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Shockwave’s Tower – Corridors

Thunderwing smiled back at Blackwind. “A pleasure to meet you Blackwind. Let me say again how happy I am to have fellow Decepticons back on Cybertron. It has been quite some time since I’ve had a conversation with anything more complex than a drone.”

He turned to look ahead of him as the continued walking. This seeker was obviously not of the simple warrior group that seemed to dominate their ranks. She was intelligent for one, a trait that few of that group seemed to possess, save their egotistical leader. She wasn’t just intelligent though; she was charming and subtly probing him with her words. She had barely been on the world moments and was already asking him about his creations and whether he intended to share them with the Empire. It made sense, what better form for an intelligence agent to take than a female seeker? Seekers were prevalent in the Empire to the point of easily being overlooked. Many in the Empire would also overlook a femme. It was a tactic that would likely work on a great many Decepticons. He, however, was not one of them.

That wasn’t to say Thunderwing instantly mistrusted her. He expected there would be some investigation into his work and what he had been doing on Cybertron for so long. It was promising though that they sent someone like Blackwind to conduct the investigation. He had feared that Shockwave would attempt something himself, perhaps through neural surgery of some sort. This more subtle form of investigation was far more pleasant and meant they still had some use for him intact. The fact that she even mentioned some disdain for Shockwave was also promising. Perhaps there was some tension with the other Decepticon’s long absence as well. That would play into his favor as well.

“I always intended to share my breakthroughs with the rest of the empire. It has just been that I haven’t been able to contact the Empire until recently with the atmosphere clearing just enough for me to punch a signal through. Even then I wasn’t sure anyone would hear, let alone reply.”

He looked at her and smiled again. “As for our commander, be careful about what you say in his tower. His single optic can see all, especially in his domain.” He stopped in front of a door. “I believe this room is unoccupied. It can serve as your quarters or office, as you see fit. I assume you want to drop off your things here before I show you any further.”

*

Thanatos – Engine Room

Tantrum came stomping into the room, an annoyed look on his face. Fueler was his specialty but he was getting a little tired of just lugging around fuel canisters all over the place. Hopefully there would be something more to do on this planet then shuffle things around from the ship to the base and from the base to the ship.

The Predacon glanced around briefly before locating the fuel cells. There were still a few unused ones. He scooped them up in his arms and stomped out of the room. Now he just had to find Razorclaw and ask him where he wanted them. Somewhere in the tower he assumed, but he had no idea where. He wasn’t exactly a frequent guest inside Shockwave’s tower, probably since he had a tendency to smash things when he got angry. Shockwave wasn’t the type to appreciate that, so he had never been inside the tower and had no idea where anything was. Well, that was why Razorclaw was the commander, he’d know where to put them.

Starship Silo A2

"Will do, Commander Razorclaw!" said Swindle, chugging off towards the doors once again. Truth be told, he had weapons, scientific equipment, and other supplies in his hover-trailer, and was going to have to visit all three areas of the Tower before coming back here: Not exactly the most efficient use of his time, but this was stuff Swindle wanted to make sure wasn't dropped and crushed underfoot by the like of Tantrum...and he wanted to know where they would be stored, in case the oppurtunity came up where they wouldn't be needed anymore, and became unimportant enough to not be missed.

He paused a second as Wierdwolf indicated the new arrival talking to Blackwind. "I hear ya buddie. Best to leave those two to it, we can't benefit from being around them. Could end badly." As he trundled off to the laboratories, he swung his sensor suite around to get a good look at the newcomer. Never seen armor like that before, not on a cybertronian at least. Whatever this Thunderwing character has been up to since we left Cybertron, it looks mighty interesting. Maybe I'll get to ask him about, assuming he can get away from that femme.

Shockwave’s Tower – Corridors

Blackwind returned Thunderwing’s smile and laughed lightly at his comment. “I could imagine what conversations would have been like.” She tightened her arm around his as she refocused her attention to their trek. She could only imagine what was running through his mind about her. However, she would prove that her presence here was for the good of the Empire and that she had no hidden agendas.

Her optics never left the corridor ahead of them as she listened to him speak again. She already knew he would share all of his finding with the Empire, however, would he be willing to divulge all of the information he had in his possession; that is what she truly needed to know. Using her charm and intelligence was her best chance of finding out exactly what she wanted; adding the truth wouldn’t hurt either.

She looked back up at him when they finally stopped at a door. She smiled back and then walked into the room and took a look around. “An office. That’s not a bad idea.” She nodded and then turned around to face him. “Thank you, you can leave the cart anywhere. Off loading it can wait.”

With a smile still etched on her face she slowly made it back to him at the doorway. Once in front of him she placed a hand on his and addressed him. “Well, now you can show me where the private quarters are located.”

Shockwave’s Tower – Corridors

Thunderwing was bemused at the fact that he had become some sort of mover drone for Blackwind, but he was willing to play along. He pushed the hovercart into the room, parking it in an empty corner. “Should you require any additional furniture or equipment I’m sure we can scavenge it from some of the other rooms. Even with the arrival of so many Decepticons the tower will still be mostly uninhabited.”

He smiled at her as she walked back to him and took his hand in hers. “Of course, the private quarters. I believe they are this way.” The Decepticon scientist began leading her down another corridor. “Hopefully everything in the tower is still functional, just requiring power to function once more. The atmosphere had protected the planet from any sort of meteor strikes but I wouldn’t be surprised if some electrical discharges from that volatile atmosphere had shorted out some circuitry. I’m sure Commander Shockwave will have drones working around the clock making minor repairs like that.”

Thunderwing noticed that she had pulled back with her questioning. Yes, she was a very clever one. Now it appeared that she had only made customary meeting conversation. It was possible he was simply being paranoid, but if he were in Megatron’s position he would not let such new and valuable technology stay beyond his sight. The fact that Shockwave was here as well, after having disappeared in similarly mysterious circumstances only reinforced the idea that he had someone among this team watching him and from what he had seen so far Blackwind was the prime candidate.

There was some opportunity in that however. If Megatron had sent her to act as his optics on Cybertron then he could perhaps curry favor with him by assisting her in observing Shockwave. It would have the double benefit of keeping her more preoccupied with the other Decepticon and gaining her trust. He certainly wouldn’t mind working with her closely. It was a plan that would benefit both of them and likely be pleasant. He would just have to be careful how he played it as she was obviously quite intelligent.

“Here we are, one of the larger officers’ quarters. I’m sure you will find it to your liking, particularly after the various quarters you’ve had to stay in on whatever planets the Empire has been conquering. I imagine room was short and furnishings sparse.” He gestured for her to enter the rather large room. He began rubbing his chin thoughtfully. “I suppose I will need quarters in the tower as well. It would be a nuisance to move back and forth from my current facilities to the tower.” Thunderwing glanced down the corridor. “I believe this room next to yours will be suitable,” he smiled at her, “assuming you don’t mind me being your neighbor?” Of course this would also have the benefit of him keeping an eye on her, and vice versa for her. He thought it would be better to keep her close, even if it meant he might have trouble with his own movements. It would show confidence and that he had nothing to hide. It would also help him in assisting her. Once again a highly beneficial move.

Shockwave’s Tower - Living Quarters

“This will do rather nicely, and yes, it is much more to my liking then past ones.” She looked around the room; it was much larger than any of the rooms at her previous locations, that much was sure. She was not concerned about the furnishing; all she really required was a recharge berth, a desk and chair, and this room contained both. She smiled as she walked over to some shelves on a far wall. She picked up the various items, took a good look at them and placed them back down. The room had not been occupied for some time, certainly even before the forced evacuation.

Blackwind had moved over to another wall of shelves when Thunderwing mentioned taking the quarters adjacent to hers. She blew a large amount of dust from the shelf as he spoke. She slowly turned her head to look at him and flashed him a genuine smile. “Mind? Why, and how, could I possibly mind being next door to you?” She looked back to the shelf and placed her finger on another dust covered one and ran it down its length. She rubbed her thumb and forefinger together as she finally turned around to face him.

She cocked her head to one side as she looked at him for a few moments before addressing him again. “Thunderwing, I believe that telling the truth from the very beginning is the best way to start off a new relationship, professional or otherwise.” She smiled at him before she moved to the berth where she took a seat. She kept her optics on him as she spoke. “I’m here for two reasons. One is to keep an optic on our dear military operations commander, and the other is to find out as much as I can about your carapace process.” She crossed her legs and waited a moment before she went on. “However, I don’t have the desire to go about retrieving the information I need from you the ‘usual’ way. I intend to wait.”

She gestured to the chair located at her desk for him to sit on. She paused for sometime before she continued. “I intend to wait for you.” She smiled at him as she placed her hands at her sides on the berth and leaned back; taking a more relaxed pose. “I want you to be able to trust me, and when you do, we can talk about your process.”

Shockwave's Tower - Main Lab

Razorclaw entered Shockwave's primary lab facility followed closely by Divebomb, who was pushing the hover cart full of lab instruments. The two Predacons made their way to the center of the room where a large work table was situated. It was covered with a thick layer of dust, but nothing that couldn’t be cleaned off. This room had obviously not been utilized in some time and would take quite of bit of work to clean it up. It was a task that the Predacons would surely be assigned to just as they had been assigned the menial duty of transporting these scientific instruments.

Razorclaw turned to Divebomb. “Start unloading the lab equipment. Place everything carefully on the work table here.” The Predacon Commander moved his hand across the surface, creating a path through the layer of dust. He could now see the table’s surface, if only in one area. “Shockwave can decide for himself where he wants everything to go. And start cleaning up as you go. I’m sure we’ll end up doing most of that job, as well, anyway.”

“Yes, sir,” Divebomb said, nodding to his commanding officer. The flying Predacon then began lifting each instrument out of the hover cart one at a time and placing them onto the table. He did so carefully as Razorclaw had instructed or at least as carefully as a Predacon was capable of.

Razorclaw then opened a comm link to the other Predacons:

>>Tantrum, Headstrong, Rampage - status report! Have you moved everything we need from the Thanatos into the tower yet?<<

Shockwave's Tower - Main Lab

Weirdwolf unloads cargo from the hover lift to the corner of the room. The residual energy signatures are fluctuating just as wildly in this room as outside. But these signatures are different, from a differing end of the particle spectrum. Sensors pick up a hollow sound in the middle of the wall, a hidden room no doubt. Strong energy signatures come from inside, but its best to let Shockwave keep his secrets.

Shockwave's Tower - Control room

Weirdwolf starts recalibrating the towers sensors, adjusting for interference. If the Decepticons made it this far the Autobots are no doubt close behind, and Weirdwolf wanted all the information he could manage before hand. The sensor arrays we're long overdue for maintenance but the are still in good condition. After some moderate upgrades to system parameters and some tweeking to the programs they should be better than ever.

"Since long used, not been abused." Weirdwolf mumbles to himself while working on the sensors.

Shockwave’s Tower - Living Quarters

Thunderwing watched with some amusement as Blackwind explored the room, noticing the rather abundant dust inside of it. “I’m sure once the tower is fully powered once again that the various cleaning and repair drones will be activated. While the tower is intact structurally there are liable to be some frayed wires and corroded circuits that need to be replaced in various spots, not to mention the accumulation of dust and dirt that you’ve noticed.” He smiled at her before stepping inside the room, the door sliding shut behind him.

The smile slowly faded from his face as the conversation took a more serious tone. He kept his expression neutral, but he was surprised to hear her spell out her mission quite so plainly to him. She had scored a double victory there, catching him off guard and gaining some more respect and perhaps a bit of trust. He would have to watch himself around her, at least until he could be certain that he could fully trust her. From what he had seen of her so far he wouldn’t put it past Blackwind for this to all be an overly elaborate ruse. He didn’t think it was, but his situation in the Empire was a bit too precarious for him to take that chance. All he had to offer to the Empire right now was his own prowess and the promise of attempting to enhance his fellow Decepticons. Megatron aside, no single Decepticon was irreplaceable to the Empire and his promises could prove to be very empty.

Thunderwing took the seat offered to him at her desk. He listened quietly as she explained that she was willing to wait for him to offer the information. It was another point in favor of trusting her. Finally, when she was done explaining her mission he spoke. “I appreciate your honesty and being forthcoming in your mission. Allow me to return the favor a bit.” He brought his hands in front of him, clasping them together with the fingers interlocked with each other. “Despite my absence from the Empire for so long I recall how it functions. On one side it is a ruthlessly efficient military organization with orders from above being strictly obeyed due to severe….penalties if they are not.”

“On the other hand, however, there is the duplicitous, self-serving and backstabbing behavior of those in the Empire. The very fact that you are here to keep an optic on Shockwave indicates to me that behavior is still common and Megatron suspects Shockwave of plotting something. Certainly an amount of betrayal and assassination have played a part in rising through the ranks in the past and I assume that too hasn’t changed.”

He relaxed his hands now as he leaned forward and continued to talk. “Now, here I am, just having made contact with the Empire once again with promises of a new technology that could bolster our troops significantly. Now I have little doubt that there are two thoughts working against me in some corners of the Empire now. One would be that suddenly a new high ranking Decepticon has reappeared on the map. My presence, assuming I still hold my old rank, is likely to bump a few Decepticons down. I doubt that will be appreciated. On top of that I’ve come back with the promise of new power to the troops. There are likely Decepticons out there wanting to eliminate me just to remove me from the picture, while others would remove me and claim my work for themselves.”

Thunderwing leaned back in his chair again. “Now, those who wish me dead outright, there is little I can do than to remain vigilant against them until I am in a more secure position within the Empire. Time will pass and they will find other things to focus on. The other group, the ones who want my work, I can protect more against by keeping my secrets. This is why I’m reluctant, for now, to discuss the details of the carapace process.”

He held up a hand, “Make no mistake though, I want to see the Decepticon side victorious in this war, and if my technology can do it then I will freely give it to all of the Empire. First I need to find out if it can be duplicated on other Decepticons. With only myself to experiment on I’ve only proven 100% that it works on me. If I can prove that it works and is effective on other Decepticons then we can begin more widespread adoption of it.” He smiled now. “As the foremost and only leader on the carapace process, it only makes sense for me to carry out that research personally.”

“Now I believe you can assist each other. To help prove my loyalty to the Empire I offer you my assistance in anyway I can with observing Shockwave. I believe this will help cement my place back in the Empire and will help us grow to trust each other which should be of great benefit to both of us. Don’t you agree?” He smiled at Blackwind, awaiting her answer.

*

Shockwave’s Tower – Corridors

Tantrum snorted as he walked down the veritable maze of corridors that dominated the tower. It figures that a genius like Shockwave would make a tower so confusing that only he knew where everything was. At least it was too complicated for him. He must not have been thinking of the common grunts when he designed it.

The Predacon was quick to reply to Razorclaw’s signal. >>”I’m in the Tower Razorclaw and I have the fuel cells, but I don’t know where you want. Never been inside this place before so I don’t know where I’m going anyway. If you give me directions I’ll take them wherever you want them.”<<

Shockwave's Tower - The Nerve Center

After leaving the equipment he had taken from the Thanatos into one of the many chambers that formed the enormous complex that was the main laboratories of the tower, Shockwave had directly headed for the command center of the tower. The nerve center of the tower was as close to a personal living quarters as it could get for a mechanoid as practical as Shockwave. He had little interest in aesthetics, only functionality really mattered. Of course, even Shockwave understood the power of intimidation, thus many of the structures in the city, including the very tower itself - reminded its habitants of who was watching their every move. The room was packed full of different types of surveillance equipment for monitoring every possible facet of the tower but perhaps even more importantly, every facet of the Empire. Naturally with the Empire's surveillance network down and disconnected from Cybertron left would not allow Shockwave to use the equipment to its full potential as he had done as the military operations commander but he was determined to rebuild his surveillance network eventually.

Shockwave sat down on the massive command throne that also served as a recharge station and an automated repair platform. It would require some time to bring all the systems back online and the tower maintenance running but it had to be started. For now the new residents of the tower could keep their secrets but it would not last for long.

While inspecting the status of the nerve center from damages through sending out minor current from his own system into the computers of the nerve center, Shockwave took the steps to power up the tower properly by opening encoded comm-link to Razorclaw, whom he trusted the most out of the lot assigned to him. Not that the ancient Decepticon would ever trust anyone fully.

>>"Razorclaw, I need you to enter the energy distribution halls of the tower and connect energon amount of 400 terawatts into the tower's energy siphon. This is imperative for the initial powering up of the tower. After this has been done, the hall will be secured and the entrance codes will be hold only by the two of us. Report back to me after you are done."<<

Shockwaves Tower - Main Lab

Having dropped off the rest of his supplies, Swindle meekly entered the lab, and began gingerly putting the sensitive scientific apparatus he'd taken in out-of-the-way but accessible locations in the corner of the lab. He worked quickly and diligently, knowing Shockwave would be watching with any number of sensor devices.

Not a good time to seem overly curious. Besides, we're going to be on Cybertron a while, I'm sure I'll get to know the place in time.

His job done, he transformed and prepared to leave, to get more supplies out of the cruiser. Probably not scientific supplies though, the lab, and the feeling of being watched, was oppressive.

Nothing good can come from staying here. Shockwave might accuse me of slacking off, or spying, or he might even find some 'special' work for me to do. I don't want to end up as a lab experiment...

Shockwave’s Tower – Main Lab

Razorclaw monitored Divebomb’s progress of unloading the scientific equipment as the Predacon Commander waited for the other members of his team to respond to his earlier communiqué. It didn’t take too long to hear from Tantrum, who wanted to know where he could dump the fuel cells he was carrying aimlessly through the tower. Razorclaw opened a comm line to Tantrum:

>>Take the fuel cells to the storage room on Level 3. I’d send you a map of the place, but I am unable to download one since the tower isn’t fully powered up yet. The storage room won’t be too hard to locate, though, and it should be clearly marked. Once you’re done unloading the cells, report to the main lab facility with the rest of us.<<

Once Razorclaw was done giving Tantrum further instructions, he received an encoded communication from Shockwave.

>>Understood, Commander Shockwave. I will get right on it.<<

Razorclaw then turned back to Divebomb. “I’m needed elsewhere. Finish unloading the equipment. Once you are done, wait for Tantrum and the others to arrive. Make sure they don’t wreck the place while I’m gone.” Divebomb nodded and watched as his commander exited the main lab.

Shockwave’s Tower - Energy Distribution Halls

Razorclaw entered the long dormant distribution halls of energon that had powered Shockwave’s tower many vorns ago. It was now a dark and dank place to be sure, but that would soon change. The Predacon Commander knew what had to be done as he made his way to the far end of the hall. He approached a dust covered wall that seemed flat with no discernable surface features. But looks could be deceiving and were in this case.

Razorclaw brushed away the thick layer of dust and exposed a panel in the wall. Raising his right arm, his hand disappeared into his wrist socket and was replaced by a power tool, which he then used to unscrew the panel at the four corners. Once the screws were undone, the Predacon Commander carefully removed the panel and set it aside before turning his attention to the energon connections in front of him. Since the tower currently lacked the appropriate power, he needed to make the necessary links manually instead of via a computer terminal. It would take a bit more time, but it was something that had to be done.

Studying the connectors carefully in the darkened hall, Razorclaw identified the 400 terawatt energy cable and then carefully hooked it into the tower’s energon siphon. Once the connection was secured, he turned his attention to the large power switch to his left and flipped it upwards, initiating the energon flow.

If Razorclaw could have smiled, he would have as the tower began to come alive again and light filled the energy distribution halls for the first time in what seemed like forever. The Predacon Commander then quickly replaced the wall panel, making sure each screw was in its proper place. Once that was completed, he exited the energon facility, closing the doors behind him and initiating the locking mechanism. Once the entrance was secured, Razorclaw then swiftly made his way up to the nerve center of the tower to report to Shockwave.

Shockwave’s Tower – The Nerve Center

Razorclaw entered the tower's command center, taking notice of the large amount of surveillance equipment that adorned the large room. He had expected to see as much. Shockwave was always one who liked to intimidate others by keeping an eye on everything and everyone. Once the network was completely restored, the cycloptic mech could easily do just that, but it would take some time. Still, Razorclaw had to be careful when moving about the tower, not knowing how long it would take ol’ one eye to get his cameras up and running even on a limited basis.

Razorclaw quickly approached the large command throne where Shockwave waited for the Predacon leader’s report. “My lord, I have connected 400 terawatts of energon into the tower’s energy siphon as ordered, sir. I have also locked the hall's entrance. It now only requires a security code of your choosing, commander.”

Shockwave’s Tower – Living Quarters

Blackwind remained silent as she reclined and listened to Thunderwing. She nodded in kind as he mentioned that he remembered just how the Empire ran. She forced a smile with the mention of the behavior within the Empire. She quietly responded. “You would be correct in believing that that kind of behavior is still alive and well within the Empire.” Her position changed from that of a relaxed state to something more serious as he continued with his explanation.

She remained silent as he went on. Once he finished she kept quiet for a few moments taking in all that was said. She finally stood from the berth and turned so her back was facing him. She began with a sigh. “As far as your rank within the Empire, I could certainly find out, but that might take some time.”She looked over her shoulder and smiled back at him. “I’m glad you are willing to share your work with us, now I won’t have to tell Lord Megatron you were uncooperative.” She turned fully to face him as she proceeded. “I’m also sure that no one but Shockwave could pose you any real danger, however with your help keeping an optic on him he will be no trouble. With both of us working together it will make it easier for you to proceed with your experiments with little to no worry.”

She slowly made her way to stand directly in front of him, an enchanting smile on her face. “I believe that I can offer you something that will help you gain my trust, and that will make you very, very……….happy.” Her smiled turned provocative as she stared at him. She then produced a small device held between her forefinger and middle finger.

Her voice lowered to just above a whisper.”This is something I came into possession of before we left Earth.” She put the device away before she continued. “Now, are you willing to take me to your lab? I can assure you, you’ll find what I have to be very helpful.”

Shockwave’s Tower – The Nerve Center

As Razorclaw connected the required energon into the energy distribution siphon, the long dormant nerve center of the tower instantly came alive. It had been designed as direct extension to Shockwave's own extremely powerful cpu unit, thus only a select few could even hope to utilize the full potential of the towers computing capabilities. Still, after all this time, Shockwave could not just enstablish an instant neural link into the supercomputers. The system had to be rebooted and checked for corruption, otherwise the risks would be too great.

When the Predacon commander Razorclaw arrived to the nerve center entrance, Shockwave was already halfway through the full system scan. Naturally, the process had to be slowed down considerably as Shockwave could not focus on the program for a time being. As the door of the nerve center opened, the massive command throne whirled around to allow Shockwave to face the former gladiator who went straight to the business and delivered his report.

"Good. The codes you have placed have already been replaced with a program of my design. You will be given new codes with an interval of one cycle." Shockwave responded to Razorclaw's report.

"We have been gone for too long and there is much to do. Your special talents cannot be wasted in menial tasks within the tower. The tower's sensor network is far from operational and even after I get it working with acceptable efficiency for our current situation - it will not be even near its standard operational effiency." Shockwave explained, continuing, "Take your team with addition of Swindle and Weirdwolf. Scout at least the area within the range of 80 megamiles from the tower center and set up surveillance grid. I can use this data to set up a security perimeter to avoid any surprises. Also, if you encounter any surviving lifeforms - capture samples for research. Questions?"

Shockwave’s Tower – Living Quarters

Now it was Thunderwing’s turn to listen as Blackwind gave him a reply to all of his questions. At her confirmation of how the Empire still worked through some assassination and backstabbing the Decepticon felt a mixture of relief and disappointment. Part of him had hoped the Empire was beyond such petty actions. In reality they often only worked to weaken the Empire, removing elements that could prove useful in the future. On the other hand though, it was a bit of a relief to find the Empire had not completely changed in his absence. Despite a certain distaste for it he had acquired some skill at the secret machinations that went on inside of it. With any luck he would be able to easily reintegrate himself back into its workings once the rest of the Decepticons returned to Cybertron.

The information on his rank could wait. Rank was often determined by personal power and intelligence in the Empire, and he possessed both of those in no insignificant quantity. He would reclaim a ranking of some prestige when it came time for that to be made official.

Thunderwing nodded as she mentioned his cooperation with sharing his findings. “As I said before, it was never my intention to keep my work to myself. I am happy to share it with the rest of the Empire.”

The Decepticon listened quietly again as Blackwind went on. He was pleased to hear her accept his offer of assistance in watching Shockwave. The other Decepticon was a potential threat. With his brilliant mind and incredible power there were few who could claim to be his equal on either side of the war. Had he possessed even a fraction of the charisma that Megatron had in abundance then he would have likely challenged him for leadership directly some time ago, resulting in some sort of Civil War.

He was a bit surprised that Megatron would send such a potential troublemaker off on his own relatively unsupervised. Blackwind could certainly watch him, but if push truly came to shove she would not be able to stop him. There were the Predacons to consider as well however, and they had always been staunch Megatron loyalists. He may have sent Shockwave to be off on his own, but he had successfully isolated him by sending him to the barely living world surrounded by his handpicked soldiers. Shockwave would be forced to play along with Megatron, for now at least, assuming he did have motives against him. The fact that he had mysteriously disappeared so long ago only to return no and receive this assignment made him suspect that there had been and perhaps still was something going on there. Observing him would earn him the trust of Blackwind and Megatron and perhaps give him further insight of the functioning of the Empire now.

Thunderwing watched as Blackwind walked over to him standing directly in front of him. He cocked his right eye out of curiosity of her mention of something that would make him happy. His optics quickly moved from her smiling face to the object she had produced in her hand. He recognized it as a data storage device, one more advanced looking then the ones he had known. It likely possessed information or upgrades that would bring his systems up to whatever was the present technological level of the Empire. Of course, it was also possible that it had various spy programs and viruses that would dig through all of the data on his computers and monitor his actions on them. It was a risk he was willing to take though. He needed to give her another gesture of trust, and it was likely that the upgrades would be more than worth whatever nuisance such programs might give him.

He stood up from his chair. “Of course I am willing to take you to my lab. I was planning to do that at some point anyway since I’m guessing you will want to know its location along with the various other important points in the tower.” He walked towards the door. “If you will follow me I will take you there now and after we are done there we can make our way to the command center. Shockwave is likely eager to give us peons something to do.” He chuckled lightly as he walked out of the room.

*

Shockwave’s tower – Hallways

Tantrum snorted after receiving the orders from Razorclaw. It sounded easy enough, although he was still irritated that he had gotten lost in the first place. You’d think someone like Shockwave would have maps ready for them. It’s not like any of them were familiar with the details of his personal fortress. If he hadn’t gotten instructions from Razorclaw he might have just started smashing through walls until he found where to put the fuel cells. As it was it wasn’t too hard for him to find the storage room and drop them off.

With that task done the Predacon began wandering the halls again. With a name like the main lab he figured it was located somewhere in the middle of the tower. He slowly began making his way towards it and after making more than a few wrong turns arrived at the lab.

Tantrum looked over at Divebomb. “Where did Razorclaw guy? He told me to meet everyone here.”

Shockwave’s Tower – Living Quarters

With a smile etched on her face Blackwind watched Thunderwing rise from his chair. She sighed contentedly as he spoke and walked towards the door. Blackwind was happy to hear that he was willing to escort her to his lab, something that enforced her trust in him. She turned to follow him out of her room and into the corridor just beyond the door. Once outside she paused a moment to input a security code to the entrance, after all she is in a faction of liars and cheats. Once the door was secure she joined Thunderwing in a stroll through the darkened corridors.

She was careful to keep in step with him so as not to be left behind. Once at his side she smiled and spoke. “You know, this process that you’ve developed is fascinating, and not to seem bold, but I would certainly jump at the chance to take a closer look at just what you’ve done to yourself.” She paused a moment to let what she said sink in. She then smiled once more and looked over at him. “That is if you wouldn’t mind a laymen’s visual inspection.” She studied him for just minute before she turned her attention back to the corridor ahead of them.

Blackwind would have to get as much information on the process and the carapace itself, and since she was sure he would never leave it, a visual inspection would have to do. After some time she hoped that he would come clean with everything that had to do with the shells’ creation, but she would have to keep working on his trust issues before she could gain any ground on the matter. He seemed sincere in that he wished to share any information with the Empire, but he also seemed hesitant to divulge everything all at once. She would just have to be patient, something she was good at; a characteristic she gained working so close to Megatron.

Shockwave’s Tower – Corridors

Thunderwing smiled at Blackwind. “I thank you for the compliment. I do not mean to sound vain when I say it is a revolutionary process.” He laughed lightly. “Of course you may inspect it, although I am not sure how much you can tell from a visual inspection, aside from the weaponry and aesthetic adjustments I’ve made.” ‘The more interesting parts are on the inside,’ he thought to himself instead of speaking it out loud. They had laid a foundation of trust so far, but it was not one he was fully willing to drive over quite yet. It needed more work before he began mentioning or tempting her with further details of the carapace process.

After leading them down a series of corridors, stairs and tunnels he stopped at a specific door. Keying in a security code the door slid open and the lights inside activated. Inside laid a vast array of computer terminals glowing with various readouts, workbenches adorned with a variety of tools and chemical containers, and scanning and analysis equipment humming quietly as it remained in a stand-by mode. The room was clean and somewhat neat. It had the look and feel of an area that had been heavily used and lived in for a very long time.

Thunderwing walked over to the chair that sat at what could be assumed to be the main computer for the lab. “I am considering relocating my lab to the Tower proper. As I’m sure you noticed it was a bit of a trek to get down here. This lab is essentially a bunker beneath the planet surface, a necessary precaution considering the former stat of Cybertron. Relocating would have the benefit of being more accessible. Of course I would have to sacrifice some privacy, but I think I’ve had enough of that to last a lifetime.” He flashed another smile. “More than likely I will move some equipment to another lab in the tower but leave the heaviest equipment and most delicate experiments down here.”

Shockwave’s Tower – The Nerve Center

Razorclaw listened intently as Shockwave issued new orders to set up a surveillance grid around the entire area. Finally, a job worth the time and effort of the Predacons. Although, he wasn't particularly thrilled with having Swindle and Weirdwolf along for the mission. They were hardly the same calibar of warriors as the Predacons, but Razorclaw supposed that they would be of some assistance. After all, 80 megamiles was a lot of ground to cover.

“No questions, my lord,” Razorclaw answered Shockwave, knowing that there was no time to waste asking unnecesary questions. The Predacon Commander knew what had to be done and what equipment would be needed for the task. “I will have my men gather what we need and begin scouting the area without delay.”

Razorclaw then saluted Shockwave before he turned and exited the Nerve Center, making his way down to the main lab, where the rest of the Predacons would be waiting for him. As he went, Razorclaw opened a comm line:

>>Weirdwolf, Swindle - this is Razorclaw. You two have been reassigned to me. Report immediately to the main lab for a quick briefing. Over and out.<<

Shockwave’s Tower – Main Lab

Divebomb had just finished unloading all the equipment when Tantrum entered the lab and asked him where Razorclaw was. The flying Predacon regarded the fueler with a blank stare as he placed the last device on the table. “I don’t know, Tantrum. Razorclaw received a message from Shockwave and told me he was needed elsewhere. He didn’t go into details.”

As Divebomb finished answering Tantrum’s question, Razorclaw entered the lab through a side entrance. He looked around and saw that all the Predacons were present. “All right team, listen up! We have a new assignment and it’s an important one. I will brief you all on the details once Swindle and Weirdwolf have arrived.”

Shockwaves Tower: Main Lab

Half a Klik after Razorclaw sent his message, Swindle appeared through one of the side doors of the lab, having barely left the room before everyone began to collect there.

"Reporting, Sir. Is there any problem with the equipment you need me to handle?"

I wouldn't be shocked if Divebomb has started making nests already, or if Tantrum has dropped or absentmindedly eaten something vital.

Shockwave’s Tower – The Nerve Center

With Razorclaw gone, Shockwave turned his full attention back to the system scan he had started earlier. The interior of the tower was remarkably well preserved considering the sheer number of vorns it had been abandoned and bombarded by the vicious ion storms of a planet in cataclysm. Then again, it had been designed and built by Shockwave himself with the assistance of the Constructicons, especially Hook and Scrapper. The exterior on the other hand was in need of far more attention. While the tower's reinforced durabellium walls had merely lost their original shade of color, most of the numerous surveillance sensors of the tower had been long gone without regular service. A situation Shockwave was not going to tolerate.

Once he finally had the system scan finalized, Shockwave began waking up the tower's interior surveillance systems. Apparently most of his underlings had already found themselves some personal living space. The Predacons were also gathering in the main lab for their mission. But perhaps most frustrating issue he faced was that Blackwind was already connected from the hip to a larger, unknown and partly very organic looking mechanoid that could only be Thunderwing. Megatron's little pet spy was certainly not making his life any easier.

Dealing first with a problem he could immediately do something about, Shockwave activated a group of automated service drones to first perform repairs on themselves and then to the tower's exterior surveillance systems. With the orders given, there was little reason to prolong the inevitable confrontation with Thunderwing. >>"I welcome you to my domain Lord protector Thunderwing of Tyrest. I believe it about time we had a discussion. You know where to find me."<<

Shockwave’s Tower – Main Lab

As the Predacons waited for the others to arrive, Razorclaw had sent Divebomb down to retrieve the necessary surveillance equipment they would need for the mission from the storage room on Level 3. The flying mech was the only one of the group Razorclaw trusted to secure the correct devices without breaking anything. This was also ironic, considering that Divebomb was the most anti-social of the Predacons and would rather build nests then spend time with his teammates.

Swindle then entered the lab and presented himself to the Predacon Commander.

“No problems, Swindle,” Razorclaw responded plainly. “Just join the rest of the team. Divebomb will be back shortly with the supplies we’ll need.” As if arriving on cue, Divebomb appeared through the main doors with a hover cart full of surveillance devices. The aerial Predacon moved the cart to the center of the lab before rejoining the others that were gathered.

Razorclaw looked around and saw that his team was now assembled with the exception of Weirdwolf. So be it, he thought. There was no more time to waste waiting for lower mechs to get their afts in gear. There was a job to be done and Shockwave would surely accept no excuses for why it wasn’t done in a timely manner.

“Okay team, listen up!” Razorclaw began as he looked at the Predacons and Swindle. “Shockwave has given us a mission of upmost importance.” The Predacon Leader approached a nearby computer console and punched in a few keys, bringing up a holographic map of the surrounding area. “We are to scout the neighboring sectors and set up a surveillance grid within the perimeter of 80 megamiles around this tower. Now, this is a lot of area to cover, so we will split up into three teams of two mechs each in order to complete the task quickly. Divebomb, you and I will take Sectors 1 and 2. Tantrum and Swindle, you two handle Sectors 3 and 4. Finally, Headstrong and Rampage, you both will tackle Sectors 5 and 6. I want each pair to work together as a team in order to get this mission done efficiently. No squabbling!”

Razorclaw pointed to each sector on the map as he spoke, making sure they all knew where their designated territories were located. “Divebomb has already brought up all the appropriate surveillance equipment we’ll need for the mission. There are numerous motion sensors, video cameras and various listening devices that need to be placed throughout each sector. Be sure to take enough equipment with you in order to cover your assigned areas sufficiently. Remember to activate each sensor or device as you place them. Otherwise, they won’t be connected to the grid. Once done, we’ll all meet back here at the tower where I’ll sync everything together and bring the overall surveillance grid online.”

The head Predacon paused a moment, allowing what he had just said to sink in, before continuing. “Additionally, if you happen to encounter any surviving life forms out there, such as cyber-rats and the like, try to capture some for Shockwave’s research, alive if possible. Are there any questions?”

Razorclaw looked around the room at his Predacons and Swindle. “If there are no questions, then pair up, grab what you need from the hover cart and make your way to your assigned sectors.”

Beneath Shockwave’s Tower – Thunderwing’s Lab

Blackwind smiled lightly as Thunderwing led them both down a series of adjoining corridors and stairwells. She nodded at his initial comment, but kept her optics ahead of them. When finished speaking she decided to chime in. “I’m sure the visual inspection will suffice for now.” She looked back at him with a sly smirk on her face. “I’m also very sure that there are more interesting aspects within, but as I’ve mentioned before, I can wait.” She turned her attention back to the corridor ahead.

A few more turns and they were finally greeted by a large door. Thunderwing went directly to the security keypad and entered his security code. The door slid open revealing a well equipped, very well used laboratory. She watched as he took a seat at the main computer terminal, once he was in place she moved in to stand behind him. As he spoke of moving his lab and most of his equipment to the tower she placed her hand on his shoulder. Her voice was quiet as she responded to what he has said. “Do yourself a favor and stay put. It may be a trek to get down here, but at least your work is away from a prying eye.”She leaned in close and brought up the data device she showed him earlier. She flashed him a smile and handed it over to him at the same time she told him exactly what it contained. “Before I left Earth I was able to download all of the data within our systems. Everything on it is up to date, including personnel files. You will be able to ‘catch up’ on what has occurred since we left Cybertron, the infiltration process, and so on. There is also updated software that you will also find useful for your research and experiments.”

Beneath Shockwave’s Tower – Thunderwing’s Lab

Thunderwing was a bit surprised at Blackwind's suggestion to keep his lab where it was, but he quickly realized the benefits of keeping it a bit isolated from Shockwave’s tower. He rubbed his chin in thought. “I am fairly self sufficient down here. I can tell Shockwave that some of my work and experiments are too sensitive to be relocated easily, which isn’t a lie necessarily. It will be a bit inconvenient for me, but I’ve become accustomed to that over the years spent here alone.” He smiled at her before she continued.

He carefully took the data device from her hand as she explained what all it contained. He smiled at her again. “I suppose this is your ‘Welcome to the present time of the Decepticons’ gift eh?” He plugged the device into his computer and began the installation process. “I think you Blackwind. This should get me up to speed on the Empire and enhance the abilities of my personal systems.” He was still a bit concerned about possible spy programs, but, as he hoped, the benefits would seem to greatly outweigh those concerns.

The Decepticon sat up straight in his chair as he received the signal from Shockwave. >>”I thank you for the greeting Commander Shockwave. I welcome you back to Cybertron. It had been my intention to meet you upon your landing but I know you are not one to stand on ceremony and went immediately to work. I will meet you in the command center right away.”<<

Thunderwing looked at Blackwind with a serious expression. “Our Commander has summoned me. I should have met with him sooner but I’ve been a bit preoccupied.” He smiled at her. “You are free to stay in my lab if you wish.” He picked up a pad from his desk, entering in a few commands before handing it to her. “Or you can explore the Tower. I uploaded a map of it for your use. I’m sure you’ll want to familiarize yourself with its layout.”

Shockwave’s Tower – Main Lab

Weirdwolf let himself get carried away with the upgrades to the sensors, and rushes to the Main Lab. Walking in half way threw Razorclaw's speech, he lets Razorclaw finish giving orders before he draws attention to himself. Heading to the cart he grabs several sensors. While primitive compared to Weirdwolf's own sensors, they will suffice for the time being.

Turning to Razorclaw Weirdwolf asks "On my trip, who work I with?"

Shockwaves Tower - Main Lab

Oh, wonderful., thought Swindle. I have to babysit Tantrum to stop him using the sensors to throw at passing cyber-moose, while trying not to annoy him so much he renders me down to my component atoms in a fit. Joy.

Swindle sidled over to his new partner, giving him a nod as acklowledgement. He intended to say as little as possible to the Predacon on this mission. And to make as few sudden movements as possible.

Beneath Shockwave’s Tower – Thunderwing’s Lab

Blackwind nodded in understanding when Thunderwing responded to her suggestion of keeping his lab right were it was. Keeping as much of the carapace process away from Shockwave was for the best. At least this one little experiment can be kept away from the Commander by limiting his access to it.

As he took possession of the data device she resisted slightly, but relented with a smile. As he spoke she shrugged slightly and offered him a coy smile. “Let’s just call it a peace offering, a sign of trust.” As he inserted the device Blackwind stood up straight and placed her hand on his shoulder. She cocked her head to one side when he sat up straight in his chair. She looked down at him as he turned to look back at her, his expression serious.

Blackwind snorted slightly and sighed. “Of course he did.” She watched as he took hold of a datapad and handed it to her. She smiled lightly as she gently took it from him. “Thank you for the offer, and I will eventually explore the tower, but I think it’s best if I actually tag along with you.” She shrugged her shoulders as she made her way to the lab’s door and waited for him. “Besides, I have yet to see the Command Center, and I’m sure the Commander will just be all a twitter to see me.” Blackwind flashed him a wicked smirk.