by Josh Boyfriend » Thu Jul 19, 2018 4:27 pm
Chapter Six
Hub-cap stepped forward to address his superiors. “Prodotis, Convoys Leonidas and Maximus, may I introduce Optimus, commander of the Autobot forces. And Cyclonus, the newly appointed commander of the Decepticons.” The two doppelgangers shook Optimus and Cyclonus' hands. The Quintesson made a bowing gesture. “Welcome to Omicron, please join us in the citadel. I have much to explain and even more to ask you.” Prodotis noticed Cyclonus was intensely glaring at him. He sighed. “Your reaction to me suggest I am not the first Quintesson you have encountered. For that I am greatly sorry. My race deems themselves superior to all other life, and by justification that all other life is disposable. I assure you. I am not like them.” Optimus reached to shake Prodotis' tentacle. “Hub-cap mentioned you knew Alpha-Trion.” Prodotis returned the gesture shaking Optimus' hand. “I did. We've readied the citadel for your arrival. I shall tell you everything from the beginning.” The group turned to head inside. Bumper walked up beside Hub-cap. “You could've given us a heads up or a 'by the way dear Bumper one of our guest looks like the long lost relative of the convoys, Oh! and the others a Decepticon!' But no. You let the reuniting, an historical moment mind you, be an awkward mess!” Hub-cap grinned as he continued following the group. “Lighten up Bumper. That was amazing. Did you see Leo and Bigs faces. Well I guess if you didn't you could always refer to the photos. Spot on with the photographer by the way.” Bumper shook his head. “Your hopeless.” The group entered a long hall. Statues adorned each side. Large stone carved depictions of semi-cybernetic semi-biologic beings numbering twelve in all. Cyclonus was awestruck. “Most impressive.” Leonidas spoke. “Thank you, most of Cybertrons artist and architects left Cybertron in the early days of the war aboard the Exodus. This is one of there achievements, 'The Hall of Primes'.” The group came to the end of the hallway and entered a large rounded room with a glassed dome top. In the middle of the room was a round table and chairs. They each walked over and sat down. Prodotis started his story.
“In the days before the golden age of Cybertron the Quintessons were ruthless and conniving. They subjugated any race they could. My role was that of an envoy. I was to find new beings to be used in service of our empire. Most times than not, we'd find beings best categorized as animals, with little intelligence. On my third expedition my crew found techno-organics on a planet the inhabitants called 'Primus'. These beings were intelligent, strong but still gentle, and had an unique ability to mimic the biological creatures of their planet. I was fascinated by them. When the time came to report back to my superiors, I falsified my reports. One of my crew informed the council of my deception. I was re-leaved of my command and kept in the brig. My predecessor captured twelve individuals, or prime specimens, to be brought before the Quintesson Council. He murdered all the rest, or at least he thought he had. As punishment they stripped me of my name an title, branded me with the words 'Prodotis', meaning traitor, and left me stranded on a planet full of death. I buried the bodies of the murdered, until I came across a survivor barely clinging to life. I cared for him until his health returned. The inhabitants had no use for names or designations. I named the Survivor Alpha-Tyronic, which means 'the first leader in a new beginning'. Upset at the loss of his kin he wished to set out to free his people, however we had no ship, no means of leaving the planet. That's when something amazing happened. Mimicking aspects of my own biology his body adapted things like thrust propulsion. Over the next cycles he studied ship schematics I created. Having finally mastered his new form we left for Quintessa. We arrived undetected and found the twelve 'Prime Specimens'. Though kept in suspended animation their bodies were dissected and broken. The Quintessons had used the knowledge of their anatomy to create a race of replicated beings made of metals and alloys. They referred to their creations as Cybertronians. Unable to save their bodies we created a quickly fashioned vessel to hold the life-essence of the twelve. This vessel was called the Matrix. Instead of seeing the Cybertronians as abominations, Alpha-Tyronic saw them as his natural 'descendants'. We stayed on Quintessa and freed as many as we could. Our revolution was not without penalty however. During a revolt I was captured and judged by those I'd called my peers. They removed two of my faces 'Judgment' and 'Death'. After weeks of imprisonment I accepted my fate and was ready to die. That's when Alpha-Tyronic, now calling himself Alpha-Trion, along with a fighting force of Cybertronians, rescued me from my captors. Over the next century all of the Cybertronians were liberated. The Quintesson Empire was delivered an unprecedented blow. For the first time the galaxy realized they could be beaten. Alpha-Trion led the Cybertronians to his home world. We finally had peace. Alpha-Trion decided to keep the origins of their ancestors secret. There was too much pain and loss to burden the Cybertronians with. The planet Primus was re-titled Cybertron. Having served the Quintesson Empire primarily as construction laborers, the Cybertronians did what they were familiar with and forged Cybertron into a metal world. Elsewhere the ruling circle on Quintessa devised a plan to create a perfect soldier. A cybertronian who would be completely loyal and deadly. They taught him how to manipulate those around him. They had a prized master swordsman teach him how to use a blade. Their weapon, Banzai-Tron, was created for the sole purpose of fracturing the peace of the Cybertronians. Once among us, Banzai-Tron began spreading propaganda among the Cybertronians who served as soldiers on Quintessa. Quickly gaining support he named his faction Decepticons. Alpha-Trion tried to resolve the conflict without any death. However after tremendous Cybertronian causalities, Alpha-Trion formed the Autobots, protectors of Cybertrons people. The two factions waged battles ultimately fulfilling the Quintessons spiteful intentions. Banzai-Tron was an unstoppable killing machine. Every attempt to eradicate him was thwarted. A colleague from my time in service to the Quintesson Empire reached out to me. He was starting to have a crisis of conscience. He told me of a Self-terminate command phrase the Quintessons had incorporated into Banzai-Tron, should he ever turn against them. Come the next battle, Alpha-Trion spoke the words 'More than meets the eye'. To the horror of his soldiers, Banzai-Tron turned his blade on himself, running himself through. The Decepticons retreated leaderless. That should have been the end of it. However unbeknownst to us at the time the Decepticons were creating a new leader. Megatron. He quickly picked up where his predecessor left off. Over the next couple of years Megatron had wreaked destruction on Cybertron. Together Alpha-Trion and I devised of a plan to save as many of Cybertrons people as possible. We secretly started constructing this vessel, 'the Exodus'. One day while searching for components, Alpha-Trion came across two battered Autobots who were left for dead after holding Decepticon forces back while civilians fled. He saw the potential for leadership in them. He rebuilt and renamed them Leonidas and Maximus. Fearing the Matrix would be lost during conflict he split it into two parts. Maximus holds one within in his chest. The other Alpha-Trion kept with himself. When the vessel was completed and Cybertron's civilian population loaded, Alpha-Trion gave the pair the title of Convoy, meaning 'protector'. To our dismay, Alpha-Trion wished to stay behind. He told us 'as long as you have the Matrix, you will be close to Cybertron'.We reluctantly obeyed his wishes and left Cybertron. After several years drifting through space we found Omicron. It took time, but we adjusted to life in this organic paradise. However there were some unforeseen problems we had to face. Energy conversion, resource mining, and Decepticon infiltrators. But that can wait. Please tell me? What happened in the days after we left Cybertron?”
Optimus stood up and opened his chest revealing the receptacle where his Matrix had resided. “I was originally Orion Pax. A brash and arrogant adolescent bot. I was badly wounded by Megatron. Alpha-Trion rebuilt and renamed me Optimus Prime. He fitted the Matrix in my chest and charged me with leadership of the Autobots. For a time I led the Autobots against Megatrons forces. Five years ago the Matrix and leadership of the Autobots was passed onto Rodimus-Prime, at the event of my death.”
At that revelation the three were caught off guard. Maximus shifted in his seat. “You returned from death? Not stasis-lock, but death?” Optimus closed his chest. “After a final devastating fight against Megatron and his forces, I and Megatron succumbed to our injuries. My spark joined the Matrix. Four years after my death I was reanimated and restored to stop a man-made virus that effected every creature it came into contact with. The knowledge granted to me when I joined the Matrix faded after I stopped the plague. I am now as I was before.” Prodotis gestured to Cyclonus. “And how did you come to lead the Decepticons?”
Cyclonus continued the narrative where Optimus ended. “After the skirmish that left Optimus and Megatron broken and dying, Megatron was discarded in space, left to die. The planet eater, Unicron, found and rebuilt him and a hand full of dying Decepticons into his heralds. Megatron was reformed as Galvatron. I am also one of the discarded Decepticons that was reformatted. Unicron tasked us with finding and destroying the Matrix. Galvatron played along for a time. When at last we had stolen the Matrix, Galvatron tried to use it against Unicron to regain our freedom. He underestimated Unicron's abilities. Transforming into a being much large than Cybertron itself, Unicron rained destruction down on the planet. Rodimus-Prime fought Galvatron for possession of the Matrix. Upon winning Rodimus opened the Matrix. The power within it destroyed Unicron's body. Galvatron was driven mad. For longer than I care to admit, we Decepticons continued to follow him. After countless failures and pointless pursuits of grandeur, we over-through him. As the leader of the Decepticons, I negotiated for peace with Optimus. It was only yesterday when we made contact with Hub-cap.”
Leonidas was tense. “Unicron is real. The 'Covenant of Primus' tells of Unicron, The Devour of Worlds. We never believed it to be so literal.” Maximus joined in. “And you've defeated him? He's no longer a threat?” Optimus answered. “Unicron was reduced to nothing more than a severed head the size a small moon. A fallen rogue Decepticon tried to revitalize Unicron in return for a new body. After we thwarted Unicron's revival, we towed the head to a now uninhabited part of space. We have a team monitoring the head at all times from a moon that once circled the planet Optera, a victim of the planet eater.” Leonidas and Maximus continued conversing with Cyclonus. Optimus turned to address Prodotis. “If you don't mind I'd like to contact my crew.” Prodotis nodded. “By all means, my friend.” Optimus rose from his seat and headed over by the entrance. “Springer, we've made contact with the colonies leaders. They are Cybertronians who left Cybertron in the early days of the war. Much of our planets history was revealed by the elder among them. How is everything fairing? Has peace and order been maintained?” Aboard Scorponok, Springer turned in his command Chair to see the Combaticons and the Aerialbots playing a card game. “The closest thing to a skirmish was when Slingshot caught Swindle cheating at cards, but that was resolved. Everything is fine. By any chance can they synthesize the fuel we'll need?” Optimus looked back at the others at the table. “I will tell them of our need.” Optimus rejoined the others. Maximus was in the midst of telling Cyclonus about his pets. Two large wholly creatures with long snouts. Prodotis asked Optimus. “How is your crew fairing in your absences?” Optimus replied. “The are well. Nothing other than a friendly fight about cheating at a card-game.” Cyclonus interjected. “Swindle, no doubt.” Optimus continued. “We did have one thing we wanted to ask you. Our vessel lacks the necessary fuel to return to Cybertron. Would you be willing to synthesize the fuel for us?” Prodotis smiled. “It would be our pleasure. This planet is rich with resources. I have no doubt Drench will be able to create a suitable fuel.”
Chapter Seven
In a remote area of Scorponok, Apeface riled his comrades. “I can't believe what I'm seeing. Decepticons doing what those Autobots tells us. Have you all lost your spines. They're our enemies. We don't pal around with them. We destroy them.” Skullcruncher spoke up. “They did repair us so we could transform.” Mindwipe added. “And we do not blindly do as they say. Cyclonus leads us now.”
Apeface grumbled. “Cyclonus! Who appointed him leader.” The gathered Decepticons fidgeted. Weirdwolf spoke. “Actually we all voted. Galvatron was leading us further into null space. We've been trapped in beast-form on this slagging ship because of him. We've all seen him freak out. He ain't right in the processor. So after finding you wasted on whatever that stuff was, Cyclonus came up with a plan to remove Galvatron and the Nebulans.” Apeface turned to his friend Snapdragon. “And you went along with this?” Snapdragon responded. “I- We lost our own heads because of him. He's the one that partnered us with those disgusting Nebulans. He had to go. He would have thrown us into the Pitt if it furthered his mad plans. Besides, we don't have to stick around. I say we play along until we get to Cybertron. Then we join the others on Chaar, under new and better leadership.” Apeface thought it over. Weirdwolf, Skullcruncher, and Mindwipe turned to walk out the door. Apeface snapped at them. “Where are you all going? We're not done here.” Weirdwolf spoke for the three of them. “You can do as you please. But we want give this 'peace' thing a try.” Apeface dismissed them and turned his questioning to the Terrorcons. “And how about all of you?” The group looked at each other then Hun-gurrr spoke. “We are undecided.” Apeface snarled. “So of all the slagging Decepticons on this ship, only two of us are true Decepticons.”
On Omicron Optimus was led by Prodotis down a hall into a large room at the far end of the capital. “This is the lab of Drench. He is the brightest scientific mind on Omicron. If anyone could replicate your fuel it would be him.” At a table welding stood a golden bot. Optimus gasped. “Is that electrum?”
Prodotis called to the golden bot. “Electro, this is Optimus. We've come to speak with Drench. Is he around?” Electro raised the goggles he was wearing. “He's in the ba- How? What? ” Optimus chuckled at the stunned bot. “I suppose you could say the Convoys and I had the same creator. Is that electrum your coated with?” Electro broke from his stunned trance and smiled. “Sure is. Drench and I developed a way to stabilize electrum. Comes in handy when your crawling around in a foul acting engine. I would have been off-lined several times if not for this coating.” A green Cybertronian with a youthful demeanor walked out from a side room. “Hey, Electro have you seen that blasted wrench of mine” The three turned to him. Drench gasped when he saw the Autobot commander. Optimus answered before he could ask. “I am Optimus. I was rebuilt by Alpha-Trion as well.” Prodotis moved forward. “We have a favor to ask you. As you probably know. We've made contact with the Cybertronians in the vessel just out of orbit. Optimus is one of their leaders. They require a unique fuel to return to Cybertron. Could you replicate the fuel?” Drench gleamed with pride. “That should be simple enough. I'll need a sample of the fuel. Shouldn't take more than a day or so.” Optimus thanked Drench. “We appreciate this greatly Drench. I'll have Perceptor bring a sample to you at once.”
As daylight faded on Nebulos, Arcee, Blur, and wheelie rushed to prep the infirmary on Fortress-Maximus. Cerebros voice came over the speakers. “Brainstorm and Highbrow are landing now. Bring a med-slab.” Blur grabbed the cart and the three rushed down the hall to the landing platform. Brainstorm was kneeling in the middle of the platform over the non-responding body of Gort. “Arcana. He's not responding!” Arcana disengaged from Brainstorm. “Bring me that defibrillator?” Arcee quickly set the defibrillator up next to Gort. Arcana grabbed the paddles. “Come on boy. You don't get to quit.” Zap! No response. “Dammit Gort!” Zap! No response. Daniel welled up. Via connection Arcee shared in Daniels grief. Arcana turned the defibrillators settings higher. “You're too young to die boy!” Zapp! Gorts body jumped. He gasped for air. Everyone sighed in relief. Gort grabbed his throbbing head. “What happened? My head feels like it was used as a punching bag.” Arcana helped Gort lean up. “Your not too far off. Highbrow and you took a shot to the head.” Gort looked around. “Where are the others?” Arcana and Arcee moved Gort to the med-slab. “After you were hit you weren't responding. We knew we had to get you out of there quick. Hardhead and Chromedome supplied cover-fire while Highbrow, Brainstorm, and I retreated. They should be returning soon enough.” Blur and wheelie glanced and nodded to each other. “Wheelie say we make sure friends come home today.” The pair transformed and peeled down the hall. Cerebros stepped out from a doorway nearly being clipped by Blur. “Whoa! Hey be careful Blur!” Blur fishtailed but gained control and continued on. “SorryCerebrosDidn'tSeeYaThere. Can'tTalkOnAMission.” Cerebros shook his head. He met the others in the hallway. “Brainstorm, Arcana, What happened? Our Intel said there was lite resistance.” Brainstorm lowered his voice to convey he was serious. “It's not good. The remaining Hive rulers in the north have started hiring Decepticon mercenaries. We were ambushed by a Decepticon called Double-Dealer and his crew. They're Targetmasters, but they have two guns. We fought hard, but we were quickly outmatched.” Reaching the infirmary. Arcee carefully moved Gort to a hospital bed set-up for human sized persons. “Your probably hungry. Daniel and I will bring you something to eat.” Gort smiled. “Thanks that would be great.” Brainstorm opened and retrieved a round object from a closet. “Arcana and I developed this in advance. In case an occasion like this occurred.” Cerebros looked at the round object quizzically. “What is it?” Brainstorm turned the object around showing its mono-eye. “This is an emergency Headmaster spare head.”
A chatty Perceptor entered Drench's lab accompanied by Hub-cap. The small yellow bot interrupted Perceptors inquiries. “Well all those questions you have about the Deterrence-field, the energy conversion, and well everything else, can be answered by my buddy Drench here. I'm sure you'll get along just fine. I gotta go.” Perceptor approached the others. Optimus gestured to the green bot to his side. “Perceptor this is Drench. He's Omicrons chief engineer. He and Electro are responsible for all of Omicrons scientific marvels.” Perceptor and Drench shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. Perceptor opened the case he was carrying and handed a slender tube to Drench. The two began conversing about projects, breakthroughs, and hypothesis. Prodotis chuckled turning to Optimus. “I surmise it won't take them long at all.” Prime chuckled as well. “No. I don't think it will.” The two turned to leave and rejoin Cyclonus and the Convoys.
Chapter Eight
On Nebulos, Arcee followed after Cerebros down the halls of Fortress-Maximus. “I don't get why we can't move the refuges into Fort-Max. This place is big enough to house-” Cerebros stopped abruptly turning back to her. “A quarter of them. I've done the math Arcee. I know your worried about all the inhabitants safety, I am too. But remember this place is a military target.” Arcee hated it, but she realized he was right. Cerebros sighed. “I'm about to give my report to Rodimus and Ultra-Magnus, care to join me?” Feeling slightly better she nodded and they entered the communications room. Already in the room at the console was Brainstorm and Arcana. The large screens on the wall came to life. Rodimus, on Cybertron, appeared on one screen. The other was Ultra-Magnus, stationed on Earth aboard the Titan, Metroplex. Rodimus started first. “So if either of you can give me good news you win.” Cerebros sighed. Ultra-Magnus maintained a poker-face. Rodimus continued. “Well then, it was worth a try. What's the big development on Nebulos?” Brainstorm began his debriefing. “A week ago we started our campaign north. The resistance at first was minimal. However as we continued on we entered the region of a high ranking Hive nobleman. Learning of our fight to liberate those they subjugate, the remaining members of Hive have banned together and hired Decepticon mercenaries. Our first encounter with them left us on the losing end. Gort was injured in combat. I along with Arcana and Highbrow rushed him to Fort-Max for medical aid. Our adversaries are well trained and heavily armed. They're led by a Decepticon named Double-Dealer. Oddly enough, he wears the insignia of both Autobots and Decepticons. He and three of his men are duel-wielding target-masters, the other two combined with each other and with what one referred to as Powermaster Nebulans. Without reinforcements this liberation is doomed.” Rodimus demeanor turned serious. “Where are Crosshairs, Pointblank, and Sureshot?” Cerebros brought up a map of Nebulos on the screen. “Pointblank and his team have been deployed to the west. They've had nominal success. I've maintained contact with them on a scheduled basis.” Rodimus mulled it over. “Kup is currently en route with six recruits. 'A few hot-heads but good bots'. Kup's words not mine. If it comes to it, we can also hire mercenaries of our own.” Ultra-Magnus scoffed. “You can't seriously be thinking of hiring Repugnus and his cohorts!?” Rodimus smiled at Magnus' response. “Well. Let's wait and see.”
Optimus and Prodotis joined Cyclonus and Maximus in a clearing outside of the ship. Cyclonus was petting a large tusked creature. Optimus stared at the beast as he approached. “I've seen these before. In a documentary on earths prehistoric creatures. They referred to them as Mammoths as I recall.” Maximus introduced his pets. “Optimus, These two are Boom and Bang. When we first landed here they were orphaned by natural predators. They started hanging around. The planets predators learned quickly that we were not to be messed with, so staying close meant protection. I started feeding them and caring for them.” Optimus reached to pet the large lumbering beast closest to him. “Amazing creatures.” Leonidas drove up in a large land vehicle. “Care for the tour of Omicron. Optimus and Cyclonus answered in the affirmative. The group boarded the vehicle. Along the way Cyclonus noticed a cleared trail leading into the jungle. “Where does that lead?” Maximus pointed to a small outpost atop a ridge. “Oh. That way leads to gate command. The Deterrence-field is controlled from there. And thirty clicks past there is Omicrons mining camp.” Optimus was intrigued. “What do you mine?” Leonidas answered while staying focused driving. “The planet produces crystal like stalagmites that can be rendered into a suitable source of energon. Impactor and his crew mine the caverns and make monthly deliveries.” Maximus laughed. “Drench and Electro nicknamed Impactors crew 'the Wreckers' on account of the how brutal they are on their drilling equipment.” They continued on through the streets of Omicron. Sculptures, fountains, and architectural buildings. Omicron truly was a Cybertronian marvel in an Eden paradise. Optimus turned to Prodotis sitting next to him. “When Drench and Perceptor have completed the fuel, I'd like for all of you to come with us to Cybertron?” Leonidas sighed. “Are place is here. We need to-” Prodotis interrupted. “Nonsense. Omicron will be fine without us for awhile. We could all use a respite. Blowout and his team can manage in our absence.” Leonidas sighed in relief. He wanted to go. Staying was the responsible thing to do, but the task as Omicrons leadership was becoming daunting. A trip to Cybertron would be a welcomed reprieve.
Blur and Wheelie followed by a battered Chromedome and Hardhead neared the plateau Fortress-Maximus was stationed on. The humming noise of a ships engines in the nights sky caught them by surprise. Blur slowed. “Decepticon?” Wheelie responded. “If enemy they were shots from Fort-Max would occur.” As they ascended the entry ramp of Fortress-Maximus, the lights of the landing platform revealed the mystery craft as non-other than Sky-Lynx. As they continued on, six bots accompanied by Kup exited Sky-Lynx. Cerebros was heading to greet the new recruits when Blur and company drove up. “Welcome back.” The four bots transformed. Chromedome and Hardhead were rough for ware, but there was only one place they want to go. “Where's Gort?” Cerebros told the two where and continued out to the landing platform. Kup was there giving one of his drill sergeant 'pep talks' to his recruits. “Alright. Listen up. This is it. The real thing. For the last six months I've had to train you sorry piece of rust punks. It hasn't been easy. But I can truly say you are some of the finest bots I would be proud to serve with.” The recruits stood at attention and saluted. Kup returned the gesture. “At ease. I'd like to introduce you to your new commander, Cerebros. Whatever he tells you to do you will follow.” Cerebros stood next to Kup. “Greetings and welcome to Nebulos. Like Kup said, I am the acting commander. I am also a pacifist.” One of the recruits snickered. Kup snapped at the bot. “That kind of behavior will not be tolerated Joyride. You just earned yourself a week of cleaning detail.” The bot cringed and nodded. “Sir. Yes sir.” Cerebros continued on. “As the commander and a pacifist my role is to keep the Nebulan civilians and my men safe as much as possible. Your team leader will make most decisions on the battlefield as he sees fit. However if I give an order it's because the risk of collateral casualties. Remember are objective here is the liberation of the Nebulan civilians enslaved by a hierarchy class. As you have been told, you will each be paired with a Nebulan freedom fighter. You'll be bonded for the duration of your stay, so please show some decorum.” Cerebros gestured to Brainstorm. He stepped forward. “Welcome I'm Brainstorm and-” His head detached and transformed, landing in-front of him. “And I'm Arcana. I'm the creator of the Headmaster bonding process. Like yourselves, we Nebulans have selected six of our finer warriors to be paired with each of you. Shall we get started?”
Gort was watching a movie Daniel had loaned him from the comfort of his hospital bed, when Chromedome and Hardhead walked in. “Hey kid. How are you doing?” Gort stopped the movie. “I'm fine. My necks a little stiff, but nothing serious. What about you guys? You look terrible.” They both laughed. “Oh. Welcome back.” the voice was that of Highbrow, but the face wasn't fully Highbrow. His head was round and mono-eyed like one giant lens. Chromedome looked him over teasingly. “You look different. Did you get some work done. I just can't place it.” Hardhead humored him “Maybe some new servos and actuators?” Chromedome snapped his fingers. “That's it. Your applying for Shockwaves old position and you wanted to look the part.” Highbrow crossed his arms. “You can't tell but I'm scowling.” Everybody laughed. Chromedome put a hand on Highbrows shoulder. “It's good to see you both again. How's the temporary head working for ya?” Highbrow produced a small rubber ball. “Surprisingly well. Watch this.” Highbrow hurled the ball behind him. It struck the wall, then the floor, then shot back towards him. He stuck his hand out behind him, precisely catching the ball. Chromedome and Hardhead were amused. Chromedome waved his hand behind Highbrows head. “So you see behind yourself with this head?” Highbrow set the ball down. “No. The audio receptors are so finely tuned I can pin-point the impact points of the ball and triangulate its trajectory.” Gort chuckled. “Down side is he can hear the constant hum of Fort-Max's reactors.” Highbrow put his hands to his head playfully. “And it's driving me mad!” They shared another laugh.
After finishing their tour through the streets of Omicron they returned to 'the Exodus'. Leonidas drove in through a side entrance and turned to the far end. They approached a well lit area with two guards stationed outside a wide doorway. Prodotis sighed. “We've shown you all of Omicrons achievements, but this place houses are greatest failures.” The group exited the vehicle. Cyclonus recognized what it was immediately. “A prison.” Prodotis nodded. “As I eluded to earlier. Omicron faced it's share of problems. This is where some of those 'problems' reside.” They made their way to the entrance. Prodotis greeted the guards. “Firecracker, Motormouth, these are our new allies Optimus and Cyclonus. We need to speak to Blowout.” The large blue bot looked oddly at Cyclonus then leaned close to whisper to Prodotis. “I don't know if you noticed sir but he's a Decepticon. Should we be letting him in and all.” Prodotis smiled. “Your concern is noted, but the war is over and Cyclonus is our ally.” The large blue bot acknowledged and signaled to his red colleague. Firecracker keyed in the code. The doorway opened and the group entered. Motormouth tapped his com to call his Superior. “Blowout this is Motormouth. Prodotis, Leo, Bigs, and two ah- visitors, are here to see you.” The com crackled then Blowout responded. “Alright. I'll be right down.” As the group headed down the hallway Leonidas explained the prisons necessity.
“Before we left Cybertron, there was a Cybertronian 'entrepreneur' who sold weapons to both sides. Privately. He considered himself clever. When he learned of plans to create 'the Exodus', he approached Alpha-Trion as a friend and offered to fund and supply a large part of its construction. When 'the Exodus' launched, Plexus and a large number of his enforcers were aboard. At first he was selling extra rations of energon at overpriced amounts. As our time in space grew longer, buyers had nothing to trade but their allegiance. We recognized the situation was growing sever and intervened. In the process we uncovered evidence of his collusion with the Decepticons. We exiled Plexus and his thugs on a smaller vessel. We found Omicron a month later. We thought we'd heard the last of Plexus. But he found us. With the help of a group of Insecticons, Plexus, now calling himself Mega-Plexus, took 'the Exodus' by force. Unprepared for a battle, we retreated into the thick of the forest. Many of our friends died trying to take the ship back. Drench developed the first version of the Deterrence-field while in the wild with very little to work with. However it's original use wasn't defensive but offensive. Knowing we didn't have enough attrition for a direct fight, Drench created beacons that create a barrier that resonate an EMP. We sneaked beacons around the perimeter of the ship, then taunted Mega-Plexus. When he and his thugs rushed into battle, they were knocked into stasis-lock. We created this place to keep him and the others securely locked away kept in stasis.”
As they neared a large doorway, Blowout stepped out to greet them. “Welcome. I'm Blowout. I'm commander of the Guardians of Omicron commission, or GO-Bots for short. We serve as the policing force on Omicron.” Optimus and Cyclonus introduced themselves and shook his hand. Prodotis floated forward. “Leonidas, Maximus, and myself will be visiting Cybertron for an undetermined time. We're leaving you in command of Omicron until we return.” Blowout gleamed. “Yes sir. We'll take good care of the castle while you're away.”
On the desolate planet of Chaar the remnants of a once formidable Decepticon force sat around in the dirty barren landscape. Runamuck kicked a piece of scrap. Runabout followed suit. “This sucks! We're here rusting away while Galvatron and the rest cruise around the universe.” A Decepticon appearing to be a smaller version of Bruticus approached them. “Who needs them. I say we elect a new leader.” Runabout laughed. “And I suppose you think you're the best candidate. Bother someone else MakeShift.” The irritated Decepticon turned and walked away grumbling. Runabout laughed. Runamuck, however, did not. “That guy weirds me out. Pretending to be Bruticus and all. But he's got a point. We can't sit around here waiting for the others to return. If they ever even return. I think us remaining Decepticons have two options. One: We surrender to the Autobots like Blitzwing, Astrotrain, and Octane; Or two: We appoint a new leader.” Just then the booming sound of Predaking landing down rang out. Decepticons congregated around the combiner and the stash of previsions he acquired. “Predaking returns. I bring energon.” The starved Decepticons crowded grabbing at the stash. Runabout and Runamuck approached for their share. Runamuck turned to Runabout. “Predaking should lead us. He's the biggest and best among us.” Runabout sighed and nodded his head, having seceded to his friend. The two stood tall and started chanting. “Predaking!” The other Decepticons followed suit. Counterpunch watched from afar. The rein of Predaking had begun.
Chapter Nine
Hub-caps vessel approached Scorponoks third bay. The voice of Springer cracked to life over the com. “Welcome back. We weren't sure you'd want to come back. That place looks amazing even from up here.” Hub-cap grinned. “Well you know. Jungle paradises get kinda old. And well where else am I gonna vacation.” The small ship landed and it's crew exited; Optimus, Cyclonus, Prodotis, Leonidas, Maximus, and Perceptor. Waiting in the bay, Silverbolt and others welcomed the new-comers. However they were startled to find a disfigured Quintesson and two Optimus doppelgangers. After politely greeting everyone in the bay, Maximus turned to help Perceptor detach the container on the underside of Hub-caps ship. Perceptor retrieved a dolly-cart to assist moving the large container to the engine bay. When he turned back with the cart, Maximus had picked the entire container up. “Where to?” Perceptor gasped and wheeled the cart over quickly. “How are able to lift that?” Maximus realized carrying the container of volatile fuel was making Perceptor uneasy. “Sorry. I was in construction before the war began. I was built for heavy labor.”
Optimus and the others made their way to the bridge. Optimus addressed Springer. “Is there anything to report?” Springer swiveled in his command chair. “Nothing aboard. It's been quiet. Hup-cap is prepping for departure now.” Scourge walked over to Cyclonus. “So what is it like on the planet?” Cyclonus looked up at the view screen. “It's a lush jungle planet with beauty I have never seen in all my life. I have learned much Scourge. Much about Cybertrons past. About the Decepticons. More than ever I believe our decision to end the war is the best course of action.”
The Technobots met Maximus and Perceptor in the engine room. Perceptor turned to Scattershot. “Is the pump ready?” Scattershot grimaced. “So the ships reservoir fuel pump was the pump Swindle modified to keep Galvatron sedated. Which means we'll have to do this manually.” Maximus looked up at the top of the fuel reservoir. “No problem. You have a ladder?” Scattershot and his Technobots grinned to each other. “No no. We got this.” They merged to form Computron, picking the container up effortlessly. Maximus watched in amazement. Perceptor grinned and mused to himself. Just minutes earlier the situation was ironically similar. Having completed fueling up the reservoir Perceptor called the bridge. “This is Perceptor. I'm delighted to say we are fueled and ready.” Optimus walked over and took a seat by Springer. “Understood Perceptor. Good work.” He turned to Springer. “Let's go home.”
On Nebulos the new recruits were in the heat of battle. On route to the front lines they had been ambushed in a small village previously freed by Brainstorm & Arcanas crew. They were now pinned down by Double-Dealer and his forces. Freshly repaired, Chromedome and Hardhead along with mono-eyed Highbrow, were sent out to assist the rookies. Gun fire rained down on the besieged Autobot team. Nearing the battle, Chromedome, Hardhead, and Highbrow engaged the Decepticon force. A volley struck the wing of Dreadwing. The two counterparts separated falling to the ground. Double-Dealer sneered, ordering his men to withdrawal. “It's been fun Autobots! We'll play again I'm sure.” He laughed callously, transforming into his land assault form, then drove off. Spinister and Needlenose collected their fallen comrades and retreated into the horizon. Joyride pointed at the fleeing Decepticons. “Quick they're getting away.” He transformed and started off after them. A hand reached down and grabbed him by the spoiler. Hardhead peered down at the brash recruit. “You're not going anywhere.” Siren looked over the wrecked village. Small dwellings and structures burned. He turned back to his platoon. “Hosehead, Slapdash, extinguish those fires. Getaway, Joyride, encompass the area to look for survivors. Nightbeat, see what you can find that might explain what happened to the inhabitants.” They each complied and started their assignments. Chromedome greeted Siren. “Very well handled. I see why Cerebros made you field commander.” Siren looked uncertain. “I think I was picked more because of my booming authoritative voice, then my leadership skills. I've never lead before. I've always been content to follow orders. I never wanted to give them.” Chromedome turned to point to sirens team-mates. “You saw everything the situation required and gave orders to your men to address each need. That is 'leadership material'. We all have doubts, that's normal. However remember your men will be looking to you. Appearance of certainty and complete resolve is crucial.” Siren smiled. “Thanks. I'll remember that.” Nightbeat signaled to Siren and Chromedome. Siren approached mustering as much bravado as he could. “What have you found?” Nightbeat pointed to track marks. “Here. These weren't from any of us, or Double-Dealers men. Unless the villagers have vehicles, such as tractors, I'd surmise they've been collected by Hive machinations.” Chromedome sighed. “This is not good news. Siren, I'm going to return to base. Hardhead and High-brow will accompany your men here. I need to debrief Cerebros and Rodimus of our situation. This is now the front-line.”
On Chaar, the Decepticons, now reinvigorated with purpose, wait beside the subdued body of Trypticon. The ginormous stubborn Decepticon was not thrilled when asked to serve as the Decepticons flagship. After a brief altercation Rat-bat was able to infiltrate the behemoth and access Trypticon's manual controls, forcing transformation into his mobile battle station. Soundwave and his cassettes then entered through a hatch and made their way to the bridge. Trypticon growled in protest. Reaching the controls, Soundwave sent Trypticon into stasis-lock. Rumble fidgeted. “Isn't this, I don't know- wrong?” Soundwave ignored Rumble and continued working at the console. The outer bays and entryways opened and the Decepticons wasted no time. Trypticon's mobile battle station was to be refitted into a Decepticon battle cruiser.
Among the ruins Counterpunch retrieved a hidden long-range encoded communicator. “Agent C-111 to Command. High priority alert. Decepticon threat level has escalated to level 8. I repeat level 8. Predaking now leads the Decepticon forces on Chaar. Trypticon is being retrofitted into a battle cruiser. Send instructions.” The Autobot spy placed the com back in its spot and covered it with debris.
On Cybertron, Rodimus sat at a long table rubbing his temple. The door opened and Kup entered. “You look like I feel.” Rodimus looked up at his old friend. “Wanna trade jobs.” Kup chuckled. “Not on your life kid.” Rodimus shrugged. “Worth a shot.” The screen in front of them came to life. The familiar sight of Ultra-Magnus on one side and Cerebros on the other. Rodimus spoke first. “I've been informed you both have urgent news. Cerebros lets start with you.” Cerebros spoke solemnly. “The Hive have retaken three sectors. A total of eight villages. Evidence leads us to believe the inhabitants have been captured. To the west, Pointblank reports that he and his crew have encountered heavier resistance and their campaign has come to a stand still.” Rodimus groaned. “And what did you have to report Magnus?” Ultra-Magnus maintained his calm composure. “I've received a coded message from my spy among the Decepticons on Chaar.” Rodimus interrupted. “We have our own spy. Who?” Ultra-Magnus was caught off-guard and grimaced. “For the agents safety their name is confidential. The agents report states that Predaking has taken leadership of the remaining Decepticon forces on Chaar and is retrofitting Trypticon into a battle cruiser.” Rodimus and Kup both groaned this time. Rodimus let out a heavy sigh. “Alright. Kup I want you to contact Repugnus. We're going to need their help along with Carnivacs crew as well.” Ultra-Magnus voiced his disapproval. “Repugnus and his cohorts are bad, but Carnivac and his band are nothing but psychotic murderous thugs.” Rodimus retorted. “That's right. And for a price they'll be our psychotic murderous thugs! If I had an army to send I would, but I'm fresh out, seeing as how Optimus took all of them to chase Galvatron through the galaxy!” The room fell silent. Rodimus continued. “Is their any chance your agent can delay the Decepticon's progress?” Ultra-Magnus responded calmly. “That's risky, but given the circumstances we don't have much choice. I will relay commands right away.” With the reports concluded the screen went blank. Rodimus slumped over resting his head on his arms atop the table. Kup stood and before exiting the room turned back to Rodimus. “Get some rest kid. I'll contact Repugnus and Carnivac. You can tackle this tomorrow.” Rodimus gave a weary smile. “Ya. I think I'll do that.” Kup exited, the door closing behind him. Rodimus turned, looking out the window. “Dammit Optimus. Where are you?!”
Chapter Ten
Aboard Scorponok, Springer tapped his com. His voice sounded through the vessel. “We've just re-entered charted space. We'll be back on Cybertron within three days.” Autobots and Decepticons alike cheered. That is, all except for Apeface and Snapdragon. Wanting no part of this 'Unified Cybertron' Optimus and Cyclonus were spouting, they had locked themselves in one of the many rooms. Apeface growled in disgust to the audible shared cheers. “Damn fools. We don't needs them.” He turned back to Snapdragon. “Alright. Remember our plans. After theys drop off all the Autobots and traitors on Cybertron, they're gonna go ta Chaar and try ta gets the rest to stop fight'n. That's when we make our move and take the ship. We'll shoot Cyclonus and any others traitors along with him and take the ship. The Decepticons on Chaar will take notice of our brilliant plan and we'll leads the Decepticons.” Snapdragon scratched his head. “What if theirs too many of them when we try and take the ship?” Apeface gnarled his gorilla face. “I don't care how many. I'll destroy them all if I have to!”
Elsewhere on the ship Prodotis was introducing the gathered crowd of Autobots and Decepticons to the ancient record 'The Covenant of Primus', the collected history and beliefs of the progenitors of Cybertron. As Prodotis carried on Optimus appeared troubled. Leonidas noticed and approached. “What's wrong? Is it something he's said?” Optimus sighed. “No. No. Nothing's wrong with what he's said. It's just- after Alpha-Trion had rebuilt me. He gave me a 'Covenant of Primus'. He told me I would do well to read it, however leading the Autobot forces during the early days of the war, I never got a chance to. When we left Cybertron in search for energon, I brought it with me, planning to read it during our voyage through space. However we were attacked immediately after launching and crashed. When we awoke aboard the wreckage of our ship several millennia later, I looked everywhere but couldn't find it.”
Back on Chaar Counterpunch nonchalantly made his way aboard Trypticon among the working Decepticons. Alterations were nearing completion. The Autobot operative had received his orders to 'delay' or sabotage the progress. As he neared the bridge he heard the familiar voice of Frenzy and Rumble. They were arguing about the duplicity of using Trypticon in such a state. Punch didn't care much for Trypticon. After all he was responsible for so much destruction on Earth. But he was a sentient life, all be it simpleminded. Even he didn't deserve this. He noticed a small room to the side and entered. Along the wall stood two drones. An averaged sized purple bot with red optics and a smaller black bot. They seemed to be charging. Punch mused to himself. “This should work nicely.” As the two cassette bots aired their complaints aloud the door opened. Counterpunch entered, displaying obvious disdain. The two smaller bots stopped talking and turned to Counterpunch. Rumble spoke first. “What crawled up your tailpipe? Did ya get cleaning duty or something?” Counterpunch slammed his fist against the wall. “This isn't right. Trypticon is one of us. We shouldn't be forcing this on him.” Frenzy spoke up. “That's what we were just say'n.” Rumble added. “It's Trypticon today, but who's ta say might be next.” Counterpunch enacted his gambit. “There's got to be something we can do. We can't stop the others from this, but maybe we can free Trypticon from this body.” The two smaller bots looked at each other then back to Counterpunch. “You mean like a body swap. But where are we gonna find a spare body around here?” Counterpunch opened the door and pointed towards the small room. “Trypticon has two maintenance drones. We could transfer his spark to the larger one. He would at least be free.” The two smaller bots gleamed. “Let's do it.”
In the night sky a ship approached, landing on the landing platform of Fortress-Maximus. Cerebros waited, arms folded in protest. Repugnus, Grotusque, and Double-cross made their way from their ship to where Cerebros was. Repugnus spoke for the group. “So I hear your in need of certified weapons-grade bad-asses.” Cerebros grumbled at Repugnus display of bravado then lead them to a conference room within the fortress. The door opened revealing Carnivac and his men already seated at the table. Repugnus reached for his gun. “What the frag is he doing here!?” Carnivac started for his gun, but Cerebros intervened. “Calm down. You've both been summoned here because we are desperate. I don't know what kind of history you two have, and frankly I don't care.” Repugnus holstered his gun and they sat down at the table. Cerebros continued. “The planets ruling faction known as 'The Hive' have hired mercenaries of their own lead by Double-Dealer. Previously liberated sectors have been retaken. Your teams are here to deliver a blow to 'The Hive'. There is no tolerance for civilian casualties. Make certain your attacks don't endanger innocent lives. Is that absolutely clear?” They both nodded. Cerebros tapped away at a console. A screen along the wall lit up showing a map. “Carnivacs group will rendezvous with Pointblank in the west just south of the Ejsu pass. Repugnus' crew will head north. There's a large 'Hive' stronghold situated in the Furman valley. Coordinate with Siren, the field commander, before you start your attack. Sirens men will lure the mercenaries away, leaving the stronghold weakened. Chromedome will accompany you. Any questions?” They both shook their heads. Cerebros stood up and gave everyone one last hard look. “No Collateral Casualties.” As the two mercenary teams exited the room, Repugnus taunted Carnivac. “I bet you twenty thousand shanix my team completes our mission parameters before yours does.” Carnivac growled. “I'll take that bet. We're gonna finish first. And when we do I'm gonna use that money to have a mural of your crying mug on the ass-end of ma ship.” They glared at each for a moment then departed to their vessels. Chromedome was already waiting by Repugnus' ship. “So I'll be tagging along with you.” Repugnus looked at him and continued up the ramp. “You must be Chrome-top.” Chromedome followed after him. “Actually it's Chromedome.” Repugnus sat in the commanders seat. “Sure. Well you might want to sit down. I'm not about to lose a bet to that mongrel.” Chromedome stared quizzically. “A bet. Mongrel. What are you..” He fell back onto the cabin floor as the ship rocketed off, nearly grazing Carnivacs ship. Carnivac growled angrily. “Ga! that spawn of a glitch!” Carnivac quickly readied his ship for departure. He looked over at Snarler, Chainclaw, and Catilla. “Are we good to go?” They acknowledged the ships readings. Their ship lifted off departing to the west. Cerebros and Brainstorm, along with Arcana watched from Cerebros' office atop Fortress-Maximus. Brainstorm sighed. “Let's just hope they complete their missions quickly.” Cerebros stood arms folded once more. “I can't help but think we've just poured gasoline over a powder keg.”
Everything around him felt murky. Like a fog or haze. Rodimus could recognize he was on Cybertron, but it was different. A crowd of friends stood around him. He turned to look at each one of their silhouetted forms, until he came to one he couldn't quite recognize. He focused on this familiar stranger. He pointed and asked. “Who are you?” His voice echoed. The strangers form gaped it's mouth. Green glowing ooze dripped from their mouth. In a deep guttural voice the stranger spoke. “I am death reborn!” It presented a jagged sword and skewered several nearby silhouettes. They dropped lifeless to the ground. Rodimus screamed. “No! Stop!” He found himself unable to move. He was panicking now. “No! Spare my friends! It's me you want!” The foul specter laughed mockingly at him. “Everybody and everything you love will burn!” The stranger now started resonating green, brighter and brighter. Rodimus shot awake. He touched his chest and addressed the pulsing matrix within. “What was that suppose to mean? Or do you just enjoy tormenting me?” His com crackled to life. “Rodimus. It's Kup you're going to want to see this. Their back.” Rodimus sprang to his feet and hurried off to the space-port.
As Scorponok approached, Leonidas, Maximus, and Prodotis reveled at the sight of Cybertron from orbit. Maximus pointed to a tear along the surface. “What could cause that level of damage? It looks like Kaon was struck with something.” Cyclonus somberly answered. “That is where Cybertron was assaulted by Unicron. Kaon was destroyed after Galvatrons confrontation with Unicron. In retaliation for Galvatrons treachery, Unicron targeted and destroyed the Decepticons stronghold first. Many lives were lost.”
Rodimus met up with Kup, already waiting at the space-port. Rodimus watched in amazement as Scorponok started its landing procedure. “Optimus did it. He really did it. The Decepticons must have been defeated.” Kup chuckled. “I never doubted him a second.” The two bots approached. The ramps extended and the doors opened. Optimus exited followed by Cyclonus, Maximus, Leonidas, and Prodotis. Kup and Rodimus stood in shock. Optimus addressed the pair. “Rodimus. Our war is over. Peace has been brokered. Galvatron and the Nebulan war-criminals have been detained. In addition we've made contact with a colony of Cybertronians that left Cybertron in the early days of the war, taking refuge on a distant planet.” Flabbergasted and twitching, Rodimus finally responded. “Oh! COME ON!”
Last edited by
Josh Boyfriend on Mon Feb 25, 2019 7:59 am, edited 3 times in total.