Transformers: The touch

Two brothers on a collision course with destiny must find a way to overcome adversity, overcome their demons, and overcome themselves so that there world and all they know can survive.

Autobot Headquarters

The frantic cadence of fast marching footsteps broke the silence of the hallway to the command center of the Iacon Fortress. Automatic doors opened as the four feet that had carried the newcomers to the entrance of the Situation Room came to a pause. For a moment all was still, then suddenly those feet and eventually the entire frames of the would be entrants was enveloped in a soft blue light. “Identities confirmed, await descent.” An automated voice stated as the floor beneath the two frames made a churning noise then began its descent to the subterranean level of the fortress. As soon as the two stepped off of their elevator and the sound of pulleys taking the floor back to its original position ceased, a voice broke the silence.

“Come quickly young Autobots and tell us the status of the detention facility.”

“Emirate Xaaron, sir,” one of the mechs began. “Things did not go as planned.”

“It seems,” the other mech stated, “that someone else got to the facility before we could complete our assignment.”

“What do you mean got to the facility?” Xaaron questioned.

“Emirate Xaaron,” the larger mech began, “and Alpha Trion, sirs, we were able to place the arousal devices you gave us within the center’s holding areas, but what we found was that there were as many Decepticons imprisoned as Autobots.”

“So we,” the slightly smaller teal mech began, “decided to place the reactivation, I mean arousal devices only where the must dense Autobot population was. Before we could do that, we were interrupted by an explosion.”

“An explosion!” Alpha Trion declared as thoughts of the carnage raced through his processor.

“Not just one, but a series of explosions. The entire structure was razed to the ground. And as you can see, we did not leave unscathed.” The large mech said as the light brought the dents and scratches on his frame into view.

“Was he there Ultra Magnus?” Alpha Trion asked in a saddened toned.

“We saw lots of our old comrades sir, but no Prime?” Magnus answered.

“Damn it!” Xaaron exploded. “No Prime, no Allspark, and no hope!”

“Not so fast Xaaron.” Alpha Trion began in reassuring tone. “If Prime was not in the detainment facility, then maybe, just maybe he’s still functional.”

“If that’s all we have then that’s what we’ll have to use.” Emirate Xaaron declared. “We must as Alpha Trion just exemplified be optimistic. We will somehow win this war and save our world. Magnus, Kup, I’m glad you two made it. I have one last set of orders for you today. First, have First Aid take a look at your damage, and second, tell no one of the destruction you witnessed. The last thing we need right now is the spirits of our fellow Autobots broken.”

“As you wish sir.” Magnus and Kup said in unison before making their ways back towards the exit.

“Alpha,” Xaaron began, “What are we to do should the Allspark be lost or destroyed?”

“Pray that it’s not.” Alpha Trion answered.

“I feared something like this could happen. Was all this loss of life worth it?” Xaaron wondered.

“Had we not taken this chance the eventual loss may have been even more enormous.” Alpha replied. “You know this was our last hope.”

“Do you think he got the what he needed, and do you think he found Prime?” Xaaron questioned.

“Punch has never failed us before Xaaron. I’m sure he would not have set off the detonator without good reason.” Alpha explained.

“It’s not Punch that worries me Alpha,” Xaaron stated. “It’s his other half. Bad company eventually corrupts good morals.”

“So does war Xaaron. Whether Punch was masquerading behind Decepticon lines or ambushing Decepticon strongholds with the Wreckers he’d be exposed to cold existence.” Alpha Trion explained.

“I worry about Magnus and the Wreckers as well A3.” Xaaron stated. “I pray we can end this foolish war so we can unite our world for the real conflict.”

“I concur Xaaron,” A3 replied. “Till all are one.”

“Till all are one.” Xaaron echoed.



Tarn

A smoldering mess is all that remained of the Decepticon Detention Facility as soldiers ordered civilians and Empties to remove the debris and search for signs of life. Amid the sound of construction and recovery vehicles static began to buzz on the wrist of one of the soldiers.

“Barracade report.”

“Barracade reporting.” He answered.

“Are there any survivors?” the voice inquired.

“The facility was totally destroyed,” Barracde answered. “Survivors are minimal.”

“How many?”

“Five total, two Decepticons, and three Autobots.” Barracade answered.

“Have the survivors been identified?”

“All but one Autobot who can’t talk.” Barracade responded. “The other Autobots are designated Jazz and Ironhide. The Decepticon survivors are Shockwave and Bludgeon.”

“Anything else to report before sending the survivors in for data extraction?”

“Yes, I’ll be sending them in for questioning rather than data extraction since all of the survivors are out of stasis.” Barracade said before ending the conversation.


Weeks Later
***************

“Something is not adding up Soundwave.” A silver mech with red highlights began explaining. “The Autobot fleet that attacked our detention center could not have planted those detonators in the time they had after the breach.”

“Scans of the five survivors show they were brought out of stasis using Autobot technology.” Soundwave stated.

“Be that as it may, I don’t buy it. As our newly reanimated friend Shockwave would say, ‘it just isn’t logical.’ Why would they risk their own lives by attacking us, then risk the lives of so many Autobot prisoners in an attempt to free them? There’s something else going on.”

“That’s why now more than ever it’s imperative that we find Megatron.” Soundwave stated.

“How?”

“Frenzy has some information you may find useful Starscream.” Soundwave answered. “The silent Autobot seems to have had a run in with Megatron shortly before his disappearance. The remaining details are being extracted from his processor as we speak.”

“So, our Lord may yet be found.” Starscream began. “So what of the usurpers?”

“The interrogations of Bludgeon and Shockwave are scheduled to begin as soon as we’re done with the Autobots.” Soundwave answered.

“Excellent, but first I’d like to have a word with Shockwave in private.” Starscream ordered.

“You two have a history don’t you?” Soundwave questioned.

“Yes, before he sought Megatron’s position we were like brothers. In those days the Decepticon cause was quite formidable and Shockwave and I worked well to make sure it stayed that way.”

“What happened?”

“Optimus Prime happened.” Starscream answered. “He overwhelmed Shockwave to the point that it turned him into a cold isolated tactician rather than the charismatic soldier he had been in the past.”

“And what about you?”

“I became Megatron’s most loyal soldier, determined to stop Optimus Prime.” Starscream remembered. “I almost did, but as Megatron, my seekers, and I prepared to deliver what would have been a crashing blow to the Autobot general, Shockwave’s treachery intervened.”

Breaking Starscream’s reflection Soundwave inquired, “What would you have us do with Bludgeon?”

“Have Mindwipe give him a thorough psychological evaluation.” Starscream replied. “If he sees that Bludgeon is stable, have him appointed as a level 5 combat trainer. If we’re gonna rid ourselves of this Autobot menace his sinister tactics may be exactly what we need.”

“I will relay those instructions Starscream.” Soundwave replied as he glanced at his communicator that started beeping. “I believe Shockwave should be prepared for you momentarily.”

Excellent Soundwave.” Starscream said, “Now see that the Autobots get a lesson on how a real attack looks.”

Soundwave nodded his head in Starscream’s direction as the seeker took off, then turned and began walking in the opposite direction down towards an array of busy Decepticons.
“Onslaught, Blitzwing, Overkill, Ramcone, and Rumble report to me at once.” Soundwave ordered causing Decepticon optics to focus on the blue powerhouse while five powerfully built frames quickly made their way to the forefront of the assembled Decepticons.

“What are your orders Soundwave?” one of the five responded.

“Operation destruction. Destination, Iacon.” Soundwave concluded before an eerie silence was broken by the hum of energy weapons being powered up.



Interrogation Room
--------------------------------------------------

The loud sound of clanging metal echoed in the small room as the large purple frame of Shockwave bounced from the far wall to the floor. The reinforced titanium doors that weren’t there as he flew towards the wall soon closed behind him as he lay on the cold floor awaiting the questioning of his interrogator. For a moment the red blaze of his lone optic was all the light the small room offered, then suddenly light was all around him, and he found himself facing a dark glass mirror. Shockwave knew he was being watched, but by whom. He was surprised to hear that the voice of the one watching him was a very familiar voice.

“Welcome Shockwave.”

“Starscream!?!” Shockwave moaned weakly.

“Glad to know you still remember the sound of my voice. How have you been old friend?” Starscream said sarcastically garnering no response from his captive. “I guess the retro rabbits must have stolen your vocal processor. You know this situation you’ve found yourself in could have been avoided.”

“You cannot be serious Starscream.”

“I am very serious Shockwave. Your treachery has done unspeakable harm to the Decepticon cause. You should be thankful Megatron allowed you to function.”

“Function,” Shockwave responded, “you call this functioning. I would rather be one with Primus than to hear such garbage.”

“I see you’ve got that old spunk back Shockwave,” Starscream stated. “It’s been a long time and a lot has changed. I was hoping you had changed as well.”

“You of all mechs should know better.” Shockwave said. “If I am anything I am consistent, so logically I won’t change.”

“Oh but you did change.” Starscream began. “You changed from a great warrior, from a defender of the mighty Decepticon Empire to a traitor!”

“That is a lie and you know it.” Shockwave responded with his optic focused directly on the mirror.

“What I know is you changed from being a noble soldier, to a scientist, and finally to the mech that allowed the Autobot resistance to spread across Cybertron.” Starscream yelled.

“What I became was knowledgeable. I became a student of Cybertronian history and not some blind follower of Megatron. I never did anything to get in the way of the Decepticon cause. That damage was done by Megatron.”

“Do your lies ever cease?” Starscream ranted. “Megatron is the reason the Decepticon cause is what is today. Why is it that you believe you can fill his shoes?”

“I do not wish to do anything less than bring peace to Cybertron by destroying any who oppose the Decepticon way.” Shockwave replied.

“How noble of you traitor!” Starscream yelled.

“How can you say these things Starscream? You were there, Megatron saved Optimus Prime and caused us to falter. Why do you still not believe it was him and not me that did that?”

“I was there, and if I had not failed in my own battle with Optimus Prime it would not have had to come to the conclusion it did.” Starscream said. “I failed Megatron, then you tried to kill him.”

“Why do you blame everyone but Megatron from Megatron’s shortcomings?” Shockwave replied. “We could have finished Prime off, but instead he fired at his own warriors to save the Autobot leader and then he framed me. So yes, I did try to kill him. He was the traitor, and it is Megatron that does not deserve to live.”

The thick black window that separated the two suddenly began to separate just as the energon restraints that were just constricting the large purple mech suddenly released. Shockwave pause for a moment as he prepared himself to stand and face whatever was coming from Starscream’s side of the glass. The lights flickered off as a cadence of footsteps approached Shockwave. He was prepared for anything, anything accept what happened when the lights came on. There stood Starscream, alone with a specially made cannon designed to fit in the place of the hand Megatron had sliced from Shockwave’s arm.

“Welcome back to the Decepticons.” Starscream said as he grabbed his old friend by the arm so he could attach the new extremity.

“I don’t understand Starscream. This isn’t logical.” Shockwave said thoroughly confused.

“I forgive you old friend. We’ll say you had a glitch in your processor and no word of the past will ever be mention again.” Starscream declared.

“But what about Megatron,” Shockwave questioned. “When he finds out he’ll make slag out of both of us.”

“Megatron is lost and may never be found.” Starscream answered. “But if the day ever comes where we must face him, I will side with whatever is best for the Decepticon cause. Now, let’s get you to a medic.”

Wow, this is one interesting fanfic... great start, written excellently... looking forward to reading more.

Thanks SmokescreenGT for making this sig!
The TC and Wildfrost Story

Two brothers on a collision course with destiny must find a way to overcome adversity, overcome their demons, and overcome themselves so that there world and all they know can survive.



Shortly before the disappearance of Megatron and continuing afterwards, the Decepticon cause began facing some major setbacks, but for a long time the Decepticons did as they wished with any Cybertronian real estate and the inhabitants of that real estate. They were without peer when it came to might, influence, and intimidation. As they advanced across the planet they either made other Cybertronians assimilate into the Decepticon way or they made slaves of those who opposed. They were able to control two thirds of the planet in what seemed like no time. They were focused, they were precise, and they seemed unstoppable. Their lore become almost legendary as no Cybertronian, and really only a select group of Decepticons had ever seen the faction’s leader. Some legends had it that he was the emissary of a god, while others said he was the god, either way this mysterious figure served as inspiration for the faction while striking fear into the processors of all others. The name most called him by was The Liege Maximo, a moniker that lasted until the Decepticons decided to capture the other third of Cybertron that included the capital city of Iacon.


Historical Iacon (2 Vorns earlier)

“It’s a minor disturbance in the Empty Lands he told us, so we told the people the guardians at Polyhex would end this uprising. The guardians have been deactivated and now Polyhex and two thirds of Cybertron has fallen into Decepticon hands! How long can it be before they turn their attention to Iacon?” an unnerved mech declared as he banged his fist against the table where he and three other mechs were seated.

“How could he or for that matter anyone of us have known that the uprising in the Empties would lead to this Kranix?” Xaaron began. “What we need now more than finger pointing is a solid plan that will help us make sure Iacon doesn’t fall into their hands as well.”

“Xaaron’s right,” A3 interjected. “We need a team of warriors, and yes I said warriors with the courage and strength not only to face down this Decepticon menace, but also turn them away so the people can slowly take back their freedom.”

“What you are suggesting is a war! We were not built for war A3.” Arbolus, the last of the seated foursome declared. “What you are suggesting is suicide those of my kind. No Lythomech would stand a chance against the Decepticon war machine!”

“Being of Lythomech design myself, I second what Arbolus is saying.” Kranix said.

“The two of you are both correct.” Xaaron said as he gave the table a once over. “Lythomechs are not equipped to fight, but those of us who can must be prepared to do so. The way I see it, we have very limited choices. We can reactive the old guardians and hope they can stave off the threat to Iacon, we can all stay here and fight ourselves against a much more organized army of soldiers, or we can have the segment of our population that would face certain death in battle evacuate now so we can make room for our own set of defenders within Iacon.”

“Xaaron,” A3 began. “Are you actually serious about building another race of warriors?”

“Yes I am, I see no other way.” Xaaron answered.

“Kranix, Arbolus,” A3 inquired. “What do you two propose?”

“I’m with whatever Kranix says.” Arbolus answered.

“Well, having taken into consideration the bigger picture, the ramifications of allowing this band of rogues to control this entire planet is not an option. We must most stop them no matter the cost, even if that cost involves some of us leaving the home world for a time so a proper defense can be mounted.” Kranix declared. “I say bring the soldiers online.”

“You have the deciding vote A3 as this decision must be unanimous.” Xaaron stated as three sets of optics focused on the former liberator.

“If we must then, let it be so.” A3 said with hesitation.



**********************************
“You have got to start seeing the bigger picture brother.” A large silver and orange mech said to a slightly smaller silver and red mech as they walked towards the hall the leaders of the Cybertronian counsel had summoned them to.

“All I know Sentinal is that the Decepticons are ransacking Cybertron in their quest for total domination and Iacon is probably next on their hit list.”

“Pax,” Sentinal replied, “my dear sweet little brother you have tunnel vision. The Decepticons have not once threatened Iacon. All they have done is clean up the Empty Lands, build Polyhex back from the ruins of the Revolution, and turn a bunch of peasant bots into soldiers.”

“Or slaves, you left out the part about oppression.” Pax replied.

“That is all hear say Pax. Do you, or does anyone else for that matter know their motivation? It could ultimately turn out to be noble.” Sentinal replied.

“There’s no nobility in forced assimilation or slavery Sentinal. Freedom is the right of every sentient being.” Pax stated.

“Yes but true freedom has a price Pax and those unwilling to pay that price don’t deserve the benefits that come with true freedom. Freedom, little brother, is not a right, it’s a privilege.” Sentinal declared.

“So let me make sure I understand what it is you’re saying,” Pax began. “If we truly want to be free we must be willing to fight for it even if it means putting our lives and the lives of innocents in danger.”

“Unfortunately in war there, are no innocents brother.” Sentinel stated.

“And if all of Iacon takes on your attitude there will be no innocence.” Pax responded.

“If our world ever faces the type of threat it did when our fathers were slaves innocence will be but a hindrance to the true freedom Cybertron really desires. We need to be prepared for anything because I for one don’t want to have us or those who follow us be enslaved ever again, especially by organics.”

“What do you have against organics anyway?” Pax teased.

“They’re disgusting and inferior creatures Pax. They are truly only fit to be our pets, the universe would probably smell a lot better without them.” Sentinel answered.

“From what I’ve heard, this Liege Maximo wants to turn the citizens of Iacon into his pets. What do you suppose we do about that?” Pax asked in a more serious tone as they approached they steps of the hall that lead to the conference room.

“Let’s hope the council takes the advice I gave them before and decides to fight.” Sentinel replied as they made their way into the conference room.

“Have a seat you two.” The voice of Emirate Xaaron said as he came through and closed the door behind him. “I’m glad you came so quickly.”

“The summons sounded urgent.” Sentinel responded. “What is this all about?”

“The Council is not happy with your initial assessment of the potential of Decepticon uprising.” Emirate Xaaron began. “What you termed a small uprising has gotten completely out of hand and now the Council fears Iacon may be threatened.”

“So what are we going to do about the threat?” Sentinel asked.

“Some time ago you suggested that we take up arms and bring online a fleet of defenders capable of protecting Iacon from threats.” Xaaron stated. “The Council has decided today, that it is time we followed that course of action.”

“What you are suggesting is a war!” Pax proclaimed. “Think of the ramifications.”

“We have Pax.” Xaaron answered. “And it is due to those ramifications that we feel we have no choice.”

“What would you like us to do?” Sentinel inquired.

“We feel you two are the best equipped to lead this new band of defenders, so what we’re ask you today is to accept the positions of Autobot Generals.” Xaaron concluded.

“I am but a pit fighter, some might even call me a gladiator, but I am no leader.” Pax declared in protest.

“Emirate Xaaron,” Sentinel started. “I like my brother am a gladiator and not some military genius. This task you ask of us is monumental. Are you certain?”

“I am not.” Xaaron answered. “But there is another within the ranks of the Council that believes you two are the only ones fit for this calling. He has great faith in you both, and because of that, so must I.”

The two brothers glanced at each other intently for a moment as if they were conveying a silent message. Then the younger of the two spoke.
“We are willing to pay whatever price freedom requires Emirate Xaaron. If Sentinel leads, I will gladly stand by his side.”

“Sentinel?” Emirate Xaaron motioned.

“It is as my brother has stated.” Sentinel began. “We will serve, we will fight, and we will defend freedom at all costs.”


Modern Iacon repair bay

A mech awakens from stasis and surveys his surroundings. He realizes he is one of two life forms in the old repair bay, the other being still in stasis. This repair bay had become a place he was all too familiar with. Battle after battle he found either himself or some of his closest comrades laying on gurneys in this very room. To him this place had an eerie comfort and provided him with a connection to those friends he had lost as well as the hope of his own recoveries.

“Wow Ratchet, this place has been the same for vorns. You really ought to tidy up and modernize old Lugnut’s place.” He said aloud to no one but himself as he stepped down from the gurney he was on.

Memories of why he was in here flashed through his processor as he began taking inventory of what was in his data banks. What he began realizing is that he had been in stasis for quite some time and that his most recent memories weren’t very recent. He then focused his attention of the blue mech in stasis on the gurney next his.

“Punch.” He said looking at the scorched frame of his fellow Autobot. “What happened to you?” He then looked in the mirror only to realize that his own frame was scorched and dented. “What happened to me?” he then asked aloud.

“Punch found you.” A shadowy figure that had quietly entered the small lab stated. “We must get you repaired.”

“Alpha Trion, is that you?” he asked as he looked in the direction of the shadowy intruder.

“I am so glad you are alive. There is hope after all.” The shadowy figure stated as he descended into the visible part of the room revealing himself to in fact be Alpha Trion.
“Did you find it?”

“Find what?” he asked as Alpha Trion put a hand on his massive shoulder and looked across his frame accessing the damage.

“The Allspark Prime. Where is the Allspark?”

“Megatron,” Prime answered in a whisper. “Megatron!”

this is going to be lovely, can't wait for more (but I guess I'll have to)

Two brothers on a collision course with destiny must find a way to overcome adversity, overcome their demons, and overcome themselves so that there world and all they know can survive.

Peace, War, and Loyalty





“It’s been too quiet in the Empties lately.” A red and silver mech said as he and two others trekked across the deserted lands.

“I take it you miss the days when we were getting our tailpipes handed to us by the Decepticons that used to run the Empty lands.” A silver mech with white trim replied.

“Sideswipe’s right Prowl,” A taller red mech chimed in. “It’s been really dull in the Empties for a while now. I’m starting to miss those boring meetings with you and Magnus in Iacon.”

“Speak for yourself Blaster,” Sidewipe began. “There hasn’t been any action in Iacon since Prime kicked Shockwave’s aft back to Polyhex. All there is for me in Iacon is trouble.”

“Magnus almost kicked you off the force after that last stunt you pulled.” Blaster added.

“What made you think that putting a life-sized image of Starscream in the big guy’s quarters would be funny anyway?” Prowl inquired.

“I thought it was pretty funny myself Sidesipe.” Blaster defended.

“Funny, it was hilarious.” Sideswipe added, “Ultra Magnus almost blew a gasket when he found out it was a prank. He blasted out half of his wall and scared the crap out of poor old Gears. The look of that old grunt running in a panic through the streets of Iacon still cracks me up.”

“It’s beyond me that you don’t seem to ever learn your lesson Sideswipe. Someone could have been hurt.” Prowl replied.

“I did learn a lesson because someone was hurt, me.” Sideswipe rebutted. “Me and Sunstreaker had to do five cycles with Kup on a boring mission to Andromeda 7, and Kup is a mech that refuses to shut up with his unending stories.”

“He can be a little long winded but you must admit that a lot of what he says,” Prowl paused to consider what he was about to say, “well some of what he says has merit.”

“Well let’s see you volunteer to go on the next mission with him then Prowl.” Blaster stated.

“I’ll pass.” Prowl responded with a chuckle.

The trio continued their trek through the Empties as night fell and darkness surrounded them. The built in Cybertronian positioning systems let them know they were now a long distance from any Autobot territory and venturing dangerously close to a Decepticon stronghold. Not even Sideswipe was foolish enough to venture any farther than they had already traveled, and although it had been an empty journey through the Empty Lands, they all realized that when day broke it would be time to turn around. So they made a makeshift camp out of the debris that surround them, placed the energon rations they had remaining in satchels beside them, and prepared to recharge.

“It’s way to quite out here.” Sideswipe said.

“Didn’t we already have this conversation?” Blaster added.

“Yeah I know and we get it,” Prowl responded. “Magnus was mad, Gears was scared, and Kup talks a lot, now shut up and recharge.”

“All I’m saying is that nothing good ever happens when it’s this quiet out.” Sideswipe declared. “I’ve got a bad feeling guys.”

“Here,” Prowl said with annoyance as he got up and reached for his photon charger. “Maybe this will comfort you.”

“Oh how sweet,” an unfamiliar voice cut in. “Too bad there’s nothing there that’ll comfort you!”

“What the pit!” Blaster yelled as he jumped to his feet and backed up slowly until he felt the backs of his two fellow Autobots against his own.

“Thanks for the energon.” The strange voice began. “We don’t like your kind out here in our Empties pretty bots. Take em out boys!” the voice concluded as what sounded like dozens of sets of feet moved in on the trio.


*****************
“The last of the cranial scans and data extractions is complete.” An automated voice declared.

“Excellent. What is the final analysis?”

“Subject one, Autobot designated Jazz is a field captain with limited knowledge of Autobot or Cybertronian history. He was hand picked by the Autobot leader to take on this responsibility in order to rein him in. He was once considered reckless, but has developed into a valuable Autobot asset. No knowledge of the whereabouts of Prime or Megatron.” The voice stated.

“Useful, mere fodder if you ask me.”

“Subject two, Autobot designated Ironhide is of a lesser rank than the previous Autobot but has a much more impressive resume’.”

“Spare me the history lesson, what does he know?”

“Very little sir. Shall I continue?” the voice inquired.

“Please.”

“The final Autobot, identified as Bumblebee….” It continued before being interrupted.

“What the pit is a Bumblebee?”

“An organic bug according to my records.” The voice answered.

“Didn’t I say continue!” came the annoyed response.

“Subject Bumblebee’s last known memory was of his vocal processor being rip out by Megatron.”

“How long ago?”

“A vorn.” The voice responded.

“The last words he picked up before going off line were as follows: ‘Where is Optimus Prime?!’ This was asked by Megatron.”

“Is that all you have?”

“No sir.” The voice continued as a display screen lit up. “This interaction took place at these coordinates.”

“That was near Megatron’s forbidden quarters, which doesn’t make sense.” The data specialist uttered in a confused tone. “According to our records this Autobot’s frame was discovered just outside of southern Polyhex near the Empties.”

“Anything further sir?” the voice asked.

“Yes, get me a line to Soundwave,” the data specialist demanded. “He may find this information useful.”


Iacon*********

Iacon, or New Iacon as the ancients term it had been a bastion of peace for much of its existence. The organic slave masters originally designed the original Iacon as the second city of Cybertron. Its sister city, which has remnants still visible from New Iacon was to be the jewel of the planet. Near the end of the Great War, the Cybertronian rebels laid siege on Iacon and drove their organic foes from its borders forcing them to flee to the not yet completed sister city. The rebels turned Iacon into their staging ground and brought in refuges from all around Cybertron in hopes of finally defeating their oppressors. They finally built up enough of a force to give them confidence that they could lay siege to the beautiful Crystal City and rid Cybertron once and for all of the organics that had enslaved them. On the front lines, preparing to invade the glorious City, the former slaves behind the leadership of A3 were able to breach the walls allowing the masses of freedom thirsty Cybertronians to flow inside its walls. All was going according to plan until the slave masters unleashed their biggest weapons, the guardians. These monsters all but obliterated the rebel forces. Those that survived the guardian onslaught rushed back to Iacon in a panic hoping that its walls would offer them protection. The protection they sought was short lived as the guardians stormed in decimating Iacon in the process. Had it not been for a mysterious emissary delivering A3 a special map that led him to a device called the Coda Remote which was hidden amongst some weird hieroglyphics, all would have been lost. But as it turned out, the guardians were shut down by A3 activating the Remote, some natives survived, and their oppressors were forced to abandon their positions as lords of Cybertron and flee.
Iacon was a mess, but even less could be said of the Crystal City that was totally decimated in a final battle with the Last Guardian. All of its pristine structures were knocked to the ground and its remains serve as a tomb for the Last Guardian to this day. Iacon was rebuilt and new mechs were brought online, and since that time, Iacon has known peace and prosperity. On all but one occasion, the civil war that had ravaged most of Cybertron since that time had, for whatever reason spared Iacon.

Until the cry of………….

“DECEPTICONS ATTACK!” echoed across the Iacon sky as photon blasts and artillery shells began raining destruction from above.

For ages Iacon had been a place of refuge for Autobots and neutrals. Under Megatron the Decepticons dared not do more than threaten Iacon. But Megatron was gone now, and for that matter so was Prime. Now nothing was sacred, not even Iacon.

“What’s going on out here!?” Ultra Magnus yelled a he ran into the streets of a panic-strickened Iacon.

“Decepticons at the gates, Decepticons in the city, Decepticons, Decepticon, Decepticons!” a frantic blue mech replied.

“Get a grip Blurr, we don’t have time for panic.” Ultra Magnus responded. “I need you to round up whatever Autobots you can find and start getting these civilians to safety.”

“Yes sir Ultra Magnus, I’m going, I’m going, I’m going!” Blurr replied before taking off and watching Kup join Ultra Magnus.

“This doesn’t look good Magnus.” Kup stated. “What in the pit do you think made them attack Iacon?”

“Don’t know Kup,” Magnus replied. “But if we don’t start punching back soon this place is gonna end up looking worse than the old Crystal City.”

“So what’s the plan?” Kup asked as they ducked pot shots and ran for cover.

“Contact Wheeljack and Hotspot. We need them to activate the city’s defenses.” Magnus said. “I’m gonna find Springer and Prowl and see if we can put the Decepticons on the defensive.”

“Sounds good to me.” Kup replied. “Now cover me!” Kup declared as he raced from the makeshift bunker firing at the city’s airborne assailants.

A blast from the shoulder of the hulking white Autobot general made a sudden and dramatic impact on the unlucky seeker that had previously taken aim at the departing Kup. The wounded Decepticon came crashing to the ground about 100 yards in front of Ultra Magnus as more and more civilians raced through the streets of Iacon seeking shelter from the melee.

“Springer do you read me, Springer do you read me.” Magnus beckoned.

“I read you loud and clear sir, but I’ve kind of got a situation at the moment.” Springer replied amid the sound of laser blasts.

“All of Iacon has a situation right now Springer!” Magnus replied. “Meet me at the east gate pronto and try not to get slagged on the way.”

“Copy that Ultra Magnus.” The green powerhouse replied as he unleashed a round of artillery into the sky. “Being slagged was not on my to-do list for the day!”

“Prowl, Prowl, this is Ultra Magnus, do you read me?” the general spoke into his communicator. “I need you to return to Iacon immediately!” Still no response Magnus realized as a menacing Decepticon that had landed directly in front of his position turned to face him after firing on the panicking multitude running for safety.

“Looks like today’s my lucky day Autobot.” The large black Decepticon stated with an evil grin.

“No, today’s your last day Decepticon!” Magnus replied before spearing the would be challenger onto the hard surface below them.


******
“Status report Onslaught.” The voice of Soundwave broke through as the powerful Decepticon battalion leader terrorized lesser skilled Autobots.

“We have breached the northern and southern gates. Three companies of foot soldiers are inside the city forcing its pitiful citizens towards the west wall as we speak. In a matter of time every Autobot in Iacon including Ultra Magnus will be trapped between the west wall and our forces.”

“Excellent Onslaught.” Soundwave responded. “We will send another battalion to Iacon to secure the east gate shortly. Take no prisoners.”

“It will be my pleasure Soundwave.” Onslaught replied as Soundwave cut the communication. “Decepticons, forward!”

“Soundwave,” the voice of Frenzy, the data specialist interrupted.

“What were you able to find?” Soundwave inquired.

“It seems the silent Autobot may reveal a clue to the disappearance of Megatron.” Frenzy replied.

“Are these coordinates relevant to Megatron’s whereabouts?” asked Soundwave.

“Yes my master,” Frenzy responded. “It seems that this location is the last place we have a physical record of Megatron’s whereabouts. It is the only clue we have as to where he may have disappeared to.”

“Did I just hear you say we may be able to find our Liege?” the voice of Starscream interjected as he and the very formidable Shockwave entered the room.

“Indeed.” Soundwave replied while giving a suspicious look to the purple war machine next to Starscream. “We should act on this lead at once.”

“I could not agree more Soundwave.” Starscream stated as he shot a glance from Shockwave to Soundwave indicating that this was not the time for suspicions. “I will take Frenzy and have Blackout rendezvous with us at the coordinates. As for you two, one of you stays at Darkmount to man the command center, the other take a battalion to Iacon to finish off the Autobots.”

“Do you trust this mech Starscream!?” Soundwave inquired. “you yourself said…..”

“I know what I said Soundwave,” Starscream answered. “but what I am saying now is HURRY!!”

“I understand your apprehension Soundwave.” Shockwave began. “Your assessments of the intentions of most mechs have always been logical. I can assure you that I will help the Decepticon cause rise to dominance once again. Let me lead the last battalion and I will prove where my loyalties lie.”

“Enough, your requests are noted,” Soundwave replied giving a serious gaze to both Starscream and Shockwave. “I will guard Darkmount as has been, suggested.”


****************
Back in Iacon

“Punch, run a quick self diagnostic and tell me if your systems are all up and running.” Alpha Trion ordered.

“I’m fine sir, please just let me get out there it sounds like our guys need me!” Punch pleaded.

“You just make sure you’re fully functional!” Alpha Trion barked. “Right now we need Counterpunch more. We need you to go back to Polyhex to the following coordinates.”

“I don’t understand,” Punch stated as he glanced dismissively at the coordinates. “We may be getting pounded up there and you expect me not to fight!”

“I expect you to do what is in the best interest of Cybertron, and killing and injuring more Cybertronians will not accomplish that task.” Alpha Trion answered.

“I….don’t understand!” Punch said reluctantly.

“Listen to me now Punch, I scanned Prime’s most recent memories and it seemed he had an encounter with Megatron in that region.” Alpha Trion replied. “It seems that location may render some answers as to the whereabouts of the Allspark. Cybertron needs you to Punch. Please.”

“Alright Alpha Trion, if it’s that important then I guess I must.” Punch stated as he ready himself for departure. “Just make sure when the big guy’s repaired and awake you tell him to kick some tailpipe for me.”

“I will my friend.” Alpha Trion answered as he watched the blue Autobot transform into his alter ego and depart towards the surface. “Primus speed Punch, Primus speed.”





********************************
Meanwhile In the Empties


“I never wanted to leave Iacon,” the complaining began, “I had it good there. Sure life could be a bore there from time to time, but at least a mech knew he wouldn’t be slagged.”

“Will you please hush Sideswipe!” Prowl grunted. “We’ve got to find a way to get out of these energon restraints so we can activate our communicators and get some help.”

“That may not be an option guys.” Blaster declared. “I’ve been trying to send a signal to Iacon for a while now and I can’t get through.”

“So what do we do now Prowl?” Sideswipe asked sarcastically.

“We still need to get out of these restraints,” Prowl answered. “Once we do that hopefully we can find our way out of this dump.”

“I think I may be able to…….” Blaster began. “Somebody roll over here so I can.”

“Roll over where Blaster?” Sideswipe inquired.

“Towards the sound of my voice smart guy.” Blaster answered.

“Ouch, now what.” The other two captives replied as they bumped into each other near Blaster.

“Just……….. be………. Still.” Blaster said with a grunt as he propped himself up using his fellow Autobots.

“What the pit are you doing Blaster?!” Prowl whispered as Blaster lost his balance and fell to the floor with a loud thud.

“That ought to do it.” The large red Autobot stated as he impacted the floor.

“Do what!” Sideswipe screamed.

“Get us some light.” Blaster answered as the hum of radiant energy and footsteps were heard prior to the room being illuminated and Prowl and Sideswipe soon realized Blaster had broken the cell bars.

“What’s the problem in here?” a ragged mech stated, as he and another that looked just like him said as they approached the holding area.

“We are!” Sideswipe said as he and Prowl lunged at the unprepared guards knocking their weapons to the floor.

“Behind you Blaster,” Prowl beckoned as he noticed an energon sword lying on the floor of the cell. “Slam your restraints against the sword!”

Blaster slammed his restraints against the sword only to have a painful surge of energy flow into his circuits. “I think this was a bad idea Prowl!” he yelled as the pain surged.

“Bad idea my aft,” Sideswipe interjected noticing Blaster was free of his restraints as he struggled to loose himself from the grasp of one of the guards.

“Blast us free Blaster!” Prowl urged as the guards began to get the better of the Autobots.

Quick null charges from the wrist of the freed Autobot to the guards and then to the restraints of his friends soon released both Prowl and Sideswipe.

“Thanks Blaster.” Sideswipe declared as he kicked one of the downed guards that was struggling to get up.

“Enough playing around guys,” Prowl began, “We’ve got to get a move on before we have more company.”

“Why’d you have to say that!” Sideswipe protested as a rushing cadence of footsteps was heard coming their way.

“You heard Prowl Sideswipe, let’s boogie.” Blaster declared as he gave Sideswipe a nudge in the back as the three Autobots took off down the hallway.

“They’re gaining on us Prowl, any ideas?!” Sideswipe asked.

“We have to find an opening guys,” Prowl answered. “I know there’s just got to be one around here somewhere!”

“There!” Blaster said pointing to a literal light at the end of their tunnel. “If we hurry we can make it out and blast the exit shut behind us.”

A rush of fuel pulsated through the diodes and servos of the trio as they reached the surface and ran a safe distance from the tunnel exit.

“Let’s blast it boys!” Prowl yelled prompting the three to open fire on the debris around the exit and any pursuers unlucky enough to reach the exit.

“Yes, we did it!” Sideswipe celebrated as tons of debris fell into the tunnel closing the exit on top of any in pursuit. “I’ve got great story for old Kup now!”

“How about making it back to Iacon in one piece before we start the celebration.” Prowl declared while trying to get a reading from his communicator or from his CPS (Cybertronian Positioning System). “Let’s keep it moving.”

“I can’t get a signal either.” Blaster stated as he tried to get through to Iacon. “Looks like we’ll be on our own until we get closer to Autobot territory.”

“Oh I wouldn’t say that.” A strange but eerily familiar voice behind them stated.

The three turned around only to notice a rickety burnt orange mech addressing them. Suddenly, the ground around them started to shake and in what seemed like less than an astro-second they were surrounded by what seemed like hundreds of orange and gray mechs.

“You boys feel like dancin’.” the rickety mech declared in a strange accent as the circle of rag tag mech closed in on the trio.

“That’s it!” Blaster stated. “I ain’t running from no damn Empties. If they wanna fight, then I say it’s time we get our hands dirty.”

“There’s three of us,” Sideswipe begun, “and oh, about 100 of them! I think you’ve blown a gasket Blaster!”

“Stop your belly achin’ Sideswipe.” Prowl began. “You’ve always liked a good fight.”

“What I’d like right now is to be in Iacon dancing with some femmes with Sunstreaker rather than playing around in The Empties with these, whatever they are!” Sideswipe replied.

“Allow me to introduce ourselves,” the rickety one that appeared to be the leader stated. “My name is Wreck Gar, and it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Now, Junkions, let’s greet our new friends!”

“Give em hell Autobots!” Prowl yelled as he raced towards a section of Junkions guns blazing.

“I guess if I’m going out, I’ll be taking some Junkions with me.” Sideswipe declared as he lashed out at the Junkions around him.

Blaster, on the other hand did not push forward. He just waited until a pair of Junkions had made their way to him. “You fools just punched your ticket to the scrap heap.” Blaster said as he began to pummel his would be attackers.

Prowl and Sideswipe moved quickly and smoothly through Junkion after Junkion as they tried to mount an offensive. “Knocking these guys to the ground is not the hard part,” Sideswipe yelled to Prowl, “It’s getting them to stay there!”

“We’re not gonna be able to keep this up forever Sideswipe.” Prowl responded. “Think we can reason with what’s his name?”

“That guy looks like he’s been to the scrap heap one too many times Prowl, so I seriously doubt it.” Sideswipe declared as he knocked another Junkion to the ground only to be surrounded by about ten more.

The trio held out as long as they could, but eventually the numbers game caught up with them. Now low on energon, the three Autobots that had put up one hellacious fought became easy to restrain, and Wreck Gar motioned for the threesome to be brought to him.

“What do you suppose we ought to do with you three scoundrels?” Wreck Gar asked as the Autobots were tossed to the ground in front of him.

“Go slag yourself!” Sideswipe yelled.

“I think you’d best be quiet boy!” Wreck gar replied in a weird dialect.

“How about letting us go.” Prowl demanded. “We’ve done nothing wrong.”

“You marched into our town, found our hideout, and fouled up our catacombs.” Wreck Gar replied.

“I mean really,” Sideswipe began, “other than those things, did we really do anything that bad?”

“I’d be much obliged if’n you’d keep your trap shut red.” Wreck Gar responded. “The bottom line is that we can’t let you get back to the Decepticons and tell them we exist. Yur gonna have to stay here, or die!”

“Wait a minute,” Prowl stated. We’re not Decepticons. Why do you think we’re Decepticons?”

“You sure look like em’.” Wreck Gar answered.

“He’s got a point Prowl,” Sideswipe stated. “You do kind of favor Barracade.”

“That’s not helping scrap for brains.” Blaster grunted as a chorus of boos jeers erupted at the comment.

“We like our scrap around these parts stranger, so watch your mouth.” Wreck Gar said.

“Whatever you worthless Empty!” Blaster rebutted. “The fact of the matter is we are not Decepticons. Now let us go!”

“Sorry, but if you can’t prove you ain’t a Decepticon, than I can’t free you with a pardon.” Wreck Gar replied.

“Blaster,” Prowl began as he noticed the light on his fellow Autobot’s chest blinking. “Your chest is beeping. We may be getting a signal from Iacon.”

“We got a communication jam on this whole area.” Wreck Gar responded. “You can’t talk to them, and they can’t talk to you.”

“You don’t understand Wreck Gar,” Prowl pled. “If you let us answer the page, we’ll be able to prove we’re not Decepticons. Please?”

“I can’t believe we’re begging Empties.” Blaster whispered to himself.

“If that’s what it takes then damn it……….” Prowl stated as Wreck Gar stroked the metal goatee and pondered things for a moment before interrupting the Autobot discussion.

“I did you say Iacon?” Wreck Gar asked.

“Yes,” Prowl replied. “Iacon is our home. We’re Autobots the mech that runs the place is trying to get a hold of us.”

“Megatron!” Wreck Gar gasped.

“No, no, no!” Blaster responded. “Optimus Prime kicked his tailpipe out of Iacon vorns ago. Iacon’s no longer in Decepticon hands.”

“It’s the truth Wreck Gar,” Prowl interjected. “Alpha Trion and Emirate Xaaron govern Iacon now. We Autobots,” Prowl said while motioning to Blaster and Sideswipe, “we protect it.”

“Open up the dead zone.” Wreck Gar ordered then nodded at Blaster. “You, give the communication device to me.”

“I am the communication device!” Blaster argues back.

“Calm down Blaster,” Prowl said as he motioned for Blaster to cool it. “Take mine Wreck Gar, here.” Prowl finished as he handed the device to the Junkion leader.

Wreck Gar pressed a button on the communicator then began speaking in the voice of Prowl. “This is Prowl, I had bad signal earlier, but I copy.”

“Well it’s about time Prowl!” the panicking voice of Ultra Magnus began. “The Decepticons are attacking Iacon and we need you here pronto!”

“What the pit!” All three Autobots gasped.

“You’ve got to let us go Wreck Gar,” Prowl beckoned. “Our friends need us!”

“So, you Autobots really fight the Decepticons.” Wreck Gar pondered. “I’ve got one last question for you.” Wreck Gar said in a rather normal voice as he motioned to his troops. “Do you need any help?”

Woo-hoo! Hot stuff! Keep up the good work, Throwback!

Thanks SmokescreenGT for making this sig!
The TC and Wildfrost Story

Preview of the next installment is coming

“Extempaxia,” a bestial trans-organic with three green tentacles growing in the place of each arm and large extended purple head with a powder blue face began as he entered the lab. “Lord Kledji would like a status report on the subject at once.”

“We have not been able to decipher whether or not this NBE is still sentient.” Extempaxia answered after giving a nod to the other tentacled scientist he was working with. “But according to the data Inquirata has been able to extract, we think we know where this design originated.”

“It, or he is definitely sentient you two!” the purple-headed intruder declared. “Our reports say that it destroyed 3 legions of Shark Droids before it was apprehended on the first planet past the asteroid belt.”

“We have heard the reports, yet we still must be careful not to make any incorrect assumptions Admiral Krahulik.” Extempaxia replied. “Based on our findings, this being has been in stasis for an expansive period of time. It does not seem like that the reports received were accurate.”

“Then why are there legions of scorched Shark Driods ripped to shreds on that moon?” the admiral responded.

“Stand back.” Inquirata requested while moving to the left side of the gurney the subject was lying on.

“This had better be good.” The admiral replied with a look of curiosity.

“It appears that this being,” Inquirati began before pausing so he could concentrate on finding a specific spot on the subject. “has an ignition switch.” He concluded while pressing a switch that caused the massive frame of the inert robot to ignite.

“So Admiral Krahulik,” Extempaxia stated. “Our subject’s defense mechanism was in all likelihood activated by the druids in an attempt to apprehend his chassis. That may be a reason so many of them met their demise.”

“Very interesting,” the admiral responded as he gazed at the large flaming frame. “Lord Kledji was hoping we’d find something more interesting on our scavenger hunt through this system, but I guess this will have to do.”

“That is not all admiral.” Inquirata stated. “It appears this frame has been in rather recent contact with some type of organic life forms.”

“So, there may indeed be life in this solar system after all, but where?” the admiral wondered.

“All indications are that if there is life, it must be on the other side of the asteroid belt.” Inquirata responded.

“Unfortunately with the loss of so many of our mechanical foot soldiers and the limited fire power this ship possesses we cannot cross the asteroid belt.” The Admirable said as a realization of their limitations sunk in. “I’ll send a report in to Lord Kledji in hopes of getting reinforcements. Continue the good work doctors.” The Admiral concluded before leaving the room.