Kemono Wars: The Beginning

by cefmlp

What if instead the Maximals and the Predacons crash-landed on Earth in the past, they ended up in Japari Park and met a bunch of Friends along the way. I OWN NOTHING

1. Beast wars in Japari Park Part 1

Millions of Years ago, there was a planet. A planet that had been wrapped up in a war that nearly shook the entire universe. Both factions fought endlessly to gain victory over the other. Billions of lives shattered and died in this conflict. For millennia, they feared that the war would never end or it would result in the death of their kind. But as a last effort to end the conflict, an ancient relic with incredible power was used as the ultimate weapon. The Golden Disk. With its ability to give it's holder unlimited power, the surviving soldiers were able to stand together and ending the war. The other side had no choice but to surrender. Both sides coming to an agreement, and the battles had stopped.

After the war was over, the rulers of the planet feared that if someone was to use the Golden Disk for selfish needs, the universe would be thrown into chaos. So they took a shard of the disk and sent it out far into space. The Golden Disk would never be complete and able to reach its full power ever again.

Generations later, new colonies and groups became the descendants of those in the war. They were called the Maximals and the Predacons. The Maximals were the descendants of the victors of the war, while the Predacons were the descendants of those that lost.

But even though the war had come to an end, peace was still yet to be achieved. The Predacons were treated as second class compared to the Maximals. Unfair treatment of citizens that was said to be justified by their ancestors' actions. It seemed like now that was how it would remain till the rest of time.

Until one day, the Golden Disk was stolen.

By a Predacon seeking vengeance.

Space.

An endless cacophony of stars, galaxies, and distant worlds all floating in its black vacuum. Where mysteries lie that have yet to be explored. Very few have seen it's farthest reaches and have not lived to tell the tale of the wonders it holds.

The calm tranquility of the darkness is interrupted by a wormhole appears out of the blue. An unknown spaceship of large proportions and pincers like shape emerges from within the Portal and into the dark sea. Right behind the Darksyde, emerging from a portal was another spaceship.

Both ships are firing back at each other, with blasters and guns cutting into the outer layers of their vessel's surface. But as their conflicted continue, both were completely unaware of the planet their battle is heading towards.

The Axalon was relieving heavy damage from the battle as it's members were doing what they could to keep the vessel from breaking to pieces.

Teenage Maximal: Hull breach in Sector Seven! Guidance systems failing!

One of the ship's crew member was strapped to his seat as the ship bumped and was tossed around during the conflict.

Accent Maximal: Oh Man, this is ridiculous! We're an exploration ship, not a battlecruiser!

The red mechanical eyes of the leader looked in grim determination.

Optimus: No choice. Our ship was the only one that could lock onto Megatron' s warp signature.

The teenage robot starred at his screen with a rough image of the Axalon flashing bright red and blue as it received hit after hit.

Teenage Maximal: Shields are doing a major fade!

Optimus: Plasma cannons to full power!

The green robot next to him pulled the lever to activate the weapon in question.

Back on the Darksyde.

Nazly Predacon: Their shields are down! Destroy them!

The leader of the ship, however, gave a sinister smirk and held a threatening glimmer in his eye.

Megatron: Oh, now where's the fun in that? A little torment I think first, yess? Side guns!

Both ships flew over the atmosphere of the blue planet nearby. The Darksyde then activated three more guns as it blew holes into the Avalon's side. The members of the vessel screamed in hurt and anguish, knowing that their ship won't last much longer.

Teenage Maximal: Rupture! The stasis hold is failing!

Older Maximal: No, We're going down.

Optimus: Launch all Pods! Get them into safe orbit!

As the Axalon began to sink towards the blue planet's atmosphere, dozens of gray cylinders were thrown out of the ship and began to head down as well. As a last ditch effort to defeat their foes, the Axalon used the last remains of its power to charge the plasma cannons.

Optimus: All Plasma Cannons! FIRE!

With as much power as it could, the Plasma cannons fired directly onto the Darksyde, taking out its main engine. The leader roars in rage as they too begin to be pulled into the planet's gravity and fall.

Both ships fell out of the sky towards the planet below.

Meanwhile...

Night had fallen onto Japari Park with only the sound of the wind blowing against the golden grass of the Savannah. The night was calm and crisp like all things should be. That is until the sight of two long, black-tipped ears poking through the grass. Completely unaware is a simple dragonfly that lands carefully on a strand of grass.

"GOTCHA!"

two hands quickly tried to wrap around the dragonfly, but it flew off just in time. The two ears poke out from the grass to reveal Serval. A Friend of Japari Park that had black-tipped ears at the crown of her head, an M-shaped marking found beneath aforementioned ears, and a small bow-tie with a spotted pattern on orange that fades into white. This pattern comprises the majority of her attire. The centerpiece of her attire consists of a white blouse, devoid of pattern, and skirt.

Serval giggled as she gave chase after the fleeing dragonfly. She loved playing Hunter and Prey.

After running around after the buzzing bug, Serval leaped into the air and was ready to catch it. But it flew away completely, leaving Serval to crash onto the ground holding nothing but air.

Serval wiped the dirt off herself as she got back to her feet. Serval looks up at the sky to see the dozens of lights that flicker out there. It made her sad, to be honest. It reminded her of how alone she was.

Serval sat down on the grass, bored out of her mind. Sometimes she wished she wasn't nocturnal, then she could play with friends all the time. Everyone else is asleep and she was all alone. Then again, she was always alone. Due to a lot of Friends thinking she was a clutz.

Serval: (sighs) All once more. Just like I always am.

Serval wanted nothing more than a friend. Someone to be there for her. To smile with her. To play with her. Anyone who would at least not view her as a clumsy girl that can't do anything right.

Serval's thoughts were interrupted as her ear twitched as it picked up an unfamiliar sound. Serval looked up to see quite a particular sight.

Two shooting stars, heading in opposite directions as they flew down from the sky.

Serval smiled brightly at the beautiful sight, but then remembered an old ritual some Friends have talked about in the past.

If you make a wishing on a shooting star, then your wish will come true.

And since there were two shooting stars, she got two wishes.

Serval held her paws together.

Serval: Dear Shooting stars. Please hear my wish.

Serval took a deep breath and out what things she desires most.

Serval: I wish…

I wish I could have a friend who will accept me for who I am. And I wish I could have the chance to prove the rest of Japari Park that I am more than a clumsy Serval.

Serval opened her eyes to see the stars were still falling down from the sky. Both stars were heading in opposite directions and they seemed to be getting close to the surface.

Before Serval knew it, both shooting stars crashed onto the ground. She wasn't able to tell where since they fell from quite a distance, but the very second they made contact with the ground, the earth beneath Serval's paws began to shake and rumble.

But it wasn't just the ground of the Savannah that shook. The entire Park began to shake rapidly.

All other Friends who were currently awake stopped whatever they were doing and stood in place as the ground shook back and forth. It even resulted in some Friends falling out of trees and waking up.

But that wasn't just it.

When the ground began to shake like that, it only meant one thing.

A Sandstar Eruption.

The volcano stood as a tall beckon of the Park's main source of life. Cubes of a sparkling white sat on top and stretched out.

The ground shook in a gritty fashion and not long after did an amazing sight occurs.

The volcano emitted millions of dazzling colors into the night sky, reaching all over the park.

One big piece was heading right towards the Savannah.

And soon, new Friends were to be born.

As well as a new adventure that would shake the entire park.

The next morning.

Cut to the Axalon, now in extreme disrepair after it's descent from space.

What remained of the once proud vessel was now wedged two large rocky hills in the middle of the dry Savannah. The ship was dotted with holes and missing parts.

No doubt it would not fly anytime soon.

Fortunately, it's members were alive and faced barely any injuries from the crash.

Optimus: (groans in pain) Augh, Damage report.

Teenage Maximal: Believe me. You don't wanna know.

Optimus: (groans in defeat) That's what I thought.

As for the Darksyde, it was crashed in what appeared to be a volcanically active area with craters filled with lava surrounding the damaged ship. Smoke was emitting of it's ruined engines as it too was unable to continue flight. From the crash, it was impaled with spikes of obsidian. Megatron was still seated at his seat. He activated the ship's computer.

Megatron: Navigation! Is this the right planet?

Darksyde Computer: Unknown. Course settings were accurate but readings are consistent with those expected for intended destination.

The leader was sitting as he stared at what appeared to be a hologram of the planet he and his crew had crashed on.

Darksyde Computer: Confirmed.

The computer made a green dot of the hologram. Pointing out that the planet they had crashed had what the leader had been looking for.

The leader's red optics glowed in wickedness for seeing such good news.

Megatron: Yessss! The planet has Energon!

But the celebration was cut short as the computer continued with the report.

Darksyde Computer: Too much Energon. Field readings are off the scale. Continued exposure to robotic forms will result in permanent damage.

To emphasize this point, the computer showed too many dots within the planet. Then a projection of the leader himself being infected by the infection of the energon outside.

The leader slammed his fist in irritation. But then got an idea.

Megatron: Then we will create alternate forms based on the most powerful local creatures!

One of the crew members flipped a switch on one of the ship's panels.

Creepy Predacon: (chuckles) Scanners activated.

From the top of the ship emerged a device that flew high and spun as it emitted a purple light that scanned for life in the local area. It managed to pick up the skeletons of a velociraptor and a Tyrannosaurus Rex as well as a wasp that was currently battling a tarantula.

Back at the Axalon, it's members had the same idea as well as another scanner emerged from the top of the ship and began to scan for local life forms as well. This one, however, had a yellow hue.

In one of the trees, a Gorilla Friend was resting in a tree with a Rat Friend while down below a Rhino Friend was sitting on the ground. But as the yellow light passes through the Friends, their once restful demeanors begin to slip.

Gorilla Friend: What was that?

Rat Friend: You felt it too right? I'm not going crazy!

Rhino: Maybe I've been eating too many Japari Buns?

Two Cheetah Friends were lazing around in the grass. Then suddenly the yellow light fazed through them, catching both of the Cheetah's off guard.

Cheetah Friend 1: Rowl, Did you feel that? (Get's to her feet.)

Cheetah Friend 2: I did, but I don't know what just happened!

Cheetah Friend 1: It felt like someone just took blew humid air into my chest.

Cheetah Friend 2: Do you think it was due to the Sandstar eruption last night?

Cheetah Friend 1: I don't know, and to be honest I don't want to know. I say we get out of here.

Both Cheetah's soon left the area.

The Avalon's scanners were finally done, as the light shut down and the machine went back it's hiding spot.

Older Maximal: Scanning and replication of local life forms...complete. You may emerge.

From within the Axalon, there were chambers where each member was slowly beginning to emerge from. The first was a Cheetah.

Teenage Maximal: Rrrowr! Look at me! I'm a cheetah.

The Cheetah in question walked towards his reflection on one of the chambers, able to get a good look at himself.

Teenage Maximal: no, I'm - CHEETOR!

The leader was still in his chamber, looking down with new brown eyes.

Optimus: Hmmm, interesting.

Cheetor: Interesting!? Mrow! Optimus, the word is Spot-on Smooth.

The Cheetah Maximal admires his reflection.

Cheetor: 's a crime…

Then a rat that was clearly bigger than how a rat should usually be as he emerged from one of the chambers.

Accent Maximal: Eh a bit tacky.

He walked out in a smug manner.

Accent Maximal: Ya never had taste, did ya kid? Now this, This is what class is about. Call me RATTRAP.

Cheetor: Oh, yeah? How's about I cut meeces to pieces?

Cheetor was preparing to start a battle. But he was stopped from starting anything as a Rhino emerged from another chamber.

Older Maximal: Ease back, Cheetor. Livin' large is for forms like me RHINOX.

Rattrap: Yeah! An' just consider yerself lucky I didn't get rough on ya!

Rattrap taunted in a competitive manner.

Optimus: Moderate your conflict circuits, Maximals…

The last chamber began to open as a large Gorilla appeared from within. It was the leader of the crew, Optimus Primal.

Optimus: Remember, these beast forms are to protect us from the long-term effects of the Energon fields out there.

Primal got on all fours.

Optimus: We may need Energon for power, but this is too much of a good thing.

Optimus stepped out of the chamber and began heading towards the ship's hatch.

Optimus: Our robot forms will start to short out after a few minutes' exposure.

He took a look out the window to see the outside world was strangely covered in multicolored sparkles.

Optimus: (openly thinks) This is one unusual planet... whatever it is.

Rhinox: Or whenever. The TransWarp drive can go through space an' time. We were

locked onto Megatron's warp signature. We could be anyplace...anytime.

Optimus: Yes. And our crew is orbiting the planet in those stasis pods we lost in battle. They're protected from the Energon fields, but it means Megatron has us outnumbered.

Back at the Darksyde

All of its members had successfully gained beast forms. Observing the area outside of the ship was a red Pterodactyl, a green and yellow wasp, and a purple, yellow, and green tarantula. All of these beast modes were much bigger than how their respectful species should actually be.

From within the hatch of the ship was a brown velociraptor holding in one of its claws was a disk made of gold. The raptor did not look happy in the slightest.

Nazly Predacon: No! No! NO! It is all wrong! This cannot be Earth!

He turned back towards the dark opening of the Darksyde.

Nazly Predacon: Megatron, you FAILED! Not only did you FAIL to destroy the Maximals when you had the chance - you FAILED to bring us to the right planet! We stole the Golden Disk for nothing, you IDIOT!

The velociraptor throws the Golden Disk into the darkness and glares daggers within.

There is a long, nervous silence.

Till from within the darkness emerges a large purple and green Tyrannosaurus Rex. This was Megatron, the leader of the Predacons.

Megatron: I beg your pardon. What did you call me?

The rest of the Predacons are nervous upon seeing their leader being talked down to by Dinobot. Dinobot, however, shows no fear or regret for his words.

Dinobot: You heard. You are an idiot and an incompetent leader. And I - am taking over! Dinobot - TERRORIZE! ROAAAR!

The disguise of the raptor shifts away as he transforms into his Robot Mode. He activates his Rotary Blade ominously.

Dinobot: I challenge you to battle, Megatron! The winner shall lead the Predacons - and the loser shall be destroyed!

Megatron, however, is unimpressed by his subordinate's words, as he just begins to scoff as he turns away.

Megatron: You're so impulsive, Dinobot. Brave, but misguided.

Dinobot grew impatient of his leader's mockery.

Dinobot: Do you accept my challenge!?

Megatron doesn't turn back as he chuckles ominously.

Megatron: There is more to being a leader than simple courage. There is cleverness and cunning as well. Isn't that right-Scorponok?

From within the hatch of the Darksyde, Scorponok (who's beast mode was clearly a scorpion) emerges, champing his claws. Before Dinobot could react, Scorponok fires a missile directly onto Dinobot, sending the mech flying over the rocky hills.

Megatron: Loser.

"What does it matter which planet we are on? We came looking for Energon, and this planet is rich with the element! Enough energon to power the Predacons' entire Galactic Conquest! Only the Maximals could give us trouble now - if

they survived the crash. Find them!

All the rest of the Predacons stand before the leader, even Scorponok who just reverted back to Beast Mode.

Megatron: And if you find them-

- destroy them!

With their mission given, the rest of the Predacon flee the area, to find what remained of their enemies.

In the Savannah

In the bright warmth of the day, Serval is sleeping peacefully on a tree, complete oblivious to the world around her.

Everything is peaceful and calm till suddenly the sounds of footsteps crunching through the golden grass is an unknown little girl appears. Her short hair was a dark teal that was poking out of her beaten up Safari hat with an aqua feather poking through the side. He clothes consisted of cream colored shorts with black and ruby stripes at the bottom. Her leggings matched her black gloves while her shoes were a simple brown. And on her back was a cream colored backpack. The young girl was breathing heavily as she walked through the grass, clearly tired from walking around for a while.

The sounds of the girl's footsteps catch Serval's attention with a twitch from her ear. Serval smiled as she awoke. It was a Friend that she didn't recognize from their sound. Her wish must've come true.

In pure excitement, Serval leaped off her tree branch and chased after her new possible friend.

The girl runs away in panic while the Serval gleefully pursues through the field.

Serval: Woohoo!

Girl: (Running in fear) Where am I? Why?

Serval: We're playing hunter and prey, huh? I won't lose!

Serval continues to chase the girl more until she manages to lose her.

Serval: Huh? They hid…

Serval looks around for her missing target. Her ear twitches as she hears the sound of a footstep in the distance.

Serval: There!

Serval then leaps into the air, pinning the girl to the ground. Both are breathing heavily. Serval is happy with her victory, while the girl is not.

Girl: (Pleading in fear) P-PLEASE DON'T EAT ME!

Serval: I won't eat you!

After getting off the girl, calming down, and catching her breath, Serval and the girl were sitting down on the ground. The girl, however, was still shaken up from earlier.

Serval: Sorry! I just love playing hunter and prey. You must be an animal that doesn't like it so much, huh?

The two associates now sat on the ground in awkward silence, both unsure of what to do next.

Serval: Um…

Girl: Erm…

The girl, however, looks up to see Serval's second pair of ears and is in awe of the sight.

Serval: Feeling better?

Girl: No. Um, yes. I'm okay.

Are you from here?

What is this place?

Serval: (Stands up) This is Japari Park!

I'm Serval

This my territory.

Girl: Serval?

Then your ears and tail are…?

Serval: Why? Is something unusual?

What about you? A Friend without a tail or ears?

Now that's unusual!

Girl: A "Friend"?

Serval: Where'd you come from?

Where's your territory?

Girl: (Looks down in sadness) I don't know.

I don't remember.

When I woke up, I was here…

Serval: Oh, maybe you were born from last night's Sandstar!

Girl: "Sandstar"?

Serval: Yeah, last night two shooting stars fell and caused a huge eruption. It came flying out of that mountain yesterday. The area's still all sparkly from it, see?

The girl looked around to see that the ground was fluttering with multi-colored sparkles and lights.

Serval: But enough with that, let's find out what kind of Friend you are…

Serval approached the girl and wrapped her hands on her shoulders.

Serval: A bird would have wings back here!

But Serval saw no wings there.

Serval: Huh, nothing…

Serval then looked at the top of the girl's head.

Serval: If you have a hood, you're a snake!

But there was no hood.

Serval: But you don't. Huh?

The girl continued to look distraught.

Serval was confused, what type of Friend was she? She didn't have paws, a tail, wings, or a hood.

Then Serval's eye directed towards the girl's backpack. She picked it up to get a better look at it.

Serval: Huh? What's this?

Girl: Huh? A bag (or Kaban), I guess.

Serval: Kaban? Kaban…Kaban...Kaban!

Serval began to chirp with excitement as she placed the bag back on the ground.

Girl: Is that a clue?

Serval: Dunno!

The girl felt her sweatdrop.

Serval: You might have to go to the library to find out what you are…

Girl: The library?

Serval: Yup. When there's something you don't know, you ask at the library.

Girl: (looked down towards herself) They'd know what kind of animal I am?

A smile finally emerged on the girl's face.

Girl: Thank you very much, Serval. Where can I find the library?

Serval held her hand out to help the girl back to her feet.

Serval: I'll take you part of the way. Come on let's go!

The girl grabbed Serval's hand and was pulled up.

Girl: Oh, thank you. I'd appreciate that.

She then grabbed her backpack and threw it over her shoulders.

The two began to walk but was quickly stopped by Serval turning to face the girl.

Serval: Wait, what should I call you until then?

The girl shrugged in response.

But then Serval got an idea.

Serval: Kaban! How's that?

The little girl felt that name did suit her.

Kaban: Okay! Thank you.

And with that, the duo was off, unaware of the adventure they were about to go on.

Meanwhile back at the Axalon…

The Maximals are observing the area right outside where their ship had crashed. Surprisingly, their ship was not too far from a ravine. They were also trying to clean up some of the mess Everyone is currently in beast mode. Optimus is using his electronic binoculars in his optics to scan the horizon. Rattrap emerges from the base and throws a bunch of useless junk into a pile.

Rattrap: All this fer a Golden Disk.

Optimus turned towards the rat.

Optimus: It was Cybertron's most carefully guarded relic, Rattrap. It gave the location of a major Energon source. That's why Megatron stole it.

Rattrap, however, was not pleased with the info.

Rattrap: Yeah, like I care! You know, We were supposed t' be doin' deep space exploration. Playin' Galactic Patrol Wasn't nowhere in my job description, you know what I'm sayin? You sure you're cut out for this Commander gig?

Optimus glares back but calmly respond.

Optimus: Remember the Great War, Rattrap. If the Predacons get enough Energon, they'll start it again. We can't let that happen.

Optimus looks back at the horizon.

Optimus: Besides, You wanted exploration, and here we are on an unknown planet. What more do you want?

Rattrap: Well, Call me picky, but a workin' spacecraft would be nice.

Optimus sighs with a grin.

Optimus: Just no pleasing some people.

Cheetor emerges from within the ship and looks out at the horizon.

Cheetor: Hey, check it!

Cheetor points towards the distance.

In the distance is the sight of two blurs running at an incredible speed. From the bright yellow and dark brown dots covering them, they were no doubt Cheetahs.

Optimus: They're fast, all right. You chose a good form.

Optimus looks down at the teenager

Cheetor, however, was too excited to sit still while those Cheetah's run freely.

Cheetor: Hey, you think that's speed? You ain't seen the Golden Rocket. Check this!

Cheetor ran after them with immense speed, distancing himself from the rest of the Maximals.

Optimus blinks in surprise.

Optimus: Cheetor! No!

Optimus shouts, trying to get the attention of him.

But it is too late, as Cheetor runs so far from the command center, over a bridge, and into the grassy plains to join the other Cheetahs. While also doing a sweet curve with a growl while he's at it.

Optimus activates him comlink on his chest.

Optimus: (speaks into his comlink) Cheetor! Return to base immediately! We don't have time for this!

Cheetor doesn't hear his leader's static voice as he keeps running. Optimus tries again, but all he can hear is static.

Rhinox: No good. Th' Energon fields mess up th' comlinks. Anythin' over a hundred meters, they ain't worth jack.

Optimus: (groans) Well, that's just prime.

Rattrap: So this yer first day on th' job or what?

Optimus: Shut up, Rattrap.

Rattrap: (overdramatically sarcastic) Oh, yes SIR! Oh, I feel just HEAPS better knowing our lives are in yer capable hands.

He said to the side.

Rattrap: We're all gonna die.

Meanwhile, Cheetor has finally caught up to the supposed fellow Cheetahs.

Cheetor: Mrrow! Name's Cheetor - what's shakin', cats?

Cheetor growls with a smile towards the Cheetahs.

Or so he thought at first.

From a distance, the two blurs did look like Cheetahs.

But up close was a different story.

For what Cheetor saw were actually two human girls, dressed up like Cheetahs. Their clothes were covered in spots, and their hair was long.

But unlike humans Cheetor heard about from history, they had a second pair of ears on the top of their heads and actually had tails. Reports of humans never said stuff like that.

Both Cheetah girls kept running as they turned to see Cheetor.

Cheetah Friend 2: Oh my gosh what is that?

Cheetah Friend 1: First the strange wind, and now mutated Friends? I'm outta here!

Both girls dashed as fast as they could, leaving Cheator all alone. He was still flabbergasted over what he had just witnessed. But he recollected himself and tried to chase after them.

Cheetor: Hey wait! Come back! Who are you?

The lone Maximal was now running through the Savannah.

Kaban and Serval are walking across the vast Savannah.

Serval: (sings) Guide, guide, savanna guide!

Serval sang in pure joy of being able to show a new Friend her territory.

Kaban tugged on to her backpack straps as she kept looking around the area. The Savannah was such a pretty place, and it seemed to stretch for miles. Serval notices Kaban's curiosity about the area and smiled.

Serval: It's so vast, and the view's great, right? It's called the Savanna Area.

Kaban: Is this area your territory alone, Serval?

Serval: No way! Tons of other animals live here, too. For instance…

Serval looks around and turns to find Zebra hiding in the grass.

Serval: Zebra's over there.

Kaban: Huh? I don't see her.

Serval looks back to see that Zebra disappeared.

Serval: Oops, I guess she hid. Who else…

Serval sees Thomson's Gazelle in the distance.

Serval: Thomson's Gazelle is to that side.

Kaban: Oh, I see her!

Serval: And there are many more of us, too!

Suddenly Kaban hears the sound of someone screaming. She and Serval turn to see two Cheetah Friends running by.

Kaban: Who are they?

Serval: On those are Cheetahs, they also live here.

Kaban: They look so much like you.

Serval: Yeah, a lot of creatures in the Savannah are very similar colors.

Kaban: What are they running from?

But before Serval could respond, an unfamiliar voice calls out.

Offscreen voice: HEY LOOK OUT!

Before anyone could even react, Kaban was tackled by a Cheetah. But not a Friend Cheetah. A real Cheetah. Or at first, that was what one might assume.

Cheetor stood up on his paws to see that the girl Cheetahs have disappeared.

Cheetor: Mrrow! On great, I lost them. It must've been my breath.

Suddenly the Maximal heard the sound of panic gasping and looked down to see he had accidentally tackled another girl. Only this one was actually dressed like how reports spoke of humans. He saw that the girl was frightened.

Kaban: PLEASE DON'T EAT ME!

Cheetor is taken back by how loud the girl cried out. But he was quick to regain his composure.

Cheetor: Woah Woah Woah, cool your jets! I'm not going to eat you!

Cheetor climbed off the scared little girl.

Serval: Kaban, are you okay?!

Cheetor saw another girl run up to the girl he accidentally tackled. Only this one was dressed in a ridiculous manner like the Cheetah girls from earlier. She had a second pair of ears and a tail.

Kaban: I'm okay.

The human girl responds, trying to catch her breath.

Cheetor was confused, but seeing his mistake he spoke up.

Cheetor: I'm sorry for knocking you over, I didn't mean to scare you.

Kaban: I-It's okay…

Serval: Woah. I've seen Cheetahs before, but none like you! Who are you?!

Cheetor: My name is Cheetor, it's nice to meet you…

Serval: My name is Serval, and this is Kaban.

Kaban: Hello.

Cheetor: Serval and Kaban? Those are interesting names.

Serval: Not as interesting as you. What were you doing running so fast?

Cheetor didn't want to sound like a creep for chasing after two girls dressed as Cheetahs, so he had to improvise.

Cheetor: Well I was running through and I wanted to see how fast I could go. What are you two doing all the way out here?

Serval: This is my territory, the Savannah.

Cheetor: Wait, you mean you live here? In the wilderness?

Serval: Yes I do!

Cheetor: But what about you Kaban?

Kaban: I don't know, I woke up all alone here till Serval found me.

Serval: We were actually on our way to the Library before running into you Cheetor.

Cheetor: Why do you want to go to a library?

Cheetor asked, not being too fond of dull places like those.

Serval: We're heading there to find out what type of animal Kaban is.

Cheetor was dumbfounded. Did Kaban not know she was a human? And where were her parents?

Kaban got back up with Serval's help.

Serval: Well we better get going. Come on Kaban, The library's beyond the Jungle Area.

Cheetor suddenly realized that if these two girls were wandering this planet all alone without an adult, they could be in danger or might get hurt. He had to keep an optic on them. And there was only one way.

Cheetor: Wait, can I come with you?

Kaban: Huh? Why would you want to come with us?

Cheetor: Well I am new to this area. Whatever you call it.

Serval: Japari Park.

Cheetor: Yeah whatever. So do you think maybe I can come along with you guys? It might be dangerous for just the two of you.

Serval: Oh don't worry about us, my sharp claws will keep us safe. Right, Kaban?

Kaban, however, said nothing. Then she turned to Serval.

Kaban: I think we should let him come along.

Serval: What, why?

Kaban: I just have this feeling inside that tells me it's the best option.

Serval thinks for a moment and then smiles. She turns back to Cheetor.

Serval: You can come with us if you want Cheetor.

Cheetor: Woah, really?

Serval: Yeah, I'm just taking Kaban to the gate of the jungle area.

Cheetor: Awesome. How far is the Savannah exit?

Serval: It's a stone's throw away. Come on, let's go!

Serval skipped ahead with Kaban followed with Cheetor. The Maximal completely forgetting about his team.

After walking around for a while, the trio found themselves at a steep hill. Serval was able to jump down swiftly with Cheetor being able to climb down gently. Kaban, however, was struggling to climb down without slipping.

Serval: You move slowly...Maybe you're a sloth Friend?

Kaban: Huh? A sloth?

Cheetor: Nah, I think a monkey is more like her.

The Maximal didn't get why Kaban didn't know what she really was, but he decided to play along.

Kaban: What's a-

Unfortunately, Kaban slips, accidentally falling all the way to the bottom of the hill.

Serval and Cheetor run over to Kaban.

Serval: Are you okay?

Kaban: I'm sorry.

Cheetor: No. I'm sorry, I should not have distracted you.

Kaban: Don't be, I'm okay.

Kaban picks herself up.

Next, the group finds themselves crossing short steam. Just like before Serval and Cheetor are able to crossover by leaping over stones. But Kaban is unable to jump as far as them and ends up getting soaked into the water. Serval runs over to help Kaban up.

Kaban: I'm sorry.

Serval: Don't worry about it. Different Friends are good at different things.

Cheetor: Yeah, what matters is that you are doing your best.

Kaban wishes she could smile in response.

Next, the trio is climbing up a hill. Cheetor and Serval are walking ahead. Kaban is getting tired from all the walking and stops for a second to catch her breath. Suddenly a strange blue creature with big ears and one eye appeared behind a rock and right in front of Kaban.

Kaban: Are you a Friend?

Cheetor: Cheetor turns to see the creature and is in shock of the sight.

Cheetor: What is that?!

Serval looks to see the creature and recognizes it.

Serval: Oh, no! That's a Cerulean! Run!

The Cerulean chases after a fleeing Kaban, but she accidentally trips and falls on the ground. The Cerulean is about to get Kaban.

Cheetor: Hold up Kaban, I'll save you! Cheetor Max-

Before Cheetor could continue, Serval's paw glowed bright and slashed at the gem on the Cerulean's back. The Cerulean breaks into blue cubes and dissolves into light. Both Kaban and Cheetor are in awe of this.

Serval: That's called a Cerulean. They're a little dangerous, so be careful okay? I can take care of the little ones with these awesome claws of mine, though.

Kaban: You're incredible, Serval.

Cheetor: Yeah that was awesome, I didn't know you could fight like that.

Serval: It was no big deal, but thanks Cheetor.

Kaban, however, looks down in sadness.

Kaban: I don't have any power like that. Even following you two is hard for me. I guess I'm a pretty pathetic animal, huh?

Cheetor nuzzles against Kaban to comfort the poor little girl. Serval, however, walks over to her with a smile.

Serval: Don't worry. Everyone's calling me clumsy and super weak.

Serval holds out her paw to Kaban to help her up.

Serval: Besides, you're a really hard worker. I'm sure we'll find out what you're good at before you know it.

Kaban turns to Cheetor who smiles in response. Kaban grabs Serval's hand and is pulled back to her feet with a smile.

After more walking, the trio finds themselves underneath a giant tree with a lot of shade where they can their breath and cool off. Serval flops down on her stomach. Kaban sits down by the base of the tree. Cheetor lies down beside Kaban.

Serval: Let's take a little break here. When the sun's the hottest, you have to be careful not to overdo it.

Cheetor gives off a big yawn as he curls near the base of the tree.

Cheetor: Mrrowl, Would would I give for something cool?

Serval: Oh don't worry, We'll drink some water later. I know a good place. If we were bird Friends, we could fly there in no time…

Kaban began to pet Cheetor on the head, making him purr.

Kaban: Are there many kinds of Friends?

Serval: There sure are! There are lots of Friends from the cat family who are stronger and scarier and bigger than me.

Cheetor: Much like Cheetahs like me.

Serval: Yeah, like Cheetahs!

Kaban: D-Do they bite?

Serval: No way! Only once in a while, when they're in a bad mood.

Kaban: O-Oh, okay…

Serval leans up.

Serval: But watch out for those Ceruleans! There actually shouldn't be many in this area…

Cheetor wasn't sure what those Ceruleans were or what they were doing here. He should probably inform Optimus of the Ceruleans when he gets back to base.

….

OH, SLAG!

He completely forgot about the rest of the Maximals!

He was so thrilled at the thought of stretching his legs out that he ran from the base.

Oh great, when he gets back to base, he's going to get it.

Cheetor turned back to the girls, trying to hide his hesitation.

Kaban: Your claw attack back there was amazing.

Serval: it's a Friend skill. If we run into another one, you leave it to me.

Kaban: Thank you…

Cheetor is tempted to speak but seeing these two girls all alone in this place with the threat of the Ceruleans on foot. It was best to stay with them for now.

Suddenly Serval notices something.

Serval: Huh? Kaban-chan, you don't pant? And you already have your energy back.

That's amazing after we walked so much.

Kaban: I-Is it?

Serval: Don't you think so Cheetor?

Cheetor: Uh yeah. Kaban you are just full of surprises.

Serval: You see. We are starting to see your strong points.

I bet you're an awesome animal.

This is gonna be fun!

Kaban was confused.

Cheetor said nothing.

Well, maybe Optimus won't be too mad.

After resting up the group continues the journey. Cheetor tries to come up with what he'll say to Optimus when he gets back. He didn't want to get punished. Eventually, the group is now walking past a bunch of extremely fat trees.

Kaban: Those are amazing trees...

Serval: They're huge, right? The savanna is dotted with trees.

Serval turns to Kaban

Serval: That reminds me! If you can climb trees, they're helpful when you need to run or hide. Want to try it?

Kaban: Huh? But I don't know how.

Serval: Relax let me show you.

Serval places her palm against one of the trees and begins to climb up quickly.

Serval: Meow, meow, meow!

Serval quickly makes it up to the top of the tree. Both Cheetor and Kaban are impressed.

Serval: (From the top of the tree.) Easy, right?

Cheetor: Yeah! I wanna give it a try.

Cheetor finds one of the trees and uses his claws to climb up the tree. Serval is happy to see this.

Serval: Great job Cheetor!

Cheetor: Thanks.

Serval: So what do you think Kaban?

Kaban: I can't do that.

Cheetor: Sure you can. You can do anything.

Serval jumps down from the tree and points to another tree that is smaller than the previous one.

Serval: How about this one?

Kaban: I'll try.

Kaban grabs onto the tree and struggles to climb up, resulting in Serval pushing Kaban up to help her climb

Serval: Up to you go!

Kaban makes up up the tree, she looks around to see how high she is.

Serval: Isn't tree-climbing great?

Cheetor: Like the view?

Kaban: It is cool.

Cheetor: See, I knew you could do it.

Kaban: But how am I going to get down from here?

Cheetor: Let me held.

Cheetor climbs up the tree and lifts Kaban by the back of her shirt with his mouth. Her jumps down carefully holding Kaban.

Kaban: Thank you Cheetor.

Kaban then suddenly realizes that the area where Cheetor was holding her shirt was completely dry. There was no drool.

Serval, however, didn't notice as she points towards a grassy pathway.

Serval: The watering hole's that way. Shall we?

Cheetor: We shall. Come one.

Afterward, they are climbing up a hill that will take them to the water hole that Serval mentioned. Cheetor decides to stay behind the girls jump in case one of them falls.

Kaban misses a step and nearly falls over. But before Serval can get to her Cheetor helps push Kaban up with his head.

Cheetor: Up you go, Kaban.

Kaban: Thank you Cheetor.

Serval looks down at her two friends and smiles.

At the top of the hill is the water hole.

Kaban, Serval, Cheetor: Water!

The trio runs over and gets a drink.

It was incredibly refreshing.

Kaban and Serval: It's delicious!

Cheetor is tempted to jump in and swim, but considering that animals drank from it, he refrains.

In the meantime, he looked over at the girls and seeing how they giggled in unison. It was honestly adorable.

Cheetor: You two having fun?

Serval: Yes I am? How about you Kaban?

Kaban: I'm feeling much better.

Serval looks behind her.

Serval: We walked pretty far, huh?

Both Kaban and Cheetor look back to see the distance.

Serval: That's the shade tree where we took our break!

Kaban: It is!

Cheetor: I think I can almost see the area where I literally ran into you two.

Kaban: Woah, how can you see that far?

Serval: Yeah how?

Cheetor paused and realized he was using his binocular vision to see so far.

Cheetor: Um...just my luck?

Kaban: Okay.

Serval: Enjoying the scenery while drinking water really brings you back to life. I'm full of energy!

Kaban: You've been energetic this whole time.

Cheetor: That's Serval for you. Energetic and headstrong.

Kaban: Right.

Serval, however, begins to look around as her face shifts.

Cheetor: Something wrong Serval?

Serval: No I'm alright, it's just… It's weird, though. It's so empty today.

Kaban: What do you mean?

Serval: Usually, you have to claim a spot.

But there's no one here today.

Cheetor: Maybe there at a different water hole?

Serval: I doubt it, this is one of the best watery holes in the Savannah. I wonder if someone scary came by…

Cheetor: What do you mean, "scary"?

Suddenly the water begins to bubble. Kaban leans in to get a better look.

Kaban: Huh?

Before anyone can react something emerges from the water.

Water creature: Who's there?

Kaban falls back in fear.

Kaban: D-Don't eat me!

Cheetor: I'll handle this! Cheetor Maxi-

But before Cheetor could transform, the creature was actually a girl. This one had a more curvy shape with a skin-tight dark grey outfit and long dark hair with bright red tints. She also had ears on her head.

Lady: Pardon me. I was bathing.

Wait, she was under there the entire time?

They drank water she was bathing in?

On Primus!

Serval, however, didn't seem to mind.

Serval: Oh, it's Hippo!

Hippo: How rare for you to come all the way here to play, Serval.

Serval: I'm going to the gate today. I wanted to drink some water first. Not many Friends out today, huh?

Suddenly Hippo begins to look around in caution as if she's scared about something.

Serval: Hey Hippo, what's the matter?

Hippo regained her composure.

Hippo: Oh it's nothing.

Things just have been going weird ever since last night.

Serval: What do you mean?

Hippo: You must've heard about those two strange shooting stars that fell from the sky, right?

Cheetor felt his insides tighten. Falling from the skies. He knew what that meant.

Hippo: The impact of that has caused many friends to get these weird feelings and some strange creatures have been popping up. It's hard for anyone to go out and about.

Do be Careful.

Serval: Okay, if it's a threat, I'll kick its butt, then!

Hippo: You, Serval? How worrying.

Serval: It'll be fine! I just beat a cerulean earlier.

Hippo: A small one, I'm sure.

Serval: H-How did you know?

Hippo: By the way, who are your companions?

Serval: This is Kaban and this is Cheetor.

Hippo: "Kaban" "Cheetor"? I've never heard of those kinds of animals.

Serval: I came up with the name Kaban 'cause she says she doesn't know what kind of animal she is. So I thought it would be a good idea to go to the library. And we met Cheetor earlier today.

Hippo: Well it is nice to meet both of you.

Kaban: Um, same.

Cheetor: Yeah.

Serval: Oh that reminds me. Do you know what kind of animal Kaban is?

Hippo: (To Kaban) Hmm...Can you swim?

Kaban: No.

Hippo: Can you fly?

Kaban: No.

Hippo: Then are you fast?

Kaban: No...

Hippo: You can't do anything at all, can you?

Serval: Th-That's not true!

Cheetor: Yeah she's not useless!

Hippo: Well, there are also animals like Serval. Fast, a good sense of smell, and good hearing, but so silly that it all goes to waste. So it's nothing to fret about.

Cheetor snickered at Hippos remark.

Serval just huffed

Serval: That's mean.

Hippo: Why I can't swim, myself.

Serval: Huh, you can't?

Cheetor: But then why were you under the water?

Hippo seemed to look tense again. But she changed the topic, much to Cheetor's irritation.

Hippo: You see Kaban, the rule here in Japari Park is that you must fend for yourself. You need to protect yourself. You can't leave it all to Serval.

Kaban: Okay.

Cheetor: Hippo…

Hippo: Yes Cheetor?

Cheetor is something bothering you?

Hippo began to look tense again. She began to look around the area in a panic before calming down.

Hippo: Oh thank goodness it went away!

Kaban: What went away?

Serval: Did something happen?

Hippo, now realized that lying would prove nothing so she decided to be straight forward.

Hippo: Earlier today there were a bunch of other Friends here by the water hole. But then out of nowhere a giant wasp showed up and began terrorizing the other Friends. I managed to hide under the water, I can only hope the other friends got away safely.

Serval couldn't help but smile. Cheetor, however, began to feel concerned.

Serval: I never took you for the type to be afraid of bugs, considering you spend so much time in the mud, Hippo.

Hippo glared back with a huff.

Hippo: Serval, you don't understand, this thing was huge! Bigger than any Friend I've ever seen.

Kaban: Was it a Cerulean?

Hippo: No. It was giant green and yellow wasp with blue disgusting eyes. I swore it was staring at my chest. Pervert.

Serval: What else did it do?

Hippo: It had the most annoying voice that made the buzzing so much worse. And it demanded us to tell him something.

Kaban: What was it?

Hippo: It asked…

Suddenly there is a large buzzing sound heard above everyone's head.

Buzzing Voice: Where are the Maximals, Curvey-bot?

They look up and gasp instantly.

That buzzing above the group was a huge green and yellow wasp. It was bigger than both Kaban and Serval.

Hippo: THERE IT IS!

Serval: Oh my gosh! That thing is huge!

Kaban: AAHHH PLEASE DON'T EAT ME!

Cheetor, however, was not frightened by the sight.

Cheetor: What? It's just a big bug.

Serval: Bugs don't ever get that big!

Hippo: That's the wasp that attacked earlier! For the last time, these hips are not for sale!

Cheetor looks at the buzzing wasp.

Cheetor: Hm. The way you reacted, that's no natural life-form.

Cheetor then realized something.

Cheetor: And if we're talkin' unnatural life-forms, then we gotta be talkin' about just one thing. Robots in disguise! Cheetor - MAXIMIZE! MRROWWWWW!

Cheetor does a somersault in the air as he transforms, right over the girls. Cheetor, now in his full, mighty impressive robot mode. He hauls out his Quasar Cannon.

Kaban, Serval, and Hippo are in shock of the sight of Cheetor's new form.

Kaban: Huh? What?

Serval: Cheetor?

Hippo: I've had enough of this! I'm outta here!

Hippo fleas the area. Kaban and Serval, however, are too in shock at the sight of what they first thought of their friend.

Cheetor prepares his weapon.

Cheetor: Time for this cat to POUNCE!

Cheetor fires his gun towards the giant wasp. The wasp, however, dodges the shots.

Waspinator: Waspinator under attack! Waspinator engage enemy! Waspinator - TERRORIZE!

The wasp buzzed before transforming into his robot mode and firing towards the Maximal. Cheetor dodges the attack quickly.

Kaban and Serval are now even more confused. Though Kaban is terrified at this point.

Kaban: Cheetor? W-What is going on?! What are you!? Who is that?! Why are you fighting?

Cheetor: Sorry girls, I've got no time to explain. Get out of here, I'll handle this.

Serval: But Cheetor-

Cheetor: No buts! Go now!

Cheetor faced Waspinator and continues to fire.

But Kaban couldn't move, she was in too much shock of what was currently going on. Serval, however, was able to regain her composure and grab Kaban's hand and tried to get away.

Meanwhile back with the Maximals

The sparks and explosives can be seen from the Maximal's base. Confirming the location of Cheetor.

Rattrap: Uh, oh.

Optimus grabbed Rattrap's back on Rhinox who was currently running as he carried Optimus. They headed to cross the bridge.

Optimus: Move Move!

Meanwhile, Kaban and Serval try to run away but the battle between the Maximal and the Predacon continues to follow them. Cheetor keeps firing towards the sky just as Waspinator keeps firing below. Cheetor ran away with Waspinator firing after him.

Kaban is confused and scared and has so many questions. So she decides to let one out.

Kaban: What is going on?

Serval: I don't know.

Kaban: What?

Serval: I have seen a lot of stuff in Japari Park but nothing like this. We have to get out of here.

As the Maximals crossed the bridge they turned in the direction where Cheetor disappeared to. But ahead of them are a large pile of logs.

Rattrap: Heads up! Roadblock!

Optimus: Veer left! There's a clearing about a hundred meters.

However, Rhinox kept running forward. Optimus was about to brace himself for impact, but Rhinox was able to push the rocks out of the way.

Optimus: Ah yes. Silly me.

Back with Cheetor kept running from the firing Predacon. One of Waspinator's shots hit Cheetor in the foot, causing him to fall into a ridge. Cheetor hid behind some rocks trying to fix his weapon.

Cheetor: Rowr, Of all the times for a Quasar jam!

Serval: Cheetor?

Cheetor turned to see Kaban and Serval hiding behind the same rocks Cheetor was.

Cheetor: What are you girls doing here? I told you to run!

Serval: Well we did run, But your fight kept following us so we thought we could hide in here.

Kaban: Cheetor, what is going on?

Cheetor: Sorry girls, I didn't mean for you two to get involved. That bug face is a Predacon and their bad news.

Optimus: Cheetor!

Both Cheetor and the girls looked up to see at one ridge's edges were a giant Gorilla, Rhino, and a Rat.

Cheetor: Optimus!

Serval: Who is that?

Cheetor: You could say he's someone I look up to.

Optimus: There you are!

Suddenly the Maximals notice the scared and confused little girls in the ridge with Cheetor. Just then Waspinator is back in his beast mode and swoops in.

Optimus: Get to cover and get those girls out of there! We'll swat that pesky Predacon!

Megatron: Oh, I would not count on that, Maximals. Nooo.

Kaban and Serval look towards the source of the sound and are struck with absolute terror.

On the other side of the ravine, was a Giant Purple Trex, a scorpion, a tarantula, and a red pterodactyl. Waspinator in beast mode joined them. And they did not look friendly.

Megatron: For I believe that you are soon to have... how shall I put it... difficulties of your own! Yesss.

It is a tense stalemate as both Maximals and Predacons stand on opposite sides of the ravine. With Cheetor in the middle with a confused and scared Kaban and Serval.

Optimus: We don't have to do this, Megatron. There has been peace between the Maximals and Predacons for centuries. Why start this up again?

Megatron: Peace perhaps on your side, Maximal scum. Yesss. But not on ours. Permit me to inform you that an enemy which appears to be peaceful may, in fact, be merely... biding its time.

At this moment Cheetor secretly has gotten his quasar cannon.

Cheetor: Rowl, Finally!

Kaban saw this and could tell that Cheetor was going to make a terrible choice.

However, both the Maximals and the Predacons are unaware of this.

Megatron: We Predacons have never abandoned our rightful goal of galactic conquest. Noo. We have merely been waiting... for the right moment - to STRIKE!

Kaban shook her head to try and convince Cheetor to not do what he was about to do, but he didn't listen.

Cheetor: Ya mean like this!

Cheetor exclaims as he fires his weapon and it hits the lower jaw of Megatron.

Optimus: Cheetor!

Kaban: No!

Megatron was damaged from the attack but he smiled in a twisted way.

Megatron: Ah. A treacherous, underhanded sneak attack. I like you, pussycat. Yess.

Megatron then suddenly noticed the two little girls next to Cheetor.

Megatron: Now what do we have here? Two helpless little brats caught in the crossfire.

Kaban was absolutely frozen being in the sight of the terrifying Tyrannosaurus rex. His cold read eyes made her feel like he was staring her soul.

Serval, on the other hand, was much braver as she starred in the big Predacon.

Serval: Who are you? What are you doing in Japari Park?!

Megatron: Japari Park? What nonsense are you blathering on about?

Serval: This is our home and you and your team are not invited here! So you need to leave! Right, Kaban!

Kaban didn't respond, as she just cried.

Kaban: P-Pl-e-ease Don't me!

Megatron just huffed.

Megatron: Well for your friend's attitude, maybe I WILL eat you! Yess.

Kaban and Serval held onto each other tightly.

Optimus: Leave them alone Megatron! They have no involvement with this!

Megatron: So now you wish to fight, Maximals? To protect these insignificant lives?

Optimus looked down at the shaking girls. They were innocent. They didn't deserve to end here. Optimus tried to prevent this conflict, but it seems the only option left was to fight. He had no choice.

Optimus: If it is to protect the innocent, then I shall!

Megatron chuckled darkly.

Megatron: Very well. For now, the power-gauntlet has been cast. PREDACONS! TERRORIZE!"

Optimus turned to the rest of the Maximals.

Optimus: Do it! MAXIMISE!

One by one, every Maximal and Predacon transforms into robot mode.

Tarantulus: Tarantulus! TERRORIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Rhinox: Rhinox! MAXIMIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Scorponok: Scorponok! TERRORIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Rattrap: Rattrap! MAXIMIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Terrorsaur: Terrorsaur! TERRORIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Megatron: Megatron! TERRORIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Optimus: Optimus! MAXIMIZE! (transforms into robot mode)

Serval and Kaban are in awe of all of this. Serval would have felt excitement if it wasn't for the fact they were caught in the crossfire of this conflict.

Megatron calls to attention his order.

Megatron: Now... obliterate them!

Madness followed as both sides fired back at one another. The Maximals hid behind nearby rocks for cover.

Meanwhile, Cheetor was holding on the girls, determined to keep them safe. He began to climb up towards the rest of the Maximals. But a shot from Scorponok knocked them back to the bottom of the ridge. Cheetor lets go of the girls, preventing them from getting hurt, but now Cheator had a rock fall on his leg.

Serval ran to her friend with Kaban crawling behind.

Serval: Cheetor, are you okay?

Cheetor: Rrowl! I'm - I'm stuck!

Optimus, who is currently avoiding fire behind a rock points down toward Cheetor with one hand as he fires with the other.

Optimus: Rattrap! Help Cheetor! We'll cover you!

Rattrap: Yeah, right!

Optimus: That's an order, Rattrap!

Rattrap: Yeah? An' you can kiss my skid plate, Fearless Leader. I ain't goin' out there an' gettin' MY pelt punctured!

Optimus glared at his subordinate.

Meanwhile, Serval and Kaban were trying to push the rock off of Cheetor's leg, but it was too heavy.

Cheetor: Girls, save yourselves, go on without me!

Serval: No way! You are our Friend and we will never leave you behind.

Kaban tries to push the rock but then she finds herself looking at Serval's paw. Then Kaban looks at the stone on Cheetor's leg. Kaban has an idea.

Kaban: Serval!

Serval: What is it?

Kaban: I need you to pretend that stone is a Cerulean stone.

Serval: What, how is that going to help?

Kaban: If we break it into multiple pieces, it might be easier to remove. You have to trust me.

Serva looked at Cheetor, then the stone, then her paw, and back to Kaban with a determined look.

Serval: Let's do it!

Meanwhile, Optimus uses his shoulder jets and rockets into the air. All the Predacons concentrate their fire on him. Optimus flies down towards Cheetor and the girls.

Serval prepares her claw for the strongest attack she can muster.

Kaban: NOW!

Serval: Meow meow meow meow meow MEOW!

Serval strikes the rock with immense strength, shattering it to pieces. Cheetor is able to move his leg again.

Cheetor: Rowrl, Your plan worked, Kaban!

Just then Optimus was shot in one of his rockets by Megatron.

Rhinox: Optimus!

Rattrap: See! Told ya!

Rhinox glared at him.

Luckily Optimus finally made it to Cheetor and the girls.

Cheetor: Don't worry about me big boss! But we've got to get these two out of here! I'll take Serval, you take Kaban.

Cheetor picked up Serval in his arms.

Kaban looked up at Optimus an immediately shrank back.

Kaban: (Whimpers) P-Please don't eat me…

Optimus gave her a reassuring smile as he gently picked her up.

Optimus: I assure you little one, I will never do such a thing. Come on.

Megatron: Do NOT let them escape!

The rest of the Predacon kept firing at Rhinox and Rattrap.

Rhinox has grabbed the smaller Maximal by the back armor, lifting him.

Rattrap: Hey! Lemme down, ya big bulldozer!

Rhinox: Cover fire. They need it, we give it. Now.

He held up Rattrap as both began intense fire upon the Predacons.

Optimus and Cheetor and the girls raced up the slope.

Optimus: Back to the base! Let's go, let's go!

The Maximals begin to flee the area.

Megatron: After them! Go, you - AAARGH!

Suddenly Megatron's body began to sparkle and crackles as electricity covered him. Waspinator experiences this too as he falls out of the sky.

Waspinator: Waspinator cannot move!

Megatron: Energon field build-up. Convert back to Beast Mode!

The Predacons transformed back into Beast Mode. Ending the energon build up.

Megatron glares at the location of where the Maximal once stood but was quickly reminded of something.

Megatron: It appears my plan has one tiny, yet destructive flaw. Yesss.

After fleeing the battlefield, all the Maximals transformed back to Beast mode and were riding on Rhinox. Serval and Kaban, however, were on Cheetor's back, who walked alongside Rhinox. Serval was rubbing Kaban's back as a way to comfort her.

Optimus's hand clamps down on Rattrap's neck and lifts him. He is not happy.

Rattrap: Awwwrk! What's got yer servos so bent?

Optimus: Let's get one thing straight, Rattrap. I am Commander of this group. And when I give an order, I expect it to be obeyed.

Rattrap: Oh, yeah. So I get vaped because you're too chicken to go yourself?

Optimus: I will not give an order I would not be willing to do myself!

Optimus shout actually freaks out Kaban again. So Optimus calms down a bit.

Optimus: But I was capable of giving you better cover fire. You were not.

Optimus calmed down slightly as he dropped Rattrap over his shoulder.

Rattrap: Come on, what you shortin' about? We got outta there alive, didn't we?

Optimus: But injured. It will take time for our Beast Forms to effect internal repairs.

Rattrap: Yeah, well, better you than me.

It was at this moment Optimus turned to the two girls sitting on Cheetor's back.

Optimus: I am sorry you two had to go through such an experience. You're not hurt, are you?

Serval: Oh no, I'm okay. Are you okay Kaban?

Kaban: Yes, still a bit shook up but I'm okay.

Optimus: Well I suppose I should introduce myself. I am Optimus Primal.

Rhinox: I'm Rhinox.

Rattrap: Name's Rattrap.

Cheetor: And you already know me.

Serval: Yeah. My name is Serval.

Kaban: And I'm Kaban.

Serval: Well now that we have all introduced ourselves, can you tell us what is going on? Who were those guys? Why were you fighting?

Optimus took a deep breath.

Optimus: We are Maximals, citizens from the planet Cybertron. The ones you just saw were the Predacons, who are also citizens of Cybertron. For years the Maximals and Predacons lived in peace after our ancestors were once wrapped up in a powerful war. But that all changed when Megatron stole the golden disk?

Serval flinched, but it was hard to tell.

Kaban: What's the Golden Disk?

Optimus: It was an ancient artifact that was used to end the war. Megatron wants to use it to conquer not only Cybertron but the universe.

Serval: That is mean!

Kaban: Why would he do that?

Optimus: For many reasons. One that I can't get into detail. But enough with that. May I ask a question now?

Serval: What is it?

Optimus: So what are two little girls like yourselves doing in the middle of nowhere?

Serval: This is not nowhere, this is the Savanna Area of Japari Park.

Rhinox: You mentioned that earlier, but what is Japari Park?

Serval: The area you are in is Japari Park, I happen to live in the Savanna Area. I was actually on my way to the Library with Kaban before we met Cheetor.

Rattrap: Now why would you want to go to a dusty Library?

Serval: To find out what kind of animal Kaban is.

A collective "what" was shared among the Maximals.

Rhinox: Wait Kaban, you do know what you are, right?

Kaban: You know what type of animal I am?

Rhinox: Of course, you're a human.

Kaban: Human?

Serval: What's a hoomun?

Rattrap: Why don't you look in the mirror and you'll see it.

Serval looks back at Kaban in confusion and then back to Rattrap. Then back to Kaban, and then back to Rattrap.

Serval: I don't think Kaban is a Serval.

Rattrap facepalmed in annoyance. Was this girl really this dumb?

Rattrap: Look if ya are this dense, let you take that silly pair silly headband on ya head.

Rattrap grabs one of Servals ears and begins to tug on it. Serval yelps in pain and tries to get him to let go.

Rattrap: Geez this is more stuck then I thought.

Serval: Ow! Stop it! That hurts!

Optimus: Let go Rattrap.

Rattrap let go of Serval's ear.

Optimus: Well whatever you are. We can take you home. Where do you live Kaban?

Kaban looked down in with a sad look in her eye.

Kaban: I don't know…

Rhinox: You don't know?

Kaban: I don't even know who I am. I woke up in the middle of the Savannah Area all alone.

Kaban sighed, digging her face into her knees.

Serval: That's the reason Kaban wants to go to the library. So we can find out where her home is.

Optimus looked down at Kaban, feeling sorry for the poor little girl.

Cheetor: Maybe she got Amnesia, Big Boss?

Rhinox: It's highly possible.

Optimus: Well, if you really have no place to stay, I think it's best that we take you back to our base for the time being.

Kaban began to smile slightly.

Kaban: Really, you mean it?

Optimus smiles.

Optimus: It is no problem at all.

Rattrap: Oh great! Just want any Cybertronian wants to be. A human baby sitter.

Optimus: Shut up Rattrap!

Serval giggled at the Maximals antics, Kaban smiled in return.

Cheetor then turned to his leader.

Cheetor: "I think we gave'em the fade, Optimus.

Optimus was still on high alert.

Optimus: Keep your sensors on full. According to the Golden Disk theft reports, there were six Predacons. One of them was missing from the battle.

Serval: Wait, there are more of those Preda-things?

Kaban: What about the missing one?

Rattrap: Maybe he was destroyed in th' crash.

Rhinox: Nah. That kinda luck we ain't been gettin' a lot of, lately.

Cheetor: Tell me about it. Look!

On the rock Bridge, that led to the Maximal's base was a brown velociraptor.

The Maximals stopped in place.

Optimus: Kaban, Serval! Stay here.

The girls climb off Cheetor.

Kaban: Alright.

Serval: Gotcha.

Cheetor stands blocking the velociraptor from seeing them.

Optimus climbed off of Rhinox's back.

Rhinox: Should we blast 'im?

Optimus: Should we blast 'im?

Optimus: Keep that option open. But hang on.

Optimus walked forward.

Dinobot: Attention Maximals! Dinobot My name is Dinobot. I have left the Predacons to join your group - as leader.

Cheetor: What? Did I hear the word leader?

Rhinox: This guy's got bearings of chrome steel.

Dinobot: I hereby challenge you, Optimus Primal, to a one-on-one battle. The winner shall lead the Maximals...And the loser - shall be destroyed!

Everyone gasped.