Back with an update.
The base that Soundcracker and Predaking had previously seen appeared no different from when they had last left it. The only real difference was Starscream's demeanor. No longer was he an image of a loyal Decepticon, but rather, a sniveling, cowering shell. He took Megatron's abuse, proclaiming that his abandonment of the Decepticon leader for the greater cause. That greater cause being the Fallen's plan.
With that explained Megatron made his way to his master. He expressed an apology for his failure to retrieve the All Spark, which was forgiven. The Fallen spun a tale of how the All Spark was merely a totem for Energon. How, even in the destruction of it they would find a new beacon of energy.
In turn, the Fallen brought up the boy that Soundcracker had found. This boy would supposedly lead them to a new source of Energon. It was in that moment that Soundcracker realized why the Fallen had chosen to go with the military base for Megatron's revival.
"This is Soundcracker and his Predaking." The Fallen introduced. "He was the one who alerted me of the boy's exposure to the All Spark. And he will provide some hidden surveillance around you."
Megatron silently began to study Soundcracker, briefly scanning over Predaking. He seemed cold as he did. It was as though Megatron knew who Soundcracker was. Not just in passing, but something almost deeper.
"It's nice to be formally introduced to you Soundcracker." Megatron admitted, finsally breaking the silence. "I've heard about your assistance on both sides. A rather unusual approach, but I understand the desire to be neutral in this war."
"It does feel simpler at times." Soundcracker admitted. "It keeps a steady Energon flow on the table, if you know what I mean. And that's all that matters at the end of the solar cycle."
"True."
Megatron turned his attention back to his master, wanting to know what to do next. The Fallen's response, kill Optimus Prime. With him offline, there would be no issue dealing with the child and finding the location of the artifact they desired.
The notion was an exciting one for Megatron. While he may have had issues defeating the Prime in the past, his processor began to spin a plan. A plan to deal with not only Optimus, but the human who had snuffed his spark as well. It filled the Decepticon with grim glee.
"You are to follow Megatron's command." The Fallen told Soundcracker.
"So long as I get the Energon I was promised, you can count on it." Soundcracker accepted.
"Of course."
Megatron's plan was underway. While Soundcracker acted as surveillance, the Decepticons used a few agents to lure the boy, named Sam, out and towards the warehouse where Megatron was waiting in. Thankfully, Soundcracker didn't have to wait long
A familiar yellow vehicle and a truck could be seen zooming out of the location that the boy was at. The Autobot went off in a different direction, clearly looking to get help. Rather than following the boy, who was now in the hands of the Decepticons, he decide to follow the Autobot.
Locating his group would give him an idea as to what he and Predaking could potentially go up against. What they found was a small, but rather impressive group. While a number of them were head members of the Autobot, the most impressive was Optimus Prime. Soundcracker had heard of him, but this was the first time he got to see the red and blue Autobot leader.
Soundcracker couldn't dwell on it long before the group quickly went off towards the boy's location. Following them was necessary, as it was Megatron's plan for him not to get involved unless things went sour. With them on the move, things were going according to plan.
A battle insued starting from the warehouse. Optimus was able to stop Megatron from probing and eventually killing Sam. As Sam was taken to keep him safe, the battle was pushed out to a forest.
What was really impressive was how Optimus was able to take on several Decepticons on his own. He took down two and was able to, literally, disarm Starscream. Soundcracker could see how he got to where he was. How powerful and respectful the Prime was.
Unfortunately, one moment of distraction was all that Optimus needed in order to fall. Looking for the boy resulted in a momentary opportunity. A blade pierced Optimus, cutting through his spark. Megatron slowly removed it, insulting the Prime's soft spot for the humans.
In the ensuing chaos Sam was able to escape with the Autobots, much to the dismay of Megatron. But instead of following them, Soundcracker was told to meet up with Megatron. The Decepticons retreated, wanting to regroup and so that Megatron could adjust the next step in his plan.
They stood over a city, standing on top of a building. And though pleased with the defeat of Optimus, Megatron was a little frustrated with how the other part of his plan had gone. After beating Starscream with his disconnected arm, he processed how to move forward. Threatening the people of the planet to bring him out was a reasonable thought. However, if that didn't work, Megatron had to have a backup plan.
"I want you to find the boy." Megatron demanded, glaring at Soundcracker. "If he does not get turned over, which is a possibility, I will still need him and his findings. And don't worry, you will be notified if something turns up."
"Understood." Soundcracker replied, turning towards the edge of the rooftop.
"And don't be afraid to use your partner here to kill a few Autobots."
Soundcracker shrugged at the response before hopping off the building. Predaking joined him, transforming before getting off of the rooftop.
Yeah, I know it's a bit shorter than usual, but I did want this chapter to wrap up around the death of Optimus.
