Darkness Rising

Striker's POV

An explosion lit the sky an electric blue. The sonic recoil sent me a good ten paces back, and Cliffjumper a good twenty down. Down. Down into the earth. He was recovered by vehicons; dirty purple drivers. I was covered. My gold armor's glitter was lost beneath crumbled rock debris. My red and black striped detail were the only things I could see, on an arm a seven paces away from me. I didn't know what to do. I could've waited for my teammates to arrive, but that would've meant letting one of them get away. I pushed up on my left arm, to my knees, hopped to my feet. Then I ran. I ran, and I ran, and I snuck, and I ran. And I ran until I got on board of the ship those Cons brought Cliffjumper to. And I waited, and waited, and waited, and struck, and dodged, and hit, and was hit, and fell, and bled, but not bled out. My optics would go offline a bit after his. But, there was a difference between us. Mine would turn back on.

...

Shadow's POV

Megatron and I flew through the spacebridge. We returned to the airfields on Earth. We continued down to the planet's surface. It was a vibrant world, full of life. Starscream called Megatron through his personal COM link. He seemed nervous, possibly frightened, possibly proud. Whatever the case, he didn't want to let us come aboard the Nemesis. Arrogant fool. Either he screwed something up and doesn't want us –I mean, Megatron- to see, or he's planning another coo. Starscream prompted us to meet him at an energon mine. We transformed into our cybertronian flight forms and flew. While soaring through the clouds, a sleek, black jet threatened us. I scanned the stealthy flight form and transformed. As a show of power, Megatron blew the machine out of the sky. The poor thing was only informing us that we were unidentified aircrafts in restricted military airspace. We arrived at the mine: a mountain the Nemesis hovered above. We flew through the crater into the mine. Starscream greeted Megatron. I rolled my optics at the fool. Suck up. Then Megatron spoke.

"Starscream, I have a question."

"Yes my Lord?"

"Upon my return –from travels that have separated me from my troops for many of this world's solar cycles- you thought that it was best for me to welcomed back in an Energon mine?"

"Of the energon deposits we have located while you were away lord Megatron, this one is by far the most significant."

"And, your point?"

"Well, my Lord, I thought you might want to witness my success –I mean, the Decepticon's success- we've achieved while you were away."

"Are you implying that the Decepticons are more successful when I am absent, Starscream?"

"N-no my Lord! I-I swear I—"

"Screamy," I cut-in, "Our Lord is playing you, lighten up."

"A-a joke?" He stared wide-eyed at Megatron, "My Lord?"

I chuckled a bit. I loved whenever Megatron did stuff like this to Screamy. Megatron glanced in my direction. I saw the corners of his mouth perk. Mine calmed into a warm smile. I was happy. And then Starscream impatiently tapped his ped against the rock below.

"Continue Starscream," Megatron bellowed, "prove your worth."

The commander straightened his posture, stammered a bit, and then continued his self-praising spiel; "The drones have been mining without pause during your absence and have amassed quite a stockpile my Lord." Starscream pointed to a vehicon that was standing nearby and called out to him, "You there! Fetch me a sample."

Megatron spoke, displeased at Screamy's authoritative tone, "Starscream," My Lord said, "now that I have returned, I will issue the commands."

Starscream recovered quickly. It sickened me how sarcastically he spoke, "I understand Lord Megatron." He smugly said, then grinned and insulted my Lord as he sarcastically said, "Then, as your humble servant, shall I ready the spacebridge to bring forth the Decepticon army you must have surely gathered during your three years in space?"

Smug piece of slag, I thought to myself.

Megatron stated boldly, "My army will come. But my time away has yielded a more intriguing means of materializing them. A solidified form of the matter the ancient texts referred to as the blood of unicron."

Starscream asked, "Unicron the destroyer? But it is said that his blood is the anti-spark."

"Plucked from cosmic shores," my Lord said, "gaze upon dark energon," as he showed the commander a shard of the dark energon.

"Legend tells that it has the power to revive the dead."

"We require only cadaver to be certain." Megatron turned to his subordinate, "Are you willing to make the ultimate sacrifice?"

Starscream hastily evaded his Lord's command. "Aheheheh. That may not be necessary. If I may, Lord Megatron," the commander gestured the bodies of two Autobots. Both were restrained, upon transport –hover- slabs of metal.

On the left was the husk of the Autobot known as Cliff jumper. On the right was the... she just moved? That Autobot was definitely alive. Striker, right? He brought a live Autobot to the presence of Lord Megatron? A one-armed Autobot? Not one for a fair, honorable gladiatorial fight to the death. Why? So we can dispose of her ourselves in a dishonorable fashion? Why? She could still do damage. Why? Does Screamy not know?

Starscream said, "consider them, a welcome home present."

Megatron started to walk toward the deceased Cliff jumper. I considered jumping in front, so that I could best protect my Lord. But, I didn't. Something selfish in me caused me to drop back: to move closer to Starscream. I didn't want him to correct his mistake. I wanted him to fail, and I wanted him to fail big. Old grudges die hard I guess.

I broke the ice, "So then, Screamy, sorry to have this be your first big official meeting with Megatron, since his return."

Starscream questioned, "What is that supposed to mean Shadow? And why do you continue to call me by that incessant name?"

I explained, "The first is due to the whole dark energon thing. Megatron's been a fanatic ever since we found a bunch of it out in deep space. I felt bad about him implying your worth being equivalent to a dead bot: to be used for experimental purposes. The latter; however, is a short nickname."

Starscream cried annoyed, "How is any of that supposed to make me feel any better?"

I admitted, "You know Screamy, I hadn't really thought all that through."

The commander shouted, "Vector Sigma! What is it with you femmes?"

I defended, "Hey! I was just trying to be nice, trying to be submissive, but fine! I guess that—"

Starscream apologized, "Ugh! Sorry, just stop. Listen it's been a tough day—"

I jested, "Tough for you losing your power."

Starscream continued, "Yes, losing my... No! Don't interrupt me like that. I was trying to apologize! Anyway, I know we haven't always gotten along best in the past -But, since Megatron's back- maybe we could try."

"I'm all for it Screamers if you are- just don't cross me or use me as a scape goat."

Starscream deviously said, "Yes, yes. We should go join our lord before he thinks we're plotting something."

I smiled and asked half seriously, "Are we?"

Starscream over-acted. He cried, "What? No! Not this close literally behind his back! I mean, why would we ever need to plot? Lord Megatron is an excellent leader."

Lord Megatron stopped at Cliffjumper's remains. We stopped behind him. I looked back over to the live Autobot. Her optics were shut. I saw a finger on her hand twitch. I could not hold myself back anymore. I sprung in front of Megatron. I drew one of my swords and held its blade against her neck.

"Shadow!" Starscream yelled, "What is your malfunction?"

"This Autobot is alive!" I shouted back. "She could've made an attempt on our Lord's life!"

I made sure not to imply that the assassination attempt was one of Screamy's schemes. I didn't want him as an enemy. Not again. Instead, I hoped that Megatron would put the pieces of the puzzle together without my help.

"Alive?" Starscream questioned, "She is not!" He turned to Megatron, "I guarantee you -my Lord- I killed both of these Autobot-scum myself."

"Prove it," I said.

Starscream made his claw into a dagger, and aimed to slice it into Striker's chest cavity. I could not allow that. I stopped his claw.

"What? You wanted me to prove it! This is me proving the scum's non-reactive dead-state."

"And if she's alive?" I questioned.

"If she's alive," Megatron continued my sentence, "Starscream would be ending the life of a weaponless, defenseless, helpless, enemy."

Starscream looked back at Megatron for some sign of approval, some sign that meant the commander might continue his demonstration.

"Such an act," Megatron said, "has no honor, and no place in my troops."

Starscream stopped.

"My Lord?" I questioned. "What are your orders?"

"Are you certain that the Autobot is alive?"

"Yes, my Lord."

"Then ensure she is incapacitated. We will question her aboard the Nemesis, after my experiment."

I checked the femme's state. She was out-cold. Megatron stepped closer to the red mech's husk.

He announced, "Let us see if power borne of darkness can reignite the spark." Megatron stabbed the shard of dark energon into cliff jumper's spark chamber. The three of us backed up in anticipation of a threatening reaction.

Cliffjumper fused with the purple energy. The husk growled like a mad dog, then tore from its restraints. It lunged at a vehicon and proceeded to rip the mech to shreds. The vehicon screamed like a banshee before lying silent and still. The zombie turned its attention towards a second vehicon. This vehicon fired his lasers to no avail. The zombie rushed the con, extinguishing his spark as if it were the beast's nature.

Starscream -terrified by what he had just witnessed- yelled, "That's your plan? Bring Autobots back from the dead, to attack us!"

Megatron responded coldly, "That is no longer an Autobot: just a mindless beast. Its only instinct: to destroy anything in its path."

The zombie growled and ran at Megatron. Our lord unsheathed his blade and sliced the mindless beast in half. Half of the beast fell of the cliff, while the other half hung on to the rock's edge.

Megatron triumphantly called, "There Starscream, lies the indestructible seed of my army. The ultimate weapon!"

The half still grappling with the edge struggled to climb back up. This mangled thing growled at Megatron. In response, our lord kicked the beast right off the ledge.

Megatron dramatically finished his statement, "Once I learn to control it."

Starscream and I stood still for a few moments. Shock had rushed my mainframe. Zombies, I thought, why do there have to be zombies?

Starscream couldn't stand not listening to himself talk, and he praised Megatron, "Good show master. Shall we retire to the Nemesis?"

Megatron gaffed, "Of course. But before we do..." He turned towards me, "Shadow, remember the crystalized formation of dark energon we found?"

I nodded, "Do you wish me to go through the spacebridge and retrieve it?" "No," he replied quickly, "I'll get it. Make sure Starscream updates you on all matters and that he is hospitable. I'll meet you on the Nemesis later." Megatron took a running start, transformed into his gun-metal gray cybertronian jet form, and flew off.

Starscream turned to me, "Shadow, let's go," he commanded.

We walked in bitter silence to the elevator. We stayed quiet all the way up and to the bridge.

He forgot the Autobot Femme. I decided not to remind him. He seemed more distracted than anything else.

I thought I'd break the ice, "Commander Starscream," I politely addressed the fool, "What is new?"

Starscream smiled at the mention of his title. He continued to walk as he responded, "Autobot activity: The first time in three years. In a place called Jasper Nevada, USA. Humans accompanied the Autobots Arcee and Bumblebee. Other than that, nothing else is new."

Satisfied with his formal and compliant response I continued to question him, "How about internal affairs? What's the situation with the Decepticons under your command?"

Starscream promptly answered, "Knockout and Breakdown are off the Nemesis- living and racing among the humans. Soundwave works proficiently as chief communications officer. Vehicons, seekers, and miners are all working at a reasonable rate of efficiency."

"Good." So he's not a complete failure. I see why he's Megatron's second in command. The Cons won't completely fall apart if he leads.

We walked into the command center. A vehicon alerted everyone to our presence, "Commander on deck," he said. All vehicons stood and saluted Starscream. The egomaniac loved it.

I nudged Starscream, "Megatron, remember? I don't think he'd like this." Starscream cringed at his Master's name, "You're right." He raised his voice to command everyone's attention. "Attention everyone. This formal salute is no longer necessary. Lord Megatron has returned to lead us. He is the leader, not I."

Good save. Smart.

The vehicons got back to work. I walked over to Soundwave. Starscream followed. I greeted the chief communications officer. "Hello Soundwave." He turned away from his monitor for a moment, nodded, and went back to work.

Starscream gestured to me, "Shadow, he's busy at work like always. Shall we move on?"

I looked at Soundwave, and then to the monitor he worked on. It looked extremely complicated. I pointed to a round symbol on the screen, "Is this the spacebridge?"

Soundwave nodded. An alert appeared on his screen. 'Lord Megatron is coming through the spacebridge.'

Starscream started to jitter, "Establish communications immediately and send him our coordinates."

Soundwave nodded, 'Already done.'

Starscream's foot tapped repetitively on the ground; "We'll meet him in the hanger. Come Shadow."

Starscream walked quickly. Each step was louder than the last. We passed by some vehicons on the way. I signaled for them to follow us, Starscream didn't notice. By the time we reached the hanger, six vehicons accompanied us. Starscream paced in anticipation for Megatron.

I summoned two vehicons from their group, "You two," I said, "go prepare a room in which to store a hazardous and valuable item," I extended my arms in lengths of length width and height, "of this size" I said.

Both vehicons responded, "Yes, Shadow of Death. What are your orders after we are done?"

I thought for a moment, "Once you are done, come back here." The vehicons nodded and left. I waited with Starscream for a few minutes, and then the hanger door opened. Megatron landed and transformed. He dropped a large dark energon formation. The two vehicons I ordered returned.

Starscream greeted Megatron, "Welcome back master. How was your trip?"

Before Megatron could respond, I cut in, "Lord Megatron. These vehicons have secured a room for the dark energon."

Megatron looked pleased, "Good job Shadow.

I smiled.

He signaled to the six vehicons that stood behind me, "Vehicons," he called, "take the dark energon to that location."

I stopped one of the two I had ordered from before. The other five walked up to the energon, lifted it and carried it away. Megatron looked at me confused,

"Shadow, why did you stop this one?" He asked.

I responded nervously, "This one can lead us to the location."

He nodded, "Good job... But, next time, don't hinder my orders."

My spark stopped. Did I just screw up? Frag! Why? Why do I have to be such a fracking failure? I wish I could just die. I don't want Megatron to hate me.

Starscream quickly added onto his master's command, deepening the wound, "yes, Shadow," he said, "don't mess with Megatron's orders. He is the leader of the Decepticons and therefore all of his commands are to be followed exactly as he mandates them."

Suck up. I nodded. If I were dead I wouldn't have to deal with this embarrassment. I looked back to his smug smile and Megatron's glowing expression at being 'praised'. Under my breath I whispered, "Suck up" about Starscream. That attention seeking con was an annoyance.

Megatron commanded the vehicon, "Lead us to the location."

The vehicon nodded, "Yes Lord Megatron." He led us.

Starscream tried to schmooze Megatron the entire way. I walked silently behind all of them. I wanted to be like Ghost, and disappear. Not to be noticed: To let my shame –from my failure- fade into obscurity.

The vehicon stopped in front of a door. "We have arrived," he spoke as he gestured to the entrance.

Megatron looked pleased, "Leave us," he bellowed.

My spark-beat quickened, and I took a step backward, wondering if the command also was directed to me. I did just fail earlier. I let him one. I let myself down. I raised myself in his eyes and raised Starscream in comparison. Such a failure. But, I stayed. It was always possible I was over-reacting to his comment earlier. He always said that my strictest discipliner was myself. He thinks I should ease up, to relax more around him, even if he does criticize me. I should not focus on the negatives. He could be right. I could also just be overcomplicating it all. Maybe I should leave...

The vehicon left.

Megatron glared at Starscream, "I said, leave us."

So... I thought to myself, not me?

Starscream fidgeted with his claw-like hands. He squeamishly defended himself, "Lord Megatron, as your Second in command I should accompany you to—"

Megatron cut off the seeker, "Are you arguing with me Starscream?"

The commander squealed, "No my Lord! I was just—"

Megatron bellowed, "Then do as you are told and leave!" I watched Starscream as he hightailed it to the command center. Megatron turned to me. My spark-beat quickened. "Shadow," he kindly asked, "would you care to join me?"

I followed Megatron into the room. He walked up to the dark energon. It was displayed within a protective cylindrical case in the center of the room.

Megatron marveled at the object, "Shadow, this embodies the spoils of our journey."

Our journey. I liked that he mentioned me. I enjoyed being in his presence when he's like this. Neither of us felt the need to say anything. I was content. He stared intensely at the dark energon for a while.

He questioned, "Blood of Unicron. How might I fathom the depths of your mystery? Become worthy of wielding your astonishing power?"

The monitor turned on, Starscream appeared, "Lord Megatron, intruders have been detected in the mines."

Megatron asked, "Optimus?"

Starscream confirmed his master's speculation, "Indeed."

Megatron turned to his 1st lieutenant; "I need more time to prepare an appropriate reception for my old friend. Ready the ship for departure!"

Starscream was shocked, "B-but the energon I've mined! The Autobots will seize it!"

Also the Autobot you left there. She will be recaptured.

"Then blow the mines!" Megatron roared.

The monitor turned off.

Megatron turned to me, "He can be so argumentative," he sighed. Megatron walked closer to me, "Are you sure you don't want his job?"

I responded calmly, "We've talked about this before," I shook my head, "If I took the job, Starscream would kill me." Megatron was extremely close to me. Our frames almost touched. I sighed, "I don't desire any position of power." Megatron stared at my face. He examined every last movement of mine. "Besides, I'd much prefer the freedom I currently experience."

Megatron embraced me in a side hug, "You never change," he whispered into my audio processor. He let me go, but did not back away.

I observed the large mech with kind optics. I cocked my head to the side, "Do you want to go get some energon from the ship's dining hall?"

He responded affectionately, "I would love to." We left the room and walked to the energon dispensary. We each got an amount of energon and sat down at a table. Megatron began to tell one of his favorite war stories. It was of when he and his forces broke through the Autobot defenses surrounding the old Capital. We drank as he recounted this tale. I was on the front lines, leading the charge. I remember cutting down the enemy- fast, deadly, unstoppable. Megatron and I had been good friends for a while now. Megatron finished his story.

I recollected, "That seems to be such a long time ago. Vector sigma! I can barely even remember the time before I was on your private taskforce. Do you remember then?"

"When you were among the Warriors Elite? Some died, some became Phase Sixers. All is history. Not now though."

"Say Megatron, can you remember the time we met- or when we first became friends?"

Megatron tried to remember but the high grade was getting to him, "Now that you mention it, I can't. To me, it seems as if we'd always been friends. Even if, we only met after the war began, hmmm... Do you think Soundwave even remembers what battle you were promoted to the WE after, O' Shadow of Death?"

I laughed.

Megatron smiled at my joyful reaction.

"Ah," I let out a deep breath, "those were some good times. But, you really don't have to call me that."

Megatron jested, "Oh Death's Shadow, what don't I have to call you?"

Megatron's face lit up at the sight of my laughter. I shook my head, "Vector sigma, the Autobots who came up with that name," -my past- I sighed. "It's getting late. Should we pick this up tomorrow?" I don't. I just... Autobots. Stay. Don't leave me to my thoughts. Please, please, please don't do what I just said. I'd take it back, but that would be admitting my mistake. Just, disagree with me, okay? Don't go.

Megatron's smile faded, "Sure," he said. We both got up. "I'll show you to your old room." We walked in silence. Megatron stopped at my room and opened the door. My spark fell. "Good night Shadow," He said with warmth, "until tomorrow."

Until tomorrow...I wish that were tonight.

I smiled, although I enjoyed his company, I knew was tired. Staying up later, and talking longer, would lead to a fault in judgment. I walked to my doorway, "Rest well my Lord" I said sweetly. We exchanged glances briefly before he left. I looked around my room. I spent three years away. I drew my swords from their holsters on my back, and placed them on their rack. I took off my armor and put it away in my dresser. I put on lighter weight metal armor. Incase I desired to leave my room during the night; I did not want my synthetic flesh to be bare. I looked over my desk, which was covered in dust. I sat down and turned on my monitor. I looked over current cars for a suitable replacement model. I settled on a current Lamborghini.

A knock came from my door. "Shadow," Starscream called, "Are you there?"

I turned off my monitor and got up, "Come in Starscream" I suggested.

My door opened and Starscream walked inside. He observed my outfit. Starscream spoke with sleep in his thoughts, "Since you're planning on resting, I'll make this short."

I sighed, "Go on Screamy."

He asserted himself, "I'll be blunt and skip the formalities- Shadow..." he paused.

I could tell Starscream was worried about the stability of his position. He was before, and he isn't one to change easily. I decided to end his worries, "No Screamy, I do not want your job."

Starscream's jaw dropped in shock, "W-What? You can't be serious? How am I supposed to trust you? I can't just take your word for something like that."

I was tired and his mistrust annoyed me. I responded candidly, "Fine, if you want proof, I'll explain why I don't want your job. Would that get this off of your mind?"

Starscream nodded, "An explanation would suffice as proof."

I exhaled, "I don't want your responsibility. I don't want others lives in my own hands. I don't want the stress of making a mistake and the knowledge that if someone died or something went wrong, it'd be my fault. I also don't want your surveillance. I don't want to be watched by everyone- to have to set an example. I don't want to have to lead others. I also don't want to be constantly judged for all my actions."

The last happens no matter what rank I take.

Starscream looked at me with disbelief and joked, "No way my job sucks that much. I mean ahem... what makes your job better than mine?"

I smiled, "I am the last surviving member of Megatron's personal taskforce, there is no better job. I am under his direct jurisdiction, so you," I pointed to Starscream, "or anyone else, can't command or punish me. I get my orders directly from him, and am given complete freedom. I am given freedom to see my orders through any way I want. So, if I wanted to command some vehicons for the sake of completing the mission, I could. Because Megatron is the only one who commands me, whenever I don't have orders, I'm free. I could go wherever or do anything without repercussion. Also, since I'm the sole member of the taskforce, I do not feel threatened; I am the best at what I do. Similarly, the taskforce was a group of highly skilled warriors. So, since Seekers are under your jurisdiction and vehicons aren't highly skilled, I will never be replaced. I have freedom, job security and am in no way threatened by anyone or anything. I have the perfect job," I smugly stated.

Starscream looked at me with a raised eyebrow, "So then, how would I ensure that you always like your job? I mean: I like my job because of the power, praise, respect, title and authority it gives me. What is it you look for?"

I thought for a moment, "I want praise and recognition for doing something right. As long as I have that, I will never attempt to usurp you."

Starscream smiled devilishly. "Thank you Shadow," He said. "I appreciate you taking the time to explain this to me. You are ever so good at- ah that- Thank you again, nice job."

I laughed, "Thank you Screamer, I couldn't have asked for any better. But you don't have to over-do the praise." I smiled and shook my head. "Have a nice night Commander," I said.

I walked over to my berth, lied down beneath the sheets and powered down.

...

The next morning... my optics opened. I got off of my berth and walked over to my dresser. I changed into my battle armor and looked into the mirror. My black paint was fading. Soon, it would reveal my natural silver color. I sighed and moved towards my door. I looked over the room I once called my own. I left, closed my door and walked towards the command center. I reached the main doors, which opened, revealing the spacious headquarters. Megatron was talking with Soundwave. Starscream had just finished yelling at a vehicon.

I walked over to the distressed commander, "Good morning," I greeted. Starscream had an annoyed look on his face, "What's wrong?" I asked.

Starscream almost cried, "The energon! It was- but it- it –I-I it it's all" he stammered.

I took a deep breath, "Screamy, calm down," I said. "Take a deep breath and relax. Okay? Now try again."

Starscream calmed down, "Yesterday, not all the deposits of energon were collected, before the mine was blown. A lot of energon was lost... Also the Autobot. Does that mean that I can take credit for two extinguished sparks?"

I took another breath; I was annoyed: I wanted to say something about the miners. But, I decided against it. If the loss of life and workers were due to my actions I wouldn't want to be reminded of it. I consoled Starscream, "It'll be fine, there are other energon deposits."

Megatron came over to us, "It is good to see you both get along. Now, Starscream, Shadow, let's go to the dark Energon and discuss yesterday's events."

We walked to the room in silence. Megatron and I did. Much like yesterday, Starscream loved to listen to himself speak.

Starscream gloated, "I don't think you need worry about further Autobot interference, master. Not with Optimus gone."

Megatron questioned, "And what evidence do you possess of this fact?"

"I destroyed the mines as you instructed."

"Optimus is not so easily destroyed," Megatron, said skeptically, "We have millennia of battles behind us to prove it." Megatron stared obsessively at the dark energon.

Starscream suggested, "Maybe you should take a break, my lord. I worry that too much contact with dark energon might allow its properties to adversely affect you."

Megatron angrily shouted, "Or perhaps Starscream, I have not permitted myself contact enough!" Megatron reached into the container and broke a shard off of the dark energon formation.

Starscream screeched, "Wait! Lord Megatron! No! Not your spark chamber! You do not know what it will do!"

I hate you Screamy! Why did you give him that Idea? There was nothing I could do.

Megatron plunged the shard into his spark chamber. He started to flail in place while gasping for air and making growling noises. After a few seconds of complete pain, Megatron straightened up and stood still. His eyes had changed from red to purple.

I was terrified. I slowly and cautiously walked towards my Lord. I quietly asked, "Lord Megatron, how are you? Hurt? Okay?"

Megatron turned towards me. I couldn't stop looking at his new purple eyes. Megatron bellowed, "I am powerful! I can feel the blood of Unicron rushing through my veins! With this, the Autobots don't stand a chance!"

I backed away. Megatron wasn't the same. He was obsessed with power. He was before, but this was different. I could feel the dark energon emanating from his spark chamber. Starscream was too timid to comment.

This power hungry Megatron looked at me confounded, "Shadow..." He out reached his arm. I backed away a bit more. He walked towards me, servo in reach. It touched the metal plating in front of my spark chamber.

An awesome amount of pain spread across my chest. I could feel the dark energon affect me. It started to disintegrate a part of my armor. I sidestepped and back flipped many lengths away. I had trained myself to withstand pain. Not this much, it felt as if my spark was being ripped apart, I did not make a sound, but my face said it all.

Megatron retracted his servo and stared at it. He said to his self, "This power destroys..." He looked back at me. He could sense my pain; I could not tell if he cared though. Megatron was obsessed with his power. Or at least I thought he was. Starscream, that un-moral fool was more empathetic than Megatron. He had changed. Megatron had changed.

I placed a servo on my chest plate. It hurt: my spark. It hurt, not because of my physical pain, but because Megatron, my friend, had changed. I exited the room. I went back to my personal quarters and changed my armor. I had many pairs for cases such as this. I put my damaged armor in front of my mirror: to remind me that Megatron had changed and was now dangerous. I did not want to leave my room. Not again. I sat at my desk a while and listened to human music. I picked up more of their vocabulary, much like before. Before I left, three years ago, I used to do stuff like this. After an hour, I left my room and went to the command center. Soundwave and Starscream were talking.

Starscream called out, "Soundwave! I fear that when our master reached for the stars, he came down with a touch of space madness. Lord Megatron has not been of sound judgment since his return... Increase global surveillance."

Soundwave replayed Megatron's previous instructions, "Quit groveling and await my command."

Starscream screeched, "I'm not deaf! But, if Optimus Prime lives... I believe it is in Lord Megatron's best interest that we ensure his enemy's destruction."

I walked up to my comrades, "If we're increasing energon consumption on surveillance, we should decrease energon use in travel. Let's land the Nemesis out of sight."

Soundwave nodded and went to work on surveillance. Starscream turned to me, "Shadow, are you alright?"

Why would you care? You're just going to use this against Megatron. Mixed about that. Mixed about him.

I sighed, "I'm fine. Megatron's dark spark's energy is conductive. It merely moved from his spark to his servo to my armor. For future reference, we know to avoid physical contact with his 'power'."

Starscream looked over his shoulder at Soundwave, then inched closer to me. He whispered, "You know, you're pretty smart Shadow. If Megatron was too much of a dangerous leader to erm... lead. You could be an excellent second in command."

But, he's... he's... no. I won't. I can't.

Soundwave walked up to us. Starscream jumped a few feet and screamed when he noticed how close Soundwave was.

Our communications officer repeated an intercepted radio signal, "Agent Fowler, I'm in route from the Autobot base. I'll brief you in person."

Starscream schemed, "Autobot base eh? Humans: always the weak link. Fetch me this Fowler, so that he may brief us instead."

Soundwave detached Laserbeak, who flew to retrieve agent Fowler. Soundwave walked away.

I turned to Starscream, "Screamy two things," He nodded. I whispered, "First, don't talk about that subject in the same room as Soundwave. Second, I don't want to finish this conversation with you," I walked over to Soundwave.

I questioned the intelligence officer, "Soundwave?" He turned his head towards me to signal he was listening. I asked, "This intercepted message. Was it near the location of Jasper Nevada?" Soundwave nodded. "And the Autobots' human allies? They're from Japer too?" Soundwave nodded again. "Another day I might do recon there."

'You're not a scout.'

"I used to be."

'That was a long time ago.'

"I've gone on recent-ish missions with Ghost. I know how to Scout."

Soundwave got a message from Laserbeak. His partner had the human and was almost to the ship. I left to get a vehicon and this human. I walked down to the hanger and relieved a vehicon from his guard duty to accompany me. We walked into the hanger to see Laserbeak holding onto a pudgy adult male in a blue suit. The vehicon grabbed the human and carried him. We walked into an interrogation room. From my faulty memory, it was Starscream's favorite one. Luckily, the commander was waiting for us inside. I walked out of the way and watched. The vehicon placed Fowler on the ground and pushed him forward towards Starscream. The human fell and made a grunting noise.

Starscream used a threatening devilish voice, "Welcome, agent Fowler."

In a sarcastic voice Fowler replied, "You treat all your guests this nice?"

I smirked. This human was funny.

Starscream threatened, "Hmhmhm, any friend of the Autobots—"

Fowler played dumb, "Autobot? That one of them coin operated wash my own car places?"

I burst with laughter. This Fowler was stand-up comedian funny.

Starscream said annoyed, "Oh, so that's how it's going to be. Apparently no one has told you, I have no appreciation for human humor." Starscream gestured to the vehicon and commanded, "Make our guest comfortable," before leaving.

The vehicon started to restrain the human by tying up his arms. He planned to hang this agent from the ceiling.

I walked up to the human. I wanted to coax information from him. I kindly spoke, "Agent Fowler, you are an interesting one. You may be funny and courageous, but are you smart?"

Fowler glared at me, "Why don't you test me and find out?"

I interrogated him, "What do you know about the children? I know they live in Jasper, have helped the Autobots and have received protection. But, I don't know their exact relationship to the Bots."

Fowler chose the path of ignorance. He angrily spurred, "I don't know who you're talking about."

The vehicon had almost finished. I started to walk away from Fowler. I smugly stated, "Fine then. I don't want innocent kids to be hurt. If you truly know nothing, we'll just have to assume the worst and take them out. It's such a shame. If the relationship were something along the lines of babysitting, the kids would be a burden on the Autobots and we wouldn't touch the humans."

I really hope he goes along with it. I practically gave him exactly what he needs to know. Now, let's see if he uses it as if it were an idea of his own...

Starscream came back. He coldly threatened, "Now, Agent Fowler. I have one simple request that will save your family the pain of grieving." Starscream held the human's head with his knife like finger, forcing the human to look at him. Starscream ordered, "Tell me the location of the Autobot base!"

Agent Fowler complied, "No problem. But, I need to ask you something first."

Starscream fell for the ploy, "Yes, I'm listening," he naively answered.

Agent Fowler took the opportunity to strike Starscream's ego. He boldly said, "I got an issue with the customer service around here. Could I speak to the manager?"

I struggled to conceal my laughter. I was failing. I gripped my sides and laughed. Starscream was surprised. He backed away and opened his eyes wide. After a few seconds he narrowed his optics and glared at the human.

Starscream yelled, "Ahhhhhh! I make the decisions here!" Starscream bawled up his fist. He shouted, "I am in charge!" The commander swiped through air next to Fowler with his clenched fist and turned away from the agent. Starscream ordered to the vehicon, "Bring the prod," he commanded.

I walked up to the human and looked over my shoulder at the commander, "Screamy let me try." I turned back to the human. I grew serious, my tone transitioned from kind and joking to a grave statement, "Fowler, this is the last time I will ask. What is the relationship between the human children and the Autobots?"

Fowler looked at me seriously for a moment. He paused, thought, and then answered, "The Autobots babysit the kids. Team Prime takes time out of their schedule to protect the teenagers. If anything, the kids are a nuisance to the Autobots."

Fowler's answer was very calculated, and was delivered very calmly. Exactly as I wanted it to be. I smirked. The answer didn't matter as much as the statement I made. I could interrogate the human, when Starscream could not. I thanked Agent Fowler with a kind glance and a head nod. Anything more, and Starscream could've used that to blackmail me with.

The vehicon came back and handed Starscream an energon prod. Starscream tried to imitate my successful technique, "I ask nicely one last time. The Autobot base!"

Fowler joked, "Sure thing buddy. Right after you eat my star spangled shorts!"

I said under my breath, "Fowler used a sweet burn."

Starscream; however, did not take the joke as lightly. He rammed Fowler with the prod and Fowler emptied his lungs with screams.

Starscream smiled at the human's pain. He devilishly concluded, "As I imagined. Energon and human nervous systems don't mix."

I couldn't stand seeing Fowler get hurt. I exited the brig to join Soundwave in the command center. I guessed the human still felt pain, but now I did not have to witness it. Protecting him –in front of the commander- would have been my end.

When I entered the command center, I noticed that Soundwave was gone. I saw Autobot alerts on many screens. I decided to hide behind a support beam to surprise any possible Autobot attackers. Not much later three Autobots stormed the room and shot all the vehicons dead. Their goal was to leave their humans in a safe area. The bots left as soon as they had come. I moved toward the humans, but kept hidden.

The girl exclaimed, "That was intense!"

The short boy questioned, "Was?"

The male teenager blamed the girl, "It's your fault that we're stuck in this intensity. What were you thinking Miko?"

Miko defended herself, "Did I ask you to follow me?"

The male teenager pointed at Miko and angrily replied, "You wanted us to be a band! Doesn't that usually mean playing together?"

They're a band? I wonder what genre...

Miko sassily retorted, "Well maybe I decided to go solo!"

Ooh! No she di'int! This is just like one of those reality tv-shows the humans watch.

The male teen crossed his arms and glared at Miko. He said annoyed, "Well maybe I have some regard for your safety!"

Miko put her hands on her hips and leaned toward the male. She sarcastically said, "Well I'm sorry, is your name Optimus? You can leave my protection to Bulkhead! Thank you very much!"

Optimus and Bulkhead... so they did live.

The small human was fed up with being between the two fighting teens. He broke up the fighting by pushing them apart and yelling, "Stop it! Both of you!" The boy ran to the edge of the platform and sat down. I felt sympathetic.

Both the teenagers looked dismayed. They ran to their friend.

The tall boy comforted the sad boy, "Oh, hey, hey, hey, Raf, Raf, it's, it's okay." The teenager sat down with his friend.

Miko sat on the other side of Raf. She reassured him, "We're gonna be fine," and she put a hand on his back.

These are the types of friends I used to have. I miss those guys.

The male teenager calmed Raf, "Our bots will come back for us."

Miko agreed, "Yeah, they're gonna take us home."

Raf picked up his head and looked at Miko. He asked her, "How do you know?"

Both teens looked away in uncertainty. The tall boy had found something. He asked Raf, "Hey, hey Raf. Whata ya make of that?"

Raf looked up, jumped off the ledge and walked toward the monitor. Raf concluded, "It's important. Real important. We gotta get this to Optimus."

Miko dramatically asked Raf, "How do you know it isn't just a recipe for space nachos?"

Ha! Space nachos. I wish I could chemically create that. I found space cake though... and space bacon. Both taste hella delicious in energon form. I wonder if I'm using that word correctly... hella. Hella? Hella.

Raf looked at Miko and responded, "I know math when I see it and that is one serious equation."

The male teen looked at Raf and asked, "Can you download it?"

Raf took off his back-storage unit, "I've got a flash drive." He took the flash drive out of his bag. Raf looked around and stated his observations, "But I don't see anywhere to plug it in. This tech is way alien."

Really? Tech created by another species, from another planet is alien to you? No duh human. No duh.

A vehicon walked into the room. The teenagers ran to hide. The boy ran to his bag. The vehicon spotted Raf. The mech charged and pointed his cannon at the mathematician. Raf raised his arms and gasped.

I wanted to help the humans- but that meant betraying my own kind. The male teenager ran and helped Raf. This situation was killing me. The humans reminded me of a sad cybertronian puppy. I ran from my cover, drew my swords and sliced the vehicon in half. I wasn't thinking: I just didn't want another human to get hurt. I'm such a terrible cybertronian.

Miko ran from her cover and exclaimed, "Cool! I didn't know there was another Autobot on board! And this one uses swords!"

I put a finger on my lips and tried to shush the loud girl, "Shhhh, don't let them hear you."

Miko excitedly exclaimed again, "But why? You just destroyed that Decepticon like it was nothing!"

I face palmed and shook my head. I calmly explained, "Listen, I'm not an Autobot and it is not a good thing that I can so easily turn on my own."

I just murdered that guy. That is horrible.

Raf yelled, "You're a Decepticon!"

I made many different 'quiet down' gestures with my servos as I tried to calm the humans, "Yes, yes. I won't hurt you. Now can you please keep your voices down? I don't want to kill another comrade and I sure as hell don't want you three to be hurt."

Raf asked me, "Why?"

"It doesn't matter why."

Miko asked, "Aren't Decepticons supposed to be evil and scary-looking? You are more like cool-looking and not evil. Like a two-armored bad-ass version of Striker."

They know Striker? So, she's alive then.

I sighed, "Listen you three—"

Miko interrupted me. "Jack, Raf, and Miko," she said.

I continued, "Listen Jack, Raf, and Miko. You can stay here as long as you're quiet and ask me anything you want—" I gestured with my hand, "If of course it's reciprocal... As long as you don't speak a word of any of this to any Decepticon," I thought for a moment, "Excluding me, if we meet again."

Why am I doing this? Just stop. Back out now. Do the right thing –the Decepticon thing- and just get rid of the problem. Get rid of the evidence. Stop talking to the kids.

Miko looked at me wide-eyed, "cool." She went on to circle about me while she observed my swords. She stopped and cried, "Those are so cool! You are so cool! Do you ever just slice anything up? I bet that you—"

I liked this human. She praised me. I liked that. It's an addiction of mine. I guess that's why I stayed.

Jack interrupted his teammate, "Miko, the Decepticon said reciprocal. Stop asking questions!"

Miko whined, "But Jack!"

I sighed; I wanted to remain in the presence of this human female. I wanted her to compliment me. I wanted to feel 'cool'. I said to her, "The questions I would choose to ask are extremely different than those you are thinking of. For example I would ask stuff like, what are your favorite bands, or where are cool places to visit, or what do you like to do in your leisure time."

Miko answered enthusiastically, "I like all metal bands, Tokyo is a cool place to visit and Raf likes to hack computers."

Raf yelled at the girl, "Don't tell her I like to do that! Now she'll only think of me as the computer guy."

That boy is the computer guy. Like Soundwave.

I asked Raf, "Can you tell me what any of that means?" I put my servo on the ground for him to climb on. All three humans received a ride up to the computer monitor. I admitted, "I am awful with anything that has to do with computers. But if I can produce something to hold over Starscream..."

Jack asked, "Who's Starscream?"

I answered, "Megatron's second in command. We don't exactly have the best history."

Yes, and he is at least trying to make amends. Why can't I ever just forgive and forget? Why must I hold grudges? I couldn't trust him.

Miko pounded her fist, "Are you planning on taking him out and stealing his post? Do you want some backup?"

I backed up and waved my arms, "No. No, I am not planning on doing any of that stuff. Screamy and I may not always get along, but to his credit he's trying much harder now."

True. So, why am I doing this?

Raf asked, "I'm confused, what is it that you want with Starscream?"

Good question.

Miko popped in, "You mean Screamy?"

Geez, she is likable. She takes what I say as truth. I wonder if I could just recruit her, maybe keep her as a pet. We could have so much fun. Wait... where was I again? Uhm, just say something, anything.

"I want to make sure Screamy knows who is superior. I want to ensure that he does not take complete control and that I retain freedom from his command."

Good answer. Nothing to validate suspicion for it, but good answer.

Jack asked again, "Why don't you want to be ruler? You seem like a nice bot."

I laughed, "I'd have to imagine that being leader of the decepticons is like owning a bunch of pets. Not Miko, she would be a fun pet. I'll give you an example, just imagine this is the list of responsibilities that the Leader would have to follow on a daily basis: Make sure to let Knockout and Breakdown outside. Don't be alarmed if Knockout gets scratches from racing with the humans, or if Breakdown gets dents from off-roading. Remember to feed the vehicons and miners. Make sure the Seekers feel superior to other drones, or they will refuse to be the first to go out into battle. They tend to feel superior when they play with Starscream instead of vehicons. Beware of Starscream and discipline him if he undermines your authority. Starscream is unruly because he wants to be the Alpha. Make sure to praise Shadow, or she will feel unloved and wander off. Do not cross or let information slip in front of Soundwave, he never forgets and will repeat it until the end of time. Occasionally the Decepticons will fight with Autobots. Make sure you give clear orders your subjects will understand. Generally they can't function on their own."

The humans laughed for many minutes. I feared this sound could attract attention.

Miko exclaimed, "You are hilarious! I have to tell Bulkhead about... about... what's your name?"

I quickly answered, "Shadow."

Jack asked confused, "Shadow? Not that I'm ungrateful that you -a Decepticon- saved us. But, Shadow? What kind of name is Shadow for a Decepticon?"

Raf looked at Jack, "come on Jack, Shadow's a pretty cool name."

I looked down at the humans then rubbed the back of my head. I admitted, "Well, Shadow is actually an informal shortened nickname." I turned away from the humans and stated, "It's short for Death's Shadow, which is the less formal version of the name and or title I have. Your Autobot friends would probably know me as 'The Shadow of Death.'"

Miko squealed, "That's so cool!"

*Mental Blush* Aww, thanks Miko. I'm glad you think so.

Jack still did not understand, he questioned, "What's the difference? Isn't a name just a name?"

I turned around to face the humans. I agreed with Jack's logic, "You're right. A name is just a name. But, there is still a difference. 'The Shadow of Death' is a title of sorts. When others refer to me as that, it bequeaths power and respect as well as recognition of my skill. Death's Shadow is an informal version. Those who use it recognize my skill and rank- but don't show any respect and or laugh at my power. Screamy and other high-ranking cons call me this when they are pissed. Shadow is the shortened version. It does not show rank or title, it does not demand respect or display my potential. It is just an easy to say name, that my friends call me."

The three stood in awe. Or, at least two of them did. Miko punched the air as she jumped up and down.

Raf looked up at me, "So then, Shadow. You're this really cool, down to earth robot who doesn't want to rank above others, and doesn't want others to be led by bad leaders."

Yes! This human too! He shall be my pet as well. This will be fun.

I nodded, even though I did not understand all of his terminology.

Wait a second... This kid's smart. He's complementing me with a motive behind it. Don't fall for it!

Jack requested, "If you don't want Starscream to lead and this looks pretty important," he gestured to the monitor, "then it would be mutually beneficial if we got this to team Prime."

I nodded again. If any Decepticon found out, I'd be fragged.

Raf grew tired of looking for a port for his usb. He looked at me and asked, "Shadow, do you know where I can plug this in to download?"

Cybertronian tech + Earth tech? Stop it me. He was nice to me earlier.

I sighed, "I'm sorry Raf, I'm awful with technology like this. Is there any other way you can copy the data?"

Jack had an idea, "Miko! You can take a picture!"

Miko took out her phone and photographed the monitor.

I thought I heard a noise from outside. I turned to the kids and requested, "Miko, Jack, Raf, this has been fun and all, but you three should leave before more Decepticons arrive." The three humans looked dismayed. I placed them on the ground. "Listen," I said, "you three must not tell anyone of this. The Decepticons would have my spark. But, regarding the Autobots. If in the future, the Decepticons try to kill me. (Because of how bad of a failure I am as shown by this) It is possible that becoming an Autobot would be an option. If and only if this were to happen, I'd want you three to vouch for me."

Aha! Now I'm using them! So, I'm not the worst fool imaginable!

Miko saluted, "No problem!"

Raf nodded, "Of course Shadow."

Jack agreed with his friends, "Any time Shadow."

The humans left.

Good.

I cleaned the command center. I piled the dead vehicons and propped up a monitor that had fallen. Soundwave returned. He called some vehicons to finish my work. Once the command center was clean, Starscream entered. He was fidgeting and scanning the room cautiously. Soundwave went back to his post and worked.

Megatron burst through the door. He roared, "Starscream!"

Starscream rushed to his master's side. He responded scared, "Yes Lord Megatron?"

Megatron silently yelled, "Why is the Nemesis grounded?"

Soundwave played a sound clip, "The Nemesis received sufficient damage in the Autobot attack and was disabled."

Megatron grabbed Starscream by his neck and questioned, "Autobot attack? What did you do?"

Starscream gasped, he defended, "Lord Megatron, it was not my fault! Shadow agreed with me—"

Oh frag. He's throwing me under the bus. This is just like before He's placing some of the blame onto me.

Megatron strengthened his grip on the commander's neck at his mention of Shadow. Starscream wheezed, "We were to interrogate a human for the location of the Autobot base."

Megatron threw Starscream and walked toward me.

Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no. He hates me, doesn't he?

He thundered, "Did you complete your goal?"

Starscream felt safer, he admitted, "Well, no. But, it wasn't my fault. We -both of us- interrogated the human. Shadow got answers. The entire thing was rigged. Even when I used her technique, the fleshling did not comply."

Megatron was mere lengths from me. He boomed, "Death's Shadow! You disobeyed my command! You assisted Starscream's personal agenda! Give me one reason why I shouldn't extinguish your spark!"

Frag! He does hate me! I wish I were dead now... or, maybe I should think... Oh, I guess it's good I can just join the Autobots then. Those kids were helpful... Wait a second.

I gulped and explained, "I have good Intel. Thanks to my efforts we now know that the Autobot base is near Jasper Nevada. Also, the Autobots have a slight disadvantage; they babysit three young humans, who cause them a great inconvenience. These humans all go to the same school in Jasper. The only benefits the Autobots get from protecting these humans, is the entertainment the female provides, and the tactical hacking and other computer advantages the youngest male offers."

Good save, good save. He'll not-hate me for sure.

Megatron turned back to Starscream, and inquired, "Starscream, if Shadow received information using her own methods, why did you not leave her the interrogation of the human? You are a failure as a Decepticon! How dare you disobey me! This is all your fault!"

Yay! I am absolved! He hates Screamy, not me!

Megatron struck Starscream.

Ouch...

Starscream cringed as he fell to the ground. He begged, "Please Lord Megatron! I meant no—" Megatron hit Starscream again. Sparks engulfed the commander's arm as he screamed in pain. He regained his balance and stood up.

Megatron clenched his fist. He reminded the seeker, "I ordered you to await my command!" Megatron backhanded Starscream's head.

The seeker screamed in pain as he flew across the room and crashed backward into a monitor. The sound of the screeches and brightness of the sparks messed with my nervous system. I decided to leave.

Why don't I just stand up for others? Oh yeah, he's Starscream. So? Should that matter? He's still a cybertronian. So? I've been a killing machine for how many decades? Why should I care about ethics now? It's wrong. I'm a Decepticon. Those kids might give me the chance to—

Megatron's yelling pulled me away from my thoughts, as he continued his lecture, "Instead," he said, "your mindless agenda resulted in the disabling of my ship! And the delay of my plan!"

Starscream groveled as he tried to crawl away from Megatron, "My intentions were pure master. I only wanted you to be rid of Optimus."

I walked to the door and watched.

Megatron smashed Starscream's head with his ped, Megatron yelled, "No one rids me of Optimus Prime but me! Do you understand? Do you!" Megatron's ped screeched against Starscream's metal as he added more pressure.

Starscream pleaded, "Lord Megatron, I will make things right. I swear! I know how to set your plans back on course!"

The door opened.

Megatron removed his ped. He grabbed Starscream's neck and elevated him. Megatron demanded, "Explain Starscream. Quickly."

I walked into the hallway toward my room. The hallway was long and narrow. My optics grew heavy. I entered my room and lay on my berth. I was too tired to move. My thoughts contrasted the humans who praised and complemented me to Megatron and Starscream's self-seeking nature. Then back to the cybertronian I had just killed. I hadn't taken another's life in a long time. Not willfully anyway. I don't know why, but I fell asleep wondering how it would feel to be an Autobot on Earth.

...

I awoke to the sound of silence. I did not want to move, so I stayed in my berth, sprawled atop my sheets. I had to force myself to get up with the thought of hunger. I had forgotten to eat yesterday. I got up and moved to my monitor. It was far past mid-day. I had slept in. I walked to the cafeteria and drank some energon. When I was done, I walked to the command center. Like yesterday, Megatron was yelling at Starscream.

Megatron screamed, "Optimus Prime never disappoints. Unlike you Starscream!"

Starscream responded, "No need for concern Master. Soundwave is locking onto Cybertron's coordinates per my instructions."

I sighed, alerting my comrades of my presence. This routine bored me. Bored more than usual, anyway.

Starscream kidded, "Look who finally decided to get up."

Go to the pit.

I walked up to Megatron and looked at the Autobots on the monitor.

I asked, "How long have they been standing there?"

Starscream postulated, " Surely Lord Megatron, the Autobots are up to something?"

Megatron responded sarcastically, "Really Starscream?" Megatron smashed the button that connected to everyone's Com links. "Crush them!" he yelled.

I looked to Megatron and asked, "Do you want me to join your attacking force?"

Megatron thought for a moment, then spoke, "You do not have any guns with which to shoot. Use tactics to delay the Autobots until I arrive. Choose one or two enemies to focus on."

I nodded and went to the hanger. I transformed into my jet form and flew in space, towards the Spacebridge. Around me, vehicons were being shot down. I barrel rolled and maneuvered through the space field of debris and laser fire. I landed next to the Autobot Wrecker known as Bulkhead. He was my competition concerning Miko. I drew my swords and activated my facemask.

The Wrecker and I exchanged glances. He called out to his Leader, "Uhm, Optimus, we have a problem." The Wrecker shot at me.

I ran at him. I dodged his fire and lunged at his round torso. Before I struck, the laser fire of Optimus hit me. I was propelled backward. I regained my balance and ran again at Bulkhead. I jumped left and right to dodge both of the Autobots' fire. When I was close to Bulkhead, I ducked left to avoid Optimus' fire. I slashed Bulkhead's side and he fell backward. The spacebridge moved and I lost my balance. I took a moment and stabilized. Arcee focused on me. She fired as she ran towards me. I took a fighting stance. The Spacebridge moved again. Arcee lost her footing and fell. I ran towards her and threw her with my swords. She flew into Bulkhead. I started to run towards them, but the Spacebridge moved again. This shift caused me to lose my balance and fall. The Wrecker came at me with his wrecking ball. I rolled out of the way. He hit the metal where I used to be. I back flipped up, ran at Bulkhead, and jumped at him. I propelled myself off of his torso as he fell backwards. I was aimed at Arcee and I slashed her. She fell down and did not get back up. Bumblebee fired at me. I dodged. Striker used that cover fire to race at me in her race-car form. Direct hit. I break-dance swung my legs at her, kicking her backwards, and I got up.

Megatron landed next to Optimus. Arcee, Bumblebee, Striker, and Bulkhead ran away from their leader. I followed them. Bulkhead and Bumblebee stopped to face me. Bumblebee fired and Bulkhead ran at me. I dodged the Wrecker's swing and I swung at his back. Bulkhead turned around and tried to hit me with his spiked ball. I back flipped out of the way. I ran at Bumblebee. I dodged his fire and slashed his laser canon. Something near Arcee and Striker released a blue energon spike.

Megatron flew towards my position. He shot at the Autobot femmes. Striker dodged, while Arcee blown back into space. I noticed the Nemesis was retreating. I changed into my jet form and flew back. I landed in the hanger and ran to the command center. Starscream was at the helm.

I deactivated my decepticon-symbol-looking mask and yelled at the commander, "Megatron's still out there! We have to go back for him!"

Starscream screamed, "It's too late!"

I roared, "It's never too late!"

Starscream ignored me. In a couple of minutes the Spacebridge exploded.

Starscream called together his troops. He announced, "Decepticons! It is with deep sorrow, that I note for the log, Megatron's spark has been extinguished." He paused. I glared. He commanded us, "All hail Starscream."

All around me, Decepticons saluted the commander. I was not going to serve such cowardly filth. I shouted, "It is your fault Megatron was defeated! I refuse to serve such cowardice!"

The vehicons around me grew silent.

Starscream called to his subjects, "Vehicons! Silence Death's Shadow!"

Fragging disrespecting me? You'll regret it. You'll regret all of it!

I drew my swords and activated my mask, I cried, "Come and face me yourself! I'll extinguish your spark right here, right now!" I could sense Starscream's fear. It emanated from him as power had from Megatron.

I've bested fragging Warriors Elite! I've defeated DJD members! I've spared with Megatron! You can't defeat me coward! Just try!

Soundwave walked up to me and placed his servo on my shoulder. My gaze shifted from the commander to the intelligence officer. I did not want to show how desperately I wanted to be comforted and consoled. I miss Megatron. I brushed off his servo and stormed out of the command center. I went to my room and sat down on my berth.

Later, Soundwave entered my room. He played a message from Starscream, "I understand that the grieving process for each Con is different." I clenched my fist.

I looked at Soundwave and said, "There is no evidence of his demise. Lack of evidence should not permit Starscream to rule."

Soundwave sat down next to me and put his arm around my shoulders. I wanted to shake it off, but didn't-couldn't.

He continued his message from Starscream, "Because of this, I will allow you to enjoy your freedom."

Freedom? You just murdered my Lord, and now you want to exile me?

I gave Soundwave an angered-sad look. He could tell I was miserable. Also angry: A dangerous combination for a Decepticon. Soundwave side hugged me in response. I had known Soundwave almost as long as Megatron. We were good friends.

Soundwave got up and finished the message, "Shadow, you may do as you wish on Earth, until you want to rejoin the Decepticons. You will be permitted to stay aboard the Nemesis as long as you don't threaten my rule. If you decide to go to Earth, Soundwave will keep in touch to give you important updates and to ensure you haven't defected to the Autobots."

I nodded, "Thanks Soundwave. I'll sleep off my current state and leave tomorrow."

Soundwave nodded back to me and left. I changed out of my battle armor and into my sleep attire. I looked for a while at the damaged piece of armor next to my mirror. I eventually fell asleep. The next day, I changed, drank energon, said goodbye to Soundwave and left. I scouted for the Lamborghini of my vehicle form. Once I found it, I drove to Jasper.