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In the Mines

Scattershot spun the steel pick ax handle in his left palm as his visor narrowed at a vein of Copper that threaded itself in between two levels of worthless silicates and aggregate. After a pair of rotations he choked up on the handle and drove the beak of the pick straight into the upper level of the closest vein. The sparks showered down from the blow as well as nearly a ton of stone that spread out across the ground like a river delta. He pulled the tool back again and swung it back into the rock wall for a second time, dislodging even more rubble and debris for the haulers to toss into the waiting ore carts. Each strike of metal on the geological formation only served as a temporary measure of release for the pent up frustration he was allowing to smolder within. Another shower of sparks from metal striking stone sprayed out across his towering red and white form. He ignored the brief prickles of pain as they were insignificant, and instead snarled with each heave of the tool into the tunnel side.

To his left Nosecone had begun his tasks. Not for the first time Scattershot envied his gunner's diverse past. Being relegated to the mines on Cybertron, Nosecone had become a literal expert on mining techniques, geological mechanics and other planetary sciences that would be acquired with enough time and exposure. Thus Nosecone was probably the best suited for the environment they had been thrown. However, Scattershot knew full well that his team was nothing if not adaptable. All they required was an opportunity and the proper methods to exploit that opportunity.

Carefully Scattershot concluded five more irate fueled blows to the flank of the tunnel before he stepped back to allow the shoveling teams access to the rubble he had pulled from the guts of the planet. He wiped a bead of condensation from his brow before he turned to look down upon the smaller yet incredibly durable Technobot Miner. "You know, I think you may have a nice key piece of advice there Nosecone." He spoke as his sneer of dissatisfaction slowly faded from memory. "Course I think we'll need to do the exact opposite. Map them and exploit them at our most opportune moment."

Behind them Strafe toiled away constructing his own mound of debris for removal. The aerial gunner attempted to lighten the mood as best he could, but Scattershot was not entirely sure he was ready to see the brighter side of the situation. Still, Strafe was not like Afterburner, and in that regard it was his job to adjust his responses accordingly. "I would agree with you in that regard Strafe. But this is also a position that the Decepticons have placed themselves at something of a serious disadvantage. We are freer here than behind those energy fields." He paused and leaned backwards to catch a glimpse of Bombshell and Shrapnel attempting to sway the cosmic Tortoise. "Interesting..."

"And given the company that we are forced to keep, we'll need to stay downwind from the cannery rejects. In the meantime, Nosecone has given me a rather nice secondary project idea. This planetoid still has its pockets of explosive gases or hazardous materials in the lower depths. I want you two to work towards those regions and start mapping deposits for potential gas pockets or mineral deposits. Peg them on the topographicals and share the data with Lightspeed upon his return. Once those two brains get back we seven should be able to device a more concrete method for exploiting those byproducts."

Garrus-9 Central--Amphitheater

The work was coming along magnificently. For having been indisposed so long, the torture of being aware and yet not able to do, his previous skills were displaying none of the characteristic rust he might have otherwise expected. All too soon, Monstructor and the glorious leap towards perfection that he represented would be whole once more.

“What...What...was it like? And...what was...it like....to return?"

Jhiaxus' optics flitted from the area of damage on Slog's torso to the Monstercon Commander's own, narrowing slightly as he did. This creation's curiosity probed a little too deeply for the praetor's liking. But that did not necessarily mean that an answer need not be forthcoming.

"Torture," Jhiaxus responded darkly, rising from his position next to the Monstercon and approaching the computer bank, bringing up a series of new holoscreens. "Torture unlike anything that can be inflicted on the body. To give the mind stasis....and awareness........simultaneously. I know not of whom I would inflict such a punishment."

Jhiaxus stared upward for a moment, collecting his thoughts.

"Or rather, I knew not."

The dark grin from before returned to his aged face as he returned to the holoscreens, locating and activating certain additional equipment within the prison complex that would be useful in the orns to come.

"But no....no no no...this is not about simplistic revenge. My efforts would be undone if that was all there was to it. No, the Guiding Hand must guide our kind forward. Our kind was always meant to transform. That is what I will do. It is what must be done, to avoid our otherwise inevitable extinction. We have warred against ourselves for too long. I will end it."

From a pair of medical storage closets, a series of silvery, orb-shaped probes emerged, now reprogrammed to detect certain similarities in mechanoids that Jhiaxus had first uncovered within the Monstructor Six. Similarities that suggested an evolutionary compatibility with combination. With their commands entered, they floated off out of the amphitheater and into the corridors of the penitentiary itself. Stepping away from the terminal, Jhiaxus returned to Slog's side, reaching for another tool as he began to piece back together what he had done in order to repair Monstructor's weak point.

"But there is no progress without pain," Jhiaxus said darkly, before wrenching the tool sharply near Slog's spark casing.

Garrus-9 – Corridors

Amusement gripped Overbite the instant Nautilator spoke. Had a mask not concealed the smile he could not banish, Overbite would've hidden it with an actuator hovering near his face-plate. His team-mate was being funny again, for all the wrong reasons.

“Ohhhh relax, Overbite.”

The opening line that had Overbite smiling. There was an Omega Sentinel loose within the penitentiary. It owned devastating power—enough to easily annihilate the Decepticon force on its way to engage it, and continue to exterminate the infestation of intruders like they were no more than cyber-roaches with the barest of efforts. And there Overbite was, leaning against a wall without a care in the world.

“We’re not suppose to wait with them in the med bay, we were just suppose to deliver them to the med bay.”

Obviously. But Snaptrap's transmission had changed tha—

“Remember those sweeps who followed us? The ones that were blissfully carrying the stumps-for-legs? Blue and white fellows with the long moustaches, look a lot like that guy, Scourge? They’re the ones watching over them.”

“Nautilator—”

“Besiiiiids, would you rather sit there and watch the doc-bots patch ‘em up or would you rather head down to the mines, meet up with Snaptrap, and maybe get to shoot some more Autobots, eh? Those guys are a rowdy bunch, I’m sure ol’ Snappy isn’t as calm and collective as he normally is. C’mon, let’s get going.”

“Nautilator—”

“Don’t worry though, when we get down there.”

Overbite wasn't lost for words. He only desired to highlight a few minor details his endearing team-mate had either forgotten or failed to process. Knowing Nautilator—who could no more complete the simplest of tasks without botching them than he could walk in a straight line—it was probably a combination of the two.

“You can just leave the talking to me.”

This almost had Overbite laughing, but he quenched it, allowing his unseen smile to depict a silent chuckle for him. He merely nodded, not trusting his voice. For once, it'd be nice if Nautilator wasn't a bottomless source of entertainment.

As they walked back to the mines, Overbite looked at Nautilator. “Has anyone ever told you how much you sound like Megatron?”

Garrus -9 Aequitus corridors

Bludgeon moved through the now desolate prison the majority of the fighting had died out completely. His path was unimpeded sword in one hand shield attached to the other from behind his visor he looked into the distance. Sweeps heading forwards the sweeps where heeding their masters call, Scourge should be up ahead. The electric warrior moved forward his substitute blade in hand he looked at the blade it was a poor replacement for his previous sword he'd have to make a new one once he found the appropriate facilities.

He approached the gathering in front of him Sweeps, Cyclonus and Scourge he bowed as he spoke "By your command what is it you wish of me Cyclonus"

As he raised his head he saw the departing form of Overlord the phase 6 decepticon was obviously off to have a crack at Omega Supreme by himself. If he thought he could take that ancient Autobot by himself then he was sorely mistaken the Ancient One had fought alot more powerful decepticons and won.

"If Overlord is doing what I think he's doing you'll need a recovery team and Dr on standby"

Garrus-9 Central--Med Bay

It was not long after he and Brainstorm had arrived within the familiar walls of the med bay that Lightspeed was welcomed--somewhat--by a familiar face. Lightspeed was not exactly sure whether to be pleased. As far as Decepticons went, this Firewire was at least one of the more pleasant ones. Especially around here. But, she was still a Decepticon, just like the others. It was a sea of mixed feelings, to put it mildly.

“Hey! Lightspeed and Brainfart, right? How are you? Er, well, I mean. You're missing your legs...whee...Do I want to know? I don't think I do, but...um. It's good to see you guys not dead and such"

"No. You....you probably don't want to know. It's for the best," Lightspeed said weakly, but as pleasantly as he could manage. No need to unnecessarily stoke the ire of yet another Decepticon. "Suffice it to say that were are most grateful for our continued functioning, however limited."

The med bay quickly seemed to become a flurry of activity again, pulling individuals' attention in various directions. But something Brainstorm said quietly managed to catch Lightspeed's attention.

"Well I'll be damned...I didn’t think he was still functioning, giving the condition this facility is in…"

"Who? Oh..." Lightspeed said, his voice trailing off as he quickly caught sight of what Brainstorm was referring to. The sight of Fortress Maximus in that condition, well, he would be lying if he said he didn't feel his spark shrink. The warden of Garrus-9, captain of the Steelhaven looked as if he had gone into the infamous gladiator pits of Kaon itself and come out much the worse for wear. It was, in a word, tragic. In the most literal sense.

“Well, at least he’s in a state in which we could help him… Helping him without getting shot though, that’ll be the challenge…We gotta do something Lightspeed… Otherwise he may be stuck here forever…"

"Yes, I just..." Lightspeed began, but his words were mostly cut off by the actions of some Decepticon whom the Technobot did not immediately recognize. The display only served to add insult to the serious injuries that Maximus had already clearly suffered. Vile, trash Decepticons. Whoever he was, he whopped one of the drones and stormed out of the med bay in short order, an act which only marginally reduced the level of commotion in the general area. "We will. Let's just...keep our heads and see what we can see while they put us back together. Sparks of inspiration come at the weirdest times."
___

The warden was almost wholly unaware of what was going on around him. Vague, barely recognizable signal sensations occurring at indeterminate intervals.

That was until his system received a shock of chemicals. For an instant, maybe no more than an astrosecond or two, his perceptions were keen. His systems registered and organized the small, gradual repairs that had taken place within his own body thus far.

He strained to look up.

He was not alone.

Enemies.

Allies.

Friends.

Darkness....

Semper Tyrannis—Bridge

"The interference is significant and difficult to pinpoint. Jhiaxus still toils and Lord Scorponok still works to achieve full restoration. My internal link has not been severed. Though...most other links have been. I am attempting to restore them, both from my position here as well as down there."

“Well?” Finback questioned with some level of frustration in his voice. If Reflector still had his connection, why wasn't he already giving him answers on what was happening down there.

Whatever had caused the energy eruption wielded energies comparable to weapons installed into their own warships. They had thought the enemy beaten but clearly enough the Autobots were still fighting back somehow. “High Commander Scorponok is soon through his refit cycle and I am still quite attached towards my slagging head thank you.”

A haggard grin formed on Finback's seemingly deteriorating face, “It may not be pretty but it is mine. Now, how about you do something before we both lose our heads because we lost communications with our ground forces, hmm?”

Garrus-9--Mines

“Indeed, I have, Kickback. Indeed, I have. Though it would please me to know what you are all doing here. I've yet to fashion a report to our lord and it would be of immense help, given our part in the assault was...brief. Our reputation is viewed through a cracked lens and often misinterpreted as poor or negative. I'll not have it."

Kickback had been curious as to what kind of response Venom would offer to his query. To his surprise, it was more thoughtful than he would have imagined. Venom was playing things safe, but also smart. He deserved some degree of credit for that.

Following soon after Venom's words, Bombshell's response to their Swarm leader covered much of what Kickback would have said. His thoughts, then, turned to the notion of this "report" that Venom had mentioned. Of course the mighty Scorponok would want to be kept well-apprised of what they were doing down here. They needed to choose their words carefully in order to avoid arousing any undue suspicion towards their inherent treachery.

"Yes, the mines are ours. Or should be. But we must play nice and build our fortunes quietly under their radars. He sends the Butcher to watch over us, but that need not put a stop to anything that we're doing. Resource acquisition. Put that in your report to the mighty Scorponok. As well as secure oversight of the Autobot prisoners which have been sent here. Yes, all of that. Scorponok should be well satisfied and content to focus his attentions elsewhere."

"Are we having another family squabble, Venom? I never understood why you all decided to go diaclone style. I guess I prefer my individuality too much. If we could contribute more than we consume to the cause, maybe we will get the respect like the Seacons."

Kickback looked over at the other Insecticon who had voiced her thoughts. The statement had not been directed at him, but he decided to answer it regardless.

"Why?" Kickback asked rhetorically, chuckling a little. "Power."

"Power," came an echoing whisper from several of the skittering diaclones that matched Kickback's design.

"Individuality only increases your vulnerability. Particularly when one is not especially well-endowed to beginnnnn with. Hee."

Before he could say anything further, several silvery orbs floated down from the primary elevator shaft and began to float around the mines. Kickback took brief note of them but said nothing more for the moment.

Garrus – 9 – Aequitas Chamber

"Damn you Cipher... you blind gullible buffoon..."

It took a moment before Cipher realized that it was Apeface who had cried out. As he looked to the simian transformer Rung had finished the last sequences he needed. He began to carefully back-step away from the terminal but stopped when Cipher whipped around and spotted him.

"Cipher! Mindwipe! Stop him! Before-"

“What. Did. You. DO!” Cipher stalked up to Rung and grabbed a hold of the slim psychoanalyst’s wrist. “Agh!” Rung tried tugging free but Cipher’s grip only tightened. “So help me, Rung! What did you unleash now?!” The cryptologist’s question was answered for him when the room began to shake.

“The slag is that?” Cipher released Rung’s wrist giving the orange ‘Bot the opportunity to slip out of reach.

"OMEGA PROTOCOL ACTIVATED."

Cipher’s mouth dropped open. Omega Supreme. Here. Why had he not seen it? He knew what occurred in the chamber, he had seen it and he was here for the proof, but when did the Autobots stash this relic here? Tyrest. That paranoid fool must have brought the Sentinel here as a last line of defense.

"IMMEDIATE DECEPTICON PRESENCE DETECTED."

“Wha….oh scrap.” The scientist began to back away but was stopped by the terminal behind him. “No, no, no!” He groped the air behind him until he was able to maneuver himself away from the obstacle and out to an open area.

"ACTIVATING COUNTERMEASURES."

Cipher eyed the gargantuan shaking his head in disbelief. “No! This cannot be happening!” Turning around he spotted Rung trying to inch away and out of reach. He wasn’t fast enough. Cipher caught up to him and took hold of his arm wrenching it behind the Autobot. Rung’s face twisted in pain but he made no move to escape. He’d surely lose the arm if he tried.

“All of this to protect your dirty little secrets.” Cipher motioned to Omega. “I know what happened here. I’ve seen it. I’ve seen all of it.” Rung’s optics narrowed as he shook his head.
Cipher smiled. “The atrocities. The things you Autobots were capable of…are capable of." Cipher stepped in close. “They stood there…all of them and confessed to being something worse than what you believe the Decepticons to be.”

"Decepticons retreat!"

"REQUESTING INFO-LINK WITH GARRUS-9 COMMAND."

Cipher ignored both the Horrorcon and the Sentinel. “You were never here for the trials. How is it you know what happened?” Rung eyed his former friend suspiciously. “Because they’re still here.” Cipher said as he leaned in even closer.

"AEQUITAS COMPROMISED. FACILITY OVERRUN BY ENEMY."

“All I needed was definitive proof. No one would ever take my word for it if I had no proof. They’d never believe that I can still see the past.” Cipher’s grip tightened causing a hiss of pain to escape Rung’s vocalizer.

"ENEMY PRESENCE OVERWHELMING."

“I think we’re finished here, old friend.” The Decepticon produced a hunting blade bringing it up to optic level. “Wait! Don’t!” The skinny Autobot fought hard against the other’s grip but he was still unable to free himself.

"SITUATION DIRE. IMMEDIATE WITHDRAWAL FROM COMBAT THEATER REQUIRED."

There was a frightening smile on Cipher’s face as he drew back the blade and started to thrust. But he wasn’t able to follow through. Cipher hit the floor hard with the impact sending the blade skidding across the floor. When the scientist finally found his bearings he spotted just who had taken his prize.

Using Rung as a crutch Streamlight stood by the smaller ‘Bot. Cipher grated his teeth as he got back up to his feet.

“I think you're the one...finished here” Streamlight rasped.

>>"Apeface to all Decepticons! We have a big problem in the Aequitas chamber! Omega Supreme sized one!"<<

“So it would seem.” Cipher pocketed the blade. He stared down Streamlight, who, even though terribly wounded, still found the strength to guard the psychoanalyst. His gaze then fell back onto Rung. “There are monsters amongst you, Rung. You and I both know that. I’ll get the proof. And I’ll get what he has….” Cipher pointed to Streamlight, “…in his head.”

After another short stare-down Cipher transformed and rocketed towards the opening in the ceiling and out of harm’s way.

Rung watched as the Decepticons quickly beat a hasty retreat before he helped Streamlight move toward a wall for better support. Once the guard was stable Rung moved in front of Omega so the towering mech could see him.

“Omega Supreme! We can’t leave! There are still Autobots in this facility that need our help!” Rung pointed toward the direction of the Rig. “Fortress Maximus and the rest of the staff are probably being held in the Rig and cells. There are also civilians that might need our help.”

Garrus-9—Aequitas Chamber

"Omega Supreme! We can’t leave! There are still Autobots in this facility that need our help!" Rung pointed toward the direction of the Rig. “Fortress Maximus and the rest of the staff are probably being held in the Rig and cells. There are also civilians that might need our help."

Rung's words reached Omega Supreme's audio receptors amidst the behemoth's work on removing Aequitas' core from the platform it was installed to. The sheer size of the whole Aequitas complex made moving everything impossible. Autobots elsewhere would have to build new support functions the supercomputer was originally equipped with but then again, most of it was just for the show. The computer core and its databanks itself could easily be stored within Omega Supreme's massive frame and given sufficent power to keep it functioning. Rung's plea however, required a reply. A reply that pained the ancient guardian greatly.

“NEGATIVE. MY SPARK WEEPS FOR OUR BRETHEN. BUT IT IS NOT WITHIN MY POWER TO SAVE THEM.”

Omega Supreme stepped away from the Aequitas platform, turned and laid his gaze down upon Rung and badly wounded Streamlight.

“DUTY. GRIM. IT OFFERS NO SOLACE. OPTIMUS PRIME MUST BE WARNED. AEQUITAS MUST BE PRESERVED.”

The remaining Legislators poured out after the retreating Decepticons however they could. Those few that could fly followed the Decepticons out more directly while the bulk of the Legislator force spread out into the corridors to meet the likely incoming Decepticon reinforcements head on. It was obvious enough to they could only slow down the main Decepticon force but it would buy time for the guardian to make his move.

“THE DECEPTICON ORBITAL PRESENCE TOO STRONG TO ENGAGE AND SURVIVE.”

Omega Supreme's gaze moved towards the whole he had blasted through hundreds of feet of rock, steel and concrete. A blast of such scale was a massive drain on even his energy reserves. To make it worse, Omega Supreme has hardly known for being fuel efficient. Were he to storm to the prison now, he would surely burn through his energon reserves – being unable to perform his duty before finally succumbing as a target practice for the Decepticon warships in the orbit.

“ALL HYPERSPACE COMMUNICATIONS ARE JAMMED BY THE DECEPTICONS.”

The guardian paused for a moment, clearly having noticed some kind of an anomaly, “ENEMY COMMUNICATIONS ARE BEING DISTORTED. UNEXPECTED ASSISTANCE GIVEN.”

Suddenly Omega Supreme's attention turned towards the main entrance of the Aequitas Chamber. His link with the Legislators having revealed something troubling closing in from the corridors, mowing its way through the Legislator force.

“DECEPTICON SUPER SOLDIER APPROACHING.”

The massive main weapon of the Omega Sentinel powered up again and began tracking the movement of the unseen assailant through the walls that separated the two – having the luxury of the Legislators pinpointing the enemy's exact location to him. It was getting closer fast. Too fast. Until it stopped for a moment – being met by an attack of several Legislators at once. Omega had no desire to be dragged into melee combat with one of Megatron's Warriors Elite. Not now. Not with this much at stake. The Legislators had given him a chance to end it before it would really begin.

“OPTIMAL FIRING SOLUTION REACHED. CURRENT WALL OBSTRUCTION NEGLIGIBLE. PROCEEDING.”

Another earth shattering plasma beam surged forwards from Omega Supreme's cannon arm, cutting through the air and walls alike with only one target in mind – Overlord.

“EMERGENCY TRANSWARP LAUNCH ONLY SALVAGEABLE OPTION."

Omega Supreme moved directly under the gaping hole in the ceiling he had created earlier and activated his transformation cog, starting his transformation into his combined space faring mode which allowed him to transport his whole body at once instead of separating into two. It took far longer for Omega to assume this form than it took for most transformers to transform back and forth. A hatch opened on his side, followed by a ramp sliding down. At least it was within his power to save Rung and Streamlight.

“TIME. RUNNING OUT. HASTE. URGED.”

((OOC: Actions against Whirl agreed upon by MSB))

Garrus – 9 - Mines

They could’ve made it out.

They could’ve gotten help.

Except they didn’t. The small team he was with, his team, they were all gone now. Not just because of the ‘Cons, no, but because of him.

Lowball sneered as he looked in that blue menace’s direction. There, there he was making light of the situation. He’d done the same when each and every one of his team was picked off. A low angry growl rumbled deep in his chest. He’ll kill him and no one will care. Yeah, kill him and then make light of his death.

Lowball glanced around the area. Just a few ‘Bots but a whole contingent of ‘Cons were spread out watching every move they made.

The security officer turned his attention back to the mech several feet ahead of him. His arms were bound behind his back – good, he’d be unable to fight back.

And then he spoke which sent another well of disdain through Lowball’s frame. This freak of nature had to go…

“Slaggin’, glitch born, piston-licking, oil stain!” Each of his words grew louder as he began to walk, and then jog, and then run at Whirl. “You worthless piece of slagging scrap metal!” he screamed out as he lowered his shoulder and rammed right into the back of the ex-wrecker knocking him to the ground. Lowball followed right behind hitting the earth hard denting his frame in several places.

He caught his bearings quickly and scrambled to his feet. In an instant he was straddled over Whirl hands wrapped tightly around his neck. He quickly lifted and slammed Whirl’s head into the ground twice.

“It’s your fault you one-eyed freak! You lead us down that corridor! You got them killed!”

Lowball sent a punch, hard and fast, into Whirl’s face. “And then you stood there and joked about it!”

Standing off to one side of the mine two Seekers stopped their discussion to see what the commotion was. One powered up his weapon and began to move away from the wall. The other put him arm out stopping him.

“Shouldn’t we stop em?”

“You do and I’ll knock your head off.” the other warned. He then smiled and looked to his comrade, “I wanna see if he kills ‘im.”

Garrus – 9 – Aequitas Chamber

The call had come at a most inopportune time. He would have loved to take just a bit more time with Drudge but it seemed that duty called.

Aileron wiped off the energon that had splattered rather thickly on his plating. IN his haste he had completely missed his hip and right leg. Oh well, he was on his way now it’d have to just wait.

The Decepticon agent jogged down several destroyed corridors, at times coming across some of the ‘Bots he had called “friends”. He paid them no mind instead he moved past without so much as a sideways glance.

It took time but he finally made it to the doors to the Aequitas Chamber. While making his way he had heard, and felt, the rumbling.

Aileron stopped in his tracks when he noticed Cyclonus and his team of Sweeps standing at the chamber doors. And there, ahead of them advanced Overlord.

The ‘Con had heard the Phase Sixer was present but he hadn’t seen him until now. As soon as the gargantuan maniac had turned and pressed on Aileron approached.

“Commander. Apologies for my late arrival. I was somewhat…engaged.” Aileron smirked.

Garrus-9--Mines

"What do you suppose that is, sir?" one of the barmechs said. Goldrush looked up from the pile of rock he was currently sitting on. He saw nothing out of the ordinary at first, but then his optics settled in on a silver orb that was winding its way through the mine shaft.

"Mobile scanners," Goldrush said, nonchalantly. "Nothing especially exciting. They just-"

Goldrush paused. They were pretty unremarkable. But the fact that they were down here in the mines, that was a tad more conspicuous. Goldrush couldn't help but wonder what information was being collected. And why.

The silvery orb stopped in front of the barmech and commenced its next scan.

"What do I do, boss? Do I move? Do I not move? I-"

"Just let it do whatever it's doing and it'll move on."

The orb did exactly that, before moving on to the next mech, and the next, before arriving at Goldrush himself. The gold-plated mech wondered if something out of the ordinary would happen and for a few tense microseconds, he was quite sure it would. But the orb simply finished its scan and moved on. Goldrush shrugged and exchanged glances with his tender when all of their group detected the distinct sounds of a commotion starting to build on one of the other levels of the mine.

They all stopped what they were doing in order to get a better look.

Garrus-9 Central--Amphitheater

Jhiaxus was pleased. The interference was holding. His optics flitted from one screen where tech spec scans were being collected and updated with the specifications he had uploaded into the mobile scanners before sharply looking back towards other miniaturized holoscreens near the control panel in front of him where he was adjusting the nature of the subroutines being used to block Decepticon communications in orbit.

All the while, a satisfied grin had spread broadly on his aged face. Decepticon technologists were skilled, undoubtedly.

But they were playing against a master.
___

Garrus-9--The Aequitas Chamber

All in all, a fairly sizable force had gathered in response to Cyclonus' summoning: his usual confidantes like Scourge as well as Sweeps, Seekers, various and sundry Decepticons assigned to the fleet, incoming Terrorcons, penitentiary inmates now sparklusting with their new freedom. It was an impressive host and yet Cyclonus remained leery of ordering them forward to engage a Cybertronian such as Omega Supreme--not only due to the fact that it would take an impressive expenditure of resources to even have a hope of incapacitating the legendary Cybertronian Guardian but also because of what Omega represented. Like Jhiaxus, he was one of Cyclonus' few remaining ties to the Cybertron he once knew. The Cybertron of old. A Cybertron that was long gone now.

"If Overlord is doing what I think he's doing you'll need a recovery team and Dr on standby," Bludgeon had said, a statement which elicited a grin from the typically stoic Vice Commander.

"Indeed. And we will accomodate if it comes to that," Cyclonus said, bemused but still battle ready. As Overlord had said, Cyclonus was content to wait until called for, but it was rapidly becoming apparent that their assistance would be needed sooner rather than later.

"Commander. Apologies for my late arrival. I was somewhat…engaged," Aileron remarked.

"Worry not," Cyclonus said. "If you succeed in this task, the cost of freeing you and your kin will be paid."

Cyclonus turned back to the gaping entrance when a blast rocked the entire stretch of the chamber. It staggered Cyclonus, Scourge and several others. It was an assault from Omega Supreme. Cyclonus couldn't help but wonder if a blast such as that might not rock the very foundations of the Elban moon itself. Overlord's call did not come, and Cyclonus could easily imagine why.

With Omega Supreme engaging his gargantuan transformation sequence, the Legislators were now dividing their attacks, with some of them heading skyward through the massive, flaming hole that had been ripped in the ceiling of the chamber while others were now charging towards the entrance where Cyclonus and the others were gathered.

"He has the machine! Stop him!" Cyclonus howled, charging forward to lead the advance of the Decepticon forces and smashing into the first of the many approaching Legislators.

Garrus-9 - The Aequitas Chamber

Rippersnapper hurried through the halls of the Autobot prison. He did not know if his comrades, Sinnertwin and Blot, were following and he did not care. A new fight awaited the terrorist in the form of Omega Supreme. Such a giant, delicious treat he would be even if the former actor was only able to take a few bites out of the huge sentinel. With all of the other Decepticons that would surely be part of the battle, Ripper should be able to sneak in a nibble here and there without ending up as a molten puddle on the floor.

The amphibious Terrorcon’s hunger had been recently satisfied, but there was always room for more in his bottomless pit of a stomach. The cowardly guard he had retrieved for Hun-grrr had renewed his thirst for energon and now was his chance to quench that thirst big time. Omega Supreme might be big and powerful, but he was slow and unable to move around a quickly as the numerous smaller adversaries that were likely about to or already swarming around him. The former actor imagined himself eating his way into the bowels of the Omega Sentinel until he had devoured that enormous spark all by himself. It was a long shot, a very long shot, but it was one worth contemplating.

Rounding one last corner, Rippersnapper approached the Aequitas Chamber where Cyclonus, Scourge and a bunch of other Decepticons had already gathered. The terrorist caught sight of what looked like Overlord entering the chamber only to be met with a massive blast from Omega Supreme. It could be assumed that the phase sixer was now either incapacitated or even dead. The raw power of the goliath shook the prison, causing Ripper to stagger sideways before he caught himself with one hand against a nearby wall.

“Impressive,” Rippersnapper growled under his breath. “Most impressive.” Clearly, trying to eat Omega Supreme’s spark was not going to happen. A mere pipe dream of an overzealous Terrorcon. The former actor was also thinking twice about engaging such a giant at all even with all of the other 'Cons present. Hun-grrr had said he would devour him if he died, after all. Still, Ripper was no coward and would not back away from any fight. Unless, of course, it was with some kind of organic creature. That was another story. Thankfully, Omega Supreme was not organic.

Moments later, Rippersnapper saw an army of Legislators charging towards them as the Omega Sentinel activated his transformation sequence in a presumed attempt to escape the prison. Cyclonus then gave the order to attack and stop the giant before it got away. The terrorist knew all too well that they were not going to stop the behemoth. Perhaps the various warships up in orbit would have better luck, but not those individuals down here in the prison. Regardless, Ripper transformed back into his shark creature alt mode and rushed forward as ordered. It was not because he had any further delusions of grandeur about taking out Omega Supreme. No. He simply wanted to see what a Legislator tasted like.

Rippersnapper leapt upon the first Legislator that approached him and sunk his serrated teeth into the metallic flesh of the golden drone’s cranial unit. “Mmmm....scrumptious.”

Garrus-9--Mines


Nosecone nodded and totally understood what his commander had in mind. Knowledge is the most dangerous weapon if one knew how and when to use it.

"Careful digging is always a must no matter what you are looking for. The biggest thing we have to remember is what may be trash to one mech can be treasure to the next. At least with the bugs around we don't have to worry too much about the piles getting too big."

While Nosecone does his scans of his area as he mines, he notices a silver orb floating by. He looks at it close as it floats close to him and then flies on by.

"Hmm, looks like someone is interested in these mines or at least the workers down here. Sometimes the best resources are the ones who are alive instead of what is in the rock. What you think, my fellow Autoobots?"


(OOC: Flytop's robot mode is closer to Black Arachnia with Waspinator's chest but more for a fembot.)

"Power? I'll admit one could argue there is power in number but when they are almost brainless diaclones, I have to really wonder. Now, the special teams like the Seacons here have number and some individual power. Working with the Hive has taught me though that we aren't the most cohesive unit nor the most powerful individually. This is why I try to increase my personal power through trades for my trinkets. Sadly all of the good stuff is already taken or too high to trade for."

Flytop notices the silver orb and debates about trying to get a hold of it but didn't want to make a move with her fellow Insecticons close by.

"I wonder, Venom, Kickback what the silver orb is doing down here. Are we being closely watched by others beyond our current companions the Seacons? You know anything about these orbs, Snaptrap?"

Garrus-9 Central--Amphitheater

Icepick did not like listening to the sounds that had been coming from Slog's side of the room. Whether the Monstercon Commander emitted any audible sounds of pain or not, the twisting of tools and servos as Jhiaxus worked was enough to drive him mad. The ancient scientist seemed to be taking a pause in his sadism, and for that, at least, Icepick was grateful. For Slog's sake.

Claws. Sharpened jaws. Eerie golden optics flashing against the darkness.

Icepick jolted on his slab and looked around.

Oh no, he thought. He had thought, maybe hoped even, that Monstructor's dissembly at the hands of the Decepticons might have been enough to end it--push Monstructor so far back into the recesses of their programming that he might never be able to come out again. But no. There it was. A very frightening reminder that he was very much there, lurking in the shadows of Icepick's subconscious.
___

The Aequitas Chamber

Once Rippersnapper had confirmed that they were to go once more, Sinnertwin had voiced no protest. Once he had learned the prey that would await them once they arrived, there was nothing short of Hungrr himself that could have held the Terrorcon at bay.

Charging through the halls and corridors, Sinnertwin had arrived just as the Decepticons on the far end of the corridor were charging forward against some threat that Sinnertwin could not yet see. Whatever it was, it was not simply Omega Supreme. They would not attack that way.

But as Sinnertwin's pace quickened, the threat became apparent. A threat. Or a treat. For Sinnertwin, the difference was negligible. It was a veritable feast!

The Terrorcon lunged, leaping over a Decepticon in the process and slamming into the first Legislator he could encounter, a flurry of fire, teeth and claws following.

Garrus-9 – The Aequitas Chamber

Having scooped up a devoured his delectable treat that the master had so graciously deigned him, Blot had toddled off promptly behind Rippersnapper, eager to fulfill Hun-Grr's orders with eve more gusto – if that were physically possible. The ambiguous monster's thoughts turned toward Omega Supreme. If they could bring that titan down for their master...What an addition to his horde it would be!

Rounding the last corner with Rippersnapper to see the Aequitas Chamber. Cyclonus, Scourge and other Decepticons had already gathered. A massive blast shook the prison and made the air around Blot crackle with the smell of energy. Hm. Perhaps this would not be quite as easily done as he thought. Blot issued a sigh that was more of a growl. Well, a blind charge into Omega Supreme's crosshairs would do neither him nor Hun-Grr any good.

Yet Cyclonus commanded it. Taking a cue after his fellow Terrorcon, Blot charged into the fray to attack a legislator, leaping up and smashing in its metal plating like a tin can with his herculean strength. He ripped off the head of the legislator that he was pounding and crammed it into his waiting maw, crushing it with his jagged teeth.

“Mmm...Should retrieve some for Hun-Grr,” Blot mentioned aloud to Rippersnapper and Sinnertwin.

Garrus 9 – Corridors.

Finally, he was in control! He could hear his alter-ego whimpering in fear and regret, locked away in his enforced sanctuary, and Counterpunch relished in Punch's anguish.

It was time to find out what was going on and that meant finding the command hub, which was too far away, or seeking out the commotion further down the hallways. He assumed the mines would be busy – the recent distress call regarding Omega Supreme would be the Decepticons getting revenge on their captors no doubt, but there had to be more going on down there. He knew Punch’s mission had been to takeout Skorponok, but Fort Max’s short-sightedness had already blown any chance of that happening in the immediate future, so he needed to get himself comfortable, and find out who was in charge.

He strode through the corridors as if he owned the place. If his lifetime of undercover work had taught him anything it was that Decepticons are a shallow bunch. You show fear and they will prey upon it, show none and they had no leverage. Taking the long walk downwards, he knew he had to find this Aequitas Chamber, all too aware of its significance, certain that it is where those he needed to fine where.

As he arrived he heard a bustling from within, a fight nearby and the raised voices and threats of violence that was always associated with a gathering of bad guys was widespread. He paused by the door and took a final second to torment his regretful passenger. You should relax Autobot, I’m driving now. You never know... you may even enjoy what’s to come. HAHAHAHA!!!

Garrus-9 - The Aequitas Chamber

Ensuring his rifle was to hand and armed but not held aggressively, and without any further hesitation, Counterpunch shouldered open the door and took an confident stance, prepared for the imminent and predictable challenge by any Decepticon guards within, but instead ended up face to face with Bludgeon. He grinned complacently, although it was hidden behind his faceplate disguise, and the realisation dawned upon him that that he was almost certainly in way over his head.

Just how Counterpunch liked it.

“Bludgeon?! Well, this just got interesting...”

Garrus-9 – Mines

"This war has stolen many things from me. I guess my sunny disposition was one of them. Others Bots like Bumblebee can afford to keep a good humor. I...I just don't see how I can,"

“I can relate,” Umbra stated simply, “The war stole what made life worth li...” The femme trailed off as both Pointblank's and her attention were drew by a rather high-pitched clamor. One of the other Autobot prisoners was making a commotion. And that wasn't the only thing he was doing. Seemed he was intent on making enemies of the Insecticons. Lovely.

Fortunately, Roadbuster stepped in to calm the scientist, making Umbra relax and smile faintly. That lasted all of two seconds after which Roadbuster decided to punch Highbrow. In his face. Umbra thought she felt her jaw hit the floor. “What...I...wha...?”

-

Highbrow, for his part, had paused in his assault on the verminous abominations swarming all around him to regard the approach of that ruffian Roadbuster. Nightbeat actually looked pleased by this! What had that detective done behind his back? Arranged some sort of strong arming into silence?! Well, being a civilized mechanoid, Highbrow would wait until the Wrecker had stated his business.

"Ok time for plan B"

Before Highbrow knew what had hit him, he was laying flat on the cold unforgiving floor of the mine with quite the aching faceplate. He stared up in complete shock at his aggressor, disbelieving.

"Knock it off ya damn Screwball”

Positively livid, Highbrow picked himself up off of the ground with as much dignity as he could muster and brushed off whatever detritus had collected on his frame. His whole body shook with fury as he attempted to compose himself enough to dictate. He had not managed yet to do so when his righteous recompense was preempted by none other than Pointblank.

"Look, HB, I know this isn't like the days of working in the storied halls of...of...the Jhiaxian Academy or wherever they put you brainy types," Pointblank began, struggling for the right words that might get through to a mech like this. "But we all have to suffer t-this...indignity...together. Or.....or we're sure as slag gonna find ourselves in the Pit together."

Surprisingly enough, Pointblank's words did well to cool Highbrow's inner fire. The scientist took several controlled breaths and let the tension ease out of his frame. “Perhaps...Yes. Indeed. I am not so unreasonable as to compromise our collective survival, Pointblank. Never fear. The Decepticons are the true scoundrels. I have not lost sight of that. Regardless,” Highbrow said with a pointed glare toward Roadbuster, “I would ask you to refrain from corporeal intervention in the future.”

Turning back to his labors, Highbrow hefted the pick ax and returned to the grind. He took care to avoid hitting any Insecticons. “If we must be accomplishing these mind-numbingly simple tasks, then I must have some intelligent conversation to divert me. Come, come, comrades. Speak. What think you of our plight?”

-

Nightbeat sighed with visible relief as the situation with the crazed scientist managed to defuse itself with the timely intervention of both Roadbuster and Pointblank. He set about doing his own menial task when he noticed some silver orbs floating throughout the mine. They stopped in front of mechanoids and then moved on.

“Those orbs...”

“Are scanning devices,” Highbrow interjected.

“Looking something one of us has?” Nightbeat questioned, rubbing his chin thoughtfully, “What could we have that they can't take away from us at this point? Hm...wait...now one of them is scanning Snaptrap...”

“Test subjects, perhaps? Decepticons would not be above using their own for such matters. I can't imagine what else it could be,” Highbrow commented.

Garrus-9 – Mines

Snaptrap absorbed the events in his surroundings almost serenely. His optics swept the area from side to side in a calm motion, lingering here or there on those like Whirl or Highbrow. The Autobots had managed to quell their scientist rather well. There would be no need to intercede. Whirl was engaged in a vicious struggle with another Autobot. It was fairly amusing to the two seekers watching it. Still, the prisoners entrusted to his charge, and he could not have brawls.

Drawing out his atom smasher rifle, Snaptrap pointed it at the ground just a few metres from the wrestling pair. Pulling the trigger, he fired his one and only warning shot, creating a small crater in the rock and showering Lowball and Whirl in rubble. “Enough,” the Seacon commanded in a low menacing tone.

Lower his gun, he watched shifted his gaze to sweep the rest of the mines before returning to the pair once more. He had to be ever vigilant. It was not unlikely that the insects might try to pull something. It was more than likely that the Autobots would do something the moment his attention was averted. Dividing his attention like this was a challenge for the aquatic hunter, but one not entirely unwelcome.

Silver orbs were floating around the mines. Scanning his prisoners presumably. One stopped in front of the butcher and hovered there a moment. He paid it no mind. He was currently watching, with some curiosity, the band of new Autobot prisoners. Mostly. One had a Decepticon badge. He was not one of their force. He spoke to the Autobots with familiarity.

“You,” Snaptrap called to Goldrush, indicating that the bartender should approach him, “Come here.”

Snaptrap's optics flitted back to the gathering of Insecticons occurring in the distance. He recognized Venom among them. Where had that one been? He certainly had not seen him on the Pestilence or his arrival to the mines. To be fair, most of the Insecticons looked alike to the butcher.

"You know anything about these orbs, Snaptrap?” shouted the femme insect from across the way. In reply, the butcher merely stared a moment at her and the rest of her brood before shaking his head in the negative and turning his attention back to the three other demands on it.

Semper Tyrannis--Bridge

Reflector continued to struggle. On every occasion that he seemed to make some sort of inroad against the technological disturbance and restore some aspect of the communications link, it was quickly overrun and deactivated once more by some other bit of technological interference. It was, in a word, frustrating. To put it mildly.

“Well?" Finback interjected, eliciting only a cursory glance from Reflector before returning to his work.

Your impatience is unhelpful in the utmost, Reflector thought to himself.

“High Commander Scorponok is soon through his refit cycle and I am still quite attached towards my slagging head thank you. It may not be pretty but it is mine. Now, how about you do something before we both lose our heads because we lost communications with our ground forces, hmm?"

Reflector was certainly aware that Lord Scorponok's refit cycle was nearly complete, after all he was in the room with him as well as being here on the bridge. But it would do him no good to point that out. Not to this decomposing pile of scrap.

"It is proving difficult to reestablish the connection. The interference is multifaceted in nature."
___

Garrus-9--Aequitas Chamber

Once the command had been given, Scourge did not hesitate in the slightest to surge forward, barely a step behind Cyclonus as the lithe warrior charged into the midst of the oncoming Legislator horde. But is was not they who had been the target of Cyclonus' primary command, and Scourge remained keenly aware of that fact.

"Sweeps! Terminate him!" Scourge growled, indicating the massive Omega Sentinel.

As Scourge and several Sweeps wrestled and fought with their oncoming attackers, others began to transform and take to the air within the expansive chamber, weapons soon firing.
___

Garrus-9--Mines

Umbra's sentiment was well-understood, certainly by Pointblank. The war. It was like an entity now. An entity that none of them could seemingly escape from. But the distraction that had pulled Pointblank's attention away from his introspections just as it had Umbra's remained the priority to be dealt with right now. In all honesty, Pointblank had readied himself for a significantly worse response from Highbrow, given that he had just been decked by a Wrecker. The whole chat could have gone much better, but it could have gone far worse also. Besides, Highbrow wasn't really the type of guy that you went around and punched. Not because of any physical repercussions, but more because the poor Bot couldn't really defend himself against the likes of a mech like Roadbuster. He should have known better. He supposed that was why he had put a little additional effort into helping Highbrow reclaim his dignity than he otherwise would have.

“Perhaps...Yes. Indeed. I am not so unreasonable as to compromise our collective survival, Pointblank. Never fear. The Decepticons are the true scoundrels. I have not lost sight of that. Regardless, I would ask you to refrain from corporeal intervention in the future."

At that, Pointblank had heaved out a small sigh of relief.

"He will," Pointblank said, resting a hand reassuringly on Highbrow's shoulder, before looking back at Roadbuster. "Won't you?"

It wasn't a question. Yeah, the Wrecker would probably wreck him too, but he'd go down fighting to stave off any more unnecessary roughness. The Autobots had enough abusers to deal with right now. They couldn't afford to turn on each other, too. Pointblank turned back to Highbrow and continued to walk with him back to their area of the mine.

"I promise. No more of that...that...corporeal stuff. Heh."

“If we must be accomplishing these mind-numbingly simple tasks, then I must have some intelligent conversation to divert me. Come, come, comrades. Speak. What think you of our plight?"

Pointblank grinned and nodded, picking up his own piece of equipment before returning to his own piece of the wall within the mine shaft. Highbrow's desire for intelligent conversation though, it made Pointblank a little nervous honestly. He had not really ever been known for his thoughtful reflections on The Illusion of Peace or spark-splicing or....yeah. Just whatever. Not his thing. He'd do his best to accommodate though.

"I don't know. I...I suppose things could be a lot worse. I guess that's probably true in a lot of respects. But.....I dunno, besides the strong possibility of Whirl getting us all killed at any second, we could actually get into a holding pattern here. Fly low. Regroup. A-And when the Decepticons don't see it coming--bam--freedom. Or a shot at it. I mean they haven't killed us yet. That's gotta count for something, right? There's got to be a reason."

As Pointblank spoke, a silvery orb whizzed past his group, a couple of Seekers struggling feverishly to keep pace. The devices had obviously caught Highbrow and Nightbeat's attention also, and he was just as curious about what they were doing as his fellow Autobots were. Pointblank watched as the orb stopped, before emitting a high-pitched series of beeps in front of one of the other miners on another level. Without barely so much as a command to stop working, the Seekers proceeded to drag the mech away towards the elevator shaft that lead back up to the prison.

Garrus-9 Mines

After he'd thumped Highbrow the huge former wrecker watched as the squeaky scientist got up bristling with anger. It was better that the Scientist directed it at him rather than the decepticon guards who would more than likely scrap him, when his brains could be better used in helping them get out of the predicament.

But Pointblank went and defused the ornery autobot before he could exorcise his anger

“Perhaps...Yes. Indeed. I am not so unreasonable as to compromise our collective survival, Pointblank. Never fear. The Decepticons are the true scoundrels. I have not lost sight of that. Regardless, I would ask you to refrain from corporeal intervention in the future."

"For the love of primus! Nice one Pointblank, he's a bundle of pent up rage and you've just told him to bottle it up way to leave a ticking time bomb in our midst" The former wrecker turned to walk back to his axe but stopped to look at the scientist "Hey doc come find me later I'll organise some self defence lessons it'll help with the anger issues and I won't clean your clock if you keep it down from now on"

Roadbuster looked around as a small sphere floated into view it swung low through the cavern where the autobots stood curiously it halted in front of one of his fellow miners. Several bleeps emanated from it and the mech was hauled away without a word. "Wonder if that bot had tech or a spark that interested the cons? It's something Shockwave would do if he was here"

Garrus-9 Aequitas Chamber

Stood in at the rear of the gathered Decepticons he'd noticed the grin that the usually stoic Cyclonus had offered when he mentioned that Overlord might need a medic. Bludgeon watched Cyclonus shoot off towards the mass of legislators but something had caught his audio receptors as the door got shouldered open just missing the imposing decepticon. A Blue and yellow decepticon barrelled through the door attempting to look confident but to Bludgeon the new comer wasn't as confident as he tried to appear. Bludgeon's optics scanned over the new comer he didn't recognise him and his databanks held nothing on him but something nagged at the back of his mind.

The narrowing of his optics at the mention of his name was the only sign of irritation he gave. "You have me at a disadvantage you know me but I don't know you but something about you is familiar have we met before perhaps on opposite sides of....." a massive explosion diverted the decepticons attention before he could finish his question. "time to fight" with that utterance Bludgeon turned and thundered into the melee of combat the first legislator to oppose him met his blade.

The head hit the ground before the body fell to its knee's then fell to the ground decapitated Bludgeon's sword dripped with mech fluid, as he used several gentle strike's to shatter the joints of a second legislator. Further into the chamber the huge form of Omega Supreme was reconfiguring his form his mind whirled as he tried to reconcile the logic behind his transformation.

Bludgeon realised his limited weaponry would be of little use against the huge guardian so he lent his considerable talents to thinning the legislator horde to allow ease of access for the con's following in his wake. His sword flicked out slicing another through the spark chamber his other hand held his combat shield he slammed that into another as he turned a kick into a somersault and landed on a forth before he drove his sword through its brain module.

The throng of combat was a swirling melee which suited Bludgeon just fine not many where better in close combat than he. His confidence was well placed as a master of Metallikato but he wasn't untouchable as he caught a glancing blow from another Legislator as he recovered from the acrobatics. He swiftly dispatched the offending foe with a blast of electrical energy then the obvious answer to Omega Supreme's transformation hit him.

"Cyclonus does Omega Supreme have a transwarp drive?"

Garrus 9 - Medical Center

"We will. Let's just...keep our heads and see what we can see while they put us back together. Sparks of inspiration come at the weirdest times."

Truer words couldn't have been said in a time like this, and for Brainstorm every little action his optics took in could spark anything in his processor at any given time. A couple of vehicons had approached Brainstorm's slab while he stared off towards Fortress Maximus, each one carrying what looked like spindly leg struts typically seen in schematics displaying internal skeletal frames. Flatline was no doubt a master of body alterations, meaning these simpletons must know a thing or two themselves. Well, one could hope so...

"Ain't that a sight." One of the red and white medical vehicons spoke up, his visor catching sight of Brainstorm's stare with the warden. "Big ol' Fortress Maximus, down for the count. Not so tough now, is he? Hehe"

Brainstorm paid him no mind, instead directing his attention back towards the bright operating lights dangling from above. The light payed no favor to his processor ache as he brought his left hand to pinch at the bridge of his nose, his Amber optics off lining themselves as of by second nature.

"Is his hands still free? Go on then you two, restrain 'im!" The medical official commanded the two sweeps sent to guard he and Lightspeed. The Scourge-like warriors snarled at the vehicon before finally giving in and took the Biomechanical engineer by both wrists and fastened him to the slab. There it was... There's that infamous Decepticon hospitality.

There was nothing Brainstorm could conjure up to better his situation, at least not unless he wanted a bullet in the back of his head. Instead he was forced to lie back and endure the repairs he need on both his legs. He could feel the vehicon drones cutting away at the mangled pieces of metal that sat at the base of his stumps for legs, making it easier for them to slap on a new pair of new leg struts without having to deal with charred, twisted metal in their way. Each cut stung, but not to the point where the scientist would blurt out his discomfort outloud. He had to retain some form of dignity in his current predicament. Maybe if he just aloud his systems to take a short rest while the Decepticons worked, maybe that'll help pass the time away...

-

After several moments of repair work, a faint shuffling caused Brainstorm to reawaken before a proper recharge cycle was concluded. His optical sensors blinked back to life as he looked about the room. He looked down towards his feet, only to find one skeletal leg had been completed while the other was still being installed on by the rude little Vehicon. His optics darted to the right, Fort Max was still on his slab. His optics shifted to the left, only to find Lightspeed being operated on as well. That sounded like a whole lotta something to have woken him up so quickly like that, but what was it? Finally the noisemaker caught his attention. Gazing over the shoulder of the red and white vehicon, Brainstorm noticed a pair of seekers trying to reign in their friend from against the wall. The one kept struggling to get back up on to his feet, only reaching about half stance before throwing himself against the wall and sliding down to the floor.

Oh Lightspeed, if we make it out of this alive I'm sure gonna have to buy you a quart of High-Grade or something

"Alright." The vehicon spoke up as he dusted off his actuators as he swiveled back from brainstorms legs. "You two, unbolt him and walk him around a bit, I wanna see if the screws are holding before we put the casings back on." His words couldn't have befallen a better time than now, if this was that one shot the two Autobots had been discussing prior to all this, then they were gonna have to take it and hope for the best.

The sweeps standing by unlatched the Biomechanical engineers arm restraints and pulled the cyan and white Autobot up to his feet. Brainstorm forcefully followed as his body was shot back up to his full height, his arms held back by the two sweeps.

"Now, they're gonna let go of ya and when they do, you're gonna walk right over to me. Got that, Brainiac?" The vehicon instructed as he backed his way towards the right of the room.

Yes! Yes this is just too perfect!

"I Uh, yeah I got it..." Brainstorm murmured shortly before he was released. The new legs felt tremendously different, as if he'd gone a lifetime without walking on them before just now. Hard to believe it's only been a few breems or so...

Okay, now let's just play along...

He stepped forward with his left leg, his arms spread out wide as if he were walking a tightrope and needed to maintain balance. His first step was followed by his second as he brought his right foot closer towards the vehicon instructing him.

And just for show...

Finally, he took one more step again with his left foot. Everything appeared to be back to normal with his new legs, each piston firing off at full power and each hydraulic perfectly shifting back into place with each step.

And now, the big finish!

Brainstorm circulated his arms around in the arm beside him as he attempted to take another step. To a casual observer, it would appear the Autobot engineer had lost his balance and was about to fall over. Using the momentum of his "lost" step, Brainstorm dodged the medical vehicon as he moved out of the Autobot's path to avoid being fell upon. Brainstorm took another exaggerated step with his arms still flailing about before crashing into the minister console that was hooked up to Fortress Maximus.

"Ahh! My equilibrium! My gyroscopic stabilizer hasn't been adjusted to the new legs yet!!" Brainstorm lied as he used the minister console for a source of leverage while he "attempted" to regain his composure. All while the sweeps marched over to assist him, Brainstorm stumbled over the control keys fixated on the screen.

"Oh no! I'm slipping! Ahh I'm slipping!" It appeared as if he was trying to gain a grip on the console post, though while he slipped about his optics were fixated on the screen, was careless swing of the arm brought his actuators to the keys and he was quick and careful as to which button he selected. "Oh no, oh dear pardon me, usually I'm not this- oof! Clumsy!" His motions were frantic and sporadic, both sweeps stood back and watched as the Autobot engineer frolicked about in place.

"Heh, I could watch this all day." One of them chuckled.

"Gah, just shut up and grab him!"

Brainstorm soon found solace as both sweeps gripped him by the upper arm once again and held him in the air just enough to were his feet couldn't touch the ground.

"Okay just give one-... Wait... Just about... Okay! Done! You can set me back down now." Brainstorm instructed as the sweeps reluctant returned him to the floor. The Biomechanical engineer stood there without tripping or falling around.

"Geh, good... Good he's stabilized now..." The red and white vehicon commented as he rose from the floor where he fell to avoid being ran into. "Now strap him back to the table so I can finish the job!" The sweeps issued a sigh of disgust before carting Brainstorm back to his slab and reconstituting his restraints.

Back on table, Brainstorm looked back over to Fort Max's position, a hopeful grin forming behind his mouthplate.

Bang... One Shot.

Garrus-9--Mines

Goldrush had been decidedly intrigued by the conflict playing out with the empurata victim. He was a feisty one, wasn't he? He had been tempted to set up some sort of side pool on what would happen, and who it would happen to, but the Butcher of the Bogs quickly got the situation under control once more. That was definitely a Decepticon that Goldrush was pleased to have never crossed paths with. He was fully intending to keep it that way until-

“You. Come here."

Goldrush's amber optics widened slightly in surprise. He traded quick, nervous glances with the members of his staff and the other miners who happened to be somewhat close to his vicinity before looking back at Snaptrap. This was certainly not a mechanoid to question whether or not he had meant the right mech.

Goldrush quickly proceeded to dust himself off as best he could. He hadn't spoken to a Decepticon Commander of any sort in a good long while. He tried his best to remember how they preferred to be addressed. Usually a healthy amount of scraping was in order.

"Fearsome Snaptrap, Commander of the Seacons...y-you...you summoned?" Goldrush asked, offering the Seacon a bow of respect as he approached.
___

Garrus-9--Various Locations

The mobile scanners that Jhiaxus had reprogrammed were steadily carrying out their new assignments. The vast majority of Cybertronians stationed within the prison were not presenting the sort of technological comparability with the praetor's designs that he would have hoped for. Thankfully, there were a handful of samples that were registering positive scans and could be put to further use.

In a darkened corridor, an orb passed by a wandering Terrorcon--Cutthroat--scanning him while staying out of range of the Terrorcon's surly swipe of rage and subsequent attempt to rip the device out of the air. As it beeped, approaching Seekers quickly took Cutthroat into custody, taking him by surprise from behind and locking him with a restraining bolt as they did so in order to prevent him from doing any suicidal damage to himself or homicidal damage to them.

Within the mines, another orb beeped just in front of one of the Insecticons--Barrage. Another in front of Nautilator, one more near Afterburner and yet another in front of the mine foreman, Copperhead. A small cadre of Seekers were swooping down shortly after the alerts were sounded in order to collect their assigned quarry.

All in all, there were several mechanoids now being summarily dragged towards the prison amphitheater where the ancient scientist continued his work.

Garrus-9 Central--Medibay

Like Brainstorm, Lightspeed ignored the taunting regarding Fortress Maximus' condition. The Technobot could only imagine what kind of effort it had taken to reduce the warden commander to that physical state, and he certainly knew a 'Con like the one who was talking now wouldn't be talking such a big game later if they managed to get Max back online somehow.

While Brainstorm was unceremoniously accosted and thrown onto a medical slab, the same treatment was rendered to Lightspeed. Brainstorm seemed to be soaking up the procedure as well as anybody he'd seen. Ratchet would definitely like mechs like him. Just the sort of quiet type who would let the professionals do their work. In this case, even if the professionals were Decepticons and the best they could really hope for was to have some kind of attachment put back in place to make them ambulatory once more. Like Brainstorm, he did his best to put his mind elsewhere and not do anything that would worsen his already questionable condition.

When he had first laid down, nothing in the room seemed overly conspicuous. Bland walls, bland surfaces, a few darkened apertures for maintenance drones to travel through the facility without getting underfoot. Just the same as it had always been. Somewhere during the process of getting his new leg attached, though, he had seen something interesting overhead. A mech. A small mech. Like a...a....protoform? Yes, clearly a Cybertronian protoform. Staring down at him and the others with an impish little grin on his face from the safety and obscurity of the maintenance tunnel overhead. He waved at Lightspeed and then quickly--and silently--went on his way and the maintenance tunnel appeared just as empty as it had only moments before.

Whatever it was, that hadn't been a Decepticon.

That was...curious. But like everything else, Lightspeed drew no additional attention to it. The more random things in this place that were quietly out of Decepticon control, the better it would be for them.

Looking over, Lightspeed watched as Brainstorm was ordered to try out the repair work that had been done. Everything seemed to be going good at first, but then some apparent instability crept in. For a brief moment, Lightspeed was actually worried about the Autobot scientist. But then he remembered who he was in a room with: this was an Autobot who could turn a data stick into a thermonuclear warp point if given enough time and opportunity. Everything that had just happened within the last few astroseconds looked innocuous. Brainstorm just had to quietly hope that everything was not quite as it looked. For right now, though, he couldn't confirm one way or the other.

"Now you, Technohead," the repair mech barked. "Get up and walk!"

Lightspeed looked around for a moment, steadying himself before pushing himself off the slab. His new leg felt...well...it felt workable. It was hardly the seamless, streamlined Technobot craftsmanship he had become accustomed to over so many vorns now. And he would probably walk with a limp for a while. But at least he could walk, and that was exceedingly acceptable for Lightspeed.

"Alright, that's good enough. Back on the slab," the mech barked, the nearby Sweeps complying just as they had with handling Brainstorm. Lightspeed looked over at Max, then at Brainstorm, then finally back at his current Decepticon overseers.

"So...what's to become of us now?" Lightspeed asked, trying to frame his question in such a way that hopefully the Decepticon in charge would not see how badly he was itching to get to the mines and reunite with not only the Technobots, but pretty much all the captive Autobots on Garrus-9.

Garrus-9--Aequitas Chamber

Cyclonus smashed both fists down into the head of one of the fallen Legislators. All around him him, Decepticons of various shapes and sizes were engaged in their own contests against the progeny of Tyrest. Just a few meters away, one of the Legislators locked onto Cyclonus' fight in particular. Its empty eye sockets and mouth began to glow with orange and then white-hot flame. Cyclonus sensed the change in temperature and looked up just in time to see the flames begin to spew out of the construct's mouth. He rolled out of the way as the flames washed over the fallen Legislator. Cyclonus quickly was on his feet again, taking a cover position behind another one even as he slammed a fist into it.

"Cyclonus does Omega Supreme have a transwarp drive?" Bludgeon asked, engaged in his own battle not far from the purple warrior's own position.

The Legislator he was currently attempting to dispatch wrapped its hands around Cyclonus' neck, hoisting him up. He could quickly hear the steel in his neck beginning to creak and give to the immense pressure, and again the flames began to stir in the construct's internal workings, only this time it would be a direct shot to Cyclonus' face. He could not have that.

Cyclonus whipped his arms to the outside of the Legislator's grip, then under and through, snapping himself free of the chokehold and landing smoothly on the surface of the chamber again before punching and ripping his way into the thing's torso and ripping out whatever he could grab ahold of. Sparks flew and fluids leaked like a sieve.

"The highest of the Omega Guardians has....experience and *huff*...abilities, that I can only begin to...*gruh*...fathom. It would not surprise me in the least if he also possessed transwarp capability."

As Cyclonus continued ripping, the Legislator's resistance steadily became nothing, before ultimately the Vice Commander shoved the now inactive construct to the ground and moved into a better position to aid Bludgeon.