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Shadowing's voyage to the Thanatos has been an interesting one. He had no plans to reunite with the Decepticons any time soon. His self imposed exile some time back had granted him an opportunity to meditate on things that had been bothering him. Shockwave's disappearance meant he was not likely to be bothered as he was not early as well known to others. The message that came summoning him, therefore, was a complete surprise. The part of him that enjoyed this quiet contemplation was tempted to ignore the call but his curiosity got the better of him. Besides, as much contemplation as he had done, he still had to admit he enjoyed his work.

Obtaining a shuttle to move through space was not difficult for someone who was trained in the treacherous arts but it had taken more time than he anticipated due to its unsatisfactory condition. The short notice and speed required had not allowed him to get something better, When he spotted the Thanatos he simply left it behind knowing it would be a waste of space in the modern Battlecruiser.

He was quickly granted entry and he made his way towards the bridge where he knew Shockwave would be. He did not bother to stop anywhere along the way knowing that his boss would not appreciate time being wasted in any form.

He entered the bridge and saluted towards Shockwave direction.

"Shadowing reporting for duty, sir."

Bridge

Thunderwing folded his arms over his chest. Apparently Shockwave was going to give some sort of speech or declaration, and what he wasn’t afraid that the Autobots would hear. It would give him the first inkling of what his overall strategy would be, although it would still likely be carefully phrased to cloak his true intentions. Fortunately he was a bit better informed, and well connected then the average Decepticon. He would be able to decipher his true intentions and forge his plans in secret. He could afford to be reactive for now.

The Decepticon watched as a newcomer entered the bridge. From the way he acted and reported directly to Shockwave he must have been one of his former assistants. It made sense that he would begin to muster his old supporters now when he would need them most.

*

If Soundwave was surprised by Shockwave’s orders he did not show it. It was to be expected that he would wish to communicate with the other Decepticons. He had been gone a long time, both on Cybertron and buried on the world below. The major difficulty of a Shockwave command of the Decepticons would be his lack of charisma. While he was the more intelligent and powerful choice, several Decepticons would be unable to understand him. The common population of Decepticons leaned more towards the warrior types then the intellectuals. Starscream could hold a certain appeal to that lowest common denominator that Shockwave didn’t have naturally.

If he wanted to close that gap he needed to act fast and decisively. Now, while Starscream was wrapping up a battle on the planet below, would be an ideal time. The seeker would not have a quick response ready, thus giving Shockwave a little foothold and momentum with the crew left on the Ultrax.

“Communication status: Ready to broadcast per your instructions.”

*

Corridors

Darkwing and Dreadwind had been aimlessly wandering the corridors of the ship since they had arrived in Earth orbit. They both knew that things were likely getting interesting on the bridge, and interesting meant trouble. Trouble always meant danger and danger meant they were about to get their afts thrown in the fire. It was a cycle they both lamented but were accustomed to. Those who suspected that the pair were only happy when they were miserable were probably not too far off the mark. At the very least being depressed was their ‘normal’ state.

The two fliers came to a halt when the message from Shockwave reached them.

“What do you think he wants? More experiments? Dissection? Send us over to talk to Starscream on his behalf so the seeker can gleefully kill us as an example for what he thinks of Shockwave’s demands?”

Dreadwind slowly nodded in response. “Probably all of that.”

The two turned and began making their way to the bridge after sending an acknowledgement back to Shockwave.

Bridge

Blackwind had remained at her position next to the command chair that Shockwave was still occupying. She took in his words when he offered his response regarding her query. A knowing smirk creased her lips when Shockwave provided his assessment on Starscream and his possible position. It was at the mention of the “those of us that have been consistently loyal to Megatron” statement that had her step further into the Cyclops’ view, a deep scowl etched on her delicate face.

“’Those of us’, Shockwave? I find that a strange statement coming from you. Had you the means I am sure it would have left a bitter taste in your mouth.”

She stood her ground even as the purple mech focused on an incoming vessel. Blackwind spared a glance back at Thunderwing when the scientist added his own assessment of Starscream’s tactics. The carapace clad femme took in everything that had been discussed and slipped away from the Command chair to stand beside Thunderwing.

Mere breems later the door to the bridge slid open revealing the unmistakable form of Shadowing. Blackwind took on a more relaxed stance as she crossed her arms over her chest. The arrival of Shockwave’s agent was something she had been anticipating, but certainly not this soon. No matter, his appearance would not interfere with her plans.

“You surprise me, Shockwave. Inviting your little pet so early in the game… I honestly thought better of you.”

Blackwind cast her gaze on Shadowing, gauging the agent meticulously.

Bridge

Shockwave's sole optic focused on Blackwind, analyzing her words, posture and other subtle communicative cues and formed them in to simply another algorithm to be processed as his intentions for the Decepticon empire moved forward.

"Declarative--I calculate a significant probability that there are many truths and realities that you would find to be strange, Blackwind. I do not possess the inclination to explain each one as it arises."

Shockwave had calculated the reasons behind Megatron choosing to send Blackwind along on his operation long ago. He accepted it, so long as her actions did not impede his own work, also recognizing that she was likely one of the Decepticon leader's more favored tools. With him gone, that penumbra of protection was now gone as well.

"It is neither the first nor the last time that you will find yourself surprised. Your thoughts regarding me are inconsequential," Shockwave added at last, before briefly acknowledging that Soundwave had accomplished his task.

>>"Decepticons present within the Sol system--this is the voice of Military Operations Commander Shockwave. The loss of Megatron is a significant casualty to our resources. Couple that reality with the energy shortage we are faced with throughout the universe, and our eventual extinction as a species becomes more probable. Only for a matter this urgent would I have interrupted the mission that Megatron had sent me to complete on Cybertron. I have made advancements and retrieved technology that will render our energy crisis nil. Imperative: you will submit to my authority. In return, this war will end. Our civilization will thrive on advancements."<<

Shockwave paused momentarily.

>>"Declarative: I calculate that Decepticon Air Commander Starscream presents the most significant threat to accomplishing this goal, as he has for countless vorns. He will not be alone. Any who stand against me also stand against the evolution of our empire. Those who thwart them will be the next to receive the rewards that Dreadwind and Darkwing have already experienced."<<

Shockwave allowed his sole optic to look upon Blackwind once more before looking down at the comm console attached to his command chair. He opened a more secure, direct link with Razorclaw.

>>"Imperative: transfer your unit to the Ultrax. Starscream is to be subdued. His culpability in Megatron's absence will then be adjudicated according to Decepticon procedure. I calculate a 57.65 percent chance of resistance by the present crew. The entire ship will be disabled if the situation warrants. Advise accordingly upon arrival. Shockwave out."<<

Bridge

Thunderwing remained silent as Blackwind and Shockwave exchanged words. His expression remained neutral, a poker face as humans would call it, as the two exchanged words. He respected Blackwind’s fierce loyalty to Megatron even now as she was quick to call out Shockwave on his professions of loyalty. It was a slight jab and one he found amusing. It wasn’t enough to merit much of a response from Shockwave, which was just as well. He would have to ask the femme to display some of the same vitriol at Starscream when the opportunity arose. The Decepticon did not think it would be a problem, but she did need to display her dislike for the opposition to maintain her current position. Appear to be too actively against Shockwave and it may force things to a head.

The scientist listened as Shockwave’s message was relayed to all Decepticons. He had to admit to some surprise at the aggressiveness of his statement. While he had assumed that the Commander would try to enforce his rule he did not think he would so directly challenge Starscream at the same time. It was a bold move and one that could back fire, or, at the very least, lead to imminent violence among the ranks.

“An aggressive strategy commander. I only hope that those on the Ultrax see reason. It would be unfortunate to lose any valuable assets in defense of the Seeker Commander.”

*

Soundwave found himself both surprised and amused at Shockwave’s declarations. While he didn’t trust Shockwave he did strongly dislike Starscream, he always had. Some of it was likely rooted in competition going back to the earliest days of the Decepticons over who would be Megatron’s lieutenant. From there it had only grown as Starscream’s desire to lead manifested itself more and more over the years. Now, finally, it appeared he would get what he so richly deserved.

He did realize that this potentially put his minions at risk though, as they were still technically part of the Ultrax crew. It was a situation he could quickly remedy however. He sent a brief transmission to Rumble and Frenzy on their personal frequency telling them to prepare for immediate teleport. With a few more keystrokes the two cassetticons were safely on board the Thanatos and his small, personal army was whole once more.

*

Bounce Chamber

Frenzy looked over at Rumble and started laughing. “Look at ya all cringing and hiding! Ya afraid some nasty Bot was about to stomp ya?” He laughed again.

“Shut up!” Rumble gave a hard shove to the other Decepticon, one that was quickly returned. The shoving quickly escalated to punches as the tumbled off the pad and onto the floor. The fight continued until a message from Soundwave telling them to get repairs ended it. Glaring at each other the two left the room for the repair bay.

Bridge

Shadowing simply stood there silently and patiently. He knew that Shockwave knew he was there and would address him when it was necessary. Blackwind's words resulted in no visible reaction from him. If she wanted to see him as a simple pet then so much the better. He always considered glory a hinderance.

As he heard Shockwave's declaration it became clear that things have changed greatly since he was last among the ranks. If Megatron had indeed met his demise then that changed everything. He privately wondered just what badge his eventual targets would be carrying.

Armory

Razorclaw was a patient mech, quite often to a fault, but he was always a prepared one. The Predacon Commander had wasted no time in leading his unit down to the armory to get rearmed and ready for what would come next. Razorclaw had a hunch of what Shockwave had planned for his team but he had not expected the frequency wide broadcast that soon followed. Listening to the Military Operations Commander demand loyalty from the entirety of the Decepticons made the Predacon leader’s internal fluids boil. Although, while what he had to say regarding Starscream was not entirely incorrect, it would be a cold day in hell when Shockwave assumed the same role that Megatron once occupied.

Shockwave’s communication was soon followed by another one, which was directed solely towards Razorclaw. It was this new set of orders that confirmed the Predacon Commander’s prior hunch. He was both angered and elated at the same time. Angered that the one-eyed ‘Con saw fit to use his unit as his own personal goon squad, but happy that they would finally get off the Thanatos without raising suspicion and then be able to reunite with Onslaught and the others. Hopefully, the Combaticon leader had been able to speak with Motormaster before the transmission had been sent. Regardless, it was finally time to make a move without Shockwave’s prying optic always watching.

>>”Understood, Lord Shockwave. My unit will depart within the breem.”<<

With the response sent, Razorclaw turned to his squad and began to address them. “Predacons, we have new orders. We are to transfer to the Ultrax and subdue Starscream per Shockwave’s command and disable the ship if need be. However, remember what I said before, things are not always what they seem. Now, gather your weapons and ammo and let’s get moving to the bounce chamber ASAP.”

With his shoulder-mounted concussion cannons fully armed, Razorclaw then turned and made his way into the corridor and quickly located an energon port along the adjacent wall. He plugged the tip of his index finger into the port and received a quick recharge that topped off his fuel cells. He motioned towards the other Predacons to do the same if they required it. Divebomb exited the armory and gave his leader a nod before repeating the process at another port a short distance away. It was by no means a necessity, but there was no telling when the next chance to power-up would happen in the coming cycles. Once they were finished, Razorclaw continued on down the corridor towards the bounce chamber with Divebomb following close behind him.

Bounce Chamber

Razorclaw and Divebomb entered the room where the Predacon Commander immediately pointed to the main console. “Divebomb, set the coordinates on the control panel for the bridge of the Ultrax. That’s where Starscream will likely be located.”

“Yes, sir,” Divebomb responded, moving to the control console to input the necessary coordinates as instructed. At the same time, Razorclaw assumed a position on the bounce pad. “Commander, what if ‘Screamer is not on the bridge?”

“Then we spread out across the ship and find him,” Razorclaw responded plainly.

“Are we really going to subdue him, sir? What of the other seekers onboard?”

“We will deal with the other seekers if need be. As for taking Starscream into custody, like I said before, prepare for any eventuality. Now, no more questions, Divebomb. Set the controls and get over here!” Razorclaw’s patience was wearing thin. He didn’t mind the casual inquiry, but repeated questioning got on his nerve receptors.

“Of course, sir,” the flying Predacon replied, sheepishly, as he finished inputting the coordinates. He knew there had to be more to what Razorclaw was saying, but he kept his curiosity at bay for now. Divebomb then moved away from the console and stood beside his leader on the bounce pad as the other Predacons began to arrive in the chamber. “Everything’s set, commander. Once we are all on the pad, the computer will automatically bounce us over to the bridge of the Ultrax.”

“Excellent. It’s only a matter of time now,” Razorclaw said, his second sentence in a more hushed tone. His orders to the other Predacons and answers to Divebomb had been cryptic at best, knowing full well that Shockwave could be listening in on their conversations. Once they were over on the Ultrax more would be revealed without worry of discovery. Of course, whether or not Starscream really needed to be subdued would hinge largely on how much cooperation the Air Commander was willing to give and not on the cycloptic mech’s orders. Razorclaw still needed to find Scrapper and the Constructicons, which was information Starscream was most likely to possess. Regardless of what Shockwave expected to happen, Razorclaw planned on having a little chat with the paranoid seeker one way or another.

Bounce Chamber

Rampage had got himself fully juiced up, something he didn't normally do unless he knew he was going in to battle with Autobots. The offer was there, and after that long trek through Kaon to get it, Rampage definitely wanted to ensure that he got his share. With close quarters, enclosed combat like they typically ran in to when fighting aboard another ship, Rampage really only liked taking his blade with him. His other weapons were there by extension, but they were an afterthought. He liked gutting his enemy up close when he could.

Only this time, it wasn't his enemy he was going to take out. Granted, he had no real love loss for Starscream. From his bragging, you would think he was the greatest Decepticon to have ever lived. From his history, you would almost think he was an Autobot, given his known treachery and disloyalty towards Megatron. But for Rampage, Shockwave was no better. The cyclops had the personality of a calculator on steroids. He could maybe come up with some equation that would inspire a team of computers and toasters to charge in to battle, but not a war-hardened group like the Predacons. Rampage was sure he wasn't alone in that sentiment. That's why the only real choice in Rampage's mind was Razorclaw. He hoped this action by Shockwave would give their unit commander his chance to make his own move.

"Don't even care about Shockwave's orders," Tantrum said. "I wanna knock the Seeker out for my own enjoyment."

Hmm...baseline angry, Rampage thought wryly, classifying his teammate's well-documented levels of anger in his mind. That will go up real quick here soon.

"Ready for anything commander," Rampage said, giving a look to his unit leader before he too stepped on the bounce chamber pad. With the coordinates already having been entered and the team all present the next step was easy. Bounce. And they did.

Incoming Transmission from Vindicator aboard the Ultrax to Shockwave

>"Shockwave, this is Siege Commander Vindicator aboard the Ultrax. I am aware of the situation at present. However my main instrument, Contemptor, is currently in repair aboard the Ultrax's medical facility that is - I am more than certain - inadequate to fully repair my soldier, and thusly, require the facilities onboard the Thanatos to successfully complete the repairs...I trust that you will require some assistance before we depart the Ultrax?"<

Bridge

Shockwave's optic flickered slightly as the strategist considered Thunderwing's response to the actions that he had taken.

"Declarative: our desires are presently in agreement. There is a strong probability that the Predacons will be able to accomplish this task with a minimum of collateral damage. If our resources are preserved it will be that much easier to regroup."

Regroup to what end? That was a query that Shockwave had not established an answer for yet. Simply striking out against the Autobots again would be an excessive waste of resources, particularly if it were done merely as a demonstration of some powerful Decepticon's influence over their subordinates--proving worthy of Megatron's mantle, as Starscream had already attempted in Shockwave's view. Whatever power that Shockwave was able to solidify for himself during this transition period, he was going to ensure that his research projects could be driven forward. If he was able to come out of this process without the obligations of reporting to anyone, then so much the better.

Receiving the transmission from Vindicator, Shockwave prepared an appropriate response. Shockwave was not aware of the loyalties of the various crew members aboard the Ultrax. Vindicator, like many others, could be an agent of Starscream. Or he could be another who saw himself as the next to carry Megatron's banner.

>>Declarative--you are cleared for boarding. Utilize the repair facilities at your discretion. No additional assistance prior to your departure will be necessary..."<<

//Recalculating...//

>>"...yet,"<< the Military Operations Commander added after a brief pause.

Shockwave would need to have a direct assessment of Vindicator's loyalty before utilizing his skills to any greater degree. And certainly before the other Decepticon was allowed to get anywhere near the bridge of the Thanatos. To that end, he turned to Shadowing.

"Imperative: Rendezvous with Decepticons Vindicator and Contemptor in the repair bay. Oversee any restorative work completed. Determine where the Decepticon's loyalties lie and advise accordingly."

Corridor

Busy, busy, busy. Haywire did so love to keep busy. That particular quality served him well as he toiled aboard the mighty battlecruiser Thanatos—the vessel’s present master was hardly known for his tolerance of indolent subordinates. And such an honor it was, to have been posted to such a venerable ship. If Haywire had one complaint, it was that most of his work of late had been of the theoretical rather than the practical variety, but that was no great issue. He remained enough an engineer to consider long periods of research time well spent.

He was on his way back to the engineering bay after having retrieved a small crate of key components from aft storage when he was nearly bowled over by Predacons. On their way to the bounce chamber, from the look of it. Not that it made a tremendous difference, really. Haywire made a point of keeping out of that particular group’s way as best he could as a matter of simple prudence. As long as their focus was elsewhere, he was at least reasonably reassured that his fuel pump would remain securely in his thoracic cavity.

Perhaps whatever was going on now had something to do with Shockwave’s previous announcement. That seemed likely; with Megatron gone, the upper ranks would no doubt spend some time preoccupied with filling the Emperor-shaped power vacuum he’d left behind. For his part, Haywire was largely content to continue doing his job. The vagaries of Decepticon command structure were largely lost on the engineer, in no small part because they tended to be so very dangerous for mere dabblers.

No, Haywire was satisfied for now to align himself with whatever mech seemed most likely to rise to the top of the heap. At the moment, Shockwave looked like the safest bet, but who knew? The energo-chits would fall where they would. There was plenty to keep him productively occupied, in the meantime.

Humming tunelessly to himself, Haywire continued on his way.

Bridge

Shadowing nodded to Shockwave. It was not an unsurprising command considering the circumstances.

"It shall be done."

He turned and made his way out of the Bridge in order to go to the repair bay as ordered. As he did he wondered just what he would be ordered to do next if the conclusion he achieves is not Shockwave's desired one.

Bounce Chamber

Razorclaw nodded as Rampage was the last to step onto the bounce pad. The gunner may be one of his more violent Predacons who spends way too much time looking at old holovids, but Rampage was also one of the most dependable warriors he had. The tiger-former was rough around the edges for sure, but he had it where it counts most as his fighting skills on the battlefield were near impeccable.

“Depending on what Starscream has to say, you may very well get your chance,” Razorclaw replied to Rampage before the bounce beam engulfed the entire Predacon unit and transported them away.

Bridge

From her position, Blackwind focused her attention on Shockwave as he offered her his response. As usual the logic driven mech was curt and disparaging. Qualities Blackwind had always found irritating in the Military Operations Commander. What she wouldn't give to see him humiliated and then dismantled. The thought of seeing Starscream follow suit brought a slight smirk to her face. That show of amusement faded rapidly as Shockwave broadcast his announcement to all of the Decepticons within the Sol system.

The Aerial Coordinator fixed a deadly glare on the tall violet mech, but she made no attempt to display her utter contempt for his brazen actions. Forcing the whole of the Sol system’s Decepticon army to bend to his whim was something she had not considered Shockwave would do. Then again he was trying his best to prove that he was the mech to lead the Decepticon army, and to bring about the end to the war with the Autobots.

Blackwind cast a casual glance at Thunderwing as the scientist voiced his concern over the decisions that would come about from those on board the Ultrax. The femme refocused her attention on the cycloptic mech and nodded In agreement with Thunderwing.

It truly would be unfortunate if Starscream had convinced the entirety of the able bodied warriors on the Ultrax that he would make the better leader; after all, she and Thunderwing would need to acquire an abundant following if they were to overthrow both Shockwave and the Seeker Commander.

“An unorthodox method, but one I am sure you chose due to its most absolute outcome. I would never have thought you could be so...shrewd.”

The femme Seeker cast the Commander a feigned smile, which quickly faded.

Bridge

Shockwave sat in the Thanatos' command chair, his singular optic being fed information from a half-dozen different sources: the holoscreens in front of him which allowed him access to the technical specifications of the various Decepticons assigned to this sector, the primary viewport of the ship itself which allowed him a pristine view of the orbital space surrounding Sol-3 as well as the various Decepticons who currently occupied various places of importance on the bridge.

The pieces of his current stratagem were moving with satisfactory speed. He felt no inclination to add haste to their actions nor slow them down. A curiosity entered in to his current line of thinking: were the Autobots stationed in this sector engaged in a similar process? Shockwave had not been informed whether the same fate that befell Megatron also befell Optimus Prime. If so, that would be a considerable advantage to capitalize on once the leadership of this fleet had been satisfactorily resolved. If not, then even the Autobots must not surely be figuring out ways to capitalize upon the considerable advantage that had been handed to them.

Shockwave registered a brief, incoming communique from Starscream and acknowledged it immediately.

>>"Interrogative: where would this encounter occur? You are at a decided disadvantage in terms of orbital resources. I calculate a 94.874% probability that you will attempt to mitigate my superior positioning; however, I will hear your suggestion."<<

Offering Starscream a response was the strategically advantageous tact to employ, even if the Predacons were on their way to nullify the threat he presented to the empire's stability. Stall him. Distract him. In doing so, the Predacons would be able to more efficiently accomplish their assigned task.

Shockwave then spared a passing glance toward Blackwind, who had deigned to offer an additional response to his analysis, ignoring her supposition regarding his strategic ability and addressing her core, factual statement.

"Declarative: you are correct," Shockwave stated briefly before turning his attention to Thunderwing. "I require your research regarding the modifications you have completed on yourself and Blackwind. Their application can not be widespread without extensive additional testing, but I am curious to see the preliminary data. We are faced with an opportunity to advance Decepticon science in ways that even Megatron may not have ever permitted during his tenure. That opportunity will not be squandered."

Engineering Bay

Haywire’s conspicuously elongated fingers worked feverishly on the torpedo’s inner-workings, recalibrating the ordnance’s guidance systems, proximity fuze, and generated thrust per second to account for its altered payload. Fabricating weapons like this was his favorite part of the job. Oh, there were more precise methods of attack: focused electromagnetic interference, targeted frequency resonance, nanotech renders, invasive programming—the list went on and on. But it was difficult to argue with the morale-shattering spectacle and efficacy of a well-placed explosion.

Naturally, he had to be careful not to go overboard. Thanatos, only carried a limited supply of ordnance; the battlecruiser did contain its own self-sufficient munitions factory, but the finite size of its armory placed an absolute cap on how many missiles, torpedoes, bombs, and other such lovely implements of war it could hold. Haywire was allowed, by tacit consent of the command staff, to experiment with the ship’s ammunition only to a very limited extent—understandable, since Shockwave would naturally prefer to know that whatever he might choose to fire at his current target would function as advertised, in a predictable manner.

Even when it came to the devices he was permitted to tinker with, Haywire was expected to keep extensive documentation on their projected abilities, and to label them clearly as prototypes when he returned them to the armory.

Still, niggling clerical details aside, he did love his work. It would be, he supposed, a terrible pity if the awesome destructive power of the Thanatos were turned against fellow Decepticons. But, should it come down to it, he certainly wouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger. It would hardly be the first time a bit of factional infighting was resolved via the simple expedient of apocalyptic collateral damage. Whatever happened, there were sure to be some truly gratifying pyrotechnics.

Repair Bay

The white beam of light from the Ultrax's bounce pad slowly dissipated, turning the Thanatos' med bay back to its normal sterile state as the two large decepticons made their way out from the staticly charged area. Oh bouncing from ship to ship was as bad as bouncing from ship to surface. Contemptor was the worst of the two affected as he stumbled and placed his hands on one of the many med-tables as he began to recover from the dizzying effects.

A slew of curses left the trophy hunter's mouth as his shoulder started to nip and sting again.

"Motherslagging, multi-glitching, femme-bot frakking, diode-blowing..." the tirade of vitriol and string of cursing was almost too much for Vindicator's receptors, and the larger decepticon turned to protest....and then it dawned on him that Motormaster had been speaking the truth.

"Contemptor...I hardly think that..." The trophy hunter spun round and jabbed a finger in Vindicator's chest plate that hard that the clunk could be clearly heard.

"..No!...No thinking from you right now Vin!" Contemptor spat "I think that Motormaster is right...You've had too many flawed constructions fall on your head - and I think that you have had too many hits to the damned head too..."

Contemptor became more and more animated as he unloaded verbally on Vindicator.

"..Seriously, I have never seen such bombastic arrogance in you!" the trophy hunter said to his mentor "...Only Starscream has as much bombastic, and overblown arrogance! Seriously, has the siege success gotten to your head? You have never been condesending - nor have you ever spoken like a teacher to a protoform...Not even when Megatron questioned the construction of the Siege Fortifications just outside of Kaon..you just nodded and explained why you built them, and you were rewarded because they staved off many an Autobot attack..."

Contemptor spun his head and looked at the Micron Psychout. "...So where's this Mal-ware? Seriously not only is this..." he accented his statement by slapping Vindicator in the chest hard "...needing a serious check up and fixing, but i need my damned arm looked at..." he snarled as he felt a heavy shock of pain up his shoulder "...bastard glitching auto-repair machines cannot do a damned job properly!!!

Vindicator sighed and looked down at the scraped paintwork from Contemptor's slap. He was right.. he was loosing it. All they had to do was wait for this surgeon to show up and do his work.

Vindicator sent a one line communication to Shockwave as the Bounce nausea left him fully

>"Shockwave, Contemptor and myself - along with Psychout - have arrived intact."<

Bounce Chamber (Incommiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing!)

The unexpected jolt of the bounce took Psychout by surprise and had be not been quite so nimble, he would have ended up as a heap on the floor. As it was he presented himself to the people within the chamber with a stylish backflip onto the control console, or would have, had anyone apart from the three of them been in there. "Bloody typical, only ever happens when no one can see it."

He took a look around; No Seekers. Up to date technology. Modern laboratories! A fully stocked bar!! (probably). Oh, he nearly forgot... Mal Practice. He needed to set up a meeting with Shockwave, and fast. If he knew Shockwave then he would probably want Psych to keep his presence low-key for now - not Psychout's favourite way to work, but one he was good at - so he waited for his transport partners to land and step out of the light and indicated that he needed to interface with the console. Coding Shockwave using the same security frequency as the Darkmount R&D channel would get his attention without disturbing him, and then Shockwave himself can decide how obvious to make his presence... Heh, learned that mistake already today. When his travelling cpompanions made their arrival broadcast and he laughed. So much for that idea...

He answered Contemptor's questions though - "With Mal and I here, anything is possible bud. Guns we can definitely do, bringing Vindicator back to his old self..? I'm not sure Mal's much of a therapist *chuckle* mind you, spend too many hours around 'Practice and everyone goes a bit crazy and thug like. As for your arm - well, that's top of the list, just after I've set up a meeting with Shockwave. And after you show me where the bar is, I need a drink..."

Repair Bay

The readings in the room up head told Shadowing that the guests had arrived. It seems that all this time had not dulled his sense of timing. From what he could overhear coming from the room this seemed like it would be a most interesting meeting. He entered the room flanked by various medical droids that he had summoned along the way for this purpose.

"Greetings Decepticons. My name is Shadowing. Commander Shockwave asked me to see that you receive the repairs you need. These medical droids should have you all back to full operational status soon."

He kept a relaxed tone as he spoke to them.

Repair-bay

Psychout looked over Shadowing - a jet, but seemingly not a seeker - a novelty in this faction, but he had been given an accommodating welcome so he returned the pleasantry "Thank you Shadowing. The drones may stand down for the moment, we are functioning at a satisfactory level for now. I just need 300cc's Nano-haxl stabiliser fluid in a fast action gel with a hypoalloy applicator for my friends shoulder, and a bottle of your finest triple-distilled Energon for myself. If you would be so kind as to show me where your stores are?" he figured he already knew, but it was polite to ask before he walked in and took over, just because he was a Decepticon does not mean he has to be an ass.

He turned to Vindicator, "if you will excuse me for a second, boss..." he assumed his minuscule data-stick alt form and inserted himself into the console he was standing on.

[transmitted on internal medical communication channels]
>>Commander Shockwave, this is Psychological Warfare Agent Psychout reporting for duty. I have Contemptor and Vindicator with me for specialist repair refinement, and although I am unaware of why I have been reactivated, I believe it is at your request. I stand ready at your service Sir, when do you wish to brief me?<<

He took a quick look through the ships manifest, a few names he hadn't seen in a very long time and... There he was - still mint in his box - Mal Practice! All fixed up, just higher systems offline Now to ask Shockwave to have him defrosted

Still plugged in, he accessed the video relays and projected his face onto a nearby screen so he was the same scale as Vin and 'Temps; "Gentlemen, the good news is I have found Mal. The bad news is that it may take a day or so to thaw him out as he is still in pneumocerebric hibernation. (That's Stasis Lock to the non-scientific.) I have requested us an audience with Shockwave, then we can try and find out what's going on and why I have been reactivated, and then get back to this shoulder of yours 'Temps."

"But wait! The important information - according to the ships schematics, the mess-hall is 4 floors down. Shall we reconvene there?"

Repair Bay

Vindicator looked at the jet-former, and his assesment of Shadowing was the same as Psychout's, a jet but not a seeker - rare, but all the same a little refreshing change from the gaggle of seekers that himself, Contemptor and Psychout had been subject to.

"Refreshing to see a 'con who doesn't share the seeker template..." the baritone and haughty vocals bounced around the room "...seekers..." Vindicator rumbled "...a damned nuisance..." He could feel a dirty look being drawn from Contemptor at the mention of the seekers. Ah how could he forget... his charge was a little soft on the more volatile seeker Hellion. Vindicator lifted a hand to his head as his optics blinked on and off slowly. Something didn't feel right.

There was a spark tha came from the right side of his Amber optic.

"You know.. you need to get that fixed Vin..." Contemptor grumbled darkly, whilst scowling through his purple optics at the siege expert. THe bigger con hadn't been damaged in the recent fighting on earth - or was it when that blasted volcano went up?

It was then that Psychout hopped off Contemptor's shoulder and made his way over to the console, and after talking to Shadowing, he heard the comment about the mess hall.

Contemptor looked at the micron with a mixture of humour and a mixture of hunger. The little rabble-rouser knew what to ask for and how to get it, and the sound of triple strength premium energon made his refinery unit jump with excitement. He hadn't had some of the fine stuff since....yeah it had been that long since he had a bolt of pure, undiluted, unsynthetic energon. He perked up at Psychout's mention of the request - and the repair subtrate for his shoulder.

"Make that two bottles of triple distilled...I could use a good refuel, and the mess hall sounds like a glitchin' good idea!" he suddenly turned from perky to sour as another shock of pain rattled up his shoulder and into the base of his spinal strut at his neck "..and hurry the sgal up with that damned nano-haxl..." he paused as his vocals took on a darker tone "...or something is going to get wrecked in here!"

Repair Bay

Shadowing chuckled at the reaction of the others.

"A Seeker? I do not think so. I have better things to do with my time than act as a living advertisement of Starscream's ego."

Shadowing turned to the nearest drones.

"Not a bad idea by our visitors. Fetch the material that were requested and add an additional serving of energon for myself. Its been too long since the last time."

One drone went to obtain fluid that Psychout had requested while the other went to fulfill the other order. The first of the drones arrived first, having the easier order to fulfill.

"Interesting time we operate in eh? I think Primus gave us distilled energon as our survival mechanism for such moments." He mentioned with another chuckle.

Repair-Bay

Detaching himself from the console, his message to the Commander securely transmitted, he returned to his robot mode and looked longingly at the bottle that was almost the same size as him.

"I am going to like it here."

He then picked up the Nano-Haxl applicator and turned to Contemptor, "this may feel a bit weird. It'll mostly dull the friction-related pain and loosen the gearing ratio's up, and will maybe last a few days, but there can some strange, um, side effects. It'll give us enough time to defrost Mal so he can get a good look at it." The applicator was long thin strip of metal that, when Psychout 'snapped' it, it went flexible and began to glow a faint green. He quickly placed it over the top of the shoulder and it began to slowly seep through the cracks in 'Temps plating to reach the servo's below. He watched Contemptors face as the medication took hold. This should be funny...*chuckle*

He turned his attention to the not-Seeker in front of him. "So, Shadowing, who runs the repair bays around here? With 'Practice still in stasis, do you have a resident surgeon or are your lives left in the inarticulate hands of these drones here?"

He took a sip of the triple distilled and put his feet up on the console. So, now we wait for the boss to call...

Repair Bay

Shadowing turned towards Psychout.

"I am a somewhat new arrival to this ship as well but I have not heard of anyone being in charge of these bays. All I found here were these medical droids."

He shrugged.

"If you know anyone qualified for the job I am sure that Commander Shockwave would be glad to hear about it."

Repair Bay

'Side effects' huh? Well that was an interesting thing to say as Contemptor dropped himself down onto a seat next to one of the repair tables as Psychout jumped up onto his shoulder with a hop, skip, and a jump. The truck-former, who sizewise was a veritable behemoth compaired to Psychout, leant on his arm as the micron applied the nano-haxl solution into the gears and rotators that were giving him hell.

The gel-strip left a tingling sensation as it slipped down through the components and structures of Contemptor's repaired shoulder. The trophy hunter flexed his arm and rotated his shoulder joint, and already the pain had subsided away, allowing more freedom of use. It was like earthlings applying WD-40 to rusted hinges.

Contemptor looked at the micron with a funny smile as he flexed his fingers back and forth. The damned stuff was fast acting.

"Well shortround...you were right about this stuff being fast acting...so whats this about side effects? It sounds...."

Contemptor's optics widened slightly as he tailed off. He recognised Psychout, Vindicator and Shadowing, but when his attention turned to the medical drones, his mouth opened and his jaw went slack...

"Autobots!!! Destroy them for the glory of Megatron!" he shouted.

The next few cycles went in slow motion as Contemptor rolled to a crouch and opened fire on one of the drones with his plasma pistol, obliterating the head as the plasma round impacted into the wall near the door of the Repair Bay. He then took off from a three point stance and drew his energon axe and cleaved through another drone, punching one in the chest and knocking it off its feet.

Vindicator made a step forward and shouted out hopefully his charge would hear him.

"Contemptor..they're just..." there was a thud as one of the drones landed in two parts next to the Siege Master and the large Black and Silver mechanoid pinched the bridge of his nose and felt his head spark again "...oh whats the use..." The Master of Sieges turned to the diminutive Psychout and held out his hand for the smaller con to climb on to.

Vindicator lifed his arm up and spoke to the micron.

"Psychout..." he silently rumbled, feeling the sparking go off inside his crainial housing "...do you think this Mal can look at my head and fix whatever is wrong? Contemptor was right - and so was Motormaster..." he paused and remembered what happened at St. Helens "...it was at St. Helens, when the volcano went off..." again Vindicator tailed off remembering the falling rubble and the flooding lava that submerged him "...yeah...can he fix me?"

Another clang as the head of a drone flew over a repair table, and a shout of victory as the drones were decimated. Yeah...unexpected and strange side effects...