The Energon Pub

Corridor-Research Lab

As the two Protectobots ran to the research lab, Groove was glad to know that Streetwise was on the same page, believing that Rodimus and his crew posed an immediate threat. It was fortunate that they were in the Guardian. SInce having to abandon their home planet, the frigate had been something of a home for the Protectobots, and that would hopefully work to their favor.

"You don't need to tell me twice.", Groove replied as he ran slightly ahead of the interceptor, "It's too bad you were called away before we all went to the mess hall. Maybe the two of us might have convinced some of them against Rodimus' plan. Ah well..."

After just a few astroseconds, Groove reached the door to the research lab. Unlike the previous lab, Groove didn't hesitate. They had already taken up too much time, so he quickly opened the door and walked right in.

"Slag, they're not here."

Groove looked around the varous computer terminals and stations that filled the room, but there was no sign of anyone. Shaking his head in disappointment, Groove went to one of the terminals and quickly called up a history of it's operations.

"Try one of the other computers, Streetwise. Maybe we'll find some clue about where they're going."

Medical Bay

Hoist stood still and tried to remain as emotionally neutral as he could as Prowl replied to the mechanic's confession. Though he had never liked the strategist's earlier "gag" order, he hadn't disobeyed it because of any disrespect toward Prowl, nor to purposefully fight authority.

Hoist came obediently with the strategist as he was taken to an emptier area, to avoid prying audio sensors. The green mech listened intently, Prowl's optics never leaving his own as he made his point. Then the strategist mentioned Ultra Magnus, and Hoist's optics widened from surprise,

So that WAS Ultra Magnus I saw- but when did he take command? No one told me, unless they made the announcement while I was recharging.

With this revelation of a change in command, Prowl wasn't the only one who was disappointed, which Hoist couldn't hide anymore. Keeping the entire Dinobot incident a secret was bad enough, but at least Hoist could see some of the logic in that decision. But not announcing such a drastic change in the command structure, even if it technically wasn't being kept a secret?

Hoist listened patiently as Prowl finished, ordering the mechanic to go back to his business but to keep quiet, and wait for their new commander to make a decision about any disciplinary action.

"Yes, I understand very clearly.", Hoist answered, just barely containing his disdain over the strategist's actions, "I will return to my duties and not speak of this subject to anyone except for you, or now that I am aware of it, Ultra Magnus, and only if it's first brought up by either of you."

Hoist took a deep breath. Part of him wanted to go on a tirade about how wrong Prowl had been throughout his temporary command of the Autobot forces in this system. But right now he wasn't in any position to be doing that, especially when Prowl still outranked him by quite a bit.

"Well, now that that's done, I'll be returning to Bumblebee's exam.", Hoist said to the strategist as walked away from Prowl.

Returning to the exam table where he had left Bumblebee, Hoist recalled Bumblebee's scans from his databanks and looked over it. Despite his frustration over Prowl, the green mech cheered up again as he faced the yellow minibot.

"Ah, sorry to keep you waiting, Bumblebee.", Hoist said, back to his normally cheerful manner, "Well, so far I don't see anything wrong with you physically. I hope you've thought carefully about any glitches you may have had. Even the smallest error can lead to a complete systems shut down if untreated. Don't hesitate to tell me anything, no matter how inconsequencial it may seem."

Medical Bay

“Glad to hear it,” Prowl responded to Hoist as the green mechanic went back to examining Bumblebee. The military strategist let out a deep sigh, knowing that the truth had likely been divulged by some of the others, as well. It was logical to draw such a conclusion based on the non-verbal, as well as the verbal, responses the black and white had initially observed when he first gave the order. Truth be told, he wasn’t entirely certain now if it had been the proper course of action to take. However, what’s done is done and there was no turning back the chronometer now.

Moving towards the door of the infirmary, Prowl stopped and took a glance back at those members of his team that were still receiving their check-ups. Bumblebee was with Hoist while Freeway was still being looked at by First Aid. Nova Strike, meanwhile, had already left and the Aerialbots were likely down in the barracks getting ready. There was nothing more for the black and white to do here and Ratchet appeared to want him gone a vorn ago.

As a result, Prowl exited the medical facility without another word. The unlikable analyst headed for the docking tunnel that would lead him over to the Ark-22. Once there, he would attend a briefing with Ultra Magnus and provide him with a detailed report regarding the proposed locations where the scouting mission should primarily focus their attention. All of the factors had been accounted for. The only thing that was required was final approval from the City Commander, himself. Then both the ground and air teams could be deployed to the planet's surface where the real work would begin.

Research Lab

The interceptor frowned slightly as he thought back to the scene in the Medical Bay. He was actually glad that he had been called away. Rodimus - er, Hot Rod - had been...strangely charismatic. Not like the Hot Rod that he knew at all. Streetwise wasn't so sure that he would not have been amongst Hot Rod's group.

The interceptor ran into the research lab behind his teammate. Slag. They weren't here. That left it up to Cliff and the boss to stop them. He hoped those two could make it in time to stop Hot Rod. Streetwise checked the room again, sweeping his optics across the room. No one. No clues.

"Slaggit all..." the interceptor muttered angrily.

At Groove's recommendation, Streetwise moved over to one of the terminals and began sifting through its operational history. It was definitely worth a try. Maybe they'd get lucky. All he knew was that he could not let Hot Rod leave this ship. He hadn't been there to track down Optimus, but he was here now. He could do something about it!

"Slag, I've got nothin', Groove. Any luck on your end?"

OoC: I got a post out!

Corridors

Jazz listened closely to what Red Alert had to say. To say that Red was sounding odd was an understatement. But Jazz knew and trusted Red, and to have him point a rocket at Jazz's faceplate wasn't the best feeling in the world.

Neither was keeping secrets. Jazz took a moment to think about what he was going to say, and the repercussions of saying it. Jazz, frankly, did not care at this point.

"You know I can't tell you that, Red," Jazz began quietly, standing up with his hands at both sides of his head so Red Alert could see them while moving to where the back of his head was pointed at the security camera on the wall, "I can't tell you that the Dinobots assaulted the repair crew and stole the Ark-19 to parts unknown. I also can't tell you that, if we were in this conversation that never happened, that Prowl told us to never speak of that occasion and provided us with a cover story. It is completely ludicrous to think that I would tell you those things, and if I ever did -- which I did not -- divulge this information, Prowl would Court Martial me on the spot."

Jazz paused briefly before continuing.

"But Red, that isn't why I came to you. I really do need your help with an 'Urgent Security Matter'." Jazz said, slowly lowering his hands, thinking that he had convinced Red Alert.

Research Lab

Groove tapped the keys on the computer terminal, his optics thoroughly scanning through the data that was displayed. Much to his disappointment though, there was no useful information to be found.

"No, there's no trace of them.", Groove sighed, replying to Streetwise, "Either they weren't here, or they managed to cover their tracks very well."

The Protectobot scout backed away from the computer, and took another long look around the lab. There were no physical traces of Rodimus or his followers being there either. They had already spent several breems searching for the group, so in all likelihood someone else would find them first. Still just to be safe, there was still one more room he and Streetwise could check.

"I'd imagine Cliffjumper or Hot Spot will probably see them first by now.", Groove commented, "But we should still check the lab on the next deck, just to be thorough. We can't take any chances no to be."

Corridors

Without wasting time Groove walked out of the research lab into the hallway, just ahead of Streetwise. He tried not to let his worries get to him, when he noticed a very slight splishing sound from one of his steps.

"Huh?", the scout wondered as he stopped, looking down to the floor where his foot was. To his surprise he saw a trail of some purple, almost glowing liquid where he stepped. Though Groove had a fairly good idea of what it was, he crouched down and dipped his hand into it. Standing back up he took a closer inspection of the liquid on his hand, sniffing it with his olfactory sensors. There was no mistake about it. Looking down to the floor it only took him an astrosecond to notice it was coming from a nearby door.

"Streetwise, look!", the scout pointed out, "Energon! And it's coming from that supply room, C-4!"

The worst thoughts started to go through Groove's head. They didn't hurt someone, did they? They wouldn't go so far as to harm another Autobot just to get down to the planet, would they?

"Oh no....", Groove muttered to himself horror, hurrying to the supply room door to open it. But when the scout pushed the button, nothing happened. Pushing the command for the door to open again, the door stayed shut and gave a buzzing noise, "No no no no no no......"

There was no telling who could be in the supply room, or what kind of condition they were in. For all Groove knew they could be permanently offline, or close to it. Without thinking Groove activated his vaporators, spraying a corroding liquid toward the door latch.

"Streetwise, hurry! With the locks weakened, together we might be able to force the door open!"

Before the interceptor got there, Groove was already trying to pull the door open with all his might.

Please don't let anyone be in there, please....

Other Corridors

The longer Jazz spent trying to come up with an answer for Red Alert, the more the security director was convinced he was just trying to come up with a good lie. Just to be safe he activated the targeting system on his launcher.

Then the special ops director finally began talking, explaining that he couldn't tell Red Alert what he wanted to know. Red Alert's optics went narrow, those weren't the words he wanted to hear. It looked like Jazz was simply going to waste the security director's time, when he noticed something; a security camera aimed right at them. Then Jazz moved over so that his face was away from the camera, and he told Red Alert exactly what he couldn't tell him, it all started to make sense.

I do have an ally! Jazz wouldn't believe in whatever slag Prowl is trying to push, but he had to be careful not to get caught! Of course, it all makes sense now! Prowl's been working with Grimlock! Prowl has the Dinobots take the Ark-19 by force, and since Grimlock has such an extensive history of disobeying authority, he can easily deny any involvement! Then he orders everyone quiet about the whole deal to keep anyone from looking to deep into it. Wheeljack and the shuttle and the turbofox were all distractions to keep me from making all the right connections, but Prowl clearly underestimated me, and now he's underestimated Jazz!

Once the gears in Red Alert's head stopped turning, the security director disarmed his rocket launcher. He was now convinced that he could trust Jazz, and hopefully togethter they would stop Prowl's plot. They'd just have to be discreet about it.

"I'm sorry Jazz but I'm having some difficulty with my audio sensors. I'm afraid I didn't hear most of what you said.", Red Alert said with a knowing grin and a subtle wink as the special ops director lowered his hands, "But I believe you mentioned there's an urgent security matter that needs my attention. Tell me, what' s the problem?"

(OOC: I’m moving Rodimus’ group forward. My next post will be made in the Yellow Sea thread. Once there the two Decepticons on shore will "spot" them. After that all hell can break loose.)

Bounce Chamber

Hex was nearly bouncing in place when Ricochet finally agreed to his proposal. What fun the game would be with the ending only coming when the young herald had mutilated the black and gold marksman. And oh what fun it would be to stare into those optics behind the visor just as his life was snuffed out. Would he beg to live? No, he’d be too proud to do that…but Hex bet that his optics would reveal more than Ricochet would be willing to say.

“A competition? Nooo. I’m after camaraderie. I wanna kill alongside yah, you know, before you offline.”

Hex let out a long haughty laugh as he followed Ricochet into the chamber. The black and white’s move by pushing past him only heightened the young herald’s irritation. Perhaps a bit more working over was called for. With a deep growl Hex moved into the chamber following close behind the marksman and took up a position next to Ricochet. The silver mech took a moment to look over at and offer an evil toothy smile to his newest rival.

The sound of his herald brother’s observation concerning him and Ricochet and their seemingly consented cooperation had Hex quickly responding.

“Oh, we’re gonna get along just fine. In fact we’re gonna be playing a game once we’re settled planet side. He kills a ‘Con, and maybe I don’t kill him.”

The silver scout took a sideways glance in his nemesis’ direction and chuckled.

“I changed the rules slightly. I think I like it better this way.”

Hex let out a snort of disgust at Hardhead’s observation concerning the annoying ‘Bot’s weapon. Leave it to the green warrior to turn a perfectly fun homicidal conversation into something that involved armaments. The young mech rolled his head in frustration.

“Shut your half-wit pie hole! There’s more to gutting ‘Cons than just pulling a trigger!”

I love that idea! I can see him now…body riddled with those cute little plasma darts, energon slowly oozing from every seam in his armor and that slight gurgling noise when he tries to talk. But best of all will be the look on his face. How priceless that will be.

Rodimus entered the chamber behind the rest of his herd and stalked directly to the bounce platform’s control panel. The self-proclaimed Prime quickly entered the coordinates to the site of the Decepticons’ current location and set the controls to the appropriate amount of time before initiation. He did not want to waste any more time.

Rodimus wanted nothing more than to reach the planet’s surface and claim his final two heralds. What happened afterward was none of his concern.

He turned from the panel once it was properly set and made his way onto the platform. The others had already gathered and were waiting as patiently as was to be expected.

“Hex! Keep your processor on the task ahead of us. It’s the Decepticons who deserve our malice not our comrades.”

He sent a stern glare in the youngling’s direction before focusing on the rest of the gathered troops.

“I know where just a small group, but the ‘Cons won’t be expecting us. We’ll have the element of surprise working in our favor. Now, let’s put an end to what the Decepticons started millions of years ago.”

No sooner had his short speech ended the group was engulfed in a bright light that illuminated the entire chamber…and as quickly as it began the light died down and vanished leaving the entire room empty with no trace of its previous inhabitants.

Corridors

“Come on Sunshine! If you don’t get those shiny legs movin’ I’m gonna beat you to her door!”

Sideswipe’s threat came just before he founded the corner and as he took a quick glance over his shoulder to gauge just where his brother was at. The sight of the gold mech headed his way brought a bright smile to his face, but he wouldn’t let his twin win this one.

“I think you’re losing your zeal for completion. You’ve been out of practice for too long, Sunny!”

With a playful laugh Sideswipe increased his speed performing an impressive whirl around a mech who happened to be walking toward the red warrior. With a surprised yelp and a cascade of datapads the mech placed both hands on his head and crouched down slightly in order to make himself a much smaller target.

“Whoa! You better pick those up, pal! Sunny’s headed this way and if he trips on one of those he’ll pound you into slag!”

The warning had the mech quickly dropping to the floor and frantically scooping up the mess that had littered the floor.

“HA! Try and avoid that pretty boy!”

Sideswipe decided not to stop and watch the inevitable pile up…instead he pressed on until he came to a stop right outside the scout’s room. He took a quick look at the door in front of him and then glanced down at the turbofox tucked securely under his arm.

“Okay Razr. You’re home. And I can’t wait to see the look on Trace’s face when she sees it was me who brought ya back.”

The crimson warrior flashed the small creature a broad smile before he looked over his shoulder trying to spot his slowpoke brother. He’d never let Sunny live this loss down.

Research Lab

To the interceptor's frustration, his teammate also seemed to have no luck with the computer. He stepped away from the terminal and glanced over to Groove as he though about what do to next. Where would other clues be? The only place that he could think of was the bounce chamber. Maybe it would have the last jump's coordinates logged.

"I'd imagine Cliffjumper or Hot Spot will probably see them first by now.", Groove commented, "But we should still check the lab on the next deck, just to be thorough. We can't take any chances no to be."

"Yeah, you're probably right," Streetwise replying with a sigh, "I just hope they get to Hot Rod and the others before it's too late to stop 'em. The other lab might at least have a clue or two about their destination. Let's head out."

Corridors


Streetwise exited the research lab right behind Groove. He noticed the purple liquid moments before his teammate stepped in it. The interceptor reached out to try to stop his friend, but was too slow.

"Groove, you're abo-" Streetwise let the statement die off as Groove stepped in the liquid.

"Nevermind..."

"Streetwise, look!", the scout pointed out, "Energon! And it's coming from that supply room, C-4!"

The interceptor looked over to the door as a sudden jolt of fear bolted through his spark. He immediately assumed the worst. No..Hot Rod is acting weird but he wouldn't...he would never actually...hurt someone...Would he? What on Earth is going on? He moved toward the door after Groove. It wouldn't open. The interceptor kept his growing fears in check. There was no cause for panic yet. However, Groove's panic was very infectious.

"Streetwise, hurry! With the locks weakened, together we might be able to force the door open!"

Streetwise ran over to Groove's side and began pulling on the door with all of his might. He felt it starting to give with the combined efforts of the two Protectobots.

"Alright, together Groove!"

Getting a better grip on the door, Streetwise put all of his strength into another mighty heave.

C'mon...open!

The Bridge

"You got the touch!"

Tap. Tap. Tap. Tap. Blaster nodded his head as he listened to the song, tapping out the beats with perfect precision. This particular song was an old favorite, a classic. It always put a spark in his circuits. He cranked up the song a few notches louder. The noise would've been deafening to anyone other than Blaster. Load was just how he rocked and rolled and he loved every astrosecond of it.

“Finally!”

Surprised, Blaster shut off the frequency and glanced toward the source of the noise. Both Eject and Rewind were stationed at consoles adjacent to their guardian. Eject was doubtlessly listening to some sort of sports broadcast. Jumping up and down in excitement, the cassettebot cheered happily.

“Who’s it this time?” Blaster asked, smiling at his small friend’s antics.

“The Red Sox and the Yankees!”

“Who’re you pullin’ for this time?”

“The Sox! They finally brought out their clutch hitter after waiting until the bases were loaded. I would’ve brought him out sooner, but I-“

Eject paused in mid-sentence, his optics widening. He burst into a tumult of cacophonous cheers and cries of jubilation.

“He just hit a triple! Scrap that, Yankees! YEAH!”

Blaster couldn’t help but grin at the cassettebot’s enthusiasm. Truth be told, he barely understood the concepts of some human sports, but there were a few he had come to grow reasonably acquainted with such as baseball, football (some humans called it soccer), another football, and basketball. Blaster knew enough about to be able to tell that Eject was talking about baseball, but aside from that, he couldn’t tell anyone very much about it. Rewind probably could though.

Leaving Eject to his broadcast and returning to his own, Blaster found with disappointment that his song had ended. His intakes let out a whoosh of air in a disappointed sigh.

Looks like it's back to monitoring interstellar chatter for me...

Corridors- Supply Room C-4

With Streetwise's help, Groove could feel the door move, albeit slowly.

"RRRGH, we can...... do iiiiit.", Groove grunted as he and Streetwise gave it their all in one, last pull, until finally the door slid completely open, the momentum causing Groove to land on his aft.

"Oh, thank Primus!", Groove exclaimed as he got himself up quickly, looking into the supply room to find whoever had been hurt by Rodimus and his followers. Except that wasn't what he saw.

"What the?", Groove puzzled as he looked at a maintenance drone lying on it's back on the floor. It looked as if it had been smashed in the faceplate and chassis repeatedly, right down to it's circuits. He could even see several of it's fuel pumps had been severed, from the looks of it they had been cut by jagged pieces of it's own armor being forced inward. There was the source of energon trail.

Groove couldn't help but feel a little embarassed at his overreaction just seconds earlier. He looked at Streetwise, wondering if the interceptor felt the same. Still, as sorry as he might have been for the drone, at least it wasn't a living, sentient being.

Better not tell that to First Aid, though.

"Well, at least it isn't an Autobot.", Groove awkwardly said to Streetwise, "Soooo........ I guess someone just got upset with a maintenance drone....."

Medical Bay

Upon Hoist’s return Bumblebee offered the mechanic a bright smile. He had been told by so many others within the ranks that just his smile could cheer up any downtrodden mech. It must have been true if Prime had been the first one to say it. It was the thought of Optimus Prime that caused his smile to falter…but only slightly.

“Oh, it’s okay Hoist. I’m sure it was fairly important…especially if it was Prowl you had to speak to.”

The yellow minobot grew quiet and simply listed to the green mech as he was told just what to do if anything were to come up in the immediate future. Unfortunately, Bee paid little attention to what he was being told. Instead his processor was wandering off. While he swung his dangling legs Bumblebee gave a nod of understanding.

“Got it Hoist. And thanks again.”

He quickly hopped off the medical slab and started for the door. With this exam completed he’d finally be able to get going.

“Bumblebee…before you go, I’d like to have a word with you!”

Just the sound of Ratchet’s voice made any mech cringe…out of fright mostly. Bumblebee’s shoulders drew up nearly meeting the horns that adorned his head. What had he done now?
Instead of acknowledging Ratchet with a verbal response he turned on his heel and slowly began to work his way to the CMO’s office. As he passed Hoist he cast him a morose look.

“If I’m not out…in one piece…in five minutes…run.”

Ratchet’s Office

Ratchet had already taken up a spot in front of his desk…arms crossed over his chest and legs crossed at the ankles. It was a posture Bumblebee was not used to seeing…the twins probably saw it on a regular basis…okay, maybe just Sideswipe, but still the CMO’s look was pretty imposing.

“Have a seat, Bee.”

The miniscule ‘Bot did as told and sat down…albeit…rather stiffly in the proffered chair in front of the desk. Bumblebee tilted his head back slightly so he was able to look Ratchet in the eyes.

“Did I do somethin’ wrong Ratchet?”

“Pft! Hardly.”

Ratchet pushed off the edge of his desk and made his way around it. He flopped down into the seat and steepled his fingers…using the armrests as a base for his elbows to rest on.

“Oookay. Then what’s wrong?”

“I wanna know if you’ve noticed any problems or just anything strange…glitching, gear seizure, pain…localized pain in your spark chamber. Have you had any of those symptoms?”

Bee shook his head in the negative but changed his answer when he noticed the serious glare Ratchet was sending him. He lowered his head and offered a very small nod.

“It’s nothing, really. Just having a hard time staying in recharge. Keep seeing that…that “gift” Hex had given me.”

The CMO’s features softened as he stood up and walked around his desk to stand before the smaller ‘Bot. He laid a hand gently on the yellow mech’s shoulder and gave it a light squeeze.

“Well, that’s not at all unusual. Having gone through everything that ‘Con had done…the major surgery and then having a body part tossed in your face is enough to have a profound effect on anyone.”

“Yeah, well, it was pretty weird. The kid helps rescue me and then goes and does something like that. Wish Axle would keep a tighter leash on him. ‘Bots aren’t supposed to do stuff like that…it’s actually something a ‘Con would do.”

Ratchet released Bee’s shoulder and resumed his original pose but this time a deep scowl had worked its way onto the Doctor’s face.

“He isn’t a ‘Bot. He was at one time, but he threw in the towel. He only hangs around because of Axle…and to be an incorrigible pain in the aft.”

Bumblebee let out a chuckle and nodded deeply absolute agreement.

“You’ll get no argument from me…especially on that. But anyway, besides those, well…nightmares…I’m good.”

“Okay. Then head on out. But if anything happens or you start to notice distressing symptoms like I’d mentioned before then I want you to contact me, capiche?”

“You got it, Ratch.”

As quickly as his short legs could carry him Bumblebee made it to the door but not before he heard the white mech holler back to him.

“And don’t call me that! Sideswipe may get away with it but I’ll be damned if I’ll let you follow in his footsteps!”

Medicial Bay

After being scanned, examined and thoroughly probed by the probulator, Freeway was hoping that this whole procedure was going to be worth it. The medical check up had gone well enough the amount of things that were wrong with Freeway were small enough for him to be given a clean bill of health and allow him to be put on the active combat duty roster. That was great news it meant he was clear to go planetside and get off this stuffy spaceship, “Thanks for the check-up, First Aid! You should consider a career as a doctor!” the Throttlebot hopped down off the table.

Freeway was going to raid the armoury on Guardian first before transferring across to Ark-22, he wanted to make sure he had just about every kind of potential booby trap and sabotage available to him. These usually involved explosives and they were mostly stored in the armoury. Being in Prowl's select team would grant him access to these munitions. He got his hands on mines mostly ones with pressure pads, ones with proximity detection, ones that could be remotely detonated, ones that exploded and ones that sent out a localised EMP blast. Plus several clips more ammunition for his laser pistol. He had spent too long at his game to go unprepared into any situation.

With equipment sorted, Freeway headed over to be transferred onto the Ark-22.

Corridors - Supply Room C-4

When the door opened, Streetwise stumbled back and took a moment to regain his balance. What a time for that! Groove was already up on his feet and running into the room by the time Streetwise stuck his cranium into the doorframe. When he first saw the maintenance drone, the interceptor felt as puzzled as Groove looked.

Slowly, he processed just how much he had overreacted and began to chuckle. He felt rather silly for getting so worked up over nothing. Streetwise exchanged looks with Groove and sent his friend an amiable smile with a shrug.

"Uh, oops?" he said with a tinge of embarrassment.

"Well, at least it isn't an Autobot.", Groove awkwardly said to Streetwise, "Soooo........ I guess someone just got upset with a maintenance drone....."

"Ah...yep. Looks like," Streetwise said to Groove, "I'll call maintenance. I hope we don't get our afts chewed out for breaking the door..."

Streetwise opened up a communique to maintenance, feeling more and more embarrassed as he spoke.

>>"Ah, hey, maintenance? Streetwise, here. We've got a broken drone and uh...a broken door at Supply Room C-4. If ya could send someone to to take a look see, that'd be great."<<

As Streetwise awaited an acknowledgement, he looked over to Groove and shrugged again.

"Live and let die, as the humans say."

Bridge

Kup had finally put the last touches on the new ships’ rosters. Hopefully they were well balanced and gave everyone room. He knew with some of those younger teams like the Aerialbots could get a bit territorial. With their attitudes he made sure to put them on the Ark-22, away from the more mild Protectobots. He also made sure to split up the medics and the tech types, with the Guardian getting the bigger share due to its better facilities. Most of the warriors would be on the Ark-22, give them more room and keep them away from the fragile scientific instruments on the Guardian. It all seemed good to him, he would just need to get Magnus to sign off on it before he made it official.

The old timer’s attention was briefly drawn to Blaster and his cassettes who were talking about some sort of Earth nonsense. He simply shook his head in confusion over bots like him. If he’d live to be twice as old as he was now he still wouldn’t understand some of these bots are their fascination with all of these alien cultures. It was one thing to admire them and all, but they seemed to just dive right in and engross themselves in it. Maybe he was just too old and set in his ways. Then again he was happier not knowing what a ‘Yankee’ was.

Kup’s attention was dragged back to the command console as an alert went off. An unauthorized bounce had just occurred. Frowning he punched up the data on the bounce. A deep frown formed on his face as he saw who had gone down. Hot Rod and almost every slagging heavy hitter they had on board. Slaggit, that hot head had gone and done something stupid. But he had kept Howlstirke with them to make sure this sort of thing didn’t happen.

>>”Howlstrike, what the slag is going on? I just saw Hot Rod and a whole mess of Bots head down to the surface? Howlstrike, respond?”<<

“Slaggit!” Kup slammed a fist down on the command chair. Something had obviously happened to him, hopefully something just incapacitating. “Blaster! I want all of your cassettes scouring this ship for Howlstrike! He is likely injured or incapacitated, I want him found now!” Kup jumped to his feet. “You have the bridge! I have some young punks to deal with.”

As he jogged out of the room he sent out multiple messages, first one to Magnus and Prowl explaining the situation, then he began assembling his team. He wanted his own heavy hitters, but he wanted Bots he could absolutely count on as well.

>>”Ironhide, I need you in the bounce chamber immediately. It looks like Hot Rod has gone off the deep end along with every slaggin’ heavy hitter on the ship. I’m gonna need your help reigning them all in.”<<

>>”What? Are you yanking my wires Kup? You sayin’ they went AWOL down to Earth? You sure they ain’t just joyriding or something? Sounds like what Hot Rod would do.”<<

>>”Unless you think Hardhead and Warpath are the types to go joyriding then no. Whatever they are doing down there is going to involve some serious muscle and firepower, and it looks like they took out Howlstrike to make sure no one knew about it.”<<

>>”Scrap! I’m on my way now.”<<

>>”Hot Spot, I need you to assemble your team in the Bounce chamber now! I think Hot Rod and some other Bots have gone AWOL and your team is the most flexible in this kind of situation. We might have a fight on our hands or it might end peacefully, but I know I can count on your team either way.”<<

*

Bounce Chamber

Hot Spot entered the room only to find it deserted. He frowned, growing frustrated with this fruitless chase. He glanced at the control console to find it still active. Punching in a few commands he found it had just been used, and by the very Bots he had been after. He stifled a curse, knowing that if he had only been a bit faster he could have prevented this from turning into the major incident it was becoming.

He was ready to contact Prowl when the signal came in from Kup. Apparently recent events hadn’t gone totally unnoticed. It looks like this whole incident was going to end ugly.

>>”Blades, First Aid, Groove, Streetwise, report to the Bounce Chamber immediately for rapid deployment to the surface. We have multiple Autobots gone AWOL so be prepared for any situation.”<<

Medical Bay

"Just be careful out there, Bumblebee.", Hoist adviced as he gave the yellow minibot a friendly pat on the back.

It's a shame he has to leave, he really does brighten up the room. But then he doesn't really have any reason to stay here, does he? Oh well.

Hoist watched as Bumblebee was about to leave, when Ratchet needed to speak with the small young mech. The green mech chuckled as the yellow minibot gave him a warning to run if things didn't go well with the CMO. The look on Bumblebee's faceplate was priceless.

Ah, good old Ratchet. The only doctor who can put the fear of Primus into any mech.

As Bumblebee entered Ratchet's office, Hoist was about to busy himself when he recieved a call from Streetwise. One of the maintenance drones was in need of repair, as well as the door to one of the supply rooms. Given Streetwise's hesitation to mention it, the broken door was probably the Protectobot's doing. Hoist opened a comm line and replied.

>>This is Hoist, reading you loud and clear my Protectobot friend. There's no need to worry, you know how glitchy those drones can sometimes be, and I'm sure you didn't mean to break the door. I'll be down there as soon as I can.<<

Hoist took a quick look around the med bay. All the Autobots had gone through their needed maintenance exams, leaving the room empty except for medical personel.

"Ratchet, First Aid, I just got a maintenance call on a drone and a door in need of repairs. It shouldn't take me more than a couple breems to take care of, but don't hesitate to call me back here if you need help."

With all the necessary tools already built into him, not to mention the convenience of going to one of the supply rooms, Hoist headed out the door. As mundane as the job could have been, at least Hoist could take comfort that it was a job that didn't involve any of his friends being hurt or in pain. For some odd reason, one of the songs Jazz had played earlier for Hoist had been recalled from his databanks.

"I'd like to be a part of it, New York, New York..... Hm, that is quite catchy, isn't it?"

Supply Room C-4 - Corridors

"I'm sure we won't get in any trouble.", Groove assured Streetwise, "We thought another mech's life was at stake, after all. I'm sure any other Autobot would have done the same thing."

Once maintenance had been called, the interceptor quoted a human phrase. To Groove it sounded familiar, though he thought he had heard it slightly differently.

"I thought the saying was 'live and let live.", Groove questioned, "Maybe I'm wrong, but I guess I just prefer it that way."

The scout sighed. After all that worry about Rodimus' and his group incapacitating another Autobot, only to find it was an unrelated broken drone. And they still had to continue looking for the rogue group.

"Well, we still need to check the research lab in the next-"

Groove stopped talking, his jaw dropped and his optics widened as he received the message from their commander. Though Hot Spot hadn't named the bots who went AWOL, there was no question that it had to be Rodimus' group. They were too late, the upgraded cavalier had already taken his followers to the planet surface. Despite Groove's efforts, further violence and destruction was about to be brought down to Earth, even if it's intended targets were the Decepticons.

"Oh no....", was all Groove could mutter as he looked over to Streetwise in shock.

The scout didn't say a word, nor did he send a reply to Hot Spot. Assuming Streetwise had received the same message and was thinking the same thing, Groove simply went running right to the bounce chamber.

Corridors - Supply Room C-4

Leave it to Groove to remember that version of the saying. It brought a smile to Streetwise's face. Groove never changed. Hoist's acknowledgement gave the Protectobot some modicum of relief. They had enough trouble without having to worry about about a broken door. They still had to check the other research lab for Hot Rod and the rest.

"Well, we still need to check the research lab in the next-"

Streetwise had been about to suggest the same thing Groove had begun to say when he received the Protectobot commander's transmission. The interceptor's optics widened in surprise. No. Hot Rod had actually made it off of the Guardian? It went without saying that it had been him. Off to do Primus knew what down there. Hot Spot and Cliffjumper had been too late to stop them.

"Slaggit all..." the interceptor growled in frustration.

Streetwise ran. He ran to the bounce chamber, knowing Groove had thought of the same thing he had. There was no time to waste anymore. So much for that brief period of inactivity they had been afforded.

It's just like the humans say: Be careful what you wish for.

-----------

Bridge

Blaster had been leisurely scanning through the human chatter when Kup's loud outburst made him jolt upright in his chair. He turned to look at the old timer wondering who in the slag had managed to tick Kup off. When the old timer addressed him, Blaster felt a bolt of fear jump through his spark. Was it something that he had done? An astrosecond of explaination and his concerns subsided.

"You got it, Kup, sir!"

As Blaster turned to Rewind and Eject, he wondered who Kup meant by young punks. Practically everyone was younger than the old timer, so it could be anyone on the Ark-22 or the Guardian. Looked like the former predacon was in some sort of trouble too. Slag, Blaster hated being out of the loop.

"You heard the man, guys. I need you out there lookin' for Howl," he said to the two cassetobots.

"You got it, coach," Eject snapped as he jogged off down the corridors.

Rewind hopped down from his chair, thinking about the alert that had gone off. Each one had minutely different pitches and frequencies. He accessed the archives, referencing the multitudes of sound clips that he'd saved. Finally, he found a match. Unauthorized bounce? Maybe Howlstrike would be somewhere near the Bounce Chamber. It was a start anyway.

"I'm on it," the cassetobot said as he bounded down the corridors in Eject's wake.

With those two off and away, Blaster ejected Steeljaw and lastly Ramhorn.

"We need to find Howlstrike and fast. Stay in radio contact and let me know when you find him."

The prospect of a new hunt sent a spark through Steeljaw's cicuits. His nose held up high, he intaked deeply, scenting the air for the former predacon's scent. Nothing. Steeljaw raced off into the corridors, pausing occasionally to scent the air, searching for Howlstrike's scent. Ramhorn, on the other actuator, grumbled irritably, but stalked off to aid in the search. Blaster, in the meantime, attended to the bridge.

Corridors

When Red Alert disengaged his rocket launcher, Jazz felt relief wash over him, though he didn't make any physical change other than lowering his hands. Though disobeying orders was not his forte, Jazz was not going to keep a secret like the Dinobots stealing the Ark!

"It's Hot Rod, or Rodimus, or whatever he calls himself now. He's taken a band of merry-men to the hangar, last I saw. I think that they're about to launch an unsanctioned counter-offensive against the Decepticons! I went to Prowl about it, and he blew me off like Hot Rod's company were just along for the ride. I saw it in their eyes, man: Inspiration. I don't like it." Jazz explained to Red Alert.

Jazz waited for Red Alert's response.

Outside Tracer’s Quarters

Sideswipe could probably be considered an impatient mech…actually he is an impatient mech. The crimson twin had arrived at his intended destination and, upon showing up promptly requested entrance into the femme’s living quarters. He never received a response.

Sideswipe let out a grunt after waiting approximately 3 seconds before he moved from using the chime to actually accessing the internal comm. After several minutes of calling out the scout’s name and pleading for her to open the door, the warrior finally realized that Tracer was not home.

With a broad smile Sideswipe looked down at the little turbofox still tucked under his arm. Razr tilted his head to the left as he took in his rescuer’s expression.

“Well, Razr…looks like I’m gonna have to call your master. Which pretty much works out in both our favor…well, I’m more concerned about it working in my favor, and you’re just the best conduit to get to that point.”

He lifted the creature up in both hands and brought Razr down until their noses touched. Using his best impression of what humans would call “baby talk” Sideswipe rubbed his nose against the turbofox’s.

“Don’t you worry your cute widdle head off! Your mommy will be here as soon as she can. In the meantime uncle Sides is gonna take good care of you!”

With that little display over with Sideswipe tucked Razr back under his arm and opened a comm line with Tracer. This was sure to get her attention.

>>”Hey Trace! It’s Sides. Just thought you should know I got Razr here and he’s real upset that I’m not you. Heh. I think he wants to see yah so how’s about you meet me outside your quarters and we’ll have a little prisoner exchange…I hand Razr over to you and you hand yourself over to me. I’ll see ya in what…10 minutes? Yeah, ten sounds good. Later sweetspark!”<<

Bounce Chamber

First Aid felt pretty bad for darting out of the med bay with only the basics of explanations. Of course Ratchet already knew that there was something amiss just by the Protectobot’s reactions. Had it been minor First Aid would have taken his time to explain everything.

That made the doctor feel only marginally better for leaving Ratchet alone. After all, they were already down one medic with Axle still out. Although he shouldn’t discount Hoist so easily. In fact the mechanic had been very helpful as of late.

Several minutes after leaving the medical bay First Aid finally arrived at the bounce chamber where the others were likely waiting on him.

The door slid open and the Protectobot doctor entered the room spotting Hot Spot right away.

“Sir? Where're the others? Do we have any clue who it was that bounced down to the surface and if they’re all alright?”

Bounce Chamber

Groove quickly entered the Bounce Chamber with Streetwise. Hot Spot was already there of course, and to his surprise First Aid had arrived before them. The scout didn't have time to think of how Hot Spot would get on his and the interceptor's case for arriving behind the doctor, as he went straight to his commander.

"It was Rodimus and the others, wasn't it Hot Spot?", Groove inquired, shaking his head, "We couldn't find any sign of them or where they were going. We would have got here earlier but, uh, we thought we'd found the body of an Autobot they might have scrapped.", the scout put his hand behind his head and he continued explaining, "It turned out to be just a broken drone."

As Groove waited for a reply from Hot Spot and the arrival of any others,, he looked over to First Aid. Though he had spent some time in the med-bay earlier, he hadn't had the chance to see his good friend since the doctor had been busy with patients.

"I was in the med bay earlier. I'm sorry I didn't have the chance to talk, First Aid, you seemed pretty busy.", the scout apologized, then sighed, "Unfortunately we may be heading right in the middle of a battle, if this is who we've been looking for the past few breems."

Groove thought back to earlier in the med bay and the mess hall, recalling it to his best friend.. He was filled with regret for leaving Rodimus and his followers when he did, opting to speak directly to his commander for help. There was a good chance that decision would cost many lives and cause untold destruction to the natives of Earth.

"I could have stopped it from going this far, First Aid.", Groove confessed, "I should have stayed with them, maybe I could have done something or said somethiing to prevent this from happening."

Mess Hall/Corridors

It was a confusing tangle of scents that littered the mess hall, but then, it was always like that. Steeljaw had caught the scent regardless. The former predacon had a fairly distinctive scent, but perhaps it only seemed that way to the tracker because he had one checked - out of curiousity - to see if Decepticons smelled bad like some Autobots claimed. In short, they didn't. Well, most anyway. However, as a result of his curiousity, Steeljaw had become familiar with Howlstrike's scent. He had probably been here at the same time as the other he smelled. The scents were all equally faint.

Steeljaw followed Howlstrike's scent out of the mess hall, blocking out all other distractions. He found other new and intriguing scents on his trek, particularly the scent of a turbofox. Part of Steeljaw wanted to investigate the creature's scent, but he forced himself to stay focused on the scent of the former predacon. A communique buzzed to life in his audio receptors as he made his way through the corridors.

>>"Eject, here. No luck in the Training Hall or Armory. Have any of you scored a touchdown?"<<

>>"This is Rewind. I'm headed to the Bounce Chamber to check something out. Maybe I can get a lead on Howlstrike's last known location."<<

>>"No,"<< came the gruff response of Ramhorn.

The rhino never really had been one for mincing words. For a moment, Steeljaw considered sending a response. However, a new and interesting scent greeted his olfactory sensors as he neared the rear Research Lab. The scent of energon. The lion did not like what that scent possibly portended. Steeljaw delved deeper into the search, breaking out into a anxious jog. As he made his way into the research lab, the comm link between the cassettobots crackled to life again with Rewind's voice.

>>"Steeljaw? What about you?"<<

Corridor Outside of Research Lab

The scent was stronger here. Steeljaw made his way over to one of the supply rooms. It reeked with Howlstrike's scent as well as the scent of stagnant energon. Not. Good.

>>"Steeljaw?"<<

Steeljaw jumped up and pressed the button to open the supply room's door. It made a strange whirring sound and then an unhealthy cranking sound, refusing to budge. The lion growled low with agitation. Steeljaw tackled the door, clawing at it and trying to force it open. To the tracker's great frustration, the door still refused to budge. With a snarl, he opened a communique with the rest of the cassettobots as Rewind's voice buzzed like an irritating gnat on his internal comm.

>>"Steel--"<<

>>"I found him,"<< the lion interrupted, >>"I need to break down a door. Ramhorn, how fast can you get to the research lab?"<<

>>"On my way."<<

Steeljaw cut off the transmission. Snarling, he charged the door again and again with no results. Growing increasingly anxious and impatient, he began pacing in front of the door, going back and forth. Occasionally, he attacked the door out of sheer frustration. The scent of energon was overwhelming. He didn't dare fire any weapons either. The lion let out a concerned growl and began to slam against the door once more. Who would do this? Harming another Autobot, even one who was a former Decepticon, was unthinkable for Steeljaw, especially one whom he respected as a fellow hunter and tracker.

Abruptly, Ramhorn burst into the corridor with Rewind riding on top of his back, a precarious position for anyone. Rewind was braver than most. Rewind scuttled off of the rhino's back as he charged at the door directly behind Steeljaw.

"Out of the way unless you want to get trampled!" Ramhorn shouted.

The lion cassettobot leaped to the side, narrowly avoiding the reticent rhino as he smashed into and through the door. Eject trailed into the corridor as Steeljaw leaped over the crumpled remains of the door and into the supply room beyond. Ramhorn backed out of the room irately, a huge chunk of the door still impaled on his horn. With a toss of his horn, he tried to fling it from himself. Eject ran over to him and began helping the rhino free his horn as Rewind began recording and ran into the supply room after Steeljaw.

Supply Room C-3

Howlstrike lay decapitated on the floor in front of the two cassettobots, his energon leaking out into a massive pool on the floor. Steeljaw growled indignantly as Rewind with the red recording light on the side of his head glowing brightly moved around to get a better look at the fallen Howlstrike. The ramifications of this could very well be vitally important in the future. Appalled by the sight before him, the archivist open a communique to Blaster.

>>"We found Howlstrike, but he's...not doing so well. He's in Supply Room C-3 over by the research lab. Someone decapitated him. Oh wait, scrap that. Double decapitated him. There was his robot form head instead of the wolf head. He's in full stasis lock from what I can tell."<<

------

Bridge

Blaster had checked the command console for the cause of Kup's outburst. An unauthorized bounce. He pulled up the data for it, surprised at what he found and more than a little disturbed. No wonder Kup had gone storming off like sparkeaters were at his heels. Rewind's voice over his internal comm link brought his attention to the matter at hand.

Blaster listened, and as he did, felt himself growing more and more appalled. Who could have...Hot Rod? Or one of his group? It didn't really matter. Composing himself, he sent Rewind a non-verbal acknowledgement as he opened a commmunique with the Autobot CMO.

>>"Ratchet, Howlstrike needs immediate medical attention,"<< urgency lacing the communications officer's voice as he continued, >>"He's over in Supply Room C-3, decapitated and in full stasis lock according to Rewind."<<

Blaster sent a transmission to Kup next, while awaiting some form of acknowledgement from Ratchet.

>>"Kup, Blaster here. They found Howlstrike. Someone attacked him in Supply Room C-3. He's severely wounded, double decapitated and in full stasis lock according to Rewind. I've just notified Ratchet of his condition and location. I can't believe anyone would do something like that to a fellow Autobot. Should I alert Ultra Magnus to the situation or have you already done that?"<<

--------

Bounce Chamber

Streetwise jogged into the bounce chamber alongside his comrade, Groove. Hot Spot stood waiting as did First Aid who had arrived here ahead of them, surprisingly enough. Blades, however, was not here yet either which was even more surprising. He was usually itching to get into the action. The interceptor reported to Hot Spot.

"Sorry we're late, boss bot," Streetwise said, preferring to not make any excuses.

The interceptor looked over to the doors, watching for signs of Blades while listening for Hot Spot's answer to Groove's inquiry. However, he was fairly certain that it would be Hot Rod's group. The unease that he'd felt ever since hearing Blurr's story had been steadily festering. Streetwise was anxious to to stop Hot Rod and get them all back on the Guardian.

C'mon, Blades. Where are ya?

Corridors

Slag, where did everyone go?

Blurr wandered the corridors aimlessly, frowning. The thought of having been left behind was detestable to the courier. One of the fastest Cybertronians being left behind. It made Blurr feel dirty. He began to run through the corridors, zipping around, checking the Guardian for anyone.

The courier passed Jazz and Red Alert in the corridors as he blurred past. It was so frustrating that he couldn't find anyone. This ship was as empty as could be. Maybe they'd all gone off on an important mission without him? Maybe-

Wait an astrosecond...that was Jazz back there! And Red Alert!

Blurr skidded to a stop and doubled back at top speed. Generally, Jazz was less likely to launch a rocket in Blurr's faceplate, so the courier turned to him with an exasperated expression on his face plate.

"Whattheslagisgoingon? And hey Jazz. You too Red. Anyway, there's hardly anyone on the Guardian anymore, were they transferred over to the Ark-22 or something?"

Corridors

Red Alert listened intently to Jazz's concerns, his processors doing their best to determine the true meaning of the special ops director's words. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully while nodding his head.

Hmmm, so Hot Rod has gathered other Autobots together, and are acting out against Prowl? Interesting. They could be potential allies against the strategist, but I can't be certain. It's hard to tell whether or not Hot Rod can be trusted since he supposedly underwent his physical transformation back at Iacon. For all I know the real Hot Rod was bounced out of that CR chamber and replaced with a similar yet larger doppelganger. Not to mention I won't know whether or not I can trust his followers without knowing who they are. Of course, Jazz might be honestly reporting a real threat that Prowl simply blew off- after all, why try to stop a small group of Renegades that are leaving when you're trying to take complete control of the Autobots? I'd better just go along with Jazz and see what he does, learn more about what's going on.

"That does sound quite troubling, Jazz.", the security director agreed, then suddenly remembered that there was a security camera behind Jazz and put his hand over his mouth, just in case someone was lip-reading, "I didn't see his 'transformation' myself while I was on Cybertron with Kup and the others, but it certainly did seem suspicious."

As Red Alert stopped talking, something odd alerted his sensitive audio sensors. He had heard a number of Autobots walking through the hallways, thankfully none in his or Jazz's direction. But now he heard what seemed like footsteps moving at an incredible speed throughout the ship. It didn't take long for the security director to realize just who it was, as his finely-tuned optics saw a figure speeding past them, though even his sensors could only see a light blue-

"BLURR!", Red Alert shouted, jumping back in surprise just as the courier stopped in front of Jazz.

The security mech at first was going to arm his launcher, but he stopped himself. Blurr was too fast to try to fire at, the courier could easily disarm him and knock Red Alert out before he even touched the trigger. And besides, if the blue speedster had wanted to take down the two, he would have easily done it the first time he sped by them without them knowing.

Red Alert's optics went wide open, as did his jaw as Blurr mentioned that he'd hardly seen anyone on the Guardian, and questioned if they had been transferred to the Ark-22.

No, no no no! If they've gone to the Ark-22, then there's no doubt Prowl has compromised my office! He'll go through my logs, he'll tamper with my security measures, he'll destroy all the evidence i've found there of his conspiracy!

"If they're-" Red Alerted started, then stopped to cover his mouth again for the security camera, "If they've gone to the Ark-22 then..... then......"

Red Alert had to stop himself again, this time to think out exactly how much he could say to the two.

"-Then we need to find Hot Rod and the rest of his group right away! If Prowl and the others are on the Ark-22 then they've completely dismissed any kind of threat they pose to the security of Autobot forces in this sector! I've managed to hear quite a few footsteps going in the direction of the bounce chamber, it would make sense if that's where they went!"

Red Alert transformed to his car mode right in front of Jazz and Blurr.

"I don't know about you two, but I'm not wasting another astrosecond to put a stop to them! They may be the only way to stop- I mean, we may be the only ones to stop them before they cause serious damage to our operations in this system!"

With his tires screeching, Red Alert sped of toward the Bounce Chamber.

Other Corridors

"If I can make it here, I'll make it anywhere....", Hoist continued to sing as he went his merry way to the supply room in need of fixing. He just couldn't get that song out of his memory banks.

"Hmm, let's see....." Hoist said to himself as he past by the doors to the room he was looking for, "Supply Room C-7... C-6..... C-5......ah, here it is, C-4."

Hoist looked around for Streetwise, though the Protectobot who reported the problem was nowhere to be found. The door to the supply room was shut, and looking down Hoist could see a trail of energon leaking from the room.

"Well that's rude, calling maintenance and not staying to explain the problem. Though I suppose he could have gotten orders and had to leave. Oh well."

Hoist pushed the button to open the door, but all he got was a buzzing noise as the door stayed shut. Just as he retracted his laser for a screwdriver, he noticed Steeljaw running by.

"Hello, Steeljaw!", Hoist greeted, though the cassette-lion ignored him as he ran right by to another door.

Hoist stopped what he was doing, and watched with interest as Steeljaw tried to open the door to the other supply room. At first trying to open the door normally with no success.

"That door not working either?" Hoist inquired, getting up, "Here let me-"

Before Hoist could finish his offer, the robot lion was already trying to force the door open physically. It startled the mechanic, as he slowly walked towar d Steeljaw.

"Now now, there's no need to do that!", Hoist tried to reason, but still his words fell on deaf audio sensors, "I can get it open in-"

Hoist was interrupted by the sound of a charging animal, and just managed to step out of the way for Ramhorn.

"Wait, there's no need for that!", Hoist pleaded in vain, "I can get it open in just a few astro-"

Before he could finish, Hoist watched at the robot rhino smashed right through the door with one charge, most of the door still comically stuck to his horn as he backed out of the room.

"-seconds.", Hoist finished as Eject and Rewind passed by him, "Was that really all necessary?"

Hoist followed behind the cassettebots to assess what kind of repairs he would have to do to the supply room door, when he realized they weren't just there for datapads.

"What going on in there?", the green mech asked, only to get his answer, "Dear Primus! What happened?"

To his horror Hoist saw what remained of Howlstrike. It was a terrible sight as the hunter lay in a pool of his own energon, both his robot and wolf heads removed from his body.

"Out of the way!", Hoist hastily pushed through the cassettes to check the hunter's condition, "Oh, this is terrible. Just terrible!", he said, shaking his head in disbelief, "You've already contacted Ratchet, right?"

The damage to Howlstrike was quite extensive, well beyond the green mech's abilities. He was going to need immediate work, and it would require the equipment in the medical bay.

>>Ratchet, this is Hoist, I'm with Howlstrike. There's not much that can be done for him out here, so I'm taking him to the med bay right now!<<

Hoist got down, sliding his arms under what was mostly left of Howlstrikes body, and carefully lifted it up, trying not to let any parts or pieces to fall out.

"Rewind, Eject, grab his head modules and whatever other parts you can carry. We're taking him straight to the med bay!", Hoist instructed as he hurried out of the supply room toward the medical bay.

Message from Ultra Magnus to Kup

--- "Message received Kup. It is odd that even Warpath would not wait for direct orders for deployment. I know he, like the others, has expressed a desire to return to action, but to go down without a determinable threat? I am not buying it. Something else must have caught his engines into this mix, as well as the others. I have already transmitted clearance to the bounce facilities on board the Guardian for immediate transport to the surface. Do what your team can to evaluate the situation. I don't want to get this operation in over its head before we are ready for our own offensive. I will join your team through the 22 Bounce Systems." The message paused briefly, perhaps as Magnus offered a response to his wing mechanism, Slingshot's quick behind the scene comment regarding the crazy antics of the ground tanks. The comm refocused. "We'll get our friends back safe and sound. I'll see you on the surface Kup." ---

Corridors

Ironfist emerged from the armory after yet another grueling day of writing for his entry. He was almost finished with the report he wished to compile as well as its presentation. The problem was he just wasn't sure how he wished to deliver the news of the Wrecker's recent victory out in the galactic rim. Still enjoying yet another bout with writers block, the engineer had decided to emerge from his claustrophobic work space and begin mingling with the living once more.

The time frame imposed on him by First Aid had not entirely passed by the wayside, a fact that still gnawed at the back of processor. It limited his availability to be called upon for combat deployment or for that matter deployment of any major kind. It was maddening, First Aid had gone the extra mile and had placed a medical restriction on his work shop. Which meant he could draw but he couldn't build. Then again it still left him a bit fuzzed when he tried to access his design protocols, probably a left over effect of the radiation damage he had incurred back on the Ark-19. To be frank, as much bravado as he wished to place, the Weapons Engineer really didn't remember much beyond being pulled from one of the engineering consoles and waking up in the escape pod.

He pushed those memories to the back of his processor again, he really did not want delve deeper into memory regarding that event. So long as he was functional and he could eventually complete his greatest work... well it did not matter.

As Ironfist turned the corridor's banking hall and entered to the main passage way that lined this deck of the ship's spine, Ironfist could not help but take notice of the swift movement of the Protectobots as they made their way to the bounce chamber at the furthest end of the hall. Back the other way he could hear the muted voices of Jazz and Red Alert. "Whats with all the activity?"

Message from Prowl to Rewind:

>>”Rewind, this is Prowl. Drop what you are doing and make your way immediately to the bounce chamber over on the Ark-22. You are being reassigned to an important scouting mission and your archival skills are required. You will be briefed once you have arrived.”<<

Corridors

To Blurr's relief, Red Alert did not open fire on him. The security director tended to be a bit excitable at times as was demonstrated by his shout of surprise. Although to be fair, most people would be surprised at his sudden appearance. However, Red Alert's reaction to his question was anything but normal, but it was slightly comical. Despite Red Alert's paranoia, sometimes there was truth to his concerns, and it worried the speedster. Perhaps there was more to this than met the eye. Blurr grew more and more bewildered as Red Alert put his hand in front of his mouth to speak.

At the mention of Hot Rod, Blurr snapped out of his confusion and perked up. They had been talking about finding the Decepticons the last time he'd been with the group, but he had never thought they would actually go looking let alone find them. He'd thought Hot Rod was just letting off some steam. Small wonder that he couldn't find anyone. They were probably already down on Earth. He couldn't believe that a hardened vet like Warpath would go off with Hot Rod, let alone Saferoute. But then...as Blurr thought back to Rodimus's speeches in the mess hall, he remembered the inspiration that Rodimus had kindled in all of them. Almost...like Prime. Blurr watched as Red Alert transformed and tore off through the corridors, tires squeeling.

"I don't know about you two, but I'm not wasting another astrosecond to put a stop to them! They may be the only way to stop- I mean, we may be the only ones to stop them before they cause serious damage to our operations in this system!"

"C'mon Jazz, last one there buys a round of energon!" Blurr said with a smile as he transformed.

With that, he zipped off after Red Alert, keeping to a relatively slow pace (for him) so that he wouldn't crash into the ship walls at super high speeds. As it was, Blurr was barely avoiding a disastrous crash. He passed Ironfist as a blur as he raced to to the bounce chamber.

"Hey Ironfist!" the speedster shouted in greeting as he passed.

Other Corridors

Eject was forced to give up trying to free Ramhorn from the door fragment's steely grip. It was beyond his ability to remove. He gave the robot rhino a shrug and jogged into the supply room to fetch a part of Howlstrike to carry. He hefted the former predacon's head up above his own head and trotted off after Hoist to the medical bay with Ramhorn trailing behind grumbling profanities about "idiotic doors" and "slaggin' midgets".

Rewind picked up the remaining parts laying about when he received the transmission from Prowl. The archivist looked at the parts in his hands, then at Steeljaw. He hated havin to be called away when there was an Autobot in need. Prowl could wait. At least until Howl's parts were all delivered to the medical bay. Rewind ran out of the supply room after Hoist and Eject and Ramhorn, sending a nonverbal acknowledgement to Prowl. Steeljaw carried the rear of the party, lightly trotting to keep pace.

Bounce Chamber

Hot Spot waited as the various Protectobots filed into the room. As each one entered he found himself bombarded him with various questions and comments. He held up his hands at his team as Blades entered the room. “You all know about as much as I do. I’m guessing this is all related to Hot Rod and his group. It sounds like his group went down to the surface without authorization. Hopefully this is just some youthful prank or bit of insubordination that Hot Rod is known for. It could be that they spotted some Cons on the planet and went down looking for a fight. Whatever it is I know we can end it peacefully and quickly.”

The Protectobot leader hoped he sounded confident. In reality he was feeling as uncertain as his teammates. From the way Kup sounded it seemed like he expected some trouble from them. This situation was the last thing they needed right now, with the death of Optimus still fresh and the incident with the Dinobots still troubling them. While he trusted his troops to do the right thing in any situation, this had the potential to push them all to the limit. He could only hope that the worst that he feared would not be the situation they were going in to.

*

Corridors

Kup was mad, madder then he had been in who knows how long. He should have taken a more hands on approach with Hot Rod and whatever the slag was happening with him. It was obvious that something major was going on and yet he had passed the buck on to Howlstrike to keep an optic on him. Now it seemed that the young lad had paid the price for his mistake. He just hoped that he was incapacitated or maybe had his communications jammed wherever he was.

His thoughts were interrupted by a pair of signals. The first was from Ultra Magnus. He was happy to hear his orders confirmed and to have him along. Maybe he could be a voice of reason to these Autobots and help stabilize things. If they didn’t listen to Magnus then who knows what they would have to do. Maybe they would just have to lock them up for awhile until they figured things out. Hopefully it wouldn’t come to that. Hopefully this was all just some stupid move by a bunch of young and bored warriors. It wouldn’t be the first time something like that had happened, but he just didn’t have a good feeling about it all.

The old Autobot clenched his jaw as he received the message from Blaster. It looked like that bad feeling he had was accurate. Things had just leapt up from insubordination to, at the very least, assault. The pit that he had felt at the bottom of his gut was feeling a lot deeper now. Whatever was going on, whatever had happened, whoever had done this, he was going to get to the bottom of it. No one was getting away with this on his watch.

>>”Thanks for the update Blaster, I’ll pass the info on to Magnus myself.”<<

Kup heard heavy footfalls coming from behind him. Ironhide was soon walking beside him. One look at Kup and he knew things were going to get ugly. “How bad is it?”

“Bad,” Kup replied bluntly. “They found Howlstrike. Kid is in bad shape, sounds like someone tried to kill him. Last I heard from him he was keeping an eye on Hot Rod and his gang. My slaggin’ fault for leaving him alone on that duty. I should have gotten involved myself. I didn’t think it would end up like this, not in a million vorns do I think it would have gone like this.”

Ironhide shook his head. “No one coulda seen this comin’ Kup. Don’t beat yerself up about it. There’s gonna be plenty of fightin’ going on down on the planet I reckon. Whoever did that to Howlstrike is probably gonna put up a fight. I can’t imagine any of those bots doing that, so maybe it was just a spy or an infiltrator or somethin’. I can’t believe that a fellow Autobot would do that, let alone so many of ‘em.”

Kup nodded. He was still mad but Ironhide had a point. He couldn’t go down guns blazing and mowing down fellow Autobots when it might just be one rogue element. Still, the rest of them had gone along with insubordination at the very least. The brig was going to be getting pretty full until this was all sorted out.

“You’re right Ironhide. I ain’t gonna go down there looking for a fight then, but if any of these bots give us one I’m gonna come down on ‘em hard and fast.

Ironhide nodded back at him. “You know I got yer back.”

Bounce Chamber

Kup and Ironhide walked into the room together, grim looks on their faces. Kup walked to the center of the room and addressed them all. “Alright everyone, listen up! We have multiple Autobots who have gone AWOL off of the Guardian. According to computer records these Autobots are Hot Rod, Hex, Hardhead, Ricochet, Saferoute and Warpath. As of now they are only accused of disobeying orders, but we suspect they went down there to attack some Decepticons. If that’s the case then things might be ugly when we get down there so we need to be prepared to go in hot.”

The old warhorse paused for a moment before continuing. “I should also tell you that our fellow Autobot Howlstrike has been located severely injured and incapacitated on board the Guardian. Last we heard from him he was observing Hot Rod and his group. There is a chance he was attacked so as not to warn us about their actions. This means we may receive resistance, possibly violent, from our wayward Autobots. We all hope this isn’t the case but I want you all to be prepared for it. Questions?”

*

Corridors Outside Tracer’s Quarters

All of Sideswipe's taunting and yelling was more then enough warning for Sunstreaker that there was going to be an obstacle ahead. It was another big difference between the two of them. If it had been him he just would have kept his big mouth shut and watched his brother stumble and fall over whatever was in his way. He was as in love with the sound of his own voice as Sideswipe was. He would wait to taunt him until he could maximize the irritation and humiliation he could give his brother.

Instead of slowing down and heeding the warning he increased speed, running full tilt as he turned the corner. He spotted the obstacle, a mech picking up some datapads off the floor. The warrior didn’t have time to change direction, but he had plenty of momentum. A smirk formed on Sunstreaker’s face as he lunged over the prone Autobot. He hurled over him and he curled up into a ball as he hit the ground. He rolled back up to his feet and continued running, not missing a beat.

The warrior came to a stop next to Sideswipe just outside the door. He looked at hims quizzically. “Was there something in my way back there? It sounds like you had some problems but I didn’t notice anything.”

He shook his head in disgust as his twin spoke to the overgrown rodent. “Well, at least you found someone to talk to who is your intellectual equal.”

Bounce Chamber

Before Hot Spot had a chance to respond to First Aid Groove entered the room and threw out a few queries of his own…most notably concerning Rodimus and from what the scout was saying a few other mechs who joined up with him. If the cavalier and small band of Autobots left the Guardian to try a frontal assault on the Decepticons…the thought of one of his fellow Autobots hurt sent a shiver down the doctor’s spinal structure.

The apology that Groove offered First Aid had him turn to face his friend and nod in understanding.

“Don’t think anything of it, Groove.”

First Aid kept his optics glued to the other Protectobot as he explained that once they arrived on the planet they would probably be in the middle of a battle. This was bad. Very bad. The doctor glanced in Hot Spot’s direction but returned his gaze to his fellow pacifist. The confession Groove provided nearly broke First Aid’s spark. He placed a hand gently on the motorcycle’s shoulder and gave it a light squeeze.

“There was no way you could have known just what they were planning. Besides if they were as desperate as you’ve described them to have been then I’m fairly certain they would have done anything to stop your attempts.”

The medic kept his optics on Groove for another several moments before he let his gaze fall on the interceptor sending Streetwise a slight nod. He had arrived just as Groove had but the desperation in the scout’s voice had him retaining his focus solely on him.

Moments after Groove and Streetwise had entered the room Blades finally arrived. Once the final member of their team had showed up Hot Spot to control of the situation by first silencing all of them with a raised hand and answering their questions by briefing them on just what had occurred and just what they were to do.

No sooner had Hot Spot finished his brief did the door to the chamber slide open to reveal both Kup and Ironhide. First Aid was surprised to see both warriors showing up. But he had no time to recover from the shock of both mechs’ arrival when Kup announced that Howlstrike had been attacked and was possibly severely injured. First Aid fought the urge to head back to the med bay and help Ratchet with the unfortunate mech, but he was needed elsewhere. He would have to wait until he was back on the Guardian to find out just how the former Predacon was fairing.

He was torn from his musings when the old warhorse asked if any of them had any questions. Tentatively First Aid stepped forward and slowly raised his hand.

“Um, sir…do we know just why Hot…er…Rodimus gathered this group and went down to the surface? It couldn’t have been to attack the Decepticons especially if his group only consisted of six Autobots. I mean there’s no way just the six of them could take on Primus knows how many Decepticons. There had to have been something else…don’t you think?”

Medical Bay – Ratchet’s Office

The bay was finally emptied of all of the mechs that required emergency repairs leaving only Silverbolt and a few others. For the CMO patients numbering less than five was a treat.

Ratchet took advantage of this rare opportunity and decided to retire to his office to finish the remaining reports and patient files he had to put off some time ago. He should have given them to First Aid but he just couldn’t burden the young doctor with so much all at once. After all he was still in training. First Aid needed as much hands on experience as possible. The paperwork could come later.

Ratchet had settled into his chair…feet resting on his desk, a glass of mid-grade in his left hand and a datapad in his right when his comm buzzed. The slight smile that had made it to his face morphed into a deep scowl. With a slew of Cybertronian curses Ratchet pulled his feet off the desk top…slammed his cup down and tossed the pad across the surface of the desk.

Another curse escaped his vocalizer as he opened the link. He was just about to tell off the mech on the other end when he was abruptly cut off by Blaster’s concerned voice. Ratchet’s demeanor change from that of disgruntled medic to professional and compassionate surgeon once Blaster told him that Howlstrike was in need of medical assistance.

Not wasting time to respond to the communication officer’s communique Ratchet quickly exited his office and stopped at one of the supply lockers. He grabbed a handful of items and headed out the door. The doors had just closed behind him when his comm line buzzed once more. This time he opened it quickly hoping it wasn’t Rewind telling him that Howlstrike was in full arrest. To his surprise and relief the mech on the other end was Hoist, and he was already with the unfortunate former Predacon.

>>”Alright, Hoist. I’ll meet you halfway so I can take a close look at the damage before he’s moved further.”<<

Ratchet set off at a full run slowly only when he turned a corner.

>>”I’m just rounding the last corner now.”<<

Corridors outside Tracer’s Quarters

Sideswipe let out a chuckle as he closed his comm line. The red warrior shook his head slowly and watched his brother step up next to him and quip about not noticing any obstructions. Of course Sunny wouldn’t have had any trouble avoiding the little nobody in the hall, it was Sunny after all.

“Pft! Please. I never have trouble. You, on the other hand, seemed to have trouble keeping that pristine armor of yours in top condition.”

Sideswipe extended a finger and dragged it down Sunstreaker’s chestplate. He brought his digit up to his face and looked at it. Finally he looked at his brother and shook his head slowly.

“Tsk. You’re a dirty little ‘Bot aren’t you? Looks as though we’re still gonna need to head planet side to get that buffing cloth I promised you.”

Sideswipe flashed his twin a broad smile before he lowered his hand and took hold of Razr under both front legs and lifted the animal up to face level. Sideswipe scrunched his face up and gave the turbofox a pouty expression.

“Don’t you worry widdle guy. Your mommy will be here in no time.”

He took a quick look in Sunstreaker’s direction and then back at Razr.

“And don’t worry about Unky Sunny either. He’s just upset because he can’t keep himself clean and shiny.”

Not even Sunstreaker’s jibe concerning his red twin’s ability to talk to anyone other than stupid animals bothered Sideswipe. After all, this was normal for both of them.

“Well, he is much more receptive than you are Sunny. Besides at least he has nice clean armor. Isn’t that right Razr-wazr?”

Corridors outside Tracer’s Quarters

Smokescreen took his time when making his way back over to the Guardian. Even though he felt much better than he had in a long while, there was still the possibility of overdoing it. On top of that, the rallybot was still getting used to a brand new body. While very similar in design to his old one, it still felt different to him in subtle ways and would take a little more time to fully adjust to all of the minor variances he had yet to even discover. It was nothing that the diversion expert couldn’t handle, and he found himself quickening his pace slightly once he had made it across the docking tunnel and entered the corridors of the medical frigate.

It felt good to be back on board the Guardian after what felt like an eternity away from his surrogate home. This was where Smokescreen's plan to save Tracer had been hatched, ultimately leading to his destruction and subsequent rebirth. He had suffered through a tremendous ordeal, more than most mechs experienced in a lifetime. However, it had all been worth it and would continue to be worth the effort, not to mention the continued deceit, if everything eventually ended with the troubled femme free of her addiction. Of course, that was only the first major step in her recovery as her mental issues had to then be rectified so that she may live a normal life without the need for any further Decepticon supplied narcotics. It was a difficult endeavor, but not impossible.

However, first thing’s first. Smokescreen’s current mission was a simple one - retrieve Tracer’s wayward pet, Razr, from the clutches of Sideswipe and likely his brother, Sunstreaker. Due to her condition, Tracer couldn’t make the trek to get the turbofox and therefore Smokey had volunteered to go instead. It was really more of an excuse to finally get out of that stuffy place that Wheeljack called a lab and stretch his rebuilt legs. The red and blue mech had been stuck in there for far too long and was growing more and more restless as the astroseconds ticked off his internal chronometer. Besides, it would also be good for other Autobots to finally see the rallybot again after his long absence, new body and all.

Smokescreen had passed by several of his comrades as he made his way to Tracer’s quarters where the red twin would surely be waiting. The diversion expert didn’t stop to make small talk and simply waved or said hello. Most of the mechs Smokey encountered seemed to recognize him right away due to his very familiar color scheme, but it was unclear if any of them had noticed his structural differences or simply hadn’t the chance due to the rallybot's rushed movements. Regardless, Smokey remained friendly and cordial, trying to make like nothing was wrong or different. Inside, however, he was a bundle of nerve receptors, hoping that Sideswipe wouldn’t give him too hard of a time when he arrived to collect the turbofox....or ask too many questions regarding his appearance.

Rounding another corner, Smokescreen caught sight of the Autobot twins standing near the entrance to Tracer’s personal quarters. As he approached the duo, the rallybot could clearly see the small form of Razr being held securely within Sideswipe’s arms. The small pet seemed comfortable and at ease, making no attempt to get away from his new handler. Of course, the red twin probably had a tight grip on his "prisoner", which would explain the turbofox's seemingly calm demeanor. Hopefully, Razr would recognize Tracer's dear friend and not give the diversion expert any trouble, either, once he was handed over.

With a smile plastered across his faceplate, Smokescreen walked up to Sideswipe and Sunstreaker as he glanced down at Razr. “Hey guys! It’s been a while. How’s it going? I see you two found Tracer’s pet turbofox. My apologies if the little fellow caused you any problems. I understand that he’s attracted to shiny objects,” the rallybot began to say with a chuckle, knowing full well that the pristine, golden twin had likely been the initial draw of the turbofox’s affections before being grabbed by Sideswipe. Smokey wished he had been there to see that, but he would likely hear about it in short order so that would more than make up for it. “Tracer sent me here to retrieve Razr since she is currently busy with other things and was unable to make it. So, if you’ll just hand him over to me, Siders, I’ll take him back to his owner where he won’t be able bother you guys any further.”