Chapter 6
The two teams of three looked around at their surroundings. From appearances, they were on the planet Annex, a planet very similar to Earth with breathtaking scenery. Rolling hills and majestic mountains decorated the virtual landscape. "How original," Brawn stated, somewhat less than impressed. "They put us on a mirror-image of where we came from."
Annex had been discovered nearly 5 million years ago, its finding being attributed to none other than Beta Klax, mentor to the leading Autobot scientist of the day-Perceptor. A highly complex and intelligent civilization had thrived for eons, only to be invaded by a neighboring planet and ravaged. The handful of natives that survived the war fled to various regions of the galaxy. After the war had ended, the invading warriors departed from Annex, having drained all of its resources. The planet remains today, uninhabitable, as a reminder to the violence that stretches across the cosmos. Obviously, the Annex the six minibots now stood upon was a recreation based on the planet's appearance prior to its ultimate fate.
"I'm sure Hoist doesn't want to over-do the effects," Windcharger reasoned. "This is the initial try out of what it can do."
Powerglide noticed Warpath and Tailgate breaking away from the group, and hurried to catch up with them. Hubcap nudged Brawn in the arm, directing him to witness their exit. "And where do you think you're going?" Brawn called out, stopping them dead in their tracks.
"Let's not forget why we're here," Warpath answered. "Not only are we here to test this combat simulator, but we're also here for a little game of 3 on 3." He went on to explain his intention on leading his team to some ruins twenty miles south of their current location. Upon arrival, they would prepare to defend their stronghold against outside forces, namely Brawn and his crew.
"Why do you get to defend?" Brawn barked angrily. "Why don't we occupy the ruins and YOU try to infiltrate?"
Warpath was eager to make their way to the ruins, and was in no mood to argue. He had always preferred action instead of words; it was just his way of being. "Because I thought of it!" he snapped. "We'll trade off. We'll defend in the first game, then you'll defend in the following game." Brawn relented and agreed to give Warpath and his teammates one hour to reach their temporary fortress and ready themselves for combat.