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Abandoned Ranger Station

Hot Spot couldn't believe his optics. This was a mission of removing Cybertronian tech instead of adding it. For all of the ranger's claims of being behind enemy lines, his idea of incognito was pathetic. Prowl's logic circuits really need a major examination if he thought adding more tech would do any good.

"I have a suggestion, ask your second in command first instead of this scout. I thought this mission was to remove Cybertronian tech instead of adding more on the surface for the humans to find. We'll probably have to crumble this building to hide what we have done after removing what we can. As for the teams, we'll need to have a duo focus since the Cons are probably already here. Too bad we don't have enough mechs to dedicate one just for scouting out for them."

Hot Spot waits to see if Prowl even listens to his suggestion. This mission can go so horribly wrong with some of the things they have done. The sensor posts will be removed when they leave and the hologram projector will be gone as well as the computer. However the wiring will have to be completely stripped out which might actually be a feasible removal unless the humans been keeping this remote location under watch for whatever the reason. Hot Spot didn't like where this is going so he decided to open up a line to Ultra Magnus.

>>Ultra Magnus, this is Hot Spot. I'm afraid this mission is going to get compromised under Prowl's command. The ranger, Nova Strike, majorly updated the wiring of the old building we are using instead of going with what was available. My concern is we are going to leave more traces of ourselves after the mission. I will continue to monitor the illogical activities but do not be surprised I will ask for Prowl to be removed and be questioned for his lack of judgment or for myself to be sent back to the Guardian to assist with whatever Jetfire has in mind.<<

Central Oahu Regional Park – Abandoned Ranger Station

“Well, there’s only one obvious choice isn’t there? I have to stay here. I’m a security officer. I wouldn’t feel right with someone else watching over this place. I wouldn’t mind company, but ultimately, it’s up to you, Prowl.”

Before the ranger had a chance to give Prowl his opinion about who should go where, Red Alert had arrived back at base camp and quickly interjected his own suggestion, at least in regards to himself. It certainly made sense, but the military strategist had other ideas. “Normally, I would agree with you, Red, but I’m more than fully capable of handling things here. Furthermore, given your alt mode, pairing you up with Hot Spot makes more sense. You are both fire fighting vehicles, after all. The humans wouldn’t question a fire chief’s car riding next to a fire engine.”

Speaking of Hot Spot, the Protectobot Commander then approached the gathered mechs near the tree line and offered his own suggestions. It quickly became apparent that he wasn’t happy about how things had progressed thus far with the mission.

"I have a suggestion, ask your second in command first instead of this scout. I thought this mission was to remove Cybertronian tech instead of adding more on the surface for the humans to find. We'll probably have to crumble this building to hide what we have done after removing what we can. As for the teams, we'll need to have a duo focus since the Cons are probably already here. Too bad we don't have enough mechs to dedicate one just for scouting out for them."

Prowl looked over at the blue fire-bot with a quizzical expression plastered deeply across his faceplate. The black and white wasn’t sure what was going on with the Protectobot leader, but it sounded like he had a large energon chip on his shoulder plate. Either that or he was suffering from some kind of short circuit in his cranial unit. “Have you blown a gasket, Hot Spot? You’ve known since before we left the Guardian that we were bringing a computer terminal down here to aid us in our search for the missiles. We had it with us when we all bounced down here. Then you stood by and watched us set it up along with the holographic generator and security sensors and said nothing. Only now, when we’ve done all that, do you decide to express your grievance about bringing more Cybertronian tech to the surface. A little late for that don’t you think?”

An annoyed military strategist paused for a moment, keeping his optics fixated on Hot Spot. “The humans won’t find our equipment thanks to the remoteness of this site and the large hologram that has made our base camp invisible. Once we are done down here the tech will be completely removed per infiltration protocols, leaving no trace behind. This isn't the first time a mission has been conducted this way. So, your concerns are unnecessary. We're not like the Decepticons. We know how to clean up after ourselves.

“As for the ‘Cons, I’m operating under the assumption that they’re already here. However, there’s no need to dedicate a third team to go scouting for them. I already have a probe mapping the surrounding forest beyond the sensor grid. Once that task is done I will send it out, along with several other probes, to search the entire island for any Decepticon activity. Both teams will be kept apprised if the enemy is detected. Remember, the Decepticons’ objective will be the same as ours which is to recover the missiles. Thus, they will also head to Wheeler Air Field and Pearl Harbor just as our two teams will soon depart for. It is very likely that the ‘Cons will be there, as well, whether you see them or not. Regardless, Magnus' orders were clear. We are to avoid contact with the enemy if possible. So, even if we detect their presence, we are not to engage unless they engage us first. Understood?”

Just then Hound rolled up to the group in his Humvee alt mode and quickly transformed, interrupting the proceedings. “Hey, guys. I’m back. Did I miss anything?”

“No,” Prowl said, turning his attention briefly to the green scout. “In fact, you’re just in time. I’m about to assign teams and get this mission underway.” The prick-bot then glanced back at the Protectobot leader. “I’m going to assume, Hot Spot, that you’re on the same page as the rest of us now and ready to proceed.”

Without waiting for a response, the mission commander turned to the rest of the team. “Red Alert, you and Hot Spot will pair up and head south to the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. Hot Spot, since you didn’t change your paint scheme the way Red did before leaving the Guardian, I suggest using your digital camo-mesh to alter your vehicle mode's coloring so it looks like a military fire engine. That way you can easily maneuver around the facility without drawing too much attention. Nova Strike, you and Hound will head north to Wheeler Air Field. Eject, you can remain here with me to help guard the base site.

“I will coordinate everything from here utilizing the computer terminal. I want everyone to remain in contact via an encrypted comm link at all times. All data regarding these military facilities can be downloaded from the computer. Be sure to do so before each of you leaves. Once you have infiltrated the two bases, search for and locate those missiles as quickly as possible. After you have them, get out of there and return to base camp immediately. Of course, keep a look-out for the Decepticons on your end as I will continue to do so on mine. If you encounter the enemy and are forced to engage, alert me immediately. Reinforcements may be required.”

Prowl paused to let his orders sink in before continuing. “I want this mission to go smoothly. Get in to those two bases, find the missiles and get out and return here. If you are discovered by the humans, abort and return here to regroup. Infiltration protocols are to be adhered to. Now, are there any questions or concerns before you depart?”

50 Miles Outside Wheeler Air Field

”What the slag Skywarp you stupid dweeb?! I bet Thundercracker knows! Ever heard of a standard issue digital camo-mesh?! Slaggin' better than everyone fly boy can't even change his color! Hahaha! SEE?! Fools the meatbags but won't fool the Autodolts sensors like proper hi-tech cloaks! But that ain't the point, is it?!”

Skywarp’s attention was drawn away from his seeker brethren at the sound of Brawl’s rough and tough vocals and ensuing insults. The teleporter looked at the Combaticon tank and let out a deep sigh as Brawl explained and then demonstrated for him how to change his coloring. Of course, something humiliating like this would happen to the resident prankster while on a mission. Why not? It wasn’t bad enough that most mechs thought he was stupid anyway. Now, even Brawl appeared more intelligent than him. How wonderful.

“Yeah, well....I knew that!” Skywarp blurted out, trying desperately to save face. He had no idea why he forgot about the camo-mesh ability. Perhaps it was because it had been so long since the teleporter last used the tech, or maybe he really was as big an imbecile as everyone took him for. “Of course, I can change my colors. I was just seeing if you guys were paying attention. That’s all. And you were, so good job! Heh.” The prankster then gave everyone a thumbs up as he quickly accessed his digital camo-mesh and activated it. Within astroseconds, the seeker's colors shifted from black and purple to a grey-style camo that American F-22 raptors usually displayed. “See? I told you I could do it. No problem!”

Once that was out of the way, the teleporter turned back to both Thundercracker and Nightraven. “I can’t catch a fraggin’ break no matter what, can I?” Skywarp whispered in an embarrassed tone.

Wheeler Air Field

As soon as Vortex crossed into restricted airspace, he transmitted the security clearance codes that had been provided by the facsimiles. Before a human voice even registered on his systems, an acknowledgement came through and he was cleared to proceed further.

>>"The codes are working,"<< he quickly commed to the other Combaticons. >>"Wheeler should be an easy snatch 'n grab."<<

Low Orbit

"I have no doubt these creatures think they're using top of the line encryption: for their level of technological advancement, they surely are. But this is pitiful. I've seen Soundwave override satellites more complicated than this just by looking at them."

“Well, that is what your superior does,” Blast-Off commented idly as his gaze shifted down to the planet’s surface. While he waited for Ratbat to finish his work, he scanned for signs of Autobots in the highly improbable case that they also had someone who could reach orbit. Blast-Off doubted it. No Autobot could ever hope to outclass him in aerial superiority.

"There we are. Your illustrious commander now has access to one Terran satellite. You may inform him accordingly, space bus."

“’Space bus’?” Blast-Off guffawed. “Now, hold a moment, little flying rodent. What did you call me?”

At the same time, Blast-Off wasted no time informing his commander of the update.

>>”We have access to a Terran satellite now, Onslaught. Heading back.”<<

The cargo bay doors closed around Ratbat, sealing the cassette inside. While Blast-Off had taken some pains to make the ride smooth on the way up…reentry was going to be nowhere near as pleasant. The Combaticon angled down toward the atmosphere and propelled himself toward it. The steep angle of descent began to warm up the cargo bay significantly as his whole being shook and rocked relentlessly.

50 Miles Outside Wheeler Air Field

Thundercracker had stood off to the side off the gathering with his arms folded above his breastplate, leaning lightly against a volcanic rock formation taking care as to not deliver any noticeable damage. His mind wandered too and fro from previous missions of this very nature and particularly each operation that involved adaptable organic creatures. To his recollection, or perhaps to his determent, he could not expressly recall there ever being a species that had demonstrated such abilities to turn even the most well plotted stratagems on their proverbial head. Humanity was as dangerous as they were impressive. Still, he held his opinions closer to his vest than he did the newly loaded cluster bomb pods stored within.

His inner reflection was rent asunder as the final briefings and tasks were being divided. "So, this is why we were summoned," his voice crossed with a grunt of irritation and no small amount of disdain. "We get to fill the role of that tape deck and make sure you and yours don't get lost on the way."

Thundercracker pushed himself off of the rock face and let his arms fall to his side albeit briefly. He reached over to his left wrist and pushed back a single protective panel of armor plating. Once it locked into place by magnetic seals, a small device emerged and began flashing a series of random blinks in blue and copper. As Skywarp began his protests about how they could conceal themselves from the prying organic optical sensors and electrical devices this world employed, Thundercracker activated the device and was immediately bathed in a brief and faint glow as the temporary holographic matrix began to cover his form with a new paint scheme.

Thus by the time Skywarp managed to turn and face him, Thundercracker was already clad in his camouflage scheme. Gone was his traditional blues, teals and crimson trims, hidden beneath a thin vale of gunmetal grays and naval blues in a splotch work form. The combat specialist frowned briefly, obviously disliking the pattern and scheme the device had chosen to best hide him from being seen.

"Stupid ones?" Thundercracker finally managed to crack a playful smirk as he stepped forward to jab his elbow into the solar-plexus of his best friend, albeit lightly enough to cause the teleporter only momentary discomfort. "Guess the knuckle dragger was only marginally smart enough to remember bringing along one of those camouflage doohickeys."

He stepped forward and pulled out a spare and flicked it over his shoulder into the hands of Skywarp. "Glad I thought ahead..." As he reset his composure the seeker warrior looked over at the cadre of ground stricken Decepticon soldiers. "Alright now, seeing as we got suckered into cleaning up yet another mess by your pet hybrid, may as well make the most of it."

Thundercracker levitated off of the ground just out of arms reach of the grounders, unable to hide his contempt stained sneer at being forced to work with those who were less than worthy of being in his and his fellow flier's company. "Do try to stay on the road this time. I am sure these... primitives are smarter than our dear Brawl there and will notice a few dozed trees or broken rock formations. Not to mention treads in the muck." He transformed into his jet form and allowed his repulsor jets to send a punch of air pressure downward.

"And try to remember, just cause they can't see you don't mean they can't hear you." With that he waited a few more moments for response and for his wing to fall in behind him. He then shot off towards the assigned patrol routes.

Communique response to Hot Spot's communication

"Hot Spot, Prowl, I appreciate the current situation and differences in command styles... hence why you two were selected as the leadership team for this operation. Your team has been assembled based on the best chances to achieve optimal success. In that vein, I recommend you learn to adapt to each other's strengths and complement them while mitigating weaknesses if you are to succeed in obtaining the required items. Keep me posted on actual events pertaining to the operation at hand, Guardian will be out of transport and communications range in the interim... Magnus Out."

Wheeler Air Field

If there was a sight Onslaught could have never seen coming, never had anticipated or prepared for during this operation, it was Brawl having outsmarted one of the Seekers. If only Starscream himself could witness this moment, oh how Onslaught felt the urge to run his nasal sensors into it. Look at that, he internalized, look at how much more capable my team's trigger-happy bruiser is at demonstrating common sense and resourcefulness. The thought quickly dissipated into the back of his processor as to not "jinx" himself. He still had a job to finish and as easy as it was going, he needed to focused on the task at hand. Still, it was good Brawl was able to occupy his attention on something for awhile besides his itchy trigger-fingers.

>>"Easy back there, Brawl. As right you are about the electro-paint, Thundercracker here is also right about these inhabitants being able to hear us. I need you to keep your vocalizer down while we're inside and have those recovered munitions in hand. Once we get out, then you'll have all the freedom in the world to boast."<<

The Combaticon Commander then switched his comm line to his other team member.

>>"I read you Blast-Off, good work you two."<< Onslaught replied back to both the shuttle-former and the bat currently in the atmosphere. >>"Link up with the seekers and begin scouting out the second base. We're almost to the entry point here."<<

Onslaught's tires eased to a full stop behind Swindle and the facsimiles he carried as they had arrived to the enforced defense outpost/checkpoint. One of the human soldiers emerged from his little wooden hut and approached Swindle's vehicle mode with his rifle slung over his chest, right hand comfortably but firmly wrapped around the grip. Let's just hope these facsimiles pay off otherwise lost munitions won't be the only thing Onslaught's team would have to worry about.

Blast-Off's Cabin

“Well, that is what your superior does.”

Yes, thank you, o' master of the obvious, Ratbat snarled internally.

“’Space bus’? Now, hold a moment, little flying rodent. What did you call me?”

Heh heh heh.

Ratbat looked around curiously as the bay doors suddenly closed.

"I suppose we're going to-AGHHHHHHHHH!!!!!"

The rest of Ratbat's words had been suddenly cut off by the force of him slamming into the rear of the cargo bay as Blast-Off engaged in a rapid descent.

Wheeler Air Field

>>"Easy back there, Brawl. As right you are about the electro-paint, Thundercracker here is also right about these inhabitants being able to hear us. I need you to keep your vocalizer down while we're inside and have those recovered munitions in hand. Once we get out, then you'll have all the freedom in the world to boast."<<

>>”Aww boss, you are no fun...”<< Brawl complained to Onslaught through comm-link but silenced his vocalized and whirled his turret back to transport position, allowing Onslaught to transport him in relative silence until they reached some kind of a checkpoint.

Which or course presented a most logical query from Brawl. >>”That meatbag looks suspicious boss, I can turn it into paste faster than… uh, well you know. Just say the word.”<<

Abandoned Ranger Station

The question caught the Ranger off guard momentarily, not because of the context or that it had been directed at him... but because of the notorious hot head that was being temporarily circumvented. Typically he would have answered the question without hesitation, creating the most optimal teams to either location... the fire specialists to head to the naval yards where you were more likely to see civilian units intermixed with military ones, and send himself and either Prowl or Hound to the primary armed forces base that was away from the main thoroughfares of the island. Nova had developed enough contingency personalities and profiles that would allow him to act his way into the region without much scrutiny, using his weapons engineer persona would probably be of the most optimal use.

Fortunately, or perhaps less likely so, Hot Spot interjected himself in an attempt to gain some measure of notice or standing within the chain of command for this mission. Nova Strike didn't mind the scrutiny of the over all discussion with regards the Protectobot's place within the great chain... in fact he rather preferred to remain outside of those discussions when possible. Being a member of a team typically lead to more fatalities.

Still, Nova Strike didn't appreciate the assertions that he had permanently modified certain elements of their hide out. Thus he spun on his heel and scowled upwards at the taller flame thrower. If his optics were laser cannons, two smoldering holes would have been boiled into the Protectobot Commander's main frame. Yet, after a few moments, Nova simply turned and shrugged before facing Prowl. "You sure Magnus assigned us the right Special Forces Commander? Our executive officer is sounding more and more like that idiot Scattershot than the brave gung-ho defender that you and I both know and tolerate."

His expression lightened as he spared a glance over towards the firetruck. "I don't mean to pile on, but lets face it any modifications I made to that structure were necessary and completely reversible. I've done far more of these operations than I care to remember, and if we had out little hide out crumble down on our audio receptors before we're ready for it to, its typically a bad sign that our op is doomed to failure. Besides, I get this feeling that you'll be needing that Energon rationer more than most of us."

The Ranger gave a smile and a thumbs up before registering Prowl's own assignments, pairings of which mirrored his own unspoken recommendations. It wasn't surprising given the mission commander made using logic an absolute art form. Nova Strike allowed his nature to take hold for a moment as he drove his right closed fist into his waiting left palm. "Sounds like a couple of solid options. Hound and I can get in to that location pretty easily..."

He paused and then glanced over to Red Alert. "Alright then, lets make this interesting. First team that locates their target gets a round of the good stuff from the second team. No sense in holding back in our efforts to secure these munitions, and I think a little competition will spur some creative thinking. Course if we run into some Decepticrusts, all bets are off."

With that Nova Strike transformed into his vehicle form and signaled to Hound to follow suit. His avatar materialized in his driver side seat and he activated the silencers on his engines. It took but a millisecond for his on board computers to run their final checks and to shunt power to necessary components such as traction, engines and structural integrity... while leaving enough in reserve should the distasteful happen and he be forced into combat.

"Well, we don't want to keep our prize waiting too long. We'll keep in touch. Hound, lets roll out." The ranger's rear tires kicked up only the faintest hint of leaf litter and muck before accelerating towards the main highway. As soon as the synthetic rubber touched the paved surface of the road, magnetized repulsors pushed off all of the accumulated debris from his body and tires in an invisible spray. His vehicular form, now free of dirt and any thing traceable back to their outpost, pivoted on the road and angled towards Wheeler Military Base. The face of his avatar etched in thought at the possibilities that waited them at their destination.

Central Oahu Regional Park – Abandoned Ranger Station

Foiled. Red Alert scowled. Still, if Prowl was going to be the one hanging back at their little base camp, he supposed that he could relax a little. Maybe. Probably not. To make matters worse, Red was being paired with Hot Spot who had shown something of an uncharacteristic display of insubordination. Red Alert respected caution. Everything was out to get them after all! But this…was not caution.

Walking over to the terminal, Red downloaded the information on both facilities into his internal databanks. He disconnected from the terminal and turned to go when Nova Strike caught his optic.

"Alright then, lets make this interesting. First team that locates their target gets a round of the good stuff from the second team. No sense in holding back in our efforts to secure these munitions, and I think a little competition will spur some creative thinking. Course if we run into some Decepticrusts, all bets are off."

Red Alert’s optics narrowed. The good stuff? What was that? Energon probably. But he couldn’t be sure. There was a chance that Nova Strike had meant something more nefarious. Probably not, but…Red couldn’t help but feel a knot of suspicion well up in his spark. Still, he couldn’t afford to let this affect the mission at hand. Had to carry it out regardless.

Red Alert looked to Hot Spot as the ranger tore off. “Well, we best be off as well.” The security officer transformed and rolled off down the mountain toward Pearl Harbor Naval Base.


Skies Near Pearl Harbor Naval Base

>>"I read you Blast-Off, good work you two."<< Onslaught replied back to both the shuttle-former and the bat currently in the atmosphere. >>"Link up with the seekers and begin scouting out the second base. We're almost to the entry point here."<<

As Blast-Off broke through the atmosphere, he was more than a little gratified to note the, ah, distress of his errant little passenger. Gravity settled back to somewhat more normal levels as the Combaticon space plane leveled off from his rapid descent. He angled himself downward a bit more to approach patrol elevation.

He was soon able to spot one of the seekers – Thundercracker – and fell in beside the Seeker. “Anything to report?” Blast-Off asked as his cast his sensors downward toward the remaining military base.

Wheeler Army Airfield--Security Checkpoint

From above, Vortex keep his audios on the radio traffic, particularly that from the facsimiles that were about to finalize their entry. Everything seemed normal. Nice. Always good when a mission went according to the plan. Especially with Onslaught directly involved.

"Another late night, huh?" one of the voices said.

"You know it," the facsimile responded.

"Gonna need t'see yer chip."

"Yup."

Vortex could hear the telltale beep of some sort of scanning process.

"Alright, clear."

>>"And you're in, fellas, hahah,"<< Vortex commed to the other Decepticons. >>"I'm gonna pick up a little altitude. I'll land over by the alpha target site in about a quarter breem."<<

Central Oahu Regional Park – Abandoned Ranger Station

Prowl received Ultra Magnus’ transmission and quickly sent back a non-verbal acknowledgment of understanding. Naturally, it wasn’t the military strategist that needed to understand things down here. It was Hot Spot who was acting very much out of character. Perhaps he had ingested some bad energon earlier and was not feeling like himself. That might explain it, but this was a serious mission that needed everyone to be at their best if it was to succeed. Therefore, the Protectobot Commander would need to get over whatever his issues were and focus on the tasks at hand.

"You sure Magnus assigned us the right Special Forces Commander? Our executive officer is sounding more and more like that idiot Scattershot than the brave gung-ho defender that you and I both know and tolerate."

Nova Strike’s question was clearly a rhetorical one and therefore needed no actual response from the black and white. The ranger didn’t appear to want a reply anyway as he quickly turned to the blue fire engine and immediately defended the modifications he had done to the structure, saying they were necessary and completely reversible. Nova continued defending his actions stating that he had partook in more of these types of operations than he could remember. All were true, of course. In fact, they all had their fair share of experiences with operations such as this.

“Your work was well done, Nova Strike,” Prowl interjected, trying to reassure the ranger and keep him from getting too upset. Nova then gave the black and white a smile and thumbs up before finally acknowledging the assignment the strategist had just given out moments before.

"Sounds like a couple of solid options. Hound and I can get in to that location pretty easily... Alright then, lets make this interesting. First team that locates their target gets a round of the good stuff from the second team. No sense in holding back in our efforts to secure these munitions, and I think a little competition will spur some creative thinking. Course if we run into some Decepticrusts, all bets are off."

“I have full faith in you and Hound getting into that installation, Nova,” Prowl responded before changing the subject. “As for this becoming a competition. It’s not. It’s a mission like any other. I don’t want anybody doing anything foolish to win some kind of bet. Stay focused and get the job done.”

"Well, we don't want to keep our prize waiting too long. We'll keep in touch. Hound, lets roll out."

“Indeed,” the black and white nodded as Nova Strike transformed and took off down the dirt path that lead to Route 99. Hound then followed suit and assumed his military humvee alt mode, his holomatter avatar of a military soldier appearing in the driver’s seat. The green scout wasted no time and revved off down the dirt path, following close behind the blue ranger.

“Well, we best be off as well,” Red Alert then said before also transforming and heading off towards Route 99 and then south to Pearl Harbor Naval Base.

Prowl gave one final, unapologetic look at Hot Spot as the team leader turned back towards the barn structure. “I suggest you get going. Download the information from the computer terminal remotely if you have to. Time is of the essence here.” With those words spoken, the black and white then looked down at the diminutive cassettebot. “Eject, patrol the area. Keep an optic out for anything unusual. I’ll be in the barn if you require anything.”

Without further delay, the military strategist made his way back into the barn where he manned the computer terminal. All perimeter sensor readings were in the green. Good, no security breaches to be concerned about. Hopefully, it would remain that way. Entering the proper codes into the terminal, Prowl quickly dispatched four additional probes across the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Two of them would keep a look out for any Decepticon activity while the others kept a close watch over the Autobot teams and their movements. These probes would effectively serve as Prowl’s optics and audio receptors as he coordinated the mission from the made-shift base.

>>”All right, teams, I’ve got my optics on you both. Stay sharp. I’ll alert you the moment my probes detect any Decepticon activity.”<<

Heading North on Route 99

Hound kept pace with Nova Strike as the pair of Autobots headed north towards the installation that the humans called Wheeler Air Field. With any luck this mission would go smoothly without the need to get into an altercation with the Decepticons. Perhaps the ‘Cons weren’t even down here looking for their missiles. That was unlikely and even if they weren’t yet, they soon would be. They may not care about these humans the way the green scout did, but that didn’t mean the ‘Cons wanted their tech in the hands of the human military. It was already bad enough that Shockwave and the Dinobots had previously been in the possession of the American government for an unknown amount of time. Now, the humans have even more proof of a Cybertronian presence on their world. Hopefully, the situation would be rectified soon.

“Hey, Nova, I’m activating my topographical scanners so we have a clear view of the terrain ahead. I should also be able to get a more detailed look at the layout of the human installation once we are within range,” Hound alerted the blue ranger as his turret gun continuously swept across the horizon ahead, gathering data that was quickly turned into an internal 3D map.

While the map continued to take shape, one of Prowl’s small probes suddenly buzzed by overhead as the black and white’s transmission came across their comm lines. “We seem to have an angel-bot watching over us, Nova. Or, at least, a prick-bot. Heh.”

50 Miles Outside Wheeler Air Field

"Stupid ones? Guess the knuckle dragger was only marginally smart enough to remember bringing along one of those camouflage doohickeys."

Skywarp chuckled as Thundercracker gently elbowed him in his abdominal region. “Yeah, you got that right, ‘Cracker! Heh.” The blue seeker then pulled out a spare camo changer and tossed it over to the teleporter, who easily caught it. “But, ‘Cracker, I already have one. I just forgot about it. Didn’t you notice that I changed my own coloring a moment ago? See? I’m already a grey camo just like you!”

It mattered little as Skywarp turned to Nightraven while Thundercracker went on to warn Brawl to stay on the road and to keep the noise levels down. “Here, Nighty,” the prankster said as he handed the camo changer over to the seeker femme. “Since I don’t need it, you can have it. We’ll all going to have to blend in, I guess.”

Skywarp then fell in behind Thundercracker, who swiftly transformed and shot off into the night skies. The teleporter looked over at Nightraven again and smiled. “Ready?” After a brief moment, ‘Warp leapt into the air and assumed his F-22 Raptor alt mode before blasting off into the darkness above.

Skies Near Pearl Harbor Naval Base

Skywarp caught up to his blue friend with ease and took a position just off of Thundercracker’s right wing. “I don’t know about you, ’Cracker, but I’m kinda hoping we see some action on this mission,” Skywarp admitted as they approached the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. “I mean, I know we’re supposed to follow infiltration protocols and all, but just flying around while the Combaticons secretly steal back their own weapons is kinda boring. I hope we’ll run into some Autobots. I wouldn’t mind blasting a few of them while we’re down here on this mudball.”

Just then, Blast Off appeared and approached Thundercracker, asking if there was anything to report. “Well, I haven’t seen anything yet,” Skywarp interjected, not sure if the space warrior cared to know what the prankster had to say. “We just got a big fleshling base up ahead. You guys sure we can’t just bomb it into oblivion along with your stolen rocket? Would be simpler. I mean it's not like we haven't attacked and destroyed stuff down here before on past missions. The idiot flesh sacks won’t know it was done by us ‘Cons. They’ll just think it was from some other nation-state on this disgusting planet. So, infiltration protocols are followed, the rocket is destroyed, and we get to have some fun all at the same time. Could do the same thing to the other base, too. Sounds pretty good, right?”

Skywarp had a gut feeling that the answer would be 'no'. He even expected to be made fun of once again for his lack of understanding of why things had to be done a certain way. The teleporter didn’t really care. He was a grunt, after all, and wasn’t all that great at this cloak and dagger slag. Raining death and destruction down from above, now that was more to his tastes. That and pulling pranks, which he couldn’t do now, either. Sigh.

Central Oahu Regional Park – Abandoned Ranger Station

Hot Spot followed Prowl to the barn. He uploaded what he needed as he went but still wanted one more private talk with the mission leader.

"You wanted an explanation of my actions. I think I am still dealing with what happen in Australia with the whole demigod thing. I'm still not thrilled you used the spark extractor and seem to get away with it. Was the device needed to finish the job? It did work but I would have preferred other methods instead of using an unethical if not illegal device. The whole point of this mission is to make sure technology doesn't reach the wrong hands. We were lucky the spark extractor was destroyed beyond use and I doubt the Cons got a good scan of it. If anything I'm just a bit shaken up still and wonder if being on this mission was a good idea after all. I do request though for you to treat me as the second in command of this mission instead of just a grunt. I'm doubting we will learn much from the missile about Con tech depending on how advanced it is. Personally I would rather have it detonated or melted down in one of the close volcanoes."

With his piece said, Hot Spot transformed and headed out to catch up to his fellow fire truck, Red Alert.

Heading South on Route 99

Finding the human’s speedways after bouncing uncomfortably over the rough terrain was something of a relief and an extreme curse. A relief for obvious reasons. A curse for even more obvious ones. They were now exposed to humans. He could feel eyes on him as he drove down the speedway. Cursory glances. Stares. Eyes. Did they know? Could they tell? Was he truly that unusual a sight? It did not help that Hot Spot had not immediately followed. Had he been compromised? Was he going AWOL? Revealing himself-turning traitor-doubting Red’s abilities?

And how were they going to get past human security? What if they suspected their infiltration? That would make matters so much more difficult. Not to mention that any one of these cars driving near him or vehicles in the sky could be Cons. Slaggit all.

>>”Hot Spot, where are you? How are we going to do this?”<< Red commed. Hot Spot was technically second in command. Red would defer to him on how he wanted to do this. Even though his command was dubious…Prowl, Red didn’t trust ether. But they had a job to do. And he didn’t think either of the two had cause to jeopardize it. Except maybe Prowl. One never knew with that one…

Central Oahu Regional Park – Abandoned Ranger Station:

“Eject, patrol the area. Keep an optic out for anything unusual. I’ll be in the barn if you require anything.”

"Sure thing, Prowlster,” said Eject. It was going to be a long and boring day from what it seemed. Though, it could be a good time to do a bit of thinking. As boring as it sounds, it might be a good idea.

After a while and after everyone had calmed down and went off on their selected tasks, Eject said to Prowl before he went to the barn, “Hopefully we won’t be here too long. Rosanna will start worrying about me.”

That was a legitimate concern. Rosanna for all these thousands of vorns was not always in the most stable frames of mind, and she would always go to Eject to talk about things. Eject wouldn't say it’s anything really special between the two of them, but just a mutual friendship.

Eject looked around a bit, and yeah. It was pretty boring. Well, at least for a bit.

The Cassettebot heard a rustling sound in a nearby bush. It startled him, and he without hesitation pointed his gun in the direction of the sound. Then though, he realized it was just a squirrel.

"The creatures of this planet, man," said Eject, "Sometimes I think they're working against us, haha."

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

"So, this is my next assignment?" A soft voice clung to the shadows of the darkened suite, illuminated by a trio of four pronged candelabras. Amber flames flickered and danced as the salty sweet sea breeze wafted through the opened glass doors that lead to the top story veranda. "No, I do not see any problems. I am rather disappointed... that is all?"

A slender hand emerged from the sleeve of a silken robe and took hold of a narrow stemmed glass which contained a fifth round of... well it wasn't really important. The intoxicant held its own as a mild numbing effect to the over all troubles and trials of the past few weeks. Once secured, the thumb and forefinger pinching the stem tightly, the glass was lifted from the perfectly polished mahogany coffee table and brought to clean lips. The green liquor was slowly sloshed around before a subtle sip was drained from its container and the glass was returned to its coaster. "Correct, I do believe this is something that she could handle on her own... Of course, you had to mention that little detail."

"No, I suppose if I must, though my fees are not exactly... I see. Very well, I am sure I can spare a little time while I am here for a nice diversion. Of course, the events in Peru were hardly what one would call ideal... Quite, that is why I decided for a few days of personal debauchery." A small half giggle half chuckle escaped pursed lips as the black plastic of the disposable cellular phone pressed against the side of her left cheek. "And what of my, last mark? I trust his ambitions were appropriately rewarded?"

A lock of brunette hair slipped from the tight bun and draped itself over silver clad right eye. "I see, well that is too bad. I would have preferred to close that matter myself, however... I am aware. Such personal touches tend to elude those who are under proverbial protection. Even still, I hope you managed to save a recording of the incident. He was such a boar, even with that fancy Armani suit. Took days to wash myself after that incident. I shan't grace you with the details."

Another sip of Amaranth, "Very well I accept this diversion... at least till I become bored. The price is standard, plus expenses... our typical arrangement of course. Mmm, so my mark is that close to the target. I trust she has already been painted for removal? Good good, I would love to, sample her abilities... before being pressed into service. Consider it a part of my completion package. Will that be all? Alright then, oh before we depart... please ensure that complication is held at the furthest edges of this infiltration. I don't want to share my prize... again." The phone was folded closed cutting the call of before its tracing protocols could be discovered and a puff of smoke emerged from its battery pack as a micro charge fried the entire miniature computer.

Mai pushed herself from the lavish couch and pulled the string of her robe tight around her. She discarded the dead phone into the nearby trash basket before she padded over to the soft mattress and down comforter. Slowly she sat at the left hand side of the bed and allowed her hand to rest lightly on the slumbering figure that had once been by her side. Carefully, as not to disturb her, she reached over and brushed aside a scarlet strand of long hair from her lover's cheek. "So much for vacation." She whispered to herself before leaning in to give a cherishing kiss to her exposed flesh.

She withdrew as her companion shifted ever so slightly. It was indeed a shame, but not entirely without precedent. Mai was certain the woman before her would understand. That was her life, the only one either of them had ever known, lucrative and dangerous and often unpredictable. Still, it made her regret accepting this particular assignment.

Once satisfied her partner would not be roused so easily, Mai doffed her robes and made her way to the armoire. It took but a pair of minutes for her to dress into a confiscated uniform that had been provided by her contact before she had even checked in to the hotel itself. Another sign of efficiency of the organization unto which she was truly employed. They knew she was present even before she set foot on the warm sandy white Oahu beaches. She buttoned up her army issue standard brown blouse and took only a moment to adjust herself in the mirror. "These Americans have no sense of style... Particularly when it comes to their betters."

She completed her ensemble with a simple issue skirt and a personalized yet nondescript purse, complete with all the items a woman would need in a military base. From lipstick to a plastic revolver capable of passing through any scanner undetected. "You're going... aren't you?" Mai froze as the groggy voice slowly called to her from the bed.

"You should be sleeping Asia (Pronounced a-Zi-ya)," she responded before tucking a specialized Generation 9 Intelligent Phone and Computer, into her purse... along with other bits and bobbles to complete the assignment.

The blankets slid around as Asia pulled herself to seating. "As should you... Another assignment?"

"That's right. At least this time I am not paired with a government dog with his own agendas." Mai clipped her purse closed and slung the strap over her shoulder. "...I'm sorry Asia, but I can't exactly turn these jobs down right now."

"No, I suppose not," Asia shook her head with a smile that could melt the coldest visage. "Especially after everything went belly up in Peru (Early events of Autobot City: Hidden Foundations) with that..."

"I don't want to talk about that," She snapped but immediately regretted her tone. "Sorry, it wasn't exactly the plumb assignment that jerk promised it would be. Whatever happened, its over and done with and I don't expect we will see the like again. Particularly in a hedonistic mecca like America's paradise state."

Asia pulled herself out of bed and made her way to her beloved. She wrapped her arms around Mai's neck and placed a kiss upon her lips. "I doubt it will. Just be safe Mai." She kissed her again before releasing her to finish gathering the remainder of her gear. "Just remember Mai, I am a phone call away. If you require anything... I will be there."

Mai was now at the door to the suite her hand on the knob. "I know you will. I just hope your... unique specialties are not required for this one. I'll find you once this is over, take care Asia."

With that, Mai was on her way out towards Wheeler and her date with the next exciting adventure in the life of an Organization Special Agent.

Central Oahu Regional Park – Abandoned Ranger Station - [Eject's comms Rosanna]:

>>Hey Rose, are you doing alright?<<

>>Eject! what are you doing?<<

>>I'm on duty. I can't chat long. I was just checking in.<<

>>On duty? Where? Doing what?<<

>>I'm on Earth. Don't worry, I'm only on lookout. Anyway, I only wanted to say sorry for not seeing you before going on duty. I should be back at home base really soon.<<

>>Oh, okay Eject. Thanks for calling.<<

>>Of course! Now I gotta go. Seeya later, girl!<<

[comm ends]

[OOC: Rosanna is located in the Autobot Frigate Guardian.]

Wheeler Air Field

>>”That meatbag looks suspicious boss, I can turn it into paste faster than… uh, well you know. Just say the word.”<<

>>"I'd rather not have to explain to Razorclaw how we broke infiltration protocols so early, but I'll keep that in mind."<< Onslaught responded to the tank-former parked on his trailer. >>"Just a few more astroseconds of keeping barrels forward and trigger fingers at bay, then we'll have our tech back in hand."<<

The facsimiles and Swindle then began to drive forward once the primitive Earth gate had shifted. Onslaught eased forward to match the pace of the convoy they had formed and followed Swindle's tail lights towards their designated checkpoint.

>>"Alright boys, the next stage of the plan is in motion."<< Onslaught began to address to the entirety of his team. >>"The facsimiles will be the face for our infiltration from here until we get the missiles back in our hands."<<

Onslaught's truck mode came to a full stop once the convoy entered the complex. His driver-side door swung open and out stepped Lt. John Smith, a middle-aged retired Green Beret adorned in his formal wear. The humanoid took a couple steps moving towards Swindle's bumper until he met up with the Decepticon facsimiles exiting the weapons dealer's humvee mode.

"Looking good boss man!" Swindle stated behind the visage of his holomatter avatar, a rather suave looking humanoid, designated "Sgt. Peck." and dressed in a similar Green Beret uniform as John Smith.

"Settle down, Swindle." Onslaught commanded behind the holomatter visage of Lt. Smith, "We have to adhere to these new monikers from here on out." The Combaticon commander's holomatter form shook out his leg for a moment before planting his foot firm and facing off towards where Vortex landed. "And getting used to these smaller forms..."

>>"Onslaught to Vortex; we got feet on the ground and Holomatters up, heading in now. Be ready to acquire the cargo."<<

Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort

Tires came to a screeching halt outside the resort this "Mai" operative was stationed to, the faint dust trail settling back towards the grounds as the audible clock of a parking brake was heard. The driver exited his black sedan and came around to the rear of the vehicle before circling around to grab the handle of the rear passenger side door. Leather soon met concrete as the man inside the rear of the sedan slowly lurched out of the sedan, placing his tan fedora upon the top of his head to block out the harsh sun. A low moan of discomfort escaped the VIP's vocal cords as he pulled the sleeve of his trench coat away from his watch to check the time. The driver quickly closed the door behind the trench-coat wearing man before quickly shooting back up to a full attention and folding his arms behind his back.

After a moment and looking up from his watch, the man in the fedora quickly brushed away some dirt that flickered towards his beak-like nose and licked away the dryness at his lips this heat was making. His eyes were then drawn towards the door as he noticed it cracked open and the woman they were sent to pick up emerged from within.

"Well," the man in the fedora, his voice slightly groaning from the ages having passed by, "look who's finally up and awake." The man signaled to his driver with a spinning of his index finger, the driver quickly noticing and reaching to open the car door. The man in the trench coat walked around the black sedan and entered in from behind the driver seat, quickly settling himself into his seat and pulling up HIS briefcase while Mai entered the vehicle.

"I take it you've already been briefed then?" Trench coat inquired popping open the latches of his case, "Because this just became your most important task to date."

Wheeler Airfield

Vortex's holomatter avatar emerged from the other side of the blackhawk chopper. Flight Sergeant Ryan Murdock, Vortex's outward guise for the mission at hand, was more than ready to get this colossal clusterfrag put behind him and get the ordnance secured.

>>"Onslaught to Vortex; we got feet on the ground and Holomatters up, heading in now. Be ready to acquire the cargo."<<

>>"10-4, sir. I'm heading in too. I'll be ready to assist and get the bogeys outta here."<<

Internally, Vortex sighed. He was never going to live this mistake down with anything short of extinguishing Grimlock's spark himself.

Wheeler Air Field

Swindle continued with the mission as planned, He didn't mind humans, they spoke the same language which is greed.

Although this had not stopped Swindle exploiting humanity, with very little effort he had managed to secure deals with US arms dealers and government officials, using other facimiles he kept for private use and that he had carefully insinuated into the social elite of Earth. Swindle had greased palms and paid for secured documents and identities that would hold up even under harsh scrutiny.

Swindle feared humans ever entering the Autobot/Decepicon conflict. On the basis they were so eager for self destruction. It was Swindles obligation to flood the human markets with enough guns, bombs and weapons of mass destruction through shell company's that it would hurry along there inevitable end as a species. It wasn't hard, humans ignorant greed and love of "money" and penchant for destroying there home world was a safe path to self genocide.

I guess that's the way it goes for an entire civilization built around the accumulation of wealth, bureaucracy and self aggrandizement, So much like the Primes of old, yet they don't have a Megatron to save them.

Oh well, sucks too be human I guess.

Swindle dwelled a moment on the idea of human extinction, and if they would be profitable as pets. Nah he thought. too risky.

Swindle activates the general coms,

"you guys need to ease up a'bit, this missions going to be a piece of cake, ill buy the first round of energon when we get back to the Thanatos, Besides i don't see why everyone's so hung up on camo, the Autobots have a blue fire truck? who's ever seen that before? I could drive in here bright pink and the meat bags wouldn't bat an eyelid."

Skies Near Pearl Harbor Naval Base

“Well, I haven’t seen anything yet,” Skywarp interjected, not sure if the space warrior cared to know what the prankster had to say. “We just got a big fleshling base up ahead. You guys sure we can’t just bomb it into oblivion along with your stolen rocket? Would be simpler. I mean it's not like we haven't attacked and destroyed stuff down here before on past missions. The idiot flesh sacks won’t know it was done by us ‘Cons. They’ll just think it was from some other nation-state on this disgusting planet. So, infiltration protocols are followed, the rocket is destroyed, and we get to have some fun all at the same time. Could do the same thing to the other base, too. Sounds pretty good, right?”

“No,” Blast-Off stated flatly, shooting down Skywarp’s idea. He would have nipped it earlier in its inception, but he admitted to some curiosity of what the prankster’s plan might be. That and he might relish a touch shooting down a fully formed idea to heighten the humiliation. To add insult to injury, Blast-Off heaved an overly dramatic, haughty sigh.

“It sounds idiotic,” the Combaticon said, “Do you think it is phase five? Hmmm? No. And I won’t be party to something that could potentially get us all killed, or worse, humiliated.”

Especially not now after all Onslaught has done to make our team rise to power, Blast-Off thought.

>>”Onslaught, it seems that the seekers have not spotted any unusual activity. What are your orders?”

Wheeler Air Field


Swindle AKA Sgt Peck, wanders around the air field decidedly looking lost. Between his military tags, camo pants, baseball jacket, aviators and GI. Joe hair cut. Peck looks just another special forces tourist between missions, enjoying the sights before being stuck on a plane or boat bound for another warzone.

Peck sized up the buildings, cept watch of the comings and goings of different personnel. Found a personnel kitchen, drank some coffee, flirted with a human girl, ate a strange biscuit.

Life was good for Sargent Peck.





(OOC I reworked the post)