first it seems."

Bringing up his mechanical hand to his face and watching intently as the appendage's fingers rapidly moved and squirmed for a couple of seconds before firmly clenching his hand, Ramshot heads straight for the door and exits the medical bay; an action that would draw much attention from anyone in close proximity.

Ship corridors outside of the Med Bay

Capsize approached the viewport, finally realizing where he was. As the stars lingered beyond, he was on a ship, similar if not likely larger than his Intruder back on Cybertron. There were still many questions that needed to be asked, such as how he got here from Earth, but those could wait for now.

The Med Bay doors hissed open, and for once Capsize was taken by surprise. His advanced sensors had not detected another Decepticon in the stasis pods, yet there he was, walking through the door with a very large gun. The single light that made for Capsize's optics slid along the visor towards the newcomer, his advanced radar unable to properly detect him. Instead, Capsize emitted a ping, and was relieved he could detect him and the rest of the ship through his sonar.

"Greetings, fellow," Capsize said, "Are you a compliment to this ship's crew? I do not recall boarding this vessel. In any event, I am Capsize, battlefield coordinator, interlink between commander and ground forces, and if need be, long range artillery support. We should report to the bridge, and receive orders. Decepticon warships are similar in design to each other. The bridge should be this way."

The Brig

Weirdwolf's report was satisfactory. Anything less than fully-functional equipment on a vessel of this magnitude that had been under the care of the Predacons for such an extensive period would have been highly unacceptable. With that measure assured, Shockwave waited as the next series of events began to unfold before him.

As Starscream was brought in to the brig, in restraints, and placed within one of the cells, Shockwave's cranial unit moved in sync with the Seeker's movements, watching him from the moment he entered the brig until the moment he was secured behind the walls of his new home.

As Starscream spoke, Shockwave listened silently as he attempted to make his case for lessening one of the security measures that had been employed against him. Another Decepticon would likely have been satisfied with the measures that were in place and would have seen no need for the restraints. For a mechanoid like Shockwave, however, such pleas fell on deaf audio receptors. There was no logical advantage to be gained by accommodating the Seeker Leader's request--thus, it would not be accommodated.

"Declarative--request denied," Shockwave began, choosing to address the Seeker rather than the drone. "However, we will speak further, Starscream. You and your unit may proceed with the requested downtime, Razorclaw. You are allotted .75 orns."

The Predacon Commander's counsel was not lost on him. One such as Starscream could never be underestimated. Contemptor's response seemed--erratic. At best. It was atypical from his standard functioning dossier. He had been one of the subjects exposed to the new energon derivative. Shockwave could not help but wonder if he was witnessing the beginnings of the first potentially deleterious effects of the ultra-energon. If so, Contemptor would have to be monitored more closely. In the meantime, Shockwave almost hoped that Starscream would try something illogical. For one, it would give him a suitable opportunity to test not only his own consumption of the energon derivative, but to see the effects upon the others as well. For two, it would preclude the Seeker's need for a disciplinary hearing and they could move directly in to the punishment phase.

"Procedure, Contemptor," Shockwave said, finally addressing the Decepticon's desires to simply execute all of the seeming opposition to the strategist's leadership. "We ignore it at our collective peril."

To that end, when Razorclaw had informed him that two of the Seeker's squadron associates were requesting an audience, the Decepticon imperator quickly made the calculation to grant it.

"Imperative: approach and speak," Shockwave said, his singular optic moving from Starscream's position to that of Skywarp and Nightraven. "I currently see little value in allowing well-known and close associates of Starscream to walk free without suitable assurances."