Hello everyone! This is the most recent fanfic that I began working on earlier this year. This story is my idea of what happened after the crossover in Transformers Earth Wars in which Autobots and Decepticons team up with GI Joe and Cobra.

Chapter 1


A pure black visor stared at the acid green flames dancing higher and higher above the fallen Cobra base. His acid gun slipped down worn fingers, Viper's knees gave way to the course sand surface. Wings lowered and bullet ridden. Spent a whole day, by himself getting rid of his creators. Humans, they've done nothing but cause chaos in his life. Memories racing in his head. Torment, lobotomy, neglect. They're dead, all of them. The red symbol he detests on his wings, the first born human made Cybertronian. Meant to be a weapon against other inferior humans. He got up, taking his battered body away from the sea of acid he'd inflicted on the pitiful humans.

The pain overwhelmed him, those tanks, the copters, forced him to land into the sand once again. Tiny grains blowing against ruined true blue paint. Maybe its best to die now, he killed those who brought him to this world, to stifle his life because of a failure, yet, he danced with Decepticons. As he listened to the fire cackling from back at his 'birthplace', a shadow overtook his vision. One with yellow optics; processor trying to bring back any memories of those with yellow. It stung, its always hurt to look through memories due to the lobotomy. Got difficult to remember important things, most assumed short term memory loss that Shockwave didn't bother to look through. Maybe if he does survive this pit he'll force that lazy scientist to help. For now, this mysterious fellow seemed to be helping him out. Other colors became recognizable. Nightbird...

His processor kept repeating the same visions. A record player of rotating screams of torment. Flesh melting away into the puddles of their creation's tears. Among the fragments is of a human cowering in a corner, his face cut and green jacket torn off. Instead of fear, he scowled.

“I gave you a new life Viper! You can't do this to me when I wasn't involved with what happened! I freed you from your prison!” Luca screamed, shaking his fist up.

“You betrayed the Decepticons, for a few dollars more...” Viper replied, taking aim and letting the green flames come to life... One traitor down, never deserving to wear the silver badge on his jacket.

The agonizing screams started to grow numbing as the malfunctioning processor stopped thinking. Focused on preserving the battered soldier, for his mission is complete at last. Nightbird, the last thought on his mind, wondering why she came. Did Megatron ask the ninja to investigate? Too tired to question, gotta sleep...

Music began to play, the kind that'd be relaxing to whoever took a listen with its keyboards. Optics lit up to the sight of the bright lights meant for surgery. A figure came into vision again, this time, its one with a red visor. Dang it, more faces to identify. At least his bright green paint job helped determine which of the Constructicons this is.

“Well, I thought you wouldn't turn gray because your human made.” Hook smirked, stepping back to grab a few more tools.

“How'd I get here?” Viper tried sitting up, yet pain spiked in his back, forcing him to lie down again.

“Nightbird dragged you in here and told me to get to work. Sounds like you made them all pay. Megatron will be glad to hear the details.” He grabbed one of the wings and began to pluck out the bullets. Viper's servos clenched, wishing he could get up and clobber the mech. Everything's too numb, like something's in his system. It could be either that or armor is still recovering from the trauma.

“Did Megatron ask her to come along?” Optics watched as the boxy helmed mech shook from left to right. His tray piling up with small metal pieces. Other Constructicons began to assist their brother and repair the damaged armor. Hook pulled off the broken black glass, revealing two vibrant blue optics underneath.

“Nope, he didn't order anyone to see your attempts. We thought you would've died. Looks like you're made of sterner stuff.” Viper didn't retort, rest, must rest and wait until he could find that canary and force the answers out of her.

It felt odd to not wear a visor anymore. His once unseen optics inspected the long hallways of the military base. A few Decepticons walked by the broken freak of a soldier. Some glanced by, but others chuckled, giddy that they aren't made by flesh creatures. Viper remained firm as he walked, wings still in pain, but will get repaired another time. Hook and others had to deal with other tarnished things. He's already broken, always been since the failure. All to think about was the silver emotionless face before his processor got torn apart. The former Cobra mech didn't notice the three fingered hand grabbing his shoulder. A great smirk embedded into one's golden face.

“Well done Viper, I enjoy human sacrifices. They were my favorite parts of Aztec history.” The one whose name would send shivers down one's Energon veins. His grin became twisted as a Cheshire Cat's. Viper glanced back, seeing the purple glowing in his vision.

“I don't care Malus, you can interpret it any way you want, but its my story, and I ended it.” Viper tried moving, yet the demigod kept a firm hold.

“Where are you going? Do you believe that I am not worthy for a conversation?” His frown changed as much as a mask for the audience of an opera.

“I want some time to myself. I spent all day fighting for my freedom while you and everyone else sat back and enjoyed my suffering like a show!” Viper's wings flared, even if he's shorter than him, that fire burned in blue optics.

“Your war, not mine.” Oh, if the snake had his acid gun, then there wouldn't be any trace of this rotten fruit anywhere. Who cares if he's the guardian to some shiny balls, none of his business.

“Be lucky I spent all my rage on the humans, rather than you.” He stomped away as Malus scoffed.

“Toodle pip Viper.” Spat out as he transformed into his spider tank alt mode and crawled away.

More faces, the same faces rewinding faster as the figures passed by. Some showing hints of concern, but hidden by their tough attitudes and looks. Viper shrugged each off, not caring if anyone was walking around this morning. Sometimes questions about the ninja, yet none replied. Until he reached up to Swindle with a fist aimed at his face.

“You're the last scumbag I'll ask today, where is Nightbird?” Viper hissed, showing the scars on broken fingers. The mech smirked, trying to cower away from the situation.

“Come on Viper, I know you had one heck of a night, but give me some credit. I didn't sell anything to Cobra,” bam! A fist to the face, letting fresh pain reel in pristine faceplates.

“Say that word again, I could go for another injection of their venom into my veins.” He goaded, before noticing a glimmer of yellow that vanished down the hallway.

“Hey!” The Rattler ran, leaving Swindle to cough up some Energon.

A giant hanger, of all places to hide in. Dark blue came in, broken glass trying to inspect wherever the femme could be. He noticed her shadow among the dim lights. Dancing around old machinery that'd been defunct for a long time. Human made items, Hook would use them for spare parts when needed. Swindle pawning off each piece for big bucks. A flicker of yellow again right beside him. Nightbird, what is she doing? She held up a blade against his neck.

“Sever the cables, and you will do nothing.” She spoke in such stillness that wouldn't alert anyone of her presence. Viper tensed, gripping the yellow weapon and making sure it wouldn't leave its mark.

“I want answers to why you were following me!” He yelled out, flipping the femme over. Nightbird groaned, unable to get up before he pressed his arm onto her neck. His other servo gripped the blade in her hand. They stared, optics burning in the morning sunlight as it crept from tiny windows in the room. Blue and yellow, much like an electric storm.

“Didn't want to continue living?” She whispered, leaning up even when he tried pushing her down.

“My life is over, I have no reason to continue, so why bring me back?” Nightbird looked away.

“We're soldiers, and you're purpose shouldn't end in such a way.” She exhaled, kicking the mech off, Viper stood back up, retaining his balance.

“Then why try killing me if I wanted to say thanks?” Blue optics observed Nightbird's own. A hint of concern behind that bright yellow often coated in anger.

A large hangar door opened, letting Soundwave come in. His armor is much more chunky on the legs and torso. A result from getting kidnapped by Cobra. Red visor caught the attention of the duo, with his cassettes tagging along.

“Viper, our lord Megatrons request to meet with you.” Said in his monotone elegance.

“I'll not keep them waiting, we'll talk about this later.” The Rattler strode away from the short conflict. Soundwave looked at Nightbird, seeing how upset she appeared to be.

“Is something wrong?” The femme shook her helm.

“No, how do you feel about that armor?” She tapped onto his shoulder, feeling the strong materials constructing it.

“It is an inferior version of myself, but I will adjust.” He transformed and let his little minions climb aboard before driving back outside. Nightbird stared, pondering what thoughts are rushing in Viper's processor right now.

 

Chapter 2: Beware the Wild Weasel


Grand doors opened up to the sight of three thrones. The three Megatrons resting upon their high horses. All different bodies, yet the same name of an atomic weapon as powerful as one million tons of dynamite. Soundwave took attention of the sudden appearance, a new bulky body with Cobra armor. Viper clenched his servos, detesting the sight of another bearing the same curse as him. The true blue mech bowed down, wings remaining high. The gray leader smirked, getting off his chair.

“Viper, how good to see you again, I didn't expect you to come back. It seems Cobra was much weaker than I expected.” He said in such a twisted glee. Armada Megatron scoffed, as Beast Wars Megatron paid attention to the T-Rex head for an arm. Viper rose, his true blue sight unseen before.

“Its over now, we don't have to worry about them or the traitor anymore.”

“So you got rid of Luca as well?” The Cobra prototype nodded, remembering the flesh melting from his bones. How the calcium fell apart.

“I told you it wasn't a good idea to team up with those humans!” Came a shrill shriek. Everyone turned to face Starscream and his two Seeker buddies. Among them being Skywarp, wearing far uglier armor than before. Viper glared at the jet, feeling pity oozing out of his seams. The dark armored bot ran up to the snake, gripping his wounded shoulder.

“Hey, could you tell me that you salvaged my body?!” Came such a loud noise that echoed across the room.

“Sorry Skywarp, I didn't want any humans to use those parts, so they're all melted down. You should go to Cybertron and get a new one.” He teased, right as a fist crashed into him.

“Enough! Viper's done his work and we're moving on from that.” Armada Megatron interrupted, his powerful frame standing up and glaring at the fliers.

“Indeed Armada, I am happy to see your attack was successful.” The gray mech replied, he seemed to be happy to see another one of himself, let alone two of them bearing his name. Sure, on the surface it seemed they all detested each other. Yet, Viper could tell something lied beneath that. Soundwave detected it as well, but chose not to speak. The dark blue mech got up, wiping his face of the purple fist that whammed into his.

“Thanks, I needed a warm welcome from the likes of you. Lord Megatrons, may I request a few days off from the raids? Hook mentioned that I needed more repairs on my armor before I can fight.” Blue optics reflected the three Emperors of Destruction as they whispered among themselves. Starscream and Thundercracker dragged Skywarp off as he screamed out various Cybertronian swears.

“Fine, it seems you've done far much more compared to the rest of the army. Go on then, before we change our minds... Yessssss.” The Predacon leader hissed. The former Cobra soldier exited, making sure to avoid the bitter Nightraven. Who knew he loved his old self that much.

Back here again, staring at nothing as Hook tinkered. This time, a lot more precise with the sensitive wings. Good thing the irate Seeker's fists weren't strong enough to make a dent. The vibrant red mouthplate came off, showing the forever hidden white armored face. In the green mech's reflection is markings of a scar. New one gained from the chaotic battle from last night. Nothing to worry over, not if it doesn't hurt.

Dirty work, that song they listened to earlier, quite symbolic of such a situation. Done working for Decepticons, done working with everyone. A few days off is what he needs. It was nice that the dinosaur gave him an agreement. A lot of time to think, to question life's choices. One grew in his head as the Summer Breeze made him feel fine.

How did Cobra get the idea to make him? It couldn't be an idiotic idea that some crazy scientist could come up with. Come up to the boss and proclaiming they could make a jet that'd transform into a large fighting warrior. That urge to dig deeper, to discover why he came to be in these dark times. Who is he?

“I repaired your visor the best I could with what little I had. Sure its not the right color, but at least it'll shield your optics like it did before, so be happy with that.” Hook moved back to pick up a thick orange visor. Must've ran out of black and ditched the primary color for one not found on dark blue armor. The left part of it still broken that'd expose the optic. Its not the prettiest job, but it'll do for now. Servos soon placed the visor back on, fragments of glass included, but tight enough not to go loose and stab him. Hook smirked, knowing how much of a patch job this is. It'd contrast well with his vibrant blue vision. Then came back on the mouthplate, hiding the most human aspect of him.

After Hook finished, Viper sat up, looking towards the medic. “Thank you, I needed that a lot.” He exhaled, wings moving to show that they looked a lot better.

“You know, I could use a paint stripper and get rid of those ugly symbols.” Hook suggested, yet the former Cobra soldier got off the medical berth and adjusted his visor.

“Your repairs are all I needed. Our Megatrons agreed that I needed a break from the fighting. Its my time off now.” Blue armor left the room, closing the door behind him. Hook scoffed as the door opened again. A damaged Build Bot and Shrapnel getting dragged in by Kickback, with a cheeky grin on his face. How wonderful.

The human made machine got out of the shade and into the sunlight. The bright light displaying the restored paint on the weary body. What a strange part of the world to be at, a desert with hidden patches of life. Its often nice to listen to the soft sounds of distant animals and birds. I'd be best to go to the best spot to observe the vast wilderness of this planet. Time to concentrate and think, think over what to do with his past and how life became the way it is.

Viper saw two figures standing on the edge of the ravine. One that guarded the place from any ground vehicles from reaching the base. Breakdown and Drag Strip, two of the Stunticons enjoying their time off from the battles as well it seems. The Rattler came closer, noticing little rodents popping out of the ground. Some traveling across the large holes they dug up.

“Hey, look at those weasels, they're all over the place. Isn't that wild!? Hey, wild weasels!” Breakdown laughed, right as his brother smacked his helm.

“No you dummy, those are gophers! Or groundhogs? I remembered hearing a crazy old man tried bombing his farm to get rid of them. Left a giant hole that's used for tourism in Japan! Best place to dump you off!” His brother chided, before noticing Viper staring at them. “Hey, what's bothering you?”

“Wild....Weasel....” Came a whisper, optics going blank before his processor bloomed into a familiar pain. This damage came from when Cobra tore through his head. The last sight before shutting down was Drag Strip running up to him while Breakdown kept screaming apologies...

A sight returned of blue skies over a forgotten base. An old place with worn out red paint hidden in a faraway jungle. A figure sat inside of the cockpit of a Cobra Rattler. One bearing the iconic symbols, yet having the Decepticon ones embedded as well. Before a consciousness, all that existed was a lifeless husk, a prototype.

“Wild Weasel, how is the Viper performing?” A harsh voice came out, Cobra Commander's own, escaping from the radio into the cockpit. A pilot wearing red, hiding his face behind that intimidating helmet of black and red. He picked up the message, glancing back at the other prototype Rattlers.

“Wild Weasel here, this change to my plane is performing well. I haven't heard anything from the others yet. But I can tell they're performing the same as always.” A blank voice chimed, his pronunciation of s emphasized. An older one, still bearing a cocky attitude matched by his flying skills.

Wheels landing onto the ground, a sweet sensation to anyone bearing a fear of flight. Such bliss for anyone as the other tires began to land onto the soft surface. Overgrown plants, the typical sign of forgotten memories. A row of Cobra Rattlers, seven in total, yet one had the unique marking of purple. Upon command, six had changed their shape, walking on two legs rather than the three wheels. All remained static as their faces showed silver and black. Regular Cobra soldiers hiding at the back of the armored heads, adjusting to the new shape. All eyes left onto the main one, piloted by the great Wild Weasel. His fingers rested onto the controls. Muscles tensing, to soon hear the transformation as everyone watched.

Then, everything came to life. The flickering of an ember, growing into an inferno at the pouring of gasoline. A harsh scream filling his cockpit, crushing of bones as machinery filled the small spot. Never giving the weasel a chance to weasel away from the rising metal. Life, upon the begging of death. The firstborn stood, staring upon the crimson red dripping in his optics. Blood, what flows in the veins of humans. So much of it, the first memory, to hear a horrid screech, then watch the fear on the small creatures faces. A gun slipped out as armor malfunctioned, acid fired and melting the other prototypes. How could they be under full control, yet he could not?

Vision flooded, death, screaming, orders refused to follow. Then, a horrid shot hit his face, breaking the glass. More shots filled the sky as his vocalizer began to function. A scream of his own, startling everyone before they kept firing. Like a feared animal, fighting back against what he couldn't understand. Angry creatures, others identical to him melting down into puddles consumed in green. Such horrid sights, before one powerful blast took him down. Broken glass, staring at the strange color up above. Blue, its so beautiful, glistening the blood before going to sleep.

The prototype couldn't move, arms and legs tied down to slabs of steel. He struggled, making random noises towards the creatures, startled upon his awakening. Right in front of him, a man in the same color of the up above. Face hidden by a shield of silver, black gloves clenching the worn railings. Two other figures stood there, a woman with black, and a man of white. They whispered among each other, before a scientist ran up to the three. This person gave mention for something to be ready. Ready?

Upon the orders, a tremendous pain broke the functioning processor. New thoughts silenced, a forgotten voice. A vegetable, a robotic cabbage, never to be seen again...

“Viper?” Came a whisper, oh that sweet voice. Nightbird's, but, why is she here? Viper turned his numb helm, vision clearing up to find her staring down at him. He perched up, seeing Breakdown and the other Stunticons close by.

“How long was I out?” Came the first words, armor burning at his frame remembering the forgotten memories. The ninja rose a hand to his shoulder.

“A few hours, we thought of taking you to Hook, but he was busy. But, it seems we don't. Alright you five, the show's over.” Leading to the groans of the five mechs. They transformed and drove off into the desert. Ready to do their usual dangerous stunts for the others and their self amusement. Nightbird helped the former cobra mech up.

“What, were they going to ditch me in the middle of nowhere during that?” Came irritation in blue optics upon Nightbird's nod.

“You know them, I would've expected them to use you for their ramps. I've seen what they do with overcharged Decepticons. Need to go somewhere?”

“Yes, I was going to head somewhere, until I heard Breakdown and Drag Strip talk about the darn weasels.” An emphasized hiss on the rodents.

“Well, we'd better get going to wherever you're going. The sun's starting to set, what happened in your vision?”

“Its the reason I'm going there. I wouldn't suggest you coming along, its all for me to take care of. Although, you did make sure I wasn't Stunticon roadkill, so I should repay you in that way.” Viper transformed as Nightbird performed a cartwheel before entering into her alt mode. She drove off alongside him towards the one path able to let anyone in and out of the base.

Gotta pass the long roads that are famous for their tourist attractions in this side of Nevada. Few cars tonight, which is good for any Cybertronians during this time of the dying day. Viper seemed to be feeling a lot calmer since his episode, which should be a good thing. Nightbird remembered the first time she saw him on the floor during a large meeting. Stuck unconscious due to remembering another one of his 'memories'. She remembered hearing Soundwave and Hook discuss the cause of these episodes. The fracturing of his neural systems, vital parts to a Cybertronian to function. It may be repairable, given the time and resources from Cybertron come together. Viper did come into the Earth Wars a few months after her, so they were new back then. Now, a lot's changed since those days. More soldiers, more adjustments to the base's inner structure. What strange days, still having their sense of joy. Although the questions rose in her helm during the drive. Pondering of Viper's intentions.

What seemed to be forever lead them to California in the dead of night. Nightbird's engine hummed, used to long drives after frequent testing by her creators. Oh those days in the labs, born and built for one purpose, yet her own Spark lead her to this. She noticed Viper swooping towards a tunnel in the side of a mountain. A bridge abandoned for so many years. He waited on the old bricks, finding his tag along nearby landing onto the said bridge. Both their optics and armor lighting helped illuminate the tunnel.

“So, what was your memory about?” Nightbird chimed, seeing how Viper remembered his way down these long unforgiving paths.

“My birth, how I had my first kill. Tell me, have you seen blood?”

“In the horror movies Swindle and others watch.” Nightbird chuckled to herself. She'd often sneak into their little parties, such a shame it'd be American and British horrors. They needed some Japanese stuff to watch too.

“I saw it drip down my face and pool out, my optics, stained in so much of it. I'm amazed that Cobra left me alive, but, that's why I'm here.” Said with no emotion. Both reached an aged door with the infamous symbol of red worn away by time. Upon pressing a few buttons, it opened to the sight of forgotten technology. Old machinery whirled to life for the first time in years.

 

I normally don't like to comment during stories that are in progress, as I don't want to disturb the flow, but this is a good story so far. I have to admit, that I did a fanboy smile from ear to ear when I read about who all was in the trio of Megatrons, yessss.

 

Hi everyone! its been quite a while since I last uploaded anything here, but now I am happy to announce that I'm back to it! Here's to hoping 2021 will be much better for everyone!

Chapter 3: Peril Among the Stars

Ten years since the incident. Program updating, systems operational, protocols online, activation, begin. The eternal darkness ended for the longest time. A figure stood there, bearing a skull for a face. Scanners indicating an unrecognizable soldier. Not of any origin. The prototype stared, a life hidden behind black glass, leaving worry in the samurai. Bludgeon stepped back, pointing a katana's tip at the symbol on the failure's chest.

“State your designation.” The mech ordered, leaving confusion on the Rattler.

No reply, instead, the machine pushed the sword away and walked towards the exit. The skeleton sneered, noticing the warnings going off all around them. “Alert, unknown enemy detected, alert.” Said in such calmness that didn't seem to care.

“You'd better prove yourself whatever your name is. I don't want to return to base with a defect for spare parts!” That seemed to trigger something in the dark blue mech's systems, and off he ran...

“Viper?” Her voice broke the processor's glitch. Viper blinked a few times, turning to face her. “Are you sure you're okay here? I do remember that your processor acts up in certain locations.” She reminded, glancing at the lights bringing the place back up into operation.

“This is where Cobra sealed me after my malfunction. Ten years after that, Luca revealed this location to Megatron. He grew impatient of the human's failures, so the human spat out this. Bludgeon found me right as an Autobot got too close to the area. Took care of Sideswipe, which was all that bone face needed to prove that I was worth the time.” Viper walked past the femme and towards a large machine. “Here, this is where my new life began.” The mech gave a swift kick, then tearing apart the rest of the stasis pod.

The femme ninja listened to the denting metal and shattering glass. Standing still as this continued for a bit. Yellow optics took notice of the interior, finding old forgotten machinery. No wonder Cobra dumped their failed prototype here. What was the first mission she took on in the Earth Wars? Ah yes, when she had to face Arcee who hid secret codes. Far simpler times, before the Prime Cores, Demigods, Deathsarus, GI Joe, and Cobra. Such insanity in a few short years. That voice in her helm kept repeating that confession, yet, she couldn't say. Why is it so difficult to talk?

She waited until Viper finished crushing the stasis machine apart. His wings flared, back hunched over. The snake got up, turning to face her. “I'm better now, sorry about that, there are some things I never want to see active again.” Viper trailed off, heading over to a big computer. “In this, it houses the answers I am seeking. From what I can know, this system has a lot of Cobra plans and projects. Bludgeon insisted that we leave this place soon so I could meet Megatron. I couldn't uncover its secrets at that moment. I want to know why Cobra created me, it's impossible for someone to come up with an insane idea. A whole organization going along with it. A robot soldier wearing the shell of a Rattler.” His bulky digits pressed on the small keyboard, being careful to ensure not to break the source of his past.

Words scrolled by which showed so many forgotten ideas. Nightbird listened to the swearing before tugging him aside. Then she typed it out herself. “I'll handle this, I'm used to tiny keys.” The Japanese fembot interjected, finding it to be easier for her to do this. Odd, nothing on Viper, yet the name Rattler and Transformer did appear a few times.

After a bit of digging around, a file appeared with top secret reports. The two read through them, both taking it all in. How could the American government know so much about Cybertronian technology? Its documentation came thirty years before the Autobots and Decepticons arrived to Earth. It didn't make any sense, nor the live specimen documented. The identity lost, making it difficult to guess who would give up their body for them to research.

Viper took a while to say anything, left in silence over all the materials they read. “Those documents, they must've been the blueprints Cobra used to create me... Nightbird, can you find anything about who wrote this?” He whispered, optics glued to the screen as they found a picture file.

A bunch of humans, all posed by a piece of machinery that appeared advanced for the time based on their clothes. Some men and women, all in Triple-I: Intelligence and Information Institute. Nightbird typed around a few files, noticing how their names appeared.

“I recognize some of them from my collected memories, and all their names are in the files. They're the ones behind how Cobra created you.” She trailed off, yellow optics glanced at the dark blue mech. He stared at the humans in their thirty year old days.

“Do you know where they are now?” Viper came up to the screen, taking in the details.

“A quick search on the internet gave me everything I needed, oh how clumsy they are to use this 'social media'. I assume this was a long forgotten program, happened in North Dakota, August 16th, 1986. No one knows of this as they retired from the military. All this time, America had access to those of the stars. Why do you ask?”

“I may have killed my creators, but knowing this, I cannot let more of me be born by their hands. I'm not yet done with my thirst for revenge. Nightbird, I'd suggest you go back with the others. There's a high risk that I will die once this task is complete. All hiding in America and other parts, they forget, not knowing that their pasts will haunt them once again.” The mech copied the data, making the best route based on where the humans live. They'll all pay for their foolishness. Their thirst for eternal knowledge will destroy them.

Nightbird held his shoulder, her optics narrowed. “Its not easy to complete a task solo. I'll come along, you've already shown me your second birthplace. Before you complain about how I can't because of the water, I'll find my ways. Where are you heading first?”

“Los Palmos Observatory, located in Texas close to Mexico. Two of the scientists at the Triple I worked at North Dakota. They wrote a bit about Cybertronians ability to travel through the stars. Nothing too major, but its a start. Think your tires can handle that? Its farther than from here back to base at Arizona.” He chuckled, wings twitching and ready to leave this trash heap.

“Sounds good, will meet you there when I can. Take care Viper, we're going to be dancing with death soon.” She flipped her body, transforming and driving out of the hidden base.

Why is she so intent on helping him? All the dark blue jet knew is that he's the only Cybertronian created by humans. Viper waited till she's far away to dim the computer's screen. He turned to stare at the scar embedded into his helmet and face. Primus he felt tired, unsure what to think knowing how right she is. Its a suicide mission to enrage the American government and the Autobots, but this has to happen. Taking a few deep vents, the mech connected a few cables to his helmet and lied down. Gotta leave one last present to those who documented the creation...

Data, so many pieces swirled around the unconscious mind. Downloading into his helm, awakening those old memories that most forgot. Humanity stole the gift of those from the stars. Living aliens, mastering the ability to change shape. Documenting entire histories far before the first man sharpened a rock. Yet, as Viper continued this, strange images began to form. Among them, the complete blueprints of the Rattler Transforming Soldier. Bright blue optics widened, noticing something wrong. It has no face underneath the visor and mouthplate... The Decepticon stared, before touching his own mouthplate and broken visor. The dates don't add up, these can't be the complete ones! He stared before deleting the information once its registered into his helm.

After a while going through the tediousness, its over now. Viper forced his processor out of this self inflicted slumber. Now no one can look up those old documents anymore. No human deserves to know the existence of Cybertronian life, not if they gave birth to imitations. Those who are fakes, that shamed upon. Yet, that empty face remained etched into his optics. More questions came than answers, leaving the mech in silence. As the snake got out of his forced slumber, he noticed an acid gun lying by his side. The same weapon left behind after Cobra's demise. Fingers touched the aged metal, knowing how good it is to wield this old weapon once more. Must've been a gift from Nightbird, who seemed to get it all fixed up. “Canary, I'll figure out why you hide so much from me.” Came a chuckle, before he got out of the old place once again.

Back in the harsh sunlight, why is the western coast so darn hot? No wonder there isn't that much greenery around here. Why couldn't the Decepticons set up a base somewhere nice? Rather than the remains of human activity. Still, the images he saw made his tanks clench. How could those blueprints show no face? Processor in a daze, forgetting Nightbird as she drove beneath him. They traveled across the shadows of the canyons once leaving civilization. So many lives passing by, children at a school, people buying at stores, watching movies. Oh the movies; such strange concepts that Cybertronians never got into until the war. Easiest way to document any traitors or secret plans. That's from what he recalled listening to the others when they got overcharged off their afts.

Oh what fun times to hear the cheery voices that everyone gave out after a successful raid. Also when a new bot comes over from wherever. Moon, Earth, any planet, depends on if they're liked among the others to care. Why is Earth such a gathering place for these guys? There are other planets too, yet they stay on what they called the 'dirtball'. Viper never felt right to call his home the dirtball. This planet is where his creators got the materials to create him. The mech exhaled, noticing how the Sun began to set. The yellow sphere that rotates around this planet. Cybertron didn't have any light up above, nor any oxygen. Three moons which the Autobots claimed as their own. The Rattler remembered how happy he felt to be on the metal moon, that its the home far away from home. Due to their technology, both could move across the deserts further than a regular car on a road trip. The suburban family riding out to somewhere like Palm Springs or Las Vegas.

It took a long time to travel from California to Texas. Baking in the hot sun never helped his mood as music kept playing from his radio. A lot of Spanish songs, getting closer to the border. What a strange choice for an advanced observatory's location, but no matter what. They'll be the first to pay for their crimes. Down below, a stylish black and white car drove on the road. Nightbird is quite durable, but that makes sense for everyone. Cybertronians are able to handle the heat. Viper’s quite lucky that he won’t have to endure any pain in the Summer warmth. Still nothing back from Megatron or the rest of his soldiers. Its good, no reason to worry as he must’ve taken the request for a break for granted. Never easy to obliterate an entire army by oneself. The rest of the flight is a blank, with the dust devils coming and going. Once the mission is over, he’ll try to visit Tijuana to eat some barbecued iguana. Whatever that may taste like.

The misery ended in the night sky’s greeting. A lone observatory lay still, lens continuing to observe what may be out there. Los Palmos has seen better days, forgotten to the world beyond the science community. Hiding a sin, that desire to find life beyond the Earth. Two life forms detected in the scanners, the files state for them to be Jack and Sue Richards. Two astronomers who’ve spent long lives exploring across the world. To the most exotic places for the greatest lens to observe the distant nebulae. Before their journeys, they accepted being members of the Triple I, which meant a piece of his birth. Los Palmos is their home, far up in the mountains that could show much more of the desert had the sun blessed them.

Viper landed on the rocky top, bright blue optics stared for a long time. His turbines slowed down to reduce the heavy noises. Acid gun clenched in a firm hold. So, this is how revenge grows, to slaughter them, their work is the reason he grew in the Cobra’s nest. To awaken as an abomination, there is nothing left they can give to the Earth that will matter. Time’s left them old and weak. No matter how old or young, its time to never return from the path he once stepped on. Their intense craving will be their undoing, thirty years later.

Sue finished another cup of coffee, heavy bags underneath those brown eyes. Weary eyes glanced up to the old photographs of so many places she once been to. Jack is nearby, back to work on their favorite machinery. A telescope meant their lives, the reason Triple I came to them with their suggestions. To work with them for extra payment and free vacations, oh how perfect it seemed to be. Until that one day… Sue waited for the drink to kick in, an influence rushing through weakened veins. No longer a thought about what may come next, unless it’d be an old family member or friend. Their nephew, an old photo showed said child gripping a diploma while enveloped in blues. “Its been a good life, hasn’t it Jack?”

A man stepped away from the large telescope, coming down to her. “Are you thinking about the Grim Reaper again?”

“Why would I dream of a snake bearing those dark ominous robes?”

“Sue, you should cut the caffeine out, the doc did say it’ll influence your medication.”

“But, we still need to record a few more sights. Los Palmos is our home. I miss those days, and I wished we never got involved with Triple I. To know that aliens exist, to hide that from everyone.” The woman trailed off, taking a large gulp. A nearby candle burned among the heavy lights above which gave light to this dark dome. Silence, a gentle breeze brushing the exterior as always, a hope to bury away the past.

Nightbird transformed, finding Viper standing still. “Once I begin, I cannot go back. Think of your choice Nightbird, I know the consequences of my actions.” He came closer to the observatory as the ninja watched, remaining still.

The Cobra prototype slammed his body against the large building, causing it to shake. He rammed into it a few more times, breaking away the concrete and storming into the building. Something shattered, it must be where they are! Viper prowled into the hallway, kneeling down to ensure he wouldn’t damage his wings.

Sue and Jack ran, a broken mug lay on the floor as the alarms blared. A large shadow emerged from a hallway, causing them to hide in a spare room. Lying on the walls were a few guns, a pitiful attempt to save themselves, but what else could they rely on? Faraway help? They waited in the darkness, holding onto each other and weapons as their ears rang. Hearts racing faster once seeing blue staring back at them.

“Sue and Jack Richards, Triple I, you've chosen a grave mistake for both Cybertronians, and me. The atonement is death.”

Sue fired a few shots at the mech's face, each bullet bouncing off of the mouthplate. The gun slipped from shaking hands, as Jack tried firing back, but with no effect. “Please, don’t do this! We have a nephew who always visits us!” Sue gripped her husband’s jacket, tears coming down the wrinkled face.

“Then he’ll understand.” He aimed the gun, shooting the two with a powerful blast of acid. Emotion drained from blue optics as they screamed. Bodies melting down into puddles of decaying flesh. A rush of energy came to the mech once hearing nothing but alarms. Without warning, he tore through more of the observatory. Acid gun put to use getting rid of everything. “What do you think Cobra Commander!? Do you believe me to be a failure now!?” His roar echoed through the bleak sky.

Nightbird remained still, staring as the building melted into concrete and steel puddles. Yellow noticed the mech walking up to her. She stared up at his optics, finding nothing but a blank blue. “We need to leave before the humans get here.” The femme transformed, driving across the mountain range.

Viper glanced back before running over to the edge of the cliffside and transforming. Soaring through the darkened canyon, dark blue blending in with the darkened oranges. That’s it, no way back once the candle burned bright. A flame that will never die. The flier followed yellow headlights as she swerved across the mountain's paths. In the distance, bright red and blue lights glowed through a known road. ::We’ll need to find a place to hide, I can see the humans coming this way!:: He messaged her.

::I’ll find my way down, we can’t hide here! Go get to somewhere safe and message me when you do!:: She kept driving, never speaking as the Rattler vanished in the night sky.

The ninja femme touched the ground, sprinting away before the vehicles could find her. On the enhanced tires, she didn’t strain under the pressure. A rush of wind graced her back, must've been the human vehicles driving by. So they were going that way too. Nightbird stared at the large puffs of smoke from what remained of the building. Viper did this, but its for a greater good, was it?

After roaming through the darkness, she’d soon slip into a hidden cave. She took a few minutes to relax, then noticed a small fire in the larger part. Nightbird crawled in, finding Viper illuminated by the reds and oranges. Blue optics staring up at an opening in the ceiling.

“I got worried the humans found you.” Not a sign of damage on him, so strange since he’d went through a mess earlier. A bit dusty, but nothing wrong with that. She sat down on the other side, tossing him a cube.

“They’re not meant for speed, they're for emergencies. I’m amazed at how fast they were to arrive, we need to find the best time to get out of here.” The femme leaned back, exhaling a deep vent. “We’ll need to wait until the event dies down before we can head over to our next destination. Do you know where we will go?”

“I’m thinking about it, since the other targets are in further parts of America.” He brushed off the dust, blue optics glimmered alongside the fire burning bright. “You’d better get some rest, you’ve been driving everywhere to tag along with me. I’ll make sure nothing happens.” Viper waited, putting his gun down.

“What about you? Weren't you the one who destroyed the observatory in one swoop? I'm sure none of them will find us, they're too concerned about the two who died. How many more do we need to hunt down?”

“A few more, they kept it a secret. The document states how eight made contact with the Cybertronian on that fateful day. Two are dead, leaving the rest still hiding in their regular lives. Most are in America, yet two aren't. We'll find them, but must keep secret, because the Autobots will find out.”

“But once its over, we'll return to the others, won't we?”

“Depends on if I can survive long enough. But, if I do die, then I will be okay with that once their dead. I do wonder though, will I go to the Allspark? I am human made, wouldn't Primus consider me to not be one of his? It makes me wonder if there is an afterlife for me.” He opened his chest, showing the lack of a Spark.

“I'm sure there is, don't you remember what Starscream said? He saw something after death, and is alive with us now to tell us.”

“He wouldn't stop talking about it, after the death of Unicron.” Viper looked up, hearing the sirens get louder. “Looks like its time to rest.” The mech grabbed a clump of dirt, dropping it over the flames and letting them die down. “We leave as soon as the morning comes.” He lay down, dimming the lights on his armor and entering into a soft recharge, closing the chest.

Nightbird stared before following his orders. She kept to the shadows as the investigation began further away from them. “Six more, you're quite risky to do this.” Came a soft chuckle before joining him in the rest.

Darkness, that's how life begins, doesn't it? Something strange is happening. Whirling machinery, a rush of Energon, dripping, praying, is this where life comes from? Its quiet, what is this? A dream? But, I can't have dreams, I'm not real...

Someone's calling for a name? What is this name? Who's name is it? Why can I hear it? I don't remember it...

My optics opened up, I don't remember this. I'm not at the Cobra base? Its some sort of lab, but not one I recognize. I sat up, taking in my surroundings. Its all Cybertronian, no sign of humanity's work. What's going on? My helm moved down to my body, no. Its not mine! I got off the table, shaking before finding other mechs staring at me. All seemed to be joyous at the sight of my movements. Some came closer to me, speaking about their troubles and what they hope my awakening will mean. If I can concentrate enough, I should be able to move, or speak. Why can't I do this? My controls are gone, I'm lost in this mech's body. Why aren't I scared? This is a dream, I'll wake up when my processor decides to. But, pure Cybertronians can dream, I'm a fake, I can't dream.

A mech came up to me, bearing blue and white armor, a grand smile on his face. He seemed to be talking, but under deaf audio receptors.

Everything flashed white, I now faced an open door to Cybertron? Its golden, much like the mysterious cities of gold on Earth. Cybertronians walked in the streets, speaking among themselves. None bore any symbols, speaking of their lives. I watched this dream run far from the door, exploring this new world. Life, I felt alive, that this was me. No, what I saw wasn't who I am. I will wake up, then forget. Yet, I wished I lived in this Cybertron before the war. Everyone's in union, its so different compared to the one I stepped upon. Gold glimmered alongside the orange lights. If I was human, I would've shed tears upon sight of this marvelous wonder.

Another flash, taking me away from the rushing views, I'm staring up at the stars in some sort of crystal garden? Its so beautiful, much like the sky when I first awoke. They glimmered among the stars, leading me to wondering why I'm here. Then, someone came into view. She stared at me, or this body I'm residing within. A rush of something came back, I couldn't recall why I felt this way, yet, I wanted it to last forever. The femme spoke to me, yet I couldn't hear what the words meant. I wanted to know what this meant, it hurt so much. She's... pretty, I like how she looks in those soft colors. She smiled, cupping this body's cheek, meaning no visor or mouthplate. But, it faded away to white... Wait, don't go! I want to know who you are, who this body belongs too. I'm not real, I'm an imitation... Please, stay...

Blue lights came back online, finding himself in the cave. Nightbird is still asleep, a dream. Yet, what was it about? What body did he see himself in? He lowered his helm, noticing the sounds of sirens are gone. They must've chose to wait for the morning to inspect for the damage. Optics inspected the opening of the cave above, finding glimpses of morning. Its' time to go. He crawled over to the femme, holding her shoulder.

“Wake up Canary, we've got to go before they find us.” He muttered, causing her to stir.

“Ah, so they're gone?”

“Yep, we don't have to worry about them for a while. Gotta get going now before they come back. Our next stop is over in Florida, so I hope you brought your sunscreen.” Viper chuckled, earning a glare from the femme.

“Don't make me report you in for that.” Said with a playful gesture before leaping up onto the ground above.

Viper jumped up as well, soon the two were off again on their long journey. Yet, in this morning light, it brought back the sight of Cybertron when it bore gold. At first, it wasn't good to dwell on strange dreams, yet, now, he wanted it more. How he craved to step into that other mech's life, how he wished it was his. But, life proved to be cold and cruel, leaving him to lash at those who lost trust. Yet, Nightbird so far, she seemed nice, but no one can tell if a ninja has other motives until revealed later. For now, its best to keep his guard up, and prepare himself for the next target of his past.

 

Its been a long time coming. Just a week ago was when I posted my very first TF fanfic online five years ago. It feels crazy, as that's been my most popular story I've ever written. Makes me wonder if anyone does care for this story about a character no one cares about.

Chapter 4: Deadly Paradise

Its a cold morning, farther away from the burning remains of what used to be there. Viper listened to the radio, hearing the reports of how the Los Palmos Observatory is no more. A sense of a guilty glee came to him. Its still murder, but Decepticons kill people anyways. Motormaster's run over a few baby carriages before, although the blood would be a pain to wash out. It'd cause everyone to gag. No one would eat anything after that for the rest of the day. Among those would be Viper too, more harder due to the secrecy of his face underneath. Yet, now he has the blood of humans splattered everywhere. Before Hook's evaluation, did everyone believe there's nothing special with pure robots? Its one of those thoughts of a stranger, unsure about the world around him. Unkind and empty except for the nature around them.

Still, that face, why did it bring him such feelings he's never felt before? No one in his memory banks met that match, Nightbird, Slipstream, none of the Autobots either. Why did he see Cybertron's past? Is he going insane? Did some old blood get stuck in his gears? This thoughtlessness drove him off to the sunlight, brightening the dark blue paint. In this glimmer, it brought the Rattler out of the emotions. These aren't his, no, its someone else's and he'll need to get evaluated by Hook. For now, he had to focus on the work ahead of him. Florida, from one coast to another. The home of Dr. Heath Blaisedale. A human who used the technology from the Cybertronian to find a oil free energy source, the Sun. Humans, they are too deep in their roots, but, what's the difference between him and the creators? They have flesh and blood, yet he and the others from Cybertron, they bear metal and Energon. What is the true difference? Both are free thinkers, lost to time in their dark worlds. If he did bear true emotions, pity would seethe from snarled lips. Did Hook give him a new face without telling him? No, why would he waste materials for such a worthless feature? He's never displayed many emotions, hidden behind the blood red mask. The one way is through his voice. Pure rage welled up within once finding Megatron speaking with that man. The one drenched in blue, hidden behind silver. The last memory before it all vanished. No one wanted to be friends with the snake, due to how often alone he is. Is it due to fear? Or that he's not a normal Cybertronian? Its quiet, except for the faint rumble of the wind feeding itself into his turbines. A faint rumble, which lead to more questions than he could answer.

Why did I come to life that day when I bore no soul?

The trip continued without anything new. States came and went, days and nights rotated. The sun and moon continued their estranged relationship. Such thoughts about the myths of how the world and its sun worked. The silly ideas of how the Earth is the center of the universe or how its flat like a pancake. It made him chuckle. To hear the crazy words from social media when watching videos about the stupidity of humans. They helped ease the pain for a short time, before that fear came back. Not mattering to anyone, a walking machine with no soul, how can they allow him to be among them? Unless, Megatron saw something in him that no one else could. But, he's not here now, its him and a Decepticon that left him unsure. Keep watching her, seeing for what tricks she'll present to him. He'd notice those glimmers of life twinkle when he provided something of use to her during the night. when they were near the coast. The ocean's beaches remaining bright. A nice break from flying and driving, to share information of what may exist. It felt nice to be with someone who may care. To accept in knowing that she will attack, it left a calm thought in him. Trust no one, keep them away from the empty husk where a Spark would've rested in.

Florida, land of oranges, amusement parks, and sun. Its nice to be at another destination after the nonstop flying. No more raiding for energy sources needed to fuel their trip. Viper could imagine the victory, melting down the crazy scientist will be such a breeze! Why not stay here for a while. Sneak into Universal Studios for their new attractions based on the popular show Challenge of the Go-Bots. He'd catch a few Cons watching that when it was on, laughing about the silliness and dumb names of the robots. The mech himself would catch a few scenes as well, including their movie. For some reason, the beetle Megatron stared at the Rock Lords. Seeming to notice something about them that resembled something. For what Viper could tell, it meant a few secrets. Nothing he can do about it, not when he's chain of command as well when the other two aren't around. Its strange to go from one Megatron to three, two bearing the same voice. They'd prank the others and lead to massive confusion. They're getting along better than with the Megatron that brought them together. Thinking of that does sound confusing, yet it made the mech wonder, are there others such as him in those worlds? Born from different origins other than Cybertronians. Its so strange, yet Viper knew not to explore in depth. After Barricade's mishap, the traveling device stopped functioning (Check name). Needs new parts to plan such a mission again. But, for now, its time to clear up more forgotten weeds.

A vibrant dark blue plane landed onto a beach underneath the blanket of night. Armor transformed with the lack of people nearby. Behind broken glass, blue optics saw a location. A usual air hanger, yet with the reports, it appears to be something top secret that no one can understand. Left in silent for on this small part of Florida unaccessible to most. Nightbird should be nearby, unless the traffic got up to her. Means less risks of her getting injured, which helped ease him a bit. He moved about, taking care to detect any traps for alerting any trespassers. Quite a few, meaning this must be important. Good, it means this Doctor Heath Blaisedale is around here somewhere. Would've been good to rest, but he's spent enough time doing so. This place is further from anywhere else, help shouldn't come for miles.

Blue glowed brighter, seeing the interior; planes, of course. It shouldn't be this obvious, a mask of false images. Viper walked past them, heading over to a part which his scanners caught. A door, hidden underneath the thick metal of the interior. It moved away, pulled aside as a curtain for whoever comes in with the secret code. A large door, perfect height for mechs such as him. Strange, but fitting for the developing mystery. A numerical pad present, shouldn't be too difficult to hack into. The mech opened his finger, finding a few cables functioning the joint and connecting them in. Soon a few buttons lit up, unlocking the door. Returning the metal back in, the mech entered inside and looked around. The ground rumbled as the door closed behind him. Elevator, lifting him down to the underground. Wings tensed, knowing that fliers such as him cannot do well in cavernous locations. But, for his mission, it needs to continue. He took a deep vent, staring at the polished metal as it kept going down.

The door opened, remaining silent as the mech stepped in. No one around, what did he expect coming in at midnight or this other time. Perfect timing to come in and watch the sky turn dark. Wings flickered, soon detecting something that rang unknown alarms in his helm. Its a door, heavy steel and locked underneath many. Secrets they want to hide, as deep as the locks are, nothing should tear him away from the chances to sneak a peek. He passed by a variety of doors, far too small for him to crawl through. Yet, why is this one huge and his size?

As before, the locks came undone, letting him into a room. Viper came into darkness. Alert, something screamed in his helm. Armor tensing, wings stuck firm upon the cold aura creeping in. Something's wrong, yet the mech couldn't know what. Soon, lights came on, to a sight he couldn't believe.

Rows, rows of robots bearing the Cybertronian forms. Armor and colorations of the Joe weapons. All mixed in with the copies of mechs such as Sideswipe. Primus, they're all here, including a robot that's still under construction. Optimus Prime, a copy, much like Nemesis, yet, more hollow than even him, even of Sentius Magnus. A demigod they've disgraced with their twisted intentions stood here. A room of fakes, like him. Viper clenched his chest, sensing something ringing in his helm. No, he can't have these wounds, only those who bear Sparks can. The room began spinning, as visions of those dreams came back. Copies, fakes, doppelgängers, how many other words can bear this room? Blue optics closed, listening for anything other than the screaming in his helm. Humanity, they are repeating the same mistakes as Cobra did. The scars of the past are coming back, the seed has grown into a tree of danger.

As fast did it begin, the pain stopped, being like a bad dream that never happened. The mech got up, servo still clenching his worn armor. Taking a better look to these puppets. Sadness and pity prominent, wishing he could pretend this as a nightmare. Does this mean there are others beyond the rows? Viper navigated through the rows, recording as much as he could through the lens of his optics. Primus, they looked dead, but propped up to act alive. Walking corpses, never born, awoken without a soul. “Will you awaken like me? Will you be your own? Or are empty toys for their wars?” He poked one, which didn't react. “How will the Autobots feel? To know that the people they needed to trust, does this to them. I wished I could spare you of it. If you were never born, then why should I expect you to know pain, or sadness, why am I not like you? Even after what happened, I still feel life in me, that Cobra couldn't tear my mind apart. What am I doing? Speaking to those who should be like me, or I should bear strings as well?” Yet, among them all, one escaped duplication. It'd make sense for Hound and Skyfire, yet there's a copy of Ultra Magnus here! The one who bears a bright fire, how could he have escaped getting faked?

Then, the door locked behind him, and a powerful light came on, causing the puppets to activate. Viper turned as the locks finished clicking. A television screen came on, showing a woman with a firm glare. “So you're the one who sneaked around. A Decepticon, you shouldn't be here.”

“Then why did you create these abominations?!” He yelled, yet the human laughed back at him.

“Its time to test them out. We're not going to let you live with these facts.” Came a reply.

Then, they sprung to attack, tackling into Viper and trying to tear him apart. The acid gun seemed to be the best weapon in this large room. It helped tear through a few of the weaker mechs, but others were stronger than Viper expected. Those of much more war torn mechs who live for fighting. Viper yelled, feeling their fingers grasping at his limbs and wings. Bodies melted beneath their feet. A blur of colors and explosions with how exposed the weaponry is for some of the drones. It got harder to think of anything but survival. They're not real...they should all die together...

Another women walked in, seeing the excitement on her college's face. “Dr. Heath Blaisedale?”

“This is so exciting! Look at our hard work Mrs. Cee! A real Cybertronian fighting our creations. Isn't this exciting?!”

“Oh...But aren't you worried that the Autobots will know?”

“They won't, no one except top official knows of this. Once this one dies, we can resume our research.” The two women continued to watch, hearing Viper's screams as he kept fighting. Refusing to surrender an undying will, even if he bore the same skin as these duplications. A dying breed continued to fight, shattering mirrors, wanting honesty in dead trust.

Outside, the world is quiet, in a soft slumber which no one nearby awoke in. Nightbird transformed once reaching the entrance to the base. Optics inspecting for anything of danger. Yes, traps nearby in both the grounds and the forest which encircle the area. A part of her computer knew something is wrong, but is it a true fear? She’s not like the others, no matter how many times she tries to be one. Although no one judged her much compared to Viper, and soon Skywarp. Although it could rank based such as Soundwave. Everyone knew never to speak against the great communications officer. One who can hear every whisper from miles away.

It didn’t take long for her to enter inside the building. Yellow optics examined the interior. Nothing out of the ordinary, but something is wrong here. The ninja femme noticed sand heading over to a wall. Clumsy, but effective to get to where she needs to be. Nightbird kneel down, hacking into the system and entering inside.

Once the elevator door opened, a loud sound of metal screeching behind a locked door. She tried to hack into it, but nothing seemed to work. Under critical lockdown, or damaged. Nightbird hid the snarl from behind her mouth plate, kicking the wall a few times, yet nothing came of it. Yellow optics glowed against the darkness before transforming. Conjuring a hologram on the other side.

An illusion arose, taking a look around in the shadows. Soon finding Viper struggling to fight back against the copies. He's yelling, continuing to tear apart the drones while fighting for his life. Blue optics glistened as oil splattered everywhere. There's no end to them! So many right now, the bigger ones taking a longer time to take care of. Wings flared, acid gun still firm in grip as he transformed. Right then, a fake Ironhide rammed right where he stood. Then tearing through a wall to the hallway before returning to the battlefield.

In the air, Viper maneuvered past a few of the Aerialbots, trying to avoid their enemy fire as a few hit his armor. A stinging sensation pulsated across dark blue armor. Keep fighting, let loose a stream of acid and continuing to lace the floor in his toxic inferno. Parts melted off, before he noticed two figures joining into the fight.

The real Nightbird leaped onto a replicated Sky Lynx's neck. Twirling to avoid capture or fire, kicking its head before shooting at it. Damaging the glass on his optics. The beast roared, stomping on any poor creations underneath. One of the women screamed in the loud stereos. Nightbird didn't reply, turning over to the mech's torso and finding powerful missiles. Should be enough to stop this! She gripped her weapon, stabbing into one of these explosives and letting out a liquid. It began to splatter everywhere. Nightbird leaped off before steel jaws could ensnare her. The hologram duplicate slammed her arms into any nearby. EMP effects causing them to freeze as the acid kept working through them. Its like wax, lighting a candle to let a sweet scent escape or to light the darkness. Except, the scent reeks of death, bringing no light to them as they rotted away.

:: Viper, we need to get out of here now! :: So, she did come! Took enough time to do so! Viper swooped down, letting her grab onto his torso as they flew through the hallways. With help from both their acid spray and her gun, they tore through the elevator and rose up towards freedom. Right then, the electrified duplicate leaped into the liquid. A massive explosion tore through the entire complex on that single touch. It tore everything apart, every clone, and among them, the two women. Nothing remained, as a deafening silence took over.

Audio receptors damaged, optics injured, frame weak. Nightbird awoke, staring at a thick cloud of smoke. It worked too well than she would've admitted. The ninja robot took time to adjust her sight, before noticing Viper laying on top of her. His wings flared in a way to act as a shield. Did he do this because of a sense of caring? No, he was flying above when they were fleeing from the place. She hoisted him back to his pedes, seeing how broken he became from the fighting. Much like when she found him in the aftermath of Cobra's Final Stand. His visor still remained alongside mouthplate. Must be hiding that face except for one optic, dimmed, and his jaw must be agape. “Viper, can you hear me?” Came a whisper, trying not to harm her damaged vocals.

No reply, this isn't good, not so soon! The femme conjured up a hologram, letting it move ahead to scout for any oncoming humans. So many copies, what were they doing here? Why is this one place displaying so much fear? “Viper, I hope you'll wake up soon, its too far for me to drag you back to bury you.” Came a sigh, continuing to flee before anymore trouble can come.

Golden optics glowed in the darkness of the golden Ark. Sentius Magnus got up from his resting place. Is something amiss? No, the Prime Cores are here. The demi god frowned, its best to go somewhere unrestricted to ease his thoughts. There's a nagging feeling within golden armor that couldn't show itself. A disturbance echoed from within the Balance. What it could be, there must be a reason.

Its nice to be outside from the stuffy interior of the Ark. Sometimes he'd bang his flags onto the walls due to his height. A bit silly, but would make him understand how difficult it can be to navigate around. It must be a message from Primus, but why so late at night while the others are still resting from the busy day? No, he must heed the call.

Meditation is difficult to break from with a bearer of judgement. Needing to continue hearing for voices that'd tell the truths of what shifted the balance. The Sword of Balance, such a powerful weapon. Now it bore half its normal power due to the clash within the sacred achieves. To think about it led to a sigh, wishing it never happened. Yet, it did, and Primus left them split for so long. Is it right to remain apart? To be himself, its...a strange and comforting experience. To enjoy a life away from the duties. Still, those powers came at such a time. The human they trusted, turned against them under orders. Why work with them if they harmed fellow Cybertronians? Those of the past wanted to convert other species into their kind. To discover the ways of transforming planets into safe habitable colonies for themselves. They existed for so long, until the fall of the Primes, and Nobilius' death. Why can't this uneasiness go away? That a piece of his old life is crying out, but cannot speak in a way for the future to hear.

“I can tell you're not out here to stargaze.” Came a recognizable voice to the brother.

“Malus? Why are you here?!” The Relic Guardian of Light got up, aiming his bow at the brother, light arrow tight in grip.

“At ease, its me. You can trust me tonight, no one else came. Although I wished they did, too busy snoring away after what that one mech did.”
“What happened that we aren't made aware of?” Magnus remained high on his guard. Malus came a bit closer, showing carelessness in prideful movements.

“Did the humans of those C'yor Joe not tell you? Of course not, they want you still under their grip. A human made Cybertronian destroyed Cobra by himself. Isn't that something? A creation of theirs turning against them. What fun I wished to have seen.”

“How come I didn't sense it then?”

“Because balance came to life, easing the tension from the judgement of Primus. Revenge is my territory, while you are more for petty things such as affection or ugh, love. Right, wrong, they're opposites, but I like it that way. We're so used to being apart, can we ever be one again?”

The brother couldn't reply to such words, watching the smirk on his brother's face grow. “Will we inflict judgement upon those who've disturbed the balance?”

“Why do you think I came over? Wasn't for a cup tea or sleeping parties. I'm rather interested in keeping a few things up, so don't make it too boring. You're too used to being among the mortal ones. I'm sure Vector Prime will keep your processor updated, change that lightbulb on it. Your optics are rather dull.”

“Malus, this isn't a game!”

“Oh look at the time, I must be off, you look better when you're angry. One last thing to hear, do not forget our past, no matter how much you crave being this so called Relic Guardian of Light. Toodle pip.” He leaped away right as the twin fired a few arrows.

I felt my body melt away; the acid I manipulated is now turning against me. Its supposed to be painful, yet I couldn't scream, my dreams are dwindling into this madness. Yet, I liked it. I wanted to vanish from time, because that's what clones are. They aren't meant to exist. I remembered a movie I saw with a few others. Humans, cloned to die for the real ones as they grew older. That their lives meant nothing anymore to those who harvested their organs. Even as they grew up with their own personalities. I'm sick, I'm tired; will I wake up? Is Hook going to give Bludgeon new spare parts? My parts? Or will they rot away because of their human construction? Why did I do this? Its a few people, yet more than those handful know. My strength is gone, I can't hear or see anything. I want to be lost in my fantasy, of being real...

It seems my prayer came true, by her beautiful face returning to me. I'm back here, I hope I can stay here forever, away from my dark dreams called reality.

“Are you okay?” She whispered to me, moving back to let me stand up. I'm taller than her, I didn't realize how bigger I am in these mech's memories. It makes me feel like I'm Megatron, a powerful warrior, its a rush, but I cannot cry, nor express myself. This body checked for damage before focusing on her. I am not in pain, I am happy to be back here.

The machine's voice is inaudible to me, coming out as shots of static that harmed my audio receptors. The femme expressed concern, before holding onto my arm. “I've never seen a mech like you before, are you lost? This is quite a huge city, and I often come here on my breaks. Polyhex is a growing city state, I've lived here my whole life, so I often help those who need it. I'm...” Static hit, breaking up the concentration. Breaking before I could hear her speak that word I wanted. A hint of who these two figures are. Lost to me. Anger welled up in my outdated programming, but I couldn't do anything to express that. Still, she looked so beautiful, with a warm smile as she took my hand, its such a warm touch, like Nightbird's own. Wait, Nightbird? Oh yes, she was there for me. Did she make it? I hope so, I didn't want her to die because of my sins. But, Primus, if you do believe her to be good, take care of her.

We walked across the city, seeing the construction happening around us. It amazes me how influential Cybertron used to be, before they devoted that knowledge to war. I wished I could say something, try to change the future, but these are a poor one's memories. He may have died during the fighting. Still, this mech continued to follow the smaller femme. Both passing by other faces, full of surprise and fear. Why are they so scared of a big mech? We walked, I wished I could do this, but it seemed I am a prisoner, and this body is my cage.

Today, we had fun exploring the city. Its so big, I cannot cover a quarter of it if I tried to. I had too much fun, I didn't want guilt to consume me, please Primus, let me stay...I want to be here, forever with her. Exhaustion soon caught me, making me rest within her room. What will the creators think? No, I shouldn't think of such things. She cares for this body, in a way, me. Why can't I hear her name once? Why can't I hear this body's name?

Everything blurred, before I'd soon open my optics to the sight of dead Cybertronians in front of me. Laying on a pile torn apart. Their Energon soaking my body's servos and the floor. Horror on everyone's optics. A sense of fear overcame me, before I heard screaming, and an immense pain overcoming me... I ran, I couldn't stop as the stars turned red, they wanted me dead. How could I have done so to those mechs? My host transformed, driving through the streets as they chased after this creature. Its like I'm sitting in a seat, watching the action unfold in front of me. That femme, she must hate me now... No one should love an artificial life.

Its blank, a ragged torn countryside away from the city and other optics. Large frame managing to hide from the mob, making them believe he ran away to another direction. The mech soon wandered, I watched the sorrow drenching my processor. It was so bright and cheery, now dark and left me alone. How much time passed? There isn't anything that allows me to know, but I could imagine a few months, or a few years have passed since we met her. Why couldn't I stay in those memories instead?

After drifting with no aim, we soon stumbled onto a secret component of the rusty floor. Its soaked in a strange fluid that stained this body's armor. Firm servos grabbed onto a part, lifting it open to find a tunnel. Must be a way to somewhere safe, but there aren't any lights. Soon, the mech leaped down, watching the light from above vanish. Then, that feeling intensified, making me wish to purge everything. A sharp pain tore into my chest, yet I could still hear the robot move. This awful feeling, its difficult to stay awake. The darkness is consuming me, is this my fate? I'm drifting...away...

...

I can't wake up...

 

Again, many apologies for not posting anything in so long. I did get Chapters 5-8 finished, but after a reset on my computer, Chapter 9 and other words were deleted. However, I did manage to save Chapter 9 through old screenshots, so I have been able to scan the text and copy them to a word document. Are you all okay with me posting the entire chapters on here like I have before?

 

nobody’s gonna stop you if you do  

 

Again, many many apologies for not posting here. Will upload the other chapters sometime soon to not seem spammy. As a bonus, I will post Chapter 9 on here before anywhere else once I get it completed, so hopefully I'll remember that! Enjoy~

Chapter 5: Seeing is Believing

Its quiet, the silent night life took over the large city. None aware of the large hulking machine that loomed over their rooftops. Fingers grabbed onto the edges. He supported himself in the long leaps through the heights above.

Purple and gold, a combination inscribed by royalty to be the symbols of power and wealth. Still are to those of the monarchies of various places. Were the Primes royalty? Much like the Pharaohs of long ago, proclaimed to be Gods. Such a long time to process these histories, much like Cybertron in a way.

To believe in deities and the ancestors to be the keys to the future. To rule it as they believed life should go. Foolish, but, he left before seeing the long disaster unfold. A part of him hurt hearing those vile truths, but for now, the pain subsided. No matter how much hatred flowed in his Spark, a piece of him cared for his ‘brother’.

Dusty hallways, forgotten swept places in the abandoned military base. Still drenched in the young hours of moonlight. Something is off with him, a presence sensed before so long ago. Malus navigated through winding corridors, an aimless direction. Why is there that feeling? It can’t be a creature crawling through his systems. No, its something else. Malus turned his helm upon faint whispers nearby. The warrior crept up to the throne room, giving a listen.

“Lord Megatron, you’re giving me a mission?” Impactor, the same idiot who thought he could kill Unicron by impaling his hook through the poor sap’s face.

The Megatron of this universe sat on his own throne, a frown on his face. Soundwave stood nearby and played a recording.

“Following the destruction of a destroyed area of Florida.” Came the tone of a newswoman who got dragged out of bed to yawn out her report.

“So? What does this have to do with me?” Came a snarky remark from the orange mech.

“Its because Viper must have an other motive that I am not aware of. What if its a way to revolt against us? What if Starscream has something to do with it?”

“You’re overthinking it sir.”

A scowl was the leader’s reply. “I want you to investigate, as I know you’re often the lone wolf. Take one of the smaller shuttles if you have to. Nightbird is gone as well, she must be in this mess, that’s what I get for trusting human made machines.”

“Understood, we will discuss payment once I bring them back.”

“Don’t disappoint me, like Lockdown has before…”

Malus stepped back into the shadows before the orange and purple mech could spot him. The ancient warrior moved away. He glanced back to see if Megatron or his boombox pet were listening. Such a shame he can’t play music as well as he used to.

“Viper, I remembered those strange looks you gave to me. What if you’re right Megatron. What if there’s a reason we have to investigate? That disturbance, I know it can’t come from one power at play. Viper, I will bring back what belongs to me...To Us.” He resumed the long travel in the spider tank alt mode.

A dark whisper in the wind. Blue optics came to life as the empty city distorted around him and Soundwave. Both Autobot and Decepticon fought, destroying the buildings surrounding them. The battle is endless, until the blue music mech became a pile of snakes. He slithered about to resemble the Decepticon. Hound backed away, trying to shoot as figures arose from the shadows. Hooks and chains binded him as the Snakewave crashed to the floor, dragged away by a blood red symbol. Blue optics stared as the humans came closer. Their weapons ready to tear his body apart…

Hound forced himself up, taking a few deep vents as his shaken vision restored itself to the interior of the Ark. “Again…Its happened again.” He got up from the berth, glancing down at his new body. Its bulkier than the others, a paler green than what he used to have. With this new power, he’s still a shadow of himself.

Without the ability to rest, the soldier walked past a long hallway. Glancing by closed doors, those who can dream without thinking of the war. Everyone knew Hound’s emotions sank since the forced changes. Those against his will, and how can he trust the human who’s been the mole? The thoughts ceased once finding Sentius Magnus’ quarters empty.

Magnus stayed still as wind blowed past the large steel flags on his back. Golden sight staring for hopes of the dark mech coming back. The disturbance is growing, and the answers are silent. Why has Primus not yet spoken to him as he had before? Helm raised up to stare at the distance where the water roamed free in the ocean. The dark colors of a deep blue began to shift to a soft gold. A light that breaks free of the darkness. The forever change that will never die until the end of time itself.

“Sentius Magnus?”

The demigod turned his helm, finding Hound taking a few steps up to him.

“Hound, is something wrong?”

“Well, I’m wondering why you’re out here. Do you like the sunrises?”

“I do, but my brother came here and warned me of what bothers us. We’re those who protect the Balance, and out there someone has disturbed it. Who? I am not sure, but I know my brother has an idea.”

“Then why didn’t you follow him?”

The white armored mech didn’t reply, turning to Hound and glanced down at the GI Joe sticker on his chest.

“You don’t like the alliance, do you,”

“That doesn’t answer my question.” The green Autobot frowned at the avoidance. Helm looked down to the armor. “Yes, I do not feel good about it. While I do love this world, some people aren't worth the trust.”

“You're unhappy at Optimus' choice, aren't you.”

“I still don't understand, I hated what I said, I was lying to myself, trying to convince them to work together. This body, I...” He looked at a reflection from the flowing river beneath them.

“Optimus, I fear his judgement is leading us astray. To trust those who've seen us as experiments. I'm not standing around to wait for answers. We must find them on our own. I'm sure there's a shuttle we can borrow.”

“I'm willing to come with you. There hasn't been much Decepticon activity around here and that worries me.” Hound turned his helm to the Ark, waiting for anyone to walk out. No one did, leaving the two to their own devices.

...Its cold, the same cold I've felt my entire life. My processor began to activate, its lost in these dark memories. No, they’re dreams, why I dream them, I don’t know. Everything’s spinning, the ache fading from my wounded mind. Where am I? How can I still ask questions no one will answer? I swore I'd fall asleep forever...

A vision cleared up, a figure of might looming over me. Then, he vanished, leaving me to stare at the architecture. We must be deep within the planet, but how? How can such a part be so deep? Was it right to run away from everything and everyone? That pain stung me. I could be here for days, hours, years, Nightbird, what is she doing? It's so quiet, except for the whispers of voices I do not understand.

As the mech's body began to move, a door opened, startling us. We stared at the darkness, I can feel this mech's armor tense, an unknown danger looked in front of us. Yet, its the one way we can go.

As the mech walked, I took notice of the room. Gold everywhere, much shinier than up above. How tunneled this place is, we must be deep inside of Cybertron. I remembered this, when the Autobots and Decepticons battled Unicron. My processor drifted to the memory, as the golds grew dull to my worn blue optics.

I remembered wiggling, trying to free myself as doom came closer. A large smeltering pit exposing toxic chemicals. Melting down any poor Cybertronian who survived getting squashed by the transforming planet. I looked back at those who've served alongside me. Fear in their optics after mouths emerged and swallowed us whole. Based on the height, I wouldn't have enough time to soar away. Fate is nearing my end, I am staring at death, but it'd make sense, for I have no past...At least, back then...

“Come here. Come closer.” A voice broke me from the horrific memory. Its soft, yet bears a sharpness to it. Two Cybertronians sounded much like him, yet, I couldn't answer if they were who I thought them to be. Without much control, I continued to stare at the sights, refusing to fall asleep as I did before. Nightmares are too much for me to handle right now. Its a lot to think about, yet this voice soothed me of my pain, much like how one likes fresh Energon after a brutal battle.

We'd emerge into a large chamber, bearing colors of the Primes. Golden statures of each Prime encircled the room. Each bore the symbol of their respective Core. The sight of that shivered me, remembering how everyone battled for them. Its something I wouldn't have expected, why are we here? Why to be within such sacred grounds if we're both not natural?

The center took my attention away, a large mech levitated within an aura of shimmering colors. His shape, the same one from before, the Relic Guardians, yet, he appeared much different. The aura vanished as his two toed feet landed to the ground. His optics shined, with splashes of blue and purple flowing about. The same color of his armor alongside the whites, blacks, and golds. He's much taller than I, even Sentius Malus. Two extra arms moved about, much like a deity from Hindu mythology. Among the four fingered servos was a large sword. To gaze upon him, I felt like I had found the man on the Silver Mountain. I'd felt holy again, even though I never bore that within me before. One from legends, forgotten about until the Twins came to us. A part of me knew, this was the Relic Guardian of Balance...Sentius Nobilius...

“I've heard what happened, how society rejected you and casted you away.” He aimed his sword at us, making me tense as the poor mech tried to back away, but the doorway behind us vanished. I could feel the mech trying to move away from this large being, but couldn't escape anywhere. I felt pity, but this is my pitiful attempt at a soul exploring this weird reflection of an altered reality. I kept my optics on Sentius Nobilius, watching as the blue and purple halves of his sword glow. Judgement, a much less tense one without Sharkticons looming below. A story Kup told us during our cooperation when Starscream took command of Cybertron. I could see a glow of both colors, making the mech lower his blade.

“Balance is what the universe strives to achieve.” The deity spoke.

“Who are you?”

“I am Sentius Nobilius, I've seen you before up above. We are deep within Cybertron. This is the Vault where many Prime artifacts remain until needed again. I am its guardian, and none have made it into here alive before until you.”

“Then why aren't I dead? I've caused so much pain...”

“Pain by protecting yourself, yet you bear Energon on your servos. I am willing to make a deal. I've been within this room for many years. After the Clash of the Titans, Primus chose me to keep the Balance within these rooms. I will teach you the ways of the Primes, and if you can redeem from your mistakes of the past.” He spoke in such grandness, knowing his words would work. His holy aura kept alit, the day who could show me the way. The night with his optics that'd see right through me. Yet, could he see me as I hijack this mech's memories?

The mystery mech remained still, I'm sure he's quite uncertain with what's going on, I am wondering too. Yet, its like a story, I know what's going to happen next even if I've never read it before.

“Please, I don't know where else to go.” The unnatural Cybertronian whispered.

“Come with me, and Primus will lead the way.” He turned to a new door that opened up.

As we walked deeper in, my vision faded, a tug came to my mind. Someone's screaming my name...

Blue optics flicked with a soft moan. A servo cupped the Cobra mech's cheek as the vision clarified.

“Viper! You're awake!” Nightbird took a deep vent.

No sign of Nobilius, what were up with these dreams? Are they dreams? Or bits of a mech's random memories? Viper stared, unsure what to do as his frame refused to move.

“You strained yourself after fighting those Duplicates. Again, the humans are there, but we're safe here.”

The mech nodded, listening to the faint whispers of the beach. Peaceful waves rolled across the bleached sands, yearning for the sunlight. “How long?”

“A day, I haven't heard anything from Megatron or the others. We should be safe for now. No humans nearby as well.”

“Good, we still have a few targets to hit.” He chuckled. “I didn't expect you to help me out so much. I thought that was the end of me.”

“As did I, can you move?”

“Everything's still intact, but I can't. My limbs are too strained to risk further injury.”

“Then try to rest a bit more, I wished I brought more tools.” She vented, before opening up more of the dark blue armor and trying to fix up the issues.

The Cobra prototype stared to the clouds as they began to turn pink. Morning is coming, yet, his processor is a mess.

What's going on? Why is he thinking of the visions? The clones of Autobots, no Goldfire present, its so hard to think. Humans, there are a few left to hunt down. His vision blacked out again, leaving his frame lax again.

“Scrap! Viper don't do this to me!” She lifted up his frame close to her chest.

“So there you are.”

Yellow optics glowed, facing a certain mech.

The morning sun continued to rise. The Decepticon transport ship nearby. Nightbird whispered, “Impactor.”

 

I really need to post more on here...Chapter 9 was completed who knows how long ago, but I'll need to get back to being active on here. I'll post the rest of the chapters here to get everyone to speed and also start working on Chapter 10. I have begun it, but still need to figure out some ideas.

Chapter 6: Desert of Danger

Yellow glared at the bright sunlight. Nightbird slipped a blade from her back, keeping her distance from Impactor. "You made clumsy movements, but I saw the damage left behind. You would've fit well as a Wrecker." The former leader smiled, adjusting his harpoon.

"I've had requests for a few ranks before, but my loyalty is for who I want to give to."

"And what does Viper have that Megatron doesn't?"

"You trust for Megatron is in payment." She created a hologram and let the yellow mech turn and slash it in half.

"I know your tricks." He snarled, then fired out his harpoon. Nightbird moved away as the weapon pierced through the air. He didn't stop, firing a blast from his shoulder cannon. Nightbird hit the sand as her shoulder burned with melted armor. She threw a laser blade, damaging the former Autobot's torso.

It vanished as Impactor turned his helm, seeing her gripping a laser sword. He stopped the attack with his harpoon, staring into her optics. He punched her wrist and roundhouse kicked her side. The ninja femme spiraled before touching the sand again. Instead of crashing, she flipped back, throwing more blades that did hit his frame again.

Nightbird's hologram got a chance to attack, striking him without damage. It left him trapped in an electric shock. Impactor snarled as he noticed her approaching. Slashing through his chest with the blade, trying to expose the vital portions of his frame. In a split second, his harpoon pierced through the illusion and then jabbed into her frame. He snarled as she shoved his shoulder cannon in another direction before he could fire.

In that tight grip, she flipped him over into the sand. Pinning him down until throwing him back before the cannon could hit her. He flung out his harpoon, piercing into her armor and pulling her from where he stood at the rocks. The mech gave a swift punch, jabbing into her helm. Yellow dimmed before Nightbird twisted her body. Car armor parts taking Impactor out of the grip. The ninja femme kicked his chest, then jabbing at him with her blades. Silver gleamed against the translucent yellow. Harpoon pierced and awaiting to tear her open. They remained locked within their grip.

Impactor smiled, grabbing onto her helm and shoving her against the wall. Energon leaked down his chest. Nightbird dragged her blade against him further. "Not bad, I'm impressed." His harpoon shoved the sword away, aiming it close to her neck. "Don't make me kill you, I've ridden this rodeo many times before." He noticed her arms lowered, an innocent look in artificial eyes.
"I know, I've heard it before." A click alerted her to the sound of Stasis Cuffs.

"Come on then, Megatron wants you back right now." He began to drag her through the beach and back to the ship. Energon trailing down his frame and onto the sand. Nightbird looked around, trying to figure out a way to get out of this. Wait, where is Viper?

Right then, broken dark blue armor tackled into yellow, forcing Impactor off his pedes. An acid gun shoved into his wounded chest. Bright blue optics glared at him. "Give me a reason not to kill you right now."

"I can help you with whatever you're doing, put that thing away." Impactor snarled, yet the mech remained firm.

"How can we be sure you're not going to blab it all to Megatron?"

"If you told me what you're doing, then I'll listen."

"Not here, get in your ship and take us to Nali. We'll tell you everything before the others get here." They began to hear sirens wailing. The mech broke the Stasis Cuffs, keeping his gun aimed at the former Wrecker.

"Nali? There's nothing of interest there." Impactor frowned.

"I'll tell you when we get inside. Now stop trying to break my helm open with that harpoon. Be glad I brought a few medkits." Viper huffed, helping the injured femme get up. "You'll both bleed out if you don't get inside." The mech went into the ship. Impactor watched them, clenching his fist, but knowing when to not risk it. Still, he noticed a flash of gold and purple on the top of the cliffs. He looked up, seeing a figure standing there. Without a word, he went inside and sat down, feeling his armor bleeding.

The shuttle flew off before the figure could catch up to them. Malus watched, helm tilted and a smirk on his face. "That's it, run as far as you can. I will catch you when the time is right..." He purred, transforming and storming off into the forest.

Nightbird leaned back on the old makeshift couch. Yellow optics staring at the projection onto the wall. Soundwave knew how to get cable for everyone, so most Cons would enjoy spare time. It's a secret spot, no fun-killers allowed in here to ruin the fun. For now, most of the place in a frenzy. Voices yelled outside, drowned out by the sounds of a circus on the screen. Starscream, Megatron, and other higher-ups in a shouting match as humans filled up the screen. Humans, the Decepticons loathed them. She couldn't deny that without them, she wouldn't be here. To think, they're working together now thanks to Cobra, but are causing such an insane racket outside. She didn't notice the door opening as a human woman was drawing the caged white tiger in front of her.

"What's your name again? Ah, Dhiren. Well, I'll just call you Ren. Hope that's alright with you."

A figure sat beside her, seeing the tiger's blue eyes shine. Lockdown leaned back too, a smile on his face. "Seeing this film again? Do you have other interests?"

"I thought you didn't care what I watched."

"Curious, but I'd rather hear this than listen to the screaming outside. Its a mess, I didn't sign up for that." He vented, watching the drawing of the tiger move about on the paper. The woman continuing to ask questions.

"You're the idiot who let Perceptor get away." She vented as well.

His hook pierced the couch's old fabric and left a tear. "I will hang his corpse out to dry once I get my claw on him. " A growl before frowning.
"Good luck with that, after the incident, Optimus won't let him go by himself." She rolled her optics and chuckled.

"You're more fun to chat with than Slipstream." He shook his helm.

"Oh, why bring her up?"

"Was wondering if you'd like to escape somewhere far from here. I have my ship stowed away, no one knows. We could sneak out and escape this mess."

The human-made femme nodded but looked back to the screen. "Have you heard anything from Viper?"

"Him? No, he's been quiet after Megatron sent him out for the mission."

"Does he know yet?"

"Know about what? You still haven't answered me your offer."

"That he's not the one human-made Cybertronian. No, I'm not risking my life out there right now. Where do you go anyways?"

"I go to places, far off places you'd dream of. Everywhere I turn, there's a mission with my name. More trophies to keep."

"I'm not ready for those changes. I'd like to wait longer. More soldiers will take up slots and Megatron won't notice. It won't be fun to have Decepticons chasing us."

"I've done it before, but make sure to come back before Megatron can think of me."

"Then why say we can leave without him noticing?"

"I'm sure my punishment will expire soon."

"And soon being a million years."

Lockdown laughed, then grew quiet.

"You worry about being a puppet? That someday your little Spark of life will get ripped out of you and become the drone no one thinks of?"

Nightbird didn't reply, returning to the screen.

The bounty hunter adjusted his hook. "No, he doesn't know the truth behind you. I'm asking you because I'm fascinated at your skills. Holograms, ninja reflexes, the gadgets you have. It amuses me you use so much and Megatron can't see your worth. No one does except me and a few others. I'll keep the offer up for a while, need to get supplies ready for it." He took a deep vent. "Was waiting for a time like this, it can get lonely up in space."

"Not used to the company now?"

"Had to get used to it after Megatron dragged me out of the Space Bridge." He chuckled.

The two stopped as a few other Cons entered. Everyone wants a distraction from the constant screaming. Even if it's a romance film. It took until the third film in the series for everyone to shut up and agree on the cooperation. One other incident happened during that time, but it's still painful to remember.

Yellow flickered awake, Nightbird noticed a few patches on her frame. She didn't speak, frame too numb and busy resting on a bench. Viper busy doing the same to Impactor. "Going to answer me?" The Wrecker huffed out. Not flinching as the snake continued cleaning up the Energon on his broken chest.

"Revenge. There are a few people involved with my creation that I want gone. It has nothing to do with Megatron, his paranoia is getting the better of him."

"How many targets left?"

"Four, three are across the ocean, two of them are together. That's why we need to go to Nali first. I was planning on leaving Nightbird behind so she wouldn't chase after me."

"So you would've ditched her here?"

"No, I would've tried to figure out a way for her to leave. I want to make sure she survives, for I know the more I kill, they will find me and I won't make it."

"How much is this going to cost me?"

"Cobra hacked into the American networks, found vital documents and I stole them. Would be nice to ransom them off and get yourself a lot of cash."

"Cash? I don't need those tiny pieces of green, but I'm sure they'd convert it to Shanix." He glanced at his worn harpoon.

"I know its not an Autobot way, but its still something you can do. I can't stand humans, they've torn me apart and left me to gather dust. That's enough repairs for now. Try not to be stupid again, my processor still aches from that memory."

"What memory?"

"I'm still trying to figure it out if its a memory or a dream. My head hurts whenever I try, its happened more often when I'm unconscious. I don't know why, but I'm sure its because I'm unable to receive the pain. Cobra feared me, yet, why did they cut my mind apart? What did I do to deserve that?" Viper took a few deep vents before lowering his helm. "Its nothing for you to worry about."

He walked over to the controls, laying back against the seat.

Impactor noticed the softened expression on Nightbird. "Do you think he's crazy?" The mech whispered.

"No, he's like a lost child trying to understand where he came from. I didn't know his visions would be this serious, I wished he told me what they are about." She stared up at the ceiling, as Impactor looked over his other weapons for when they arrive to Nali.

Viper lowered his helm, wishing he knew how to understand this paranoia, how to ease their worries. But, what more could he do but hope to see it again? Will he get any answers from them? Blue optics glanced at his wounds, best to get it out and try not to think about how much he hurt Nightbird with his words.

Further away, an Autobot ship flew over a desert. Nothing bothering it until a sudden jolt alerted the two riders to a presence. Through a screen, Hound noticed one jet flying towards the ship. "Decepticon!" The mech scrambled to the back and began to fire, while Sentius Magnus grabbed onto the controls. "We may be going down! There's someone else out there too!"

Electricity surged through the ship, forcing the power to shut off. Both Cybertronians gripped onto their seats as they crashed to the sand.

Hound noticed two figures stepping into the ship. He remained low as power came back on, showing two Seekers. Thundercracker looked around before finding the dark green mech. "There you are, we knew some Autobots were coming by." He huffed, as Skywarp Nightraven approached the downed Sentius Magnus.

"Huh, brought out the big guns too." The Nightraven chuckled, kicking the mech. "So, what brought you here? Snooping around Decepticon territory for fun?"

Hound sat up, as the blue Seeker aimed his chain gun at the Autobot. "We weren't coming here to give you two issues." He snarled.

"How can we be sure of that?" Skywarp turned his helm, seeing the Gi Joe sticker on the Autobot's chest. "Its funny how we're both branded." The Cobra symbol prominent on his wing.

"Decepticon territory? Never knew we were in Nevada." The mech sat up, being slow to not allow TC's trigger finger to itch.

"Well, we're not in there, but its still connected to that. Skywarp wants his old body back."

"I don't want to be stuck like this!"

Hound shook his helm. "I know, I hate this body too. Why not let us help you? Why are you looking around here?"

"Old Cobra base where Viper trashed them after they fled. He wasn't himself after that movie night."

"Don't remind me Thundercracker, I don't care for romance, but Viper, when he appeared, made it the scariest thing." Skywarp's wings tensed up to his frame.

"I'm interested to hear about it." Sentius Magnus groaned, sitting up, his flags still perked up. "I've wondered a few things about Viper, and if this is a key to his life, then I want to know."

"Reminds me of your brother, he had a weird interest in that." TC lowered his gun, but kept optics locked on Hound.

The demigod didn't snap, instead walking past Skywarp. "You shut down our ship, so it leaves us nothing else to do until its operational."

The four mechs exited the ship and explored across the desert. They'd find the remains of the base. Seeing broken machinery and what Hound feared to be human remains melted away by the acid. A frown on his face while the other Decepticons displayed no emotion, yet they kept their guns out. Made sense, no Autobot would let any Decepticon roam free with a gun in servo. He glanced to Magnus, hoping for any ideas, nothing.

They entered into an underground part of the base untouched by the rampage up above. Its such a shelter, to hide away from the storm above of the rampage of war. Viper made his choice to destroy them, the humans had a choice to stop it, but they pulled the trigger. It was just a shot away that broke him. At least from what Hound could guess by hearing Skywarp and Thundercracker talk.

"Viper's still quite a disturbed bot, I heard he ran away earlier. Megatron's must've thrown a bone at someone to fetch for him."

"Yep, its chaotic about that, but at least he cleaned up this place for us to sneak around." Skywarp giggled, twirling his two guns while aiming one at Sentius Magnus. "Anything you can do to help us?"

The golden mech turned to face a large room full of screens. He approached, but Skywarp followed with his guns. Pressing them against his back as his servos shuffled through big black VHS tapes. "I don't know what these are, but they tried to escape with them. Hound, Thundercracker, I need to check on these. You two go on and search for the body, if there is one."

There was a soft heat as Skywarp's finger kept nearing the trigger. "My body." He hissed.

"Don't be stupid Skywarp, I'll use my EMP bomb to put Hound and Sentius Magnus in their places."

"But if we get Skywarp's body back, then can you help us?" Hound chimed.

"With what?" Thundercracker's red optics glimmered in the dull lights.

"There is something upsetting the Balance, and we have to find it." Sentius Magnus added, inserting a tape into a slot.

Both gold and red optics inspected the screen that came to life. While Hound and Thundercracker left to explore the empty lab.

It's dusty, no one could tell where anything is without the headlights from Hound's chest. "Feels like a million years passed by." He noticed parts of the place collapsed, letting sand pour in.
"Viper tore a number into this place. Never thought a human-made Cybertronian could do this." Thundercracker looked around, checking for anything that could reveal Skywarp's armor. "I still don't trust you, I'm hoping you can help out or something that makes me glad I kept you alive." His chain gun still aimed at Hound.

The Autobot moved about, brushing away sand. "Why would they put it away in here?

"Skywarp thinks they put his armor here so they'd have that technology for themselves. You know how greedy humans are, yet, they ditched Soundwave's body at that city, must've done the same to you. I saw them hauling away Skywarp's old armor as they kept tearing through it. He says he's not fond of this frustration with that armor."

"What's going on with Viper?"

"We don't know, he and Nightbird left the base a few weeks ago. We're not sure why, Megatron wants to know since reports popped up."

"The dead humans?"

"Yeah, no clue why they're getting melted down, we know Viper hated humans, but not that much." Thundercracker kept brushing away the sand and dust. Trying not to get any into his vents that'd cause a loud 'sneezing' fit that'd alert everyone in a hundred-mile radius of his presence.

Sentius Magnus and Skywarp stood still, watching the small bits of footage move by. Nothing important to them yet, except for old plans no longer in use. Magnus crossed his arms, feeling Skywarp's gun pressing against his helm. "Shouldn't you be checking over for what you're looking for?" He said while checking a few tapes, subspacing a few without much thought. Some having interesting titles, but he knew to be careful with this insane mech.

"No, not if it leaves you running around with two weapons. But, I don't want you to go on a rampage. Yet, I'm quite upset you're wasting my time with those weird brick things. I want my old body back, I want to be before this whole Cobra mess." Skywarp replied.

"Skywarp, can you tell me a bit about Viper?"

"Why? That crazy human-made freak?"

"I'm curious, since I've heard he wasn't feeling well after what Cobra did in the alliance."

"That was awful, not because of my new body. My pedes are so bent I'm like on high heels. I mean, I like the ability to hide myself, easier for pranks. But, I look ugly."

"I can tell. You're trying to understand that as well."

"What about the other humans you had to work with?"

"I do not trust them, neither does Hound. He's spoken to me about the visions he's had. Nightmares of the humans tearing us apart. I cannot let anyone kill me or my brother. We need to protect the artifacts."

Tapes rotated, nothing special passing by on each through the fast-forwarding. Both remained stern, listening to the high pitch voices. Made Skywarp laugh at how silly Cobra Commander sounded.

Then, one tape hidden among the pile emerged. On the screen was a woman wearing a black coat with the Cobra symbol prominent on her chest.

"Doctor Coluber here, since none of my colleagues are insane enough to do this, I cannot let this go. After the failure of Operation Snakebite, I've decided to explore into it. What went wrong as everyone around me wants to bury it. Yet, something much deeper happened. Something no one but I noticed." The footage then turned to a camera recording of a few Cobra Rattlers landing onto a runway at an old base. Chaos soon emerged once one of them transformed and cause chaos, leaving Skywarp's jaw agape. Sentius Magnus remained firm, hearing the people panic.
In the recording, Viper's armor tensed, a symbol appeared on the ground. He pressed his servos to the floor and wailed unknown words. Sentius Magnus stood up from his crouched position. "I remembered that, look at the floor!" Indeed a symbol's present, but it vanished once the mech crashed after a well-placed shot. Blood pouring out of his face as glass shattered. "This, Skywarp, do you know what it is?"

"Viper's always been insane?"

"No, I knew you wouldn't have known." He ejected the tape and kept it close. Staring deep into it with an intense fascination.

"Hey, aren't you going to tell me?" Right then, the demiogod tackled Skywarp, digging his sword into his side.

"Never tell anyone of what you saw, or I will tear you apart. The Balance is more important than your worthless existence." Sentius Magnus snarled as the purple Seeker hitched on his words. Bright red optics shining against his bold golden sight.

"I'll not." Skywarp stuttered before vanishing from his sight. Shooting at the demigod and running off to where Thundercracker and Hound are.

"You will not escape with what you know!" Golden arrows flew everywhere as the Nightraven ran.

Thundercracker and Hound looked up from their investigation. Both finding Skywarp running into the room. "We've gotta get out of here! There's a crazy demigod after my aft!"

"What did you do?" Thundercracker came up to his fellow Seeker as he panicked.

"Nothing!"

They heard Sentius Magnus nearby, yelling out in rage. "No one will stop me from healing the Broken Balance!"

"We'll go find your body later, I don't think we can reason with him!" Hound grabbed their arms and dragged them out of the room. Right as the golden spider tank chased after them through the underground ruins.

They scrambled outside, finding the Autobot shuttle back in operating condition. Two Cons and a Bot ran inside, Hound activating the systems. Thundercracker and Skywarp stood at the doorway as the mech emerged from the sand. With the shuttle in operating mode, the purple Seeker snuck in. Thundercracker fired out an EMP bomb at the Relic Guardian of Light. Magnus froze as TC ran into the shuttle, he stared as they escaped, going further away and to parts unknown.

Everyone stared at each other as Skywarp's wings drooped. "What happened?" No one replied, nor could they know what to say.

Sentius Magnus waited until the effects wore off, taking a deep vent and clenching his bow. Hound nor the other two in sight anymore. "Malus, I hope you're having better luck than I am." He impaled his sword into the soft sand, letting a golden aura envelop him.

 

Chapter 7: Desert Flight

Autobots stayed in place, whispering their questions on the biggest topics right now. Those being the missing Hound and Sentius Magnus. Cliffjumper observed his comrades, knowing they're full of worry like he was. No one's sure about the sudden news and the mysterious deaths. Not with a surprise visit from the Joes themselves.

Humans walked by their base, those bearing those red white and blue colors. It left a bad taste in the mini red Autobot. Optimus ordered them to stay put or away back in their quarters. With enforcement from Ultra Magnus and Skyfire in his new body. The sight of his new frame left a shiver in him, seeing the Autobot's Cybertron armor taken away to who knows where. Research for what!? This was an awful idea! How come Prime was so willing to partake in this insanity?!

Prowl walked by the various Autobots, avoiding the humans as they kept inspecting the Ark. Who knows what they could find in the metal hull. Cliffjumper kept a sneer, leaving Mirage to shake his helm. Everyone will never forget that 'Traitor' incident. Red armor shuffled over to the speedy car.

"Mirage, something fishy's going on."

"Fishy? Did one get logged into your helm?"

"No, but I know something's up. Why would the humans be wanting this so much? Look at them, poking at the walls, who knows what else they're trying to take."

Prowl approached, servos on his hips with a frown. "Will you two stop it? I know none of us wanted this, but its our one way of dealing with it. We must keep the peace between Autobots and humans."

"What about what they did to Hound!?"

"I know, Hound's reconstruction was quite grim, but we need to focus elsewhere. I'm sure we'll find him when we can. Sentius Magnus too."

"Fine, but let me go back to my quarters than."

"Don't do anything stupid!" Mirage piped up.

"Can it Mirage!" Cliffjumper stormed off to his own personal quarters. Outside of his room, he slammed the door shut before he locked it. Then slipping away as no one watched.

The voices seemed to grow stronger in one of the bigger rooms. Human voices; the red mech followed, noticing it to be Optimus' office. He cracked the door a bit, than took a look in. Due to his smaller height, he shouldn't get caught with ease. He'd see the Prime alongside the smaller life forms right there.

Optimus sat at his desk, with Duke and other humans present on the metal surface. "You believe these killings have to do with Cybertronian affairs?" The Prime watched the documents shown through a projection. Each face of the victims present.

"Years ago, there was a testing facility that each of these people worked at. So far, a few of them died a few weeks ago or in a day. We still have no idea who could be doing this. We finished going through the rampage at Cobra Headquarters a few days ago. But, that's why we're following Hound. He has our technology, which is making it easy to tell where he's going." Duke began, keeping a stern look. Melody kept her face down, looking at her intertwining hands.

Cliffjumper clenched his servo, but noticed Prowl, Goldfire and Springer approaching. "Wanted to hear it too? They bugged Hound!"

The door opened and Ironhide stepped out. "This is private, I know you want to figure it out, but we can't risk any human and Cybertronian alliances. I know Hound is a good soldier, but he can handle himself."

"What about when Hound got taken down by those Joes?!" huffed.

"Out!"

Ironhide gave them the boot, slamming the door shut.

"Ouch...great idea Cliffjumper." Goldfire whined.

"Can it! I'm going to help Hound and get that bug off him!" The red minibot stomped off as Springer ran after him. Prowl groaning before chasing after Goldfire.

"Care for me to join in?" Springer grinned.

"More help the better." Cliffjumper replied. The two snuck away as the rest were busy following orders.

Daylight shined down as Hound looked up from the screen. The two Seekers kept watch outside the windows. No one dared try to sleep until morning came as they soared through the mountains of the middle of America. The lone Autobot noticed the two Seekers approaching him. Yet, their weapons weren't drawn out.

Thundercracker chimed up, wings flicking as he looked at his fellow Seeker. "Skywarp, you were with Magnus, can tell us what happened?"

"So, as we were flickering through the tapes, we found a video of a female human talking about Viper." Skywarp began.

"What about Viper did she go into detail on?" Hound turned his helm to stare at the purple Seeker.

"Viper's not normal, something about him is different. Then it cut to some footage of an accident, the one that was Viper's birth. I'm sure of it. It scared me, as I noticed a symbol appeared below him. I got a good look at it too, I'll try to draw it out. Once we saw that, Sentius Magnus went crazy. What if it's because I know something he didn't want anyone else to know?" Skywarp's wings drooped as he got out his gun. The two watched as SW burned a marking into a part of the shuttle.

It's a circle, bearing the twelve symbols of the Primes. Yet, there's three other symbols within the encirclement. Thundercracker stared before chirping. "Looks like this mystery is much more than we expected." He trailed off.

"I'll need to try to ask someone who may know a thing or two about this. I know one I can trust, but I'm not sure on the Decepticons." Hound spoke up, while TC and SW replied with large frowns.

"We were almost killed by an Autobot! He's dangerous to us and tried killing you!" Thundercracker boomed, wings flaring as Skywarp shied away.

"The Primes are in this mess too, yet it involves Viper's birth. Doesn't this add up to something?" The green mech spoke in his usual calmness. "Skywarp, give me footage of this memory, and the symbol. I know someone who may be able to help. I hope I'm not roping him into any danger." Hound took a deep vent, knowing he's putting a lot of trust into this friend.

Cliffjumper and Springer ran down the hallway. Ultra Magnus behind with his servos outreached for both. Once nearing a corner, they snuck into a room, taking deep vents as the large mech ran by.

In the silence, they'd turn their optics to find Perceptor lying on his berth. The mech's shuffling about, which left the two to hide behind some large equipment.

The mech ran through dark streets, taking deep vents and trying not to alert the intruder. Spark hammered in his chest, as a figure came closer with a gleaming hook. "There you are!"

"No!"

Blue optics glowed, Perceptor sat up. He trembled before getting off his berth, tripping a few times in his stumble. Odd, who'd send a message that's urgent and not from Prime? He looked and stared at the inscription.

Hey Perceptor, I found this image and want you to look into it if you can. Don't tell Optimus or the others, I don't want more people joining us. Thanks! ~Hound.

The microscope grabbed a piece of paper and sketched it out. "Fascinating, I'd better see if I can find anything about it." He hummed, turning to notice Cliffjumper and Springer huddled by the door.

"What are you doing in here?!"

"Sneaking our way out of this place." Cliffjumper replied.

"But Optimus said we have to go under." He paused, remembering what that word brought. "Because of the humans, until the humans finished speaking with us." Perceptor replied.

"Hound needs our help." Springer replied.

"Hound? I got a message from him. Still this is rude!"

"What did it say?" Cliffjumper got up and tried to look intimidating to the scientist.

"Something about a symbol. I need to go find the archives and see if anything like this is on file. If you can help me, then I'll give you my help!" Perceptor smiled.

"Alright then, let's go. Make sure to watch out for Ultra Magnus and his brigade." Springer smirked as they opened the door.

Humans filled the archives, sorting through the various items and records. Perceptor walked by them, causing some eyebrows to raise. "I'm under orders from Optimus to retrieve some documents for a report." He smiled, then typed into the database.

Springer and Cliffjumper waited, hearing the typing of the scientist. Gripping their guns and waiting for what felt like forever.

Then, Ultra Magnus showed up. Chaos than erupted and caused alert for the humans and Perceptor. The American soldiers look up at the red Autobot, who returned to typing as the doors broke open. Ultra Magnus lied on the floor, groaning as the two other Autobots began to defend Perceptor.

"Give me a few minutes and I should be able to find it!" He yelled. Ducking a few times as bullets tried to pierce the hardened Cybertronian metal. Springer's sword deflected the bullets, letting them fall to the ground. Cliffjumper's Glass Gas Missiles crash near the humans, tainting their metal guns. Shattered remains of them fall to the ground. The organic creatures backed off, calling for reinforcements.

The room is a mess, as sirens go off. A frown appeared before the scientist noticed the symbol appearing on screen. "I found it!" A grin appeared as he then began to download the information.

"Good, now copy it so we can get out of here!" Springer fired back, making sure to avoid attacking any humans or fellow Autobots.

"I have it now!" Perceptor ran up to the other two Autobots.

"Good, now run as fast as you can!" Springer gripped onto the scientist's arm.

They scrambled out of the room through another exit. Cliffjumper shot a few more Glass Gas Missiles to leave the floor dangerous to traverse on.

Outside, Sky Lynx tapped his claws on the ground, glaring at the humans guarding the Ark's entrance. He'd take notice of them starting to panic and run? The mech tilted his helm before noticing three Autobots running towards him. With other Autobots chasing them?

"Get us out of here Sky Lynx!" Cliffjumper yelled.

A devious grin appeared on the shuttle. "All aboard gentlemen!" He opened up his armor and allowed the mechs to enter inside. As bullet fire flew by, the space shuttle transformed and flew off into the sky.

"Hold onto something my friends! We have others on my gracious tail!"

"I'll fend them off, get out of this state and we should be okay!" Cliffjumper got out his rocket launcher, much to Perceptor's protests.

Springer dragged the scientist to a nearby char and strapped him in. The short red Autobot took aim at the Aerialbots soaring towards them. "Back off, if you know what's coming to you." He fired one out, as it crashed towards Skydive. The minibot looked away as the jet's brothers diverted the hunt and went for their spiraling one.

"Excellent shot Cliffjumper, that should get their attention away from us for a while. Although I know it hurts." Sky Lynx spoke up as the door shut.

"We have to leave, they might try to send in back up." He dropped down his rocket launcher, stomping to a chair and trying not to feel the guilt consume him.

Springer approached the downtrodden mech. "Welcome to life as a Wrecker. Now Sky Lynx, follow Hound's last transmission. Perceptor, enter in that information!"

"I will, but will also see if I can contact Hound. I know what ship he used, so I'll try to share him the information as well." Perceptor sprung from his seat and approached a computer installed into the shuttle. Then he began to enter in a few letters, entering the data from his processor.

Hound? Its me, Perceptor. I found the information you wanted. Its quite interesting. Once I get a direct link with you, I'll share it.

Thundercracker heard a blip from the monitor and noticed a message. "Huh, hey Hound, Skywarp, someone's trying to message us?"

"I'll look, it might be an Autobot. Still, I'll take it with caution." Hound smiled, checking it out. "I knew I could trust you Perceptor."

Springer smirked once seeing the call option pop up. Before glaring at the two Seekers on screen.

"What did you do to Hound!?" Cliffjumper screamed.

Hound's helm popped up. "Oh, sorry about that! I found these two while I was with Sentius Magnus."

"Where is he?" Perceptor chimed.

"He went crazy and tried to kill us!" Skywarp screamed.

"Kill you? I understand Skywarp and Thundercracker, what about you Hound?" Perceptor jumped.

Hound frowned, then nodded. "Where are you calling from? That looks like Sky Lynx's interior."

"Joes, they wanted us under lockdown until they found everything they wanted. They bugged you Hound! They're tracking you!"

The green Autobot stared, hearing TC and SW mumble.

"We knew not to trust humans, I wonder if they bugged me too." Skywarp whispered.

"They're dead, they shouldn't find any use with tracking you down. Until we know how to remove it, I guess the second best option is to shut down Hound." Thundercracker added.

"If its to ensure we don't get captured by the humans, then do so. We'll need to find a place to meet up." Skywarp added.

"Perceptor has some information to give out before you'll rest Hound. My assumption involves those murders that have popped up. The Joes want to know who's killing them. So, we'll need to know, but how to start?" Cliffjumper added.

"Viper, we haven't seen him for the past few weeks, neither Nightbird or Impactor. Sentius Magnus snapped when he saw footage of Viper, like, they knew each other before?" Skywrap added.

"With Malus gone too, we've got few places to go to. Us Decepticons do have trackers, so we may find Viper. Although Megatron's the one who knows. Maybe I can convince Soundwave. For now, let's try meeting up at a beach or something. Away from America since the Joes will try to catch us too." Thundercracker added. Then taking aim of one of his EMP missiles. "Need to rig this to make it last longer. Sorry Hound, even when we're working together I gotta put a few dents."

"As long as we can continue this search. Perceptor, what's the information you found out?"

"Ah yes. According to ancient Cybertronian writings, there were three Guardians. Sentius Nobilius is the first, who then took two others. Those under his wings to guide them in his ways to protect the Archives. Oh, there was a special call that the Guradians knew. It brings aid of the Primes and the other two Guardians when needed. That's when a symbol appears, the same one you showed me. The Guardians names are of course, Sentius Nobilius, but we also have one named Bismuth and, huh?" Perceptor trailed off.

"What's wrong?" Sky Lynx asked.

"Someone deleted the rest. Looks to be fresh too, I'll try to find a backup file, but, why would anyone delete it?" He typed a few codes. Still nothing. The scientist huffed, continuing to type up any backup files he could think of.

I dozed off again, back here in the moment in time I left off at. No pain again, it feels nice to dream without worrying over it again. That pain, the intense pain I'd feel over and over again. Now knowing the cause, it still brings rage to my soul, or do I have one? It's confusing, and I try to understand. Who's dreams are these? No matter how many times I ask myself that, I know no answer will come...

Nobilius and my host traveled through this old hallway. I could feel an intense aura well up in this body. It's so confusing to me, I recognize this from a long time ago, when was this? Why do I recognize it when I've never been in here before?

"Do not fear me, I know how it must be to now step in the presence of Primes. They wanted me to find a disciple. Another guardian since the Vault contains the greatest artifacts in Cybertron's history. Now tell me, outside of your brute strength, is there anything else you can do?"

What the? Another guardian? Of any mind to watch, it had to be this one. I heard the shakiness in the mech's voice, but I couldn't decipher the words. It irritated me. Why can't I know who this is? It leaves me scared, unsure who I am, I know my name, but not this form. This vision.

Nobilius and my figure walked across the dreamy halls. We'd soon arrive to a large seal on the wall. This room is a huge dome, able to fit so many inside. There's something up above, a light source? What a soft blue color, it eased my processor, yet I couldn't stop staring at the seal.

"Do you recognize this? It's the Archives, the place everyone remembers in their corrupt dreams. Powerful items hide here, that could drive anyone mad without the will. Such an item is my sword. This blade can make miracles, but can create awful curses. You do not know that, do you. I can kill with this and purge evil and good from within. It's beautiful, isn't it?" Nobilius lifted his sword, showing a dazzling brilliance upon the Sword of Balance.

I'd remember staring at Malus when he held onto his fragment. Why did shivers run through me both during that time, and now? No, I battled Sentius Magnus, how he'd bear such a golden glare. To stare deep into mine brilliant Bermuda. It's like Malus did when we first met after he accepted the Decepticon symbols. I don't understand why, it's like a nightmare that no one can see. I'm so lonely in it, I wished someone could let themselves in to watch this. A holy angel who'd show me where to go. Could that be what Nobilius is? This body, I feel captive all the same...

"Well, it's best I show you where to go, it's going to be a busy day tomorrow. You're bearing scars from those who rejected you. Because of what you feared."

My host's voice distorted again, before I watched him follow the giant. Yet, I could tell there's a sliver of a smirk on his golden face. Darn it Malus, stop getting into my head.

This room's much like an ancient bathhouse. Large murals intertwined with Cybertron's interior. Impressive, ancient history lost to me. Yet, a pool of a coolant remained still, never disturbed for so long. A part of me felt guilty for doing this, but it's my host's story, not mine.

I could tell Nobilius watched from his post, the new frame took a few shaky steps in. Long ripples spread far and wide. It's like a child who threw a stone to the park's lake. I stared with amazement in my optics. Then, the fluid grabbed onto my weary processor. I must be in a lot of pain right now back in the ship. These dreams or memories, hit me so hard. Why must these ancient ones cause such massive helmaches? My memories of Cobra birthing me, they hurt enough thank you! One day, I'll find someone who will bring my sane mind back, when I don't feel like a prisoner to my past.

Pouring down, down my body and soul, if I bore one. So welcoming, taking the scars off, exposing a true sense of myself. That I'm bathing within Primus' veins. I needed this, the pain can get to much at times. Everything next becomes a blur...

Until I awoke, staring at myself in the reflection, it's the first time I could know who I inhabited. Those blue optics, sent such a shiver in my frame. We bore the same blue optics. My processor began to malfunction. Colors and shapes distorting and spinning in my vision. Then, the coolant flowed over me, drowning within a warmth I could imagine myself dying in...

Blue optics glowed underneath the harsh sunlight. Palm trees swayed, leaving him to sit up. Viper shook his helm, noticing yellow optics in front of him. "Nightbird?"

"You passed out again during the flight. Are you sure they're dreams or memories?"

"I wished I knew, I keep seeing things that scare me."

"Oh, such as?"

"There's a mech's body I inhabit. I got a glimpse at his body. He has my optics."

"Same blue hue?"

Viper nodded, getting up before noticing his reflection. "My armor, it's repaired. Thank you Nightbird."

"I wished I could take all credit. Your frame somehow had regenerative capabilities that I've never seen before."

"It did? Strange, I was such a mess. Where's Impactor?"

"Scouting ahead for the two targets. We're at Nali, quite amazed how it happened so fast. Viper, do you think these visions have to do with what we're doing?"

"What do you mean?"

"After the failed Cobra collaboration was when those visions began. You said whenever you thought back, it'd hurt."

"It still does, but it hurts so much more now. Don't try to risk it, I don't want to be in pain again. This is paradise, for now."

 

Chapter 8: Island of Fear

Nali, an island often forgotten about compared to other islands in the South Pacific. A volcano in the heart of the island surrounded by fields of rice. One dock existed here, where the natives and tourists fished. People living their lives here, trying to blend with the tourism industry. Although the vacation getaway wasn’t the first thought in Viper’s processor. He stood on the beach overlooking the sea and to the nearby islands.

So many small islands in the distance. Waves continued to go back and forth that'd sometimes reach his legs. Its saltwater, and with his enhanced metal frame, rusting should be no big deal. Still, now he remembered a few hours ago, back in Florida where he'd almost offlined. Viper looked down at his servo, seeing how there wasn't any damage on his frame. How did it heal? Last memory he'd remember either as a 'dream' or awake was because of the pool back within Primus. After standing there for a while, he'd start walking. Then noticing Nightbird following him.

Some music came back to his processor. Thinking about what he'd often listen to during times of briefing. For how much the Decepticons hated humans, they enjoyed those flesh and blood tunes. Viper himself wasn't sure what he enjoyed, now knowing the truth, he'd have to look deep in to figure out what he liked.

Viper glanced at her, wondering how she’d dance with how flexible she is. It left a soft smile on his lips. Good thing he had that mouthplate, or he’d get slapped. Funny how a good amount of Cybertronians wore mouthplates. A subtle attempt to to hide their identities. It left him wondering so much, but that’s history. The lost eras of knowledge gone to time, unless those ‘dreams’ say otherwise. He looked up to the Sun, what a beautiful star. When he first came to life…

A shock of pain spiraled in him, twisting and contorting his frame. Nightbird knelt down. “Viper!”

“A relapse, frag this hurts! Why do I have to endure these?!”

“I wished I knew. Come on, Impactor’s waiting for us.” She supported him up and waited for his own legs to work. “What was it?”

“Birth again, I hate how it still hurts.”

“I still wonder why Cobra did that to you. To erase your memories, what little you had.”

“Stupid humans, I’m hating them the more I see them.”

“Such a shame our next targets are on an island. Tourists will flock anywhere.”

“But, I guess this is our vacation away from the war.”

The ninja chuckled, bringing a bit of light to Viper’s misery. Such a laugh, it made him wish for moments like this. Excluding the pain of course.

Impactor stood at the top of a cliff overlooking the only village. Oobserving the big town near the coast. The gateway to the ships that’d lead people to and from here. How those humans can leave their regular lives and enjoy their vacations. To imagine the Cybertronians having vacations sound so fascinating. But, they’re too ingrained within their war to open up their optics to new possibilities. Once noticing the duo, he gave them a glance before returning to the village.

“So, what are we trying to look for?”

“John and Nancy Higgins, they’re marine biologists. Involved with the project due to their understanding of nerve systems. Ways for a machine to feel pain, or, did they steal that from one of you Cybertronains?”

“Viper, no Cybertronian vanished in the 1980s on this planet. I’ve checked the records over and over as both Bot and Con.”

“Still have access to those files?”

“Course, gotta keep my optics open for job opportunities on either side.”

“Then keep checking for any updates. We can’t let the Autobots or Decepticons pull anything funny on us.” Viper began to scale down the cliff. His wings

“Odd, how come his armor’s brand new?”

“Wished I knew.” Nightbird shook her helm. She’d then leap down to the jungle below.

“Show off.” Impactor scoffed before piercing his hook into the ground, taking his time to climb down.

With a graceful land, Viper stood up, listening to the fleeing birds pass by him. He watched in fascination, seeing their dazzling colors reflect against bright red glass. So many beautiful floral creatures of this world. A part of him wished he could belong to this world, but no. After what happened, it left him no possibilities to understand. The fear of seeing everything through broken lens.

“Didn’t expect you here first before me.” Nightbird chimed, turning her helm to the direction of the main hub of this island. “First place we can search through, at least, with the targets.”

“Yes, Its so strange we haven’t heard anything from Megatron, outside of Impactor.”

“Do you plan to ditch him?”

“No, not yet, he’s helped us out with that ship, so we can at least let him see the sights of Earth. Might be a sightseer.”

“We both don’t know Impactor. He’s still a stranger to the both of us. It makes me worry.”

“Keep an optic on him, and if he tries anything, then shut him off.” He began to walk through the jungle, pushing aside any foliage.

Nightbird shook her helm, turning to see Impactor landing nearby. “There you are, I was nervous you got lost.” She giggled.

“Rocks are nothing compared to what I’ve endured. So tell us the plan.”

Viper began. “Based on what I managed to see, its best to split up and search for the two humans. Nightbird will go to the village, Impactor at the beaches, and I will explore in the volcano.”

“Volcano? Wouldn't my Energon Mineblaster help through the rocks?”

“Best not to alert anyone to what we're doing, or that any Cybertronians exist on this island. We've done a bad job at that over in America, so let's see how long that goes here. If we find anything, comm any of us and we will meet back at the shuttle to figure out the rest.”

Before Nightbird or Impactor could argue, the dark blue mech transformed and flew off.

“Scrap, of course I get the beach.”

“Sad you didn't bring your swimsuit?” Nightbird giggled.

“Imagine me in one of those things and I'll carve a large hole in your helm to get rid of those thoughts.” The orange mech sneered, before he transformed and drove away.

“Viper, I hope splitting up is a good idea. Every other time I've heard of it happening, it never turns out right.” Her armor adjusted into the sleek car shape, with a hologram emerging to take hold of the wheel. The village shouldn't be too far, but her processor focused on Viper. What could he find at the volcano? Why did Impactor seem to go in his direction?

Thundercracker tapped his digit onto the dashboard in a fast rhythm. Skywarp lay on the floor behind the seats. Gun resting on his side as his optics would light up for a moment. Hound lay in front of the black armored Seeker, still resting “So, why do you think they bugged him?”

“Bugged him? Humans can’t trust us. We aren’t like their toasters or something. To them, we’re big hunks of machinery that can be their toys or threats.” Cobra came back to his processor on that thought.

“Yeah, that’s what happened to me, darn Megatron, throwing me and Soundwave too! I’ll never forgive them for it! I wished my luck was like Starscream!”

“I remembered hearing a conversation about that from Breakdown and Swindle. They said it was during Unicron’s madness. Both of them mentioned seeing Starscream’s ghost. He used the ancient workshops that first crafted us to gain his, well our very old alt modes." Thundercracker spoke up, hearing the irritant huff from his partner.

"I sometimes miss being a Tetra Jet, right now, my frame feels so strange and these heels, I sometimes trip on these.” Skywarp mentioned, lifting his leg for better prominence.

“Don’t worry Sky, we’ll get it figured out. Feels strange that of us three, I’m the only one without a change. I’m hoping that means I won’t get bitten in the aft for that.”

“Who knows, anything can happen.” Skywarp stretched. “Do you know where the other Autobots are at?”

“We should be getting close, they did insist we meet at this beach so we’d be private. Unless Viper caused more problems for us. To think, him going rogue is the least of our problems. Where do you think Sentius Malus is?”

“I don't know and I don't care. I can’t trust him, he’s predicted whenever I’d teleport! How does anyone know how to do that!? Do you know how scary it is? To hear with precise smoothness in his voice, like he could see into the future or something!”

“Ease up Sky, Hound may be listening in on this. I know I shut him off, but you never know with Autobot programing.”

“Yeah, I remembered those days. Do you think its enjoyable here?” Skywarp got up from the floor and wrapped his arms around the pilot seat's headrest, looking down at TC.

“If we weren’t fighting? Then I can call this home, but, its too early to say. I'll wait a few more million years.”

“Its been four million!”

“Sheesh, when did you get all serious?”

“When I felt Cobra mechanics tearing my head apart. Piece by piece.” Skywarp hissed, wings flared.

“Scrap, that does suck.”

“Ya think?!”

TC shook his helm, turning his attention to the window. “Ah, we’re almost at the beach. Keep your voice down and we should get out of this interaction alive.”

“Thundercracker, do you think, if it wasn’t for Starscream, would we be rouges out in the galaxy far away?”

“Eh?” He turned his helm to Skywarp, who now had his arms dangling from the front of the passenger seat.

“Well, I mean, its because of our friendship with Starscream. The reason we chose the Decepticons in the first place.”

“I know, a part of me wonders what would’ve happened had he still been friends with Jetfire.”

“Oh, right him, they used to be good friends, we used to be good friends, even he managed to handle my pranks with a smile.”

Thundercracker nodded, looking back outside to see the beach. “Well, this means we’re going to be near the Autobots. I hope they’ll get rid of that bug. I don’t want the other Decepticons on our coattails.”

“Starting to use human terms now?”

“I’ve been wanting to learn about it, because its what we’re surrounded by for so long. Things change Skywarp, and I wished we could be back home. I miss Vos, makes me wonder how Viper would think about it. A city devoted to the sky.”

The ship lands into the soft ground sending sand everywhere. The machine hissed, bearing warm engines that began to cool down. The door opened up and allowed TC and SW to stumble out with Hound getting dragged down the ramp and into the sand.

During the dragging session, both Seekers heard the clicks of guns and turned their helms.

“Why the guns, Autobots?” Thundercracker hissed.

“Wanting to make sure you aren’t going to pull anything on us.” Cliffjumper stood up from the dune. Grenade launcher in his grip. Springer and Sky Lynx emerged, as Perceptor hesitated to pop out before getting his gun out.

Thundercracker and Skywarp put Hound down in the sand. The red mech scrambled over to his friend, with missile launcher in grip. The Autobot scientist came up too and began to inspect the wounds. “Now lets see if we can find the tracking device before he wakes up.” The group became quiet as they witness green armor popping off and lying on the sand.

Both Seekers stepped back. Best to give the scientist enough room to explore through his armor.

“Found anything new involving the Sentius Twins?” Thundercracker asked.

“No, whoever had access to the data about them wanted to make sure no one found it. They deleted the backup files too. I can’t seen to find the login data since we have to scan our badges to identify who we are when we need to access the archives. Have you spoken with Soundwave yet on where Viper or Malus could be?”

“We didn’t want to risk it during our ship travels, not with Hound nearby.”

“Shouldn’t we get your bug off ya?”

“Cobra’s dead anyways, I don’t think they’ll try to find our tracking. Not after Viper’s rampage.” He glanced at the bright red symbol on his wing. “It still feels so strange to bear this.” Skywarp frowned, before hearing a bang.

“Here it is.” Perceptor spoke up, holding up the device. “Get rid of it anyway you can.” He advised, letting Skywarp pick it up. With a toss, the Nightraven fired out a few shots from both his guns, letting it blow up.

“Not much of a light show. So, outside of us calling Soundwave, what are we going to do?”

“We need to find Viper or the Sentius Twins to get to the bottom of those murders. The Joes have been hammering us down for that. Not sure why, but I know they were hiding something from us.” Perceptor sighed.

“I could try to hack into their systems to find a piece of it, they shouldn’t have ease tracking my elegance.” Sky Lynx pipped up.

“I hope so, the other Autobots shouldn’t be able to find us. I know Optimus’ smokestacks are fuming right now.” Cliffjumper lowered his launcher, helping Perceptor on repairing the green Autobot.

Thundercracker stepped away, taking a deep vent. “I’ll call him now, keep your voices down and pray he’ll be nice.”

The Autobots tensed, but nodded as the blue Seeker moved further from the group.

:: Soundwave? I need to hear from you. ::

In the desert base, the music mech focused on typing out information, then receiving the news. :: Thundercracker, where are you and Skywarp? Lord Megatron is not amused at your actions to leave the base without his order. ::

:: I know, do you have any clues where Viper went? Starscream ordered us to find him since he’s a Seeker like mech. ::

He typed onto the computer, fishing out sensitive information. Soon coming across Viper’s tracker. :: Nali, with Nightbird. Lord Megatron requests their return for upcoming raids. ::

:: Yeah, that’s why we’re looking for him, Thundercracker out. ::

:: You are near Autobot signals Thundercracker. :: Soundwave caught before the call could end.

:: Skywarp and I took care of them, we won’t fail. :: He shut the link down before the music mech could add anything else. “Scrap, I hope he bought it.” The blue Seeker bolted back to his fellow Cybertronians. “Nali!”

“Nali? The island located in the South Pacific? Why somewhere that far away?” Perceptor questioned.

“That's what Soundwave told me. Nightbird's there too, Megatron wants them back sometime for upcoming raids. Odd since I remembered Viper getting a vacation after destroying Cobra.”

“Well, its best we head on over there and get some answers before the Sentius Twins or anyone else tries to intervene.” Springer spoke up, with the rest of the group agreeing. They clamored to their ships and began another long flight to a new destination.

“Odd, what do you think is over at Nali?” Sky Lynx glided through the air.

“We are unsure yet, but this pattern of incidents still doesn't mean much to me. Why random areas of America, and now this island often forgotten about?” Perceptor examined the data within a chart he made.

“Unless that was what the Joes were speaking off.” Cliffjumper added. Blue optics darting back to Hound as he rested on a spare seat. Soon, his blue optics came online. "What's going on?" He spoke, voice still recovering.

Cliffjumper grinned, hugging his friend. "We have so many things to talk about!"

“I hope things are going well, I got worried when they had to shut me down.” Hound vented, but then his smile came back. “Its nice to be with you guys again.” The other Autobots smiled.

Within the beach village, a sleek black and white car drove around. The driver was a woman wearing fancy clothes. She had a scarf covering her mouth, a bright purple one which flowed in the wind. Nightbird listened to the voices of those around her. It felt nice to drive and not fear getting attacked by either faction.

To hear the voices of the rich or elite ones, splurging money in this place. Pricy foods, jewels, tours, and what stuck out to her the most, a wedding boutique. Nightbird stopped to stare at the display of different wedding dresses and tuxedos. Human traditions to marry who they 'loved' the most. What is love, how does one define it as such?

Such a shame the books she tried to read never did translate them in a way that could make a human made machine understand. Never meant to have 'love' programmed in her. Once reaching a parking spot, she stared up at the bright blue sky. A part of her pondered what Viper was doing, or how attractive he'd look wearing a suit. Having a dapper grin, his wings flickering as he'd ask the most popular femme out on a date.

This memory gave her a chuckle, feeling life come back to her faceplates. Still, now to think about why she's here. The humans, the ones who were a part of Viper's mission.

This seems to be a good place to park, leaning back, listening to the music on her radio. Checking for anyone with features that the humans would bear. Sometimes, it'd be hard to identify people. Reminded her of some Decepticons trying to play Guess Who and ending up in rage over who kept getting it right. Even big ancient mechs, still acting like children.

Still, it felt nice for her to be among others, she wondered if Viper enjoys them too. Playing games, listening to music, and question what the future has to offer. She hoped to survive from the chaos. To try to understand what a true Cybertronian feels, and emotes.

It was hard to pry her optics from the window, wishing for more moments such as these to last longer.

Odd, Viper's being quiet. He'd often drop off daily reports or to test out his frame to show nothing's wrong with his frame. Such a shame that he often needs to get brought down a peg.

Nightbird contacted Impactor. :: Is there anything to report from Viper? ::

:: Nope, nothing yet, which is quite odd. I don’t know if I can trust him if he didn’t take the shuttle and left already. I'll go back to check if its still there. Found anything yet on the doctors? ::

:: No, I wished it was easier to figure out where they were. ::

:: Of course, sneaky bunch. I’ll hack into the records to figure out where they are. Take it easy Nightbird, I know you’re worrying, but it won’t get us anywhere. ::

Nightbird took a deep vent before returning to driving away. She gave one last look to the wedding place. “Could things have been more simpler if I was a human.” She leaned her holographic head back against the headrest and left.

Within the volcano, Viper stumbled about through the darkness. His bright blue optics illuminating the darkness. Dormant, nothing breathing life within the magma veins. Its like the Autobots and Decepticons, those who were in a deep sleep, then awoke once the volcano erupted. It made sense for the Decepticons to retreat from the Earth soil and try to find a way back home. At least…they had a way back home. Not being born in a forgotten facility and left to rot away.

An intense jab of pain swelled in his processor upon that thought. A few flashes of faint memories trickled into him. Viper yelled, kneeling down as his processor screamed in agony. Something…something deeper is trying to reach out to him. Nothing. Still the emptiness except for the blue man and his silver face. But, the memories or dreams, or whatever they were. Primus, he wished he could believe in Primus. But…if Unicron exists, so does he.

The pain subsided for now, leaving him taking deep vents. The ash greeted his vents, at least he didn’t have to breathe, or else it would’ve been rough to think. Blue optics brightened as he resumed walking, a servo gracing the wall to support himself. Where could the humans be? Why did he choose this place far from the sea? No humans can survive within a volcano, unlike what media often says.

Is it so he could find a place to reflect on what’s happened in these past few weeks? Running away from the Decepticons, one following him. Nightbird, she’s been so nice to him. Its quite sickening how much he cared for her. Impactor still left uncertainty in him, but there isn't much he can do about him.

Another memory flashed through his processor. Or, a dream? It was an orange femme, smiling as she offered a flower of pure crystal… Those optics, bright and innocent.

“Who are you?” He whispered, trying to walk as the pain kept blooming in his helm.

Viper exited the tunnel, entering into a giant opening within the volcano. The intense heat of magma greeted him below the ground he stood on. Its vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows greeted him as he walked on the rock path. “How could this have come to be?”

After a while, it became easier to ask these questions and expect no answers. He’s done this for far too long than anyone should have. The heat soon became a comfort from the intense pain of his processor trying to remember. Small fragments turned into thick needles jutting into his body. Melting away in the volcano's dormant heat.

As he walked, an intense feeling welled up within. Viper turned his helm, acid gun in his grip, as he screamed. A large shadow encompassed him, roaring as everything turned to black.

Primus, what happened!? What was that?! I knew it was something, but now…I’m back here again. I tried to think about what happened, but this dream beckoned me to forget and think of where I am right now. Back in this place, where Sentius Nobilius and other Primes seem to be happy. Except, now in this place, I am further in time? I could tell things were different. The mech I was watching had stumbled upon a weak figure. Must’ve went down the same path as I did. I watched as an arm reached out to offer help.

This mech, he had such brilliant yellow green optics, innocence shining through. He looked so scared, but I noticed the chunks of material sticking out of his frame. What the humans called bismuth. Reminds me of the shards we’d gather back at base.

They shined bright as the mech got up, taking a look around. “W-who are you?”

The voice replied, but I could not hear him.

“Oh…where are we?”

I could assume he said something about the pathway of the archives. How did this mech and my host land here without as much as a scratch?

“They didn’t give me a name, they said something to me and I kept it close. Where are we going? Are we far away from the facility?”

Facility? What time frame is this happening at? The voice distorted beyond my understanding. Anger is welling up in me, but I could do nothing.

“What are we doing?” I saw my host turning away, and could know that the other was following behind.

“Is this your home? I was being chased by others, will they chase after me here?”

No, no one’s found us yet, none except for the Primes. In a way, he reminded me of myself, with how much innocence he reeked. Decepticons would’ve eaten him alive if he was around during the war.

“Oh, that’s good, Bismuth is what they called me. I don’t know anything else but to produce what they wanted. The mechs said that I’d bring hope to Cybertron, but I was so scared. They were hurting me, they wanted to take me away to places I do not know.”

Were you born in a place such as I was Bismuth? I felt sad to hear it, because I had the freedom to emote. How could Cobra have done such a thing? To program such intense emotions in me. Unless, the readings were wrong. I’m so confused and trying to understand it all.

“I wished I knew what I could do.” Bismuth replied to more words I could not comprehend. We continued our way through the shallow tunnels. Deeper and deeper we went until reaching into the confines of Sentius Nobilius. My host bowed, and so did Bismuth, with a bit of hesitation.

Nobilius, those optics, they stared at me like the Sentius Twins would do so. Makes sense, for he did become them, yet, how did it happen? Would I know the truth? Reminds me of one time I battled Sentius Magnus. How his bright golden optics stared deep into me. That feeling will never wade off. It will haunt me, even as Malus would act smug whenever we met, he’d stare deep into my own optics as well. Must be a Sentius thing?

“I see, you are the creation of Cybertronians, those born from the Well, you are not natural.” Nobilius frowned.

“Is something wrong with that?”

“No, nothing is wrong, its rare to find those such as you. Your friend here, he I one of them. The first artificial Cybertronian to exist. How rare to find you both. Bismuth, creation of Cybertronians desperate for Space Bridge travel. Needing fragments of this rare material to enhance the machine’s capabilities. Such fools they are to rush you. To force you into a life you never asked for.” The deity took a deep vent, shaking his helm.

“What will you do with me now?” He whispered, uncertainty in his optics. Those innocent bright optics.

“You cannot return to them, for they will harm you and tear you apart. Instead, you'll join us in the Archives. They are vital to Cybertron’s history and protection. Do you know of the history of them?”

“History? Of Cybertron, no.” Bismuth huddled close to my host. Again, I felt so much pity in him.

“Follow me then, and I will let you decide.” Nobilius turned away, a blend of lugh and shadow. We followed, I remembered how it felt like to walk here, to see the Primes, instead. We went through another path. The one leading to the most sacred of places alongside Vector Sigma and Primus himself. I thanked some poor fool for telling me of this in his drunken rambles. Who was it again? I forgot, I forgot, much like my past and the fragments I clung onto.

It was a giant dome, with a large door protecting the items which can destroy the universe. Nobilius stopped, tracing a servo onto the door. “Behind this, is what we defend. The only purpose I exist now. Here after the Great War of Titans, the only way to open this door is through the divine blade. My sword is the key, and it must be whole to do so.”

“Whole?”

“I do not know of it, but Primus swore to me, that I am to ensure that this sword is never shattered or damaged. for no one can ever enter into this room again. Do you understand?”

I watched my host nod, now thinking of the irony in knowing the sword's broken into two. Left as fragments of themselves, what a pity, but that’s what I assumed. Is the door locked forever until someone glues them back together? How does one rebound them? I remembered Optimus had merged the swords together once more. Then, they split after Unicron’s demise and left the two to mourn for their loss.

“Now, observe, the fate of Cybertron.” He inserted his sword into the main lock, causing it to open. He pulled it back, standing away as the mechanisms of the room twisted and turned. Rising the door and removing the defenses. More and more doors opened up, defenses going down each time.

I didn’t realize he didn’t do this with me, but he must’ve sensed the pure innocence with Bismuth. To stare at this, even as a voice without anyone else to talk to, it felt, satisfying and honored. For as honored as a non pure Cybertronian can be. Still, how strange that both of them, they’re not natural creations. It would make sense, Cybertronians want to make puppets. Those without a chance to strive for their own paths.

Robot, the original meaning of it is slave. Were my host and Bismuth meant to be slaves? Were they toys for doctors to play with? Hearing that made me sick, reminding me of what happened with me. The strive for life, for a breath of existence to reach one’s throat without a womb. I’m thinking too deep on human things, or the archive is taking forever to open and I'm rambling on. Who knows.

Bismuth wouldn’t stop shuffling, or checking his subspace, not sure how to be formal I assume. How young is he? Would he even make an impression on Nobilius? Although, with him sharing this to us, I assume it to be so, that the mech I inhabit and this God will have to train him in our ways. What were the Primes doing? I haven’t heard much of them.

Soon, the darn doors stopped appearing and showed us the inside. A giant treasury of weapons. Powerful gifts from Primus to his children. I was in awe to stare upon this. What grandness, it made me numb, to forget what was happening outside of my dream. Am I dead? Or hallucinating because my processor refuses to show more memories because it tries to kill me each time? Ah, could that be it?

We walked through the darkness, and it felt so strange. A weird feeling within me, and Bismuth, I could tell he was nervous as well. But, we kept walking through endless weapons. Within their pedestals and stuck inside a protective shield. So many on display, it’d make a Decepticon’s mouth water, if they or even I have saliva.

It was a while before we left, Nobilius waited until we were both out to then close the doors. Soon we stood there, watching the doors close yet again. If only I could fast forward it like a VHS tape. I wouldn't mind the static at the top of the screen. Does anyone else have those? I’d remember Luca complaining about how the old base would only have a VHS player. So he’d be stuck there with tapes, or pirated movies and shows. Sometimes I’d like to hack into it and enjoy what’s going on. So many sights and colors, but us Decepticons would then watch them on the projector in the escape room.

Reminds me of that one night, when…I learned the truth. Primus, it was so rough, I don’t want to remember that, not after what pain it produced for us. A hint of guilt rushed into me, and I felt so alone and I wished I could understand my emotions better.

Before that truth, I’ve been so cold to everyone. I would always try to avoid the others if I could, but had a bit of small talk with them when we waited in the shuttle. That place, it’d be easy for me. I found amusement with Sentius Malus having to bend down to avoid getting his flags bent. He’s so careful with those large things. I’d like to tug at Nobilius’ flags, yet I can't will this body to move. They look so strange without red or purple. I can already imagine color on those flags, either symbol or a different one of the ancients. Did Cybertron have different symbols. What did they mean? I couldn’t look at my host’s reflection to find out.

Once the doors finally closed, we left and embraced the unknown once more.

Flashes of memories whirled around in my processor. I was…No, my host was training Bismuth, we were interacting more with the Primes. Such majestic beings, I felt so small compared to them. Taller than Malus, bearing bright auras around their frames. Sharing their wisdom to us, be of time, combat skills, or anything else that a Guardian would need. Now I felt like someone hit the fast forward button and now I’m flashing through memories. The few I noticed amongst them was Solus. She seemed to have hung out with me a lot more than I expected. The femme Prime gave me her wisdom, told me of the things she created with her Forge. Her passion made me think of Nightbird, yet I could tell something troubled her. I believed I knew what it was, and a part of me dreads to find out why.

Its a party, the Primes held grandness in the main room, clanging cubes and drinking them by the dozen. Even I got amused at how my host was drinking a lot. Primus, I remembered how everyone would be so drunk and babel on with Cybertronian culture. I wished I could speak with them that way, it did help me much like a study book, that I had to fill in the dots myself. Helped paint me as an outcast, but oh well, I was the one machine made by humans. So what else did they have to contribute other than crash on the floor and purge their tanks out. We’d laugh so hard, especially those like Motormaster. Oh, the bigger ones made the loudest crashes and the greatest rambles. We’d still laugh about it even when they’d have no clue what they would rant on about.

As the mech I inhabited wandered around, he or she or whoever stumbled into one of the spare rooms. We noticed Megatronus and Solus there. The giant mech with his weird helm held onto his partner’s servos. I remembered what they said about the two lovers. Their tragic history, is this what they spoke of? Yet, my recent memories of the two Primes involved Rodimus being a moron and merging both Cores into one. He’d then become a super macho man and full of rage and fire. The flames burned so much, it was a nightmare to endure, but Primus, I’m glad those days are over. Cybertron was a mess after that day.

“Solus, I need to speak with you.” Megatronus said with a blank tone, his partner staring up at him.

“What’s wrong? I thought we're to be with the others. What do you need to tell me?”

“Tell me. Promise me.” He whispered. “I will remember it, the Primes, they will not understand.

I stared, feeling something wrong in me. They continued talking, but then, it began to turn south. They were arguing, voices hidden by the amount of partying outside. Primus, can’t their own brothers hear any of this? Why isn’t my host doing anything!? Wait…why do I care so much for them, if I have never had any personal experience with them? No, I’m a Decepticon, but, am I something else? The partying is giving me aches, much like that giant creature that hit me hard in the volcano. I don’t understand, but, I’ll try to.

Before I knew it, a giant flash consumed me and the others, leaving everything silent. When my sight came back, we awoke to stare at what happened. A big blue gun in Megatronus’ grip, he snarled, staring down at the body beneath his pedes. Solus…oh no…

I’d often hear the tales about Megatronus and Solus, the two lovers amongst the Primes. How they adored each other, hearing that so often in the rambles of others. When I found enough time to research their antics out of curiosity. If I even bothered because I didn’t care before any of this happened.

The two, how the Fallen killed his lover…I saw it. A flash of light, but I was there, the only one other than the killer to have seen her last moments alive, and its her unhappy. I wouldn’t want to die like that, to be with someone I loved, only for them to turn their back and flicker your light out. I don’t know how to feel, as the festivities ended, and the other Primes ran down the hallway, to find us where we stood. I'm feeling weak and sick.

Megatronus took notice of my host, it seems he did not notice me hiding there. To stare into his optics, those deep blood reds, sent a shiver down my nonexistent body. First, rage, but then, a look of regret, as he and everyone else stare down at what lay beneath his hold. “I…Solus?”

No movement, her body’s already reached the grey state of decay…I’ve never seen any Cybertronian die before. Humans, plenty, I destroyed an entire army of them. But, to find someone who wasn’t bad, she was enjoyable to be around when I had the chance. To see her lying in this dark room, a part of me wished I could shed a tear. If I was a human, but I’m not. I’m neither Cybertronian, nor a robot. Everything swirled around me. The screaming of the other Primes and Bismuth sounding so sad echoed in my helm. That I wanted to…Primus I wanted to comfort him, to let him know I have seen death. But, why did he do it?

Was it, because of the things to come? How does their combined souls mean one being? Unicron? Did Megatronus make a pact with him? I wished I knew, its getting cold. The Primes are attacking their brother, Nobilius trying to sort through the violence. Bismuth huddled away from the violence. My memories blurred, fading to black.

Viper awoke with pain greeting him. No wounds on his body, but he lie crumpled up on the hot magma charred floor. Its quite soothing to the cold pain he’s feeling right now. The mech tried to move, but the wounds burned too much inside his veins. What is going on anymore? What attacked him? His voice couldn’t work, frame paralyzed by something. Bright blue optics inspected the cavern.

Different than the one he saw before, full of holes where steam could escape. That’s why its easier to breathe here. If he did want to breathe anyways. Again, more struggles, but his comm is down. Of course it is. Of course the one time he tries to do something on his own, Primus or God or whoever decided to slam him into this misery.

The volcano would’ve filled up with his screams if he could, but for now, a pained whine. Processor still torn from trying to believe in what did happen. Who is he, why does he enter into that one body? His processor aching because of the damage to his cerebral portions. Why did Cobra force him to lose his memories when there’s nothing to take!? From birth, right to get his head torn open and researched on.

He began to hear something from one of the giant tunnels, trying to turn to the source. His gun in subspace, but frame frozen and unable to grab onto it. A poison of some kind?

His blue optics widened at the sight he managed to have thanks to the burning bright magma beneath them. A giant green creature, bearing many eyes and gigantic teeth. Its mouth gaping wide open, tentacles slithering it through the volcano’s warm floor. Able to take it easy, while he was burning on the inside. Frag! Frag frag! No, not here! Not because of this thing! Viper kept struggling, the poison rushing deeper into him. A loud growl came from this abomination, as tentacles reached out to him, soon grabbing a hold of his legs.

The creature turned him around. Each eye moving of its accord, inspecting the shiny blue paint job and the red symbols cresting his frame. Frag, what a way to go. To be a meal for this abomination! Fingers twitched, but left trapped, unable to do anything but pray he’ll either escape, or give this thing the worst case of indigestion it’ll ever have.

 

TW: Gore and violence.

Chapter 9: Jaws of Terror

Viper stared as the creature turned him around. Each eye moving of its accord, inspecting the shiny blue paint job and the red symbols cresting his frame. Fingers twitched, but left trapped. Unable to do anything but pray he’ll either escape, or give this thing the worst case of indigestion it’ll ever have. As it opened up its massive jaw, its bones detached as they cracked. Big eyes focused on the meal, as they began to drag him in. The former Cobra mech could feel the heat from the salivating gums and teeth.

The Decepticon squirmed as a tongue rose up to slither across his frame. A shiver rushed through his insides, screaming in disgust and horror at what’s going on. This thing’s mouth is big enough to consume him whole! Please end this embarrassment already!

He closed his optics, not wanting to watch himself melt down in this beast's digestion. Reminds him of Unicron's insides. At least there, he would've died with honor, rather than become this hideous thing's lunch.

A bright pink laser fired out from somewhere, hitting the monster’s face as it spat out the Decepticon. His body hit the ground, groaning as the laserfire continued. Helm unable to turn to see what’s going on. The beast screamed, tentacles slithering as some eyeballs popped. An unknown fluid pouring from the large gaping hole in its ‘head’. It slithered away, continuing to cry as the sounds grew quieter, fading in an echo.

A voice chimed behind the Cobra Rattler. “You’re getting too careless Viper.”

“I…Impactor? What was that thing?”

“Denebian Stalker.”

“A what?”

“Didn’t expect one to be here. Best not to stay here, it may come back. Those monsters eat anything, Cybertronian or not.”

“But you put a hole in its head!”

“I know, but these things are too stubborn to die.” The former Wrecker picked up the jet. Viper tried to move, but let out a pained whine. “Stop wiggling, your frame’s full of toxins that paralyze you. Can’t do anything but let them ebb away. Should take a while depending on how much of it that Stalker gave you.”

“I didn’t expect you to find me there.”

“Nightbird asked me where you were.”

“She did?”

“She found the targets and wondered where you were. I lost contact with her when I entered the volcano. Wondering why I came here? I had a hunch something would happen to you on your own.”

“Well…thanks for saving me at least. I’ll try to keep an optic out for that thing. My repair systems are kicking in, so I'll get rid of this awful sickness soon.”

“Don’t stress yourself, it's a pain in the aft to deal with.”

“You fought them before?”

“Denebian Stalkers are a popular black market trade. Make wonderful guards and get rid of evidence. I’d encounter them a lot during my day. Worse on some mining planets where we’d have to deal with them. Good friends made good snacks for them. I’ll never forget those days, wishing to never see another one again.” He took a vent. “And somehow, one of these awful things ended up on Earth.”

“I’m sorry.”

Impactor stopped, looking at the mech’s helm. “Sorry?”

“After seeing how awful its mouth is, I'm feeling worse at knowing how they must’ve felt in its digestion. Never want to go through that again. I almost did with Unicron once, I do not want to do it again with that monstrosity.”

“You dropped your gun. Never go anywhere without a weapon.”

“Well…you have a blade for a hand and a shoulder cannon that’s attached to you, you don’t have to worry!”

Impactor smirked. “Primus, you sound like a new recruit who’s the first to get a bullet through the optic.”

Viper wiggled a bit. “I wished I could do the same to you!”

“Keep your piping down, we don’t want that thing hearing us.”

“Well, what will make you shut up then!?”

Impactor dropped the dark blue snake, letting him hit the ground.

“Play bait.” He sat down, beginning to clean his hook.

“Are you serious?!”

“Yep, if you don’t stop screaming, then it’ll be quite a sight.”

Viper kept struggling, before taking a deep vent. “Fine, Primus, this is embarrassing.”

“I won’t say anything. Now let's wait and see if this thing comes by.” The former Wrecker leaned back, glancing around the various tunnels.

The dark blue mech remained still, listening to the soft shuffling of the earth beneath them. It's soothing, giving him time to think of what to say with his big mouth that got them in this predicament of pettiness.

“Hey Impactor…I’m sorry about what I did before. I’m…I’m still not used to being okay around others. Not after when everyone found out the truth of who I am. It still feels strange that…the other Decepticons still accept me as one of their own.”

The yellow mech said nothing. The occasional plume of steam rose up, meaning they were still deep within this volcano. It felt quite relaxing on both their weary joints. Viper didn’t speak for a while, continuing to look around. His frame began to heal itself with the slow moving limbs.

“Impactor?”

“Yeah?”

“Have there been other Cybertronians who had visions?”

“Visions?”

“I mean, you’ve been through the war a lot longer than I. Those who when they black out, they see visions?”

“Where did that come from? No, I don’t remember anything like that before. Are you sure you’re not going crazy?”

“I don’t even know myself.” Although a part of him wanted to leap up and smack him for that. “You see…whenever I black out, I get these visions of the past. Or, it's a made up fantasy.”

“What’s it about?”

“I’m trying to understand it myself, I worry I’m going crazy, but I wake up with an awful helmache at the end of them.”

“You were wide awake when I saw you against that beast. Were you in Stasis Lock for a while? I was expecting to hear you screaming.”

“Hey! No…my processor goes through the same pain as whenever I try to remember my past.”

“Could there be a connection?”

“I doubt it. I’m not sure what I’m going to do after this is over. I know the humans are going to try to kill me for this.”

“You could try fleeing to Cybertron.”

“Autobots would want me for spilling human blood. I’m questioning if I should continue to live. If anyone captures me, they’d have human made parts to study. A Cybertronian to replicate for their own selfish wars. It’d be Cobra’s work repeating again.”

Impactor pondered, looking around. Still no sign of the thing. Fine, a few more minutes and then they’re on their way. “There is one galaxy you could go to.”

“Where?”

“Mirabell, it's a galaxy far from our own. It's devoted to nature, planets full of life. They're like Earth, but without the pollutants, political chaos, or wars.”

“Sounds like…paradise. How did you know about it?”

“When I rescued their empress, before I ended up on this planet.”

“Empress? She must be beautiful. Why did you leave her? I mean, you could’ve been emperor or a good guard. Rid yourself of this awful war.”

The former Wrecker stopped, unsure if he should continue after opening up such a piece of his life. To remember her face at all…

“Yes, she was…She even offered me to stay by her side…I rejected, because I… I couldn’t trust myself to stay in one place… I still miss her...” He lowered his helm, hearing Viper chuckle. “Eh?”

“You should go there and pay her a visit if you miss her that much.”

“She’s happier back home. Innocent of the war, not having to fight a day in her life. I do not want to drag her through the pain we endure.” Impactor stopped again, sadness in his optics.

“Could I know her name?”

“Paladin. I still remember what she wore for the ceremony to knight me. I had to leave, because I didn’t want to get attached. Whoever I am near, they risk death. I’ve stared at it in the faceplates all my life, Viper. Death is a numb friend, speaking to me in the voices of those who’ve died on my watch.

“The war numbed ya enough that there’s nothing left to think of, except for those lost. You should think about that place, Impactor, what happiness it brought you. I guess I should thank you for letting me know of this.”

“I will. Mirabell was my last mission before I ended up on Cybertron, and in these Earth Wars. Alright, enough time passed. Your time as bait is over.” The mech went over to pick up Viper. He pondered these thoughts before an intense shock of pain hit him. Causing him to spasm out and squirm out of Impactor’s grip. The yellow mech stepped back as one of Viper’s servos tried to reach up to Impactor. “Viper!”

Everything's fading away into a blur of colors. Darker and darker before nothing. “No. Please don't go…”

Why is this happening to me? Can I trust Impactor to keep me alive and away from that thing? Where did that former Wrecker encounter that beast? Nope, I will never soak myself in that thing's juices.

Impactor, I’m sorry about what happened, still, why did you reject such an opportunity to be happy? I don’t understand any of these guys at times. They’re so strange, is that how I ended up this way? Back here again in this darkness. Did I grow too lax? Where am I right now? Oh…

The colors returned me to the memory I last saw in this strange distorted shape. Solus and Megatronus. I don't understand why it happened. It hurts, I could assume they were close to my host and the others. I watched their faces as the Fallen stood there, holding the cold frame of their beloved sister. Ancient ones, lost in the scorns of misunderstanding, or, was it something else? Their voices were a blur.

“I don't know what happened.” The Fallen whispered, seeing the fear in everyone.

"What did you do!?" Prima yelled, pulling out his sword as Nobilius gripped his hold.

"Wait, let me test his judgment." He soothed, getting out his blade of balance. Seeing it shine bright mesmerized me, that I would feel something pull into my chest when it was in action. I do not know why, but it gives me comfort.

The blade turned to a sinister shade of purple. It made Megatronus step back. His frame shaking as the other Primes approached, with Nobilius in front. “We can never forgive those who murder our family.” He threatened, as the Primes began to attack their black armored brother. I couldn’t tear my optics away from these Gods. Acting like mad out of control machines while Nobilius and who I assume to be Liege Maximo observe.

Everything blurred, but I could assume Megatronus suffered for these heinous actions. To destroy, and for what? I remembered when both he and Solus' Cores merged together meant Unicron. Is this what he meant? To awaken a dark God and try to kill everyone on Cybertron? Primus, the mouths emerging, swallowing everyone whole... Made my Energon freeze. To see everyone near death, terrified about what may be their fates.

Bismuth and I stood there, in the Archive Hall. The jeweled mech wandered, searching through the giant engravings. Sadness in those big innocent optics of his. “Solus, why did Megatronus kill her? She meant so much to me, she was one of the few who didn’t see me as a walking factory machine. Now…I'm alone again, I can’t go back to my creators.” In his clenched servos, I could notice chunks of his namesake emerge through his fingers.

The voice distorted of my host, made me wish I could hear anything but this assumption of saying anything proper rather than something stupid or worse.

Bismuth looked up at my host, he looked to be on the verge of crying if he could. Poor fellow, I wished I saw those memories to relate to him more.

“Why did Megatronus do that!? We're supposed to be loyal to Primus, not to kill each other…Does that mean something bad will happen to us? Each Prime rules over a part of Cybertron, and without one, where will that power go?”

He was right, I couldn’t believe the truth as well.

“I'm afraid of what may happen. That from now, it's going to get worse. I don't want to fight against them, we're too close to anyone to see them die. Solus, she was nice to me. She helped guide me through things I didn't understand. I wished…I wished it was someone else…”

I watched my host's arms envelope him into a hug, meaning he's quite bigger than I expected, but it was to make sense. Both of us lost in the midst of this tension. I could assume Megatronus either died or exiled due to his actions. But, a part of me fears what may come next. I've been in war since my birth. A failed experiment for a human war. Instead, I end up in a war with the species who believed me to be one of them. Yet, after the truth came out, no one judged me as much as they used to. They still stare, but the taunting and teasing stopped. Did they notice my worth beyond the false reality? Still, killing the humans has left me far from the idea of who I am. Or why Cobra created a Cybertronian when none ended up on the planet before my birth.

Time keeps slipping, I don't know what's going on anymore. Why do these accursed memories or dreams hit me at the worst times?! I wished I could say anything, scream anything other than hear my inner thoughts. A prisoner in this shell, for no one can hear or react to my voice and my thoughts.

We were now standing somewhere that looked like a city. Not sure where, but it seemed normal to my host and his partner. Quite deserted; Bismuth tried to give me a smile, but I could tell he’s in pain. I wished I could do something other than play rude remarks.

The both of us began to hear two voices that took our attention from where we are. Following it led us to a secret room in this city. Faint figures of Nobilius and Liege Maximo stood near a fountain.

“Do you realize it, Nobilius? How the Primes are beginning to fall. There’s no chance we can bring peace now that we’re starting to kill each other.”

“What will we do then?”

“We must change. You can tell it, the Balance has shifted away from its original place.”

Nobilius looked at his sword, pulling it out to inspect how there’s a sinister shade to it once more. Seeing that blade would send a shiver down me.

“Yes…Primus, why are you doing this to us? We’ve done all you ask for.” He took a soft vent. “I can trust you Liege Maximo, for now, we need to figure out how to bring balance back without Solus’ part.”

“The Archives of course. They have every weapon we need for such a task. Can you consider the other Primes to not turn against each other as Megatronus has?”

“No, I will not kill the others!”

“I’m not saying it like that, we need to subdue them. Make them learn their place among Primes.”

“But what of my students? Bismuth is close to everyone, although - is not open to them that much. But, I worry for them.”

“We do not have to tell them anything, Nobilius. We can let them go somewhere for a deep rest. Then, when it's over, we can wake them up.”

“If it's the best option to keep them safe, then I will. Now let’s go before the others see us.”

The two began to part, but something felt wrong. Bismuth looked up at my host, worry in his optics. In this silence, we heard a sound as Liege Maximo appeared in front of us.

“Hello, how nice to see the two of you here. Oh, how rude you are to listen in on our conversations.”

Nobilius appeared behind him. “What are you doing here!? I ordered you to stay in the Archives!”

“Run!” Bismuth screamed, raising a wall of the material as the two gave chase. It wasn’t difficult for them to get over the wall, their powers are far more than either my host or Bismuth.

My ally kept raising walls of the material, buying us more time to escape. Primus this is such a huge city. What is this place for anyways? I couldn’t get a good look at the details due to how far they ran. There seemed to be 13 large towers alongside the central one, with their own designs and colors. Two of them looked decayed, must represent Solus and Megatronus. Before I could ponder further, I kept thinking about the chase. I heard more sounds, not four running, but more like twenty! The other Primes must’ve heard our run!

My host and I managed to find a spot to hide for the time being, staying quiet as the figures ran by. When it grew quiet, Bismuth slumped down. “That was close. What do you think Liege Maximo meant?”

I wished I knew, from what I remember, he’s a master of deception, of trickery. No wonder Nobilius fell for his sweet words. What is he going to do with either of you two? I can assume it won't be beauty sleep while a massacre happens around us.

“I don’t want to fight against any of them. I’ve only remembered bits of the surface and I fear going back will hurt me again. As they’ve done before.”

My host reached a servo out to hold onto his own. I could not hear his voice, but I watched the other guardian’s reaction to figure out what he said. A weary smile on his faceplates. “You think so? You know someone we can trust up there? But, how are we going to escape with the rest of the Primes hunting us down?”

“That’s such a good question, isn’t it?” We turned to find a giant mech bearing animalistic traits towering over us.

“Listen to us Amalgamous! Nobilius and Liege Maximo are planning against you!”

“They are right, something’s wrong with both of you creations. Why Nobilius chose such rejections from the surface, but I will never know. Surrender or I will crush you.”

I had to keep watching, even as I felt my reality falling apart. The fighting’s brutal; of course the Prime had far more power than us. Although, how did he snuck up on the two? Must have slippers on those hooves that I didn’t know about.

Of course, two weakened nobodies could not stand a chance against him. Made worse by the other Primes arriving to capture them. I could hear Bismuth screaming distortions of static, of what could be my host’s name.

Its' dark, silence reigns here until the vision becomes clear. Suspended above in chains of a dark forgotten room. Nobilius walked past my host a few times before stopping once noticing the host coming to.

“-, I wished I never had to do this. But for the sake of protecting Cybertron. I must. The fall of Primes is coming, and I must have both of you alive. But, I will have to punish you for not bearing your rightful duty as guardian!” I could not feel pain, but a shiver went down me as the blade dragged across the mech’s torso.

Nobilius kept torturing my host. Unable to fight due to the chains giving out pathetic replies of protest. Once it stopped for a moment, the Guardian of Balance stopped. “Do not worry, Bismuth and you will remain alive. But I must keep you hidden away to make sure you do not intervene." He paused before his weird servo grabbed my host’s neck, making him tilt his helm to give the God a better look. "I never realized how unnatural your blue optics are."

“Ease yourself -, dim your optics and when you wake up, it’ll be over.” My host did so, submerging my view into darkness, except for the constant sounds of a sword hitting the armor. Thank Primus I couldn’t feel anything. I swore I heard something such as that before, who pointed out my blue optics? Many did because of fearing I’m an Autobot spy. I thought about the blueprints for my construction. How there’s no face underneath the visor and mouthplate. That’s haunted me since I first saw it. The darkness made me black out again.

I heard two voices whisper to me. “...you sure we should be doing this?”

“I cannot forgive my brothers for harming an innocent Relic Guardian.” One familiar voice whispered. He sounded to have come closer to my host, shaking them. My vision came back, seeing a mech staring at who I was hijacking “-, can you say something?” For some reason, his voice and colors were familiar, but I could not recall who in my exhausted stupor.

A burst of static was the reply, but it made the mech happy. “Good, rest, you need this. We’ll take you somewhere safe. I promise you.” He whispered.

Another mech appeared in my vision, kneeling down to take some cuffs off. “Not sure where Bismuth is, but at least we found one of them.”

“Lifter, do you have the shuttle ready?”

“Yes, but where will we hide him?”

“I know where. Please -, rest.”

My host nodded as darkness came to me once again. My processor is trying to grasp what’s happening. Why are my visions becoming harder to bear? Longer without a sign of ending. I stared at the ceiling, trapped within my little world. A story in my head playing out.

Viper’s servos began to twitch as his consciousness came to. A figure blurred out his vision as their colors came together.

“Ugh…are we outside?”

Nightbird nodded, helping him sit up. “Yes, you’ve been out for a few hours. Impactor’s back at the ship getting it ready. The rader’s found some other ships coming towards us. We have to leave soon. He said for us to stay here in case we’re followed.”

“No, we can’t leave, not yet.”

“I know, we’re close to them. Rest for a bit longer. You worry me.”

“Right, Impactor mentioned you wondering where I was.”

“As I should have; you’re the head of this mission. I do not want to risk at least getting something right before Megatron makes us suffer.”

“Right, could be him and his cronies trying to drag us back to whatever boring mission there is to do.” Viper chuckled, starting to stand up. “I’ll be okay, we had some trouble in the caves.”

“As Impactor did mention that thing too. Primus, what other alien creatures exist here?”

“I never want to find out.” He grew quiet, listening to the palm trees and ocean.

Nightbird looked around. “How long do you think it’ll take till you get your strength back?”

“Soon.” Viper began to move his weak limbs, getting up. “There.” He turned to her. “Where are they?’

“They live on a yacht close by, you should be able to see it from the sky. I don’t suggest you transforming. The toxins are fading, but not fast enough."

Before either could move from their spot, three figures emerged from a shaded part.

Skywarp, Thundercracker, and Hound aimed their weapons at the two. Nightbird sprung to her pedes, weapons out. But the mechs did not flinch.

“What brings you here?” The ninja femme chided.

“We’ve been lookin for ya for sometime.” Thundercracker spoke up.

“Why are you with an Autobot? Wouldn’t Megatron want your helms for teaming up with one?” Viper started to move, except Skywarp rested his weapon against the dark blue mech’s helm.

“Now now, don’t do anything yet.” He said with a smug grin.

“Skywarp, we’re not here to kill him, we’re here to warn you, Viper.” Hound glared at the purple Seeker.

“Of what? I can’t trust any of you.” The dark blue mech got out his acid gun.

“Sentius Magnus, he kinda went crazy when we went to where you killed those Cobra guys.” Skywarp did keep the gun pressed, but digit nowhere near the trigger.

“What do I have to do with any of it?”

“We want to figure out what you have to do with any of it.” Thundercracker explained.

:: Nightbird, we have to leave. Now. :: Viper commed, which he noticed Nightbird nodding.

She summoned a hologram and let it attack Skywarp, making him paralyzed. In the distraction, she grabbed Viper’s arm and bolted. Thundercracker and Hound fought to get rid of the hologram, which became a nuisance as poor Skywarp watched.

Impactor waited at the ship before noticing the two from the sand dunes. “We’ve got company!”

“I know! Hurry and get it started!” Nightbird entered the ship, with Viper crashing into one of the seats as the former Wrecker followed them.

He sat down at the seat and it soared back to the sky. The Cobra mech stared at a window as they escaped, clenching a servo.

Back at the beach, the hologram vanished. Hound shook his helm as he helped Skywarp up.

“Whew, there we go. You okay Skywarp?”

“Yeah, ouch, darn thing. Hey, why are you growling at me, Hound?”

“I’m not.” Then they all heard the sounds. Turning to find the bleeding Denebian Stalker rushing towards them.

“Ah frag what is that thing?!” Skywarp screamed.

Thundercracker began firing at the thing. “Don’t know, but it ain’t friendly!”

It let out a wail of agony before chasing the three across the beach.

Viper noticed a yacht in the window. Nightbird and Impactor seemed to focus on the controls and other present Autobots. Wait, why was Skywarp and Thundercracker with Hound? Still with a dazed processor, the Rattler got up, making sure to not make a sound as he shuffled over to the back door. Those two humans, the next targets. He cannot let them escape from their punishment.

With a shaking servo, he undid the latch and leaped out before either could notice.

Nightbird turned her helm, finding Viper vanishing from view. “No!” She scrambled over to the door, unable to catch him. Watching the weakened Rattler flying away towards the fancy boat.

Two humans stood at the front of their yacht, taking in the sunlight on their worn bodies. Two famous marine biologists with a hidden secret. Well, hidden for so long...until now. They’d notice a shadow obscuring the brightness and looked up.

It was the last sight they’d see, as a sea of acid sprayed down and melted them alive.

Relief rushed through the snake before he crashed into the water. Exhaustion wrecking him as he tried to process what happened. The toxins are still in his systems, no, not again! He floated for a while, but couldn’t contact help, as he noticed Sky Lynx landing on top of Impactor’s shuttle.

Bright dark blues entered into the cold sea as he transformed, unable to swim up but sink into the cold water. Primus, why does this keep happening to him? The mech kept looking up to the sunlight, reaching out for it in a pitiful hope that someone would reach up to him.

Deeper he sank, until noticing a figure in the distance, coming closer. Unable to decipher anything except for a shade of gold…

These dreams, why are they hitting me so fast? Why do I keep passing out? Yet, this time, I’m not imprisoned or in a host. I’m myself. It’s a quiet scene, with me laying on the grass. Staring up at a lone tree's branches.

I sat up, looking around. Thousands of blue and purple hydrangeas are blooming around me. It's like the Japanese place where blue flowers bloom. As I observed the beauty, I noticed someone else alongside me here.

A femme I’d seen before. Yes, when I was in my host. Soft blue and purple shades on her armor, bearing a soft purple cape and jewels on a headdress. She stood among the hydrangeas, still as a statue.

I approached her, being careful as I stepped on the flowers. Did I even care about flowers? Who should when we're robots and that they don't bloom on Cybertron. In the silence, she turned to face me when we got close enough to each other.

A gentle servo cupping my cheek, missing both the visor and mouthplate. I stared up at her, with the gentle blues of the hydrangeas making her look so innocent. Bearing innocent pink optics.

Neither of us spoke, but I felt at peace. A part of my helm screamed at me, trying to understand who she was. Why do I want to know her? But, I could say nothing as she graced her soft servo to my helm. That I wanted to be here and forget about everything. My revenge, Cobra, the Joes...as I sink deeper into the murky depths.

I wondered how long this would last before I'd return to the fighting. Were Nightbird and Impactor okay? I hope so, I warned them, I told them the dangers, yet they, well...Nightbird knew the risks. Before I could think more, the femme pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead.

"I missed you." She whispered.

"I don't know you, or why I'm here. Is this a dream?"

"It could be." The femme smiled, soon taking my servo as we began to run through the endless field of flowers.

My processor gave up trying to understand what was going on, but I felt free. I already knew what I was going to do for the last victim. Could this be a glimmer at what's to come when it's' all over?

Seeing how joyous this femme was, made me think about Nightbird, how she'd always be there for me. That both her and Impactor didn't assume I am insane because of those bizarre visions. Why are they happening now? Could I always do this?

I felt myself drifting off in this vision, hallucination, or whatever the heck I can think of. Staring at her as she kept that innocent smile. Before it faded away as she let go.

Everything grew darker, the flowers shriveled up and died. Now a barren wasteland; my frame felt soaked. Looking down at myself...blood, so much of it on me. Human and Cybertronian blood, all over me like that horror movie set at prom. She screamed, as bodies lay still. Both Autobot and Decepticon, Nightbird, Impactor, Bismuth...dead. What...what's happening!?

In my fear, I screamed, falling to my knees as an immense pain filled my chest. My armor is breaking up, I'm melting much like acid to my victims.

The femme kept staring at me, as the corpses got up. Judgment in their dead optics. I continued falling apart, unable to understand why this is happening to me.

In my shame, I looked down, noticing a figure replacing my distorted reflection. Who is he? Why does he look at me with much shame like the bodies? I want this nightmare to end!

WAKE UP VIPER, WAKE UP!!!!!