Final Genesis: Let's see how long it's been – hm, five months since my last Transformers update eh? How I wish I could be able to keep up, but ah well, better late than never, right? I hope Christmas had gone well for you all, as went New Year too! Now that we're in the year of 2007, there's going to be some new changes.
One example in fact is that since of the amount of time I take to update, they'll be no longer any review replies displayed. Since there was the time I nearly took a year to update on my last chapter, I thought it would be better not to stress you all. There's also the fact I tweaked some of the events in various chapters so it can flow consistently with the Armada timeline.
Oh and before I set off the disclaimer, I thought I'd do a little measurement for Cybertronians. Here they are:
A
"Nano-Klik" is a second.
A
"cycle" is a minute.
A
"breem" is approx. 8.3 earth minutes.
A
"Mega-cycle" is an hour.
A
"stellar cycle" is a year.
A
"deca-cycle" is a decade.
Now for the disclaimer!
Disclaimer: I do not own Transformers Armada, the characters and storyline; it belongs to the Hasbro and Takara Lines. I also do not own Beast Wars. The only characters I own are the ones that I made. This time, the chapter is set between the episodes, 'Decisive Battle' and 'Vow'.
And now, the saga continues… and you may find this chapter familiar…
Heroes of Cybertron and Planet Earth
Chapter 11: Sanctuary, Part 1
In a particular location like the Himalayas, it is one of many locations where mystery has occurred in the past. Chilling winds of up to about minus 20 degrees and below swirled around the snow-capped formations of rock, especially with the debris flying about. Many inhabitants who lived within the area knew the events well – the forces of nature were continually shaping the region ever since the Himalayas originated beneath the sea. Even the Yeti, wherever it was, probably knew about the ever-changing geography as the mountains slowly rose higher, all because of 40 million years ago, the Earth's crust gradually buckled and uplifted to form the area in the first place. In the aforementioned number of years ago, India collided with Asia.
But whatever was going on recently, it wasn't just the Yeti that caused the animals to be spooked. Something else was at work, and it wasn't natural. And sooner or later… the peace will be shattered…
"By Primus, what the slag's happening?!" yelped Tusklaw as he felt the earth rumble under his elephantine feet. "I don't remember the Himalayas being a volcanic area!" It was quite unusual that the area would be unstable when the region was not near the Ring of Fire. Even so, the Maximal templar/scientist was currently swatting away most of the falling debris with his mammoth trunk.
(No they aren't, besides the occasional avalanche,) agreed Ice Freeze as he monitored the situation. (But explain why we have Rad and Alexis with us?) he asked, indicating the two children and their Minicons, who were sheltering under the Maximal's bulk. Alexis couldn't help but wince as another boulder hit the mammoth's head, luckily not landing on the occupants below or knocking him into stasis lock. "Our teacher partnered us for a project on the Himalayas, but even though I didn't expect this to happen, I always wanted to see this area up close and personal."
"But who would have thought that our group assignment could turn into a scavenger hunt?" added Rad as he looked around. "So far I don't see any signs of a Minicon signal anywhere."
(Something else is up,) Began High Wire. (The Minicon signal seemed to be practically moving. But I thought it was in a stationary spot like most of the other panels we found.)
(Well for one thing, there's interference. There's normally not much of it involved on most of our searches, but somehow, that interference is moving. As much as I like to split up just to cover more ground Tusklaw, we have to stick together.) Concluded Sureshock.
The mammoth Maximal agreed while rubbing his head in pain at the same time with his trunk. "We were the closest units near the area of the sighting Red Alert noted. Even though humans have explored this place before, there is still something that seems… unnatural around here. I guess there are still some unsolved mysteries that surround this planet. Ah well, if the interference clears up, we'll go make our report." After allowing the humans and Minicons to hop on to his back, he then set off to a suitable place for his communication with Autobot/Maximal HQ. But as luck had it… they weren't alone, and as the clouds cleared, three familiar shapes followed, unnoticed.
"Don't look now," cackled Cyclonus, as he Starscream and Waspinator were sent to the area as well. "But we got one large slab of mammoth meat ahead, along with three Minicons and two of the brats!"
"Oooo, Wazpinator lovez it when prey can't shoot back!" added Waspinator with excitement, as he transformed into vehicle mode. "Then I guess it's time to give old Tusklaw and friends a hunt - with good old automatic weapons!" concluded Starscream, as the two Decepticons and Predacons headed towards their next target.
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Let's see… Red Alert began as he and Longarm got to work modifying the base's systems. If having to improve the Minicon shelters and the base, I guess it would be best to fit a few more in just in case of attack. But I need the necessary parts once again for it… Even though Sentinel was active for the time being, he still felt it was good to have a backup system as a precaution. In addition, he was also working on something else too. And even though Billy and Fred promised to keep their secret after stumbling upon it, Red Alert knew not to take any more risks to attract unwanted attention to the humans. Still, it would be nice if either Tusklaw or Aura would be here…
"Hey Red Alert, whatcha' doing?" replied Carlos, as he entered the control room, along with Grindor. Calmly, the medic turned around to face him. "Right now I'm trying to see if we could improve the base defences. But right now, it seems we're short of parts at the moment since the supply of useful resources are almost used up from the ship remains."
Although the Hispania boy wasn't much of a thinker, he came up with solution. "You know… maybe I forgot to mention it to you… I used to work with Rad and Alexis on a project called Project Supernova; using the parts from a junkyard my dad works at. If Grindor and I can help, we can be able to sneak a few parts in for you. It's just that it's almost quiet around without Rad and Alexis at the moment."
"Thank you for offering Carlos," smiled the medic gratefully, as he knew that as part of the team, the humans were of a great asset. "It may be wise for me to accompany you just in case for transport." Just before he was about to leave, Tusklaw's voice called out off screen. "This is Tusklaw to HQ, do you copy? Please respond!"
Despite the static, Red Alert was able to open up a link. "I hear you, Tusklaw. What's the situation?"
"Practically zilch. I don't know why, but somehow, the Minicon signal seems to be blipping out of synch from the scanners. We looked everywhere and yet there was no sign of life out there."
"And on top of that," added Alexis, "What's also strange enough is that the signal is moving out of sight. As far as we know from combing the area, we can't seem to get a lock on it."
There was a few seconds of silence as the Autobot medic thought up another option. "Maybe there's still another area you haven't searched thoroughly yet. But just in case, I'll send Aura in to assist." Unfortunately the internal computer inside Tusklaw sounded out a warning, which was the same time High Wire sighted something over the horizon. (You better send her in now, because we got incoming flyers at twelve and closing in!) And as his warning sounded, a pair of Sidewinder missiles fired by Starscream exploded near the group, showering them with snow everywhere. Laughing insanely, the trio of flyers automatically transformed into robot mode and already initiated their assault.
Irritably wiping snow off his frame, Ice Freeze shouted out, (Isn't there any cover for the kids to hide in!? We're at a tactical disadvantage right now!)
"No choice!" yelled back Tusklaw, as several rounds of his Cryo-Grenades were fired out, along with the combined burst of machine gun fire. "Use what you can to protect yourselves! But here's a temporary something that should help!" Instantly, he threw a familiar blue orb at the kids and their Minicon companions, as a spherical defence matrix surrounded them. "It should move along with all of you while it's active, so go! But don't any of you go out of it!"
With no other option, the kids and their Minicons took cover as the exchange of firepower escalated. Against two Decepticons and one Predacon, Tusklaw would be mainly at a disadvantage because he was never the type to go on the offensive, and that the flyers already have their sky to manoeuvre as part of their element. But besides his heavy armour, he too has an advantage as he suddenly called out, "ICE FREEZE – POWERLINK!"
In response to the command, the snowmobile quickly powerlinked with Tusklaw, sliding into a hidden compartment in his back. When the power took effect, the mammoth head split into two, with the inside halves swivelling to the front. When they faced forward, each half has revealed a circular turbine built into it, as if they were designed to generate powerful wind energy. As if on cue, the blades began to whirl at full force when the Maximal called out, "ICE STORM!"
As the turbines increased speed, the snow began to swirl at full power. Seconds later, Tusklaw let loose a powerful burst of ice and wind, and a powerful tornado swirled with full force. It was also a good thing that the kids and their Minicons were at a safe distance away, because the tornado swept through the barrage of missiles and lasers. Before the trio knew it, they were caught inside the whirlwind as they spiralled out of control.
Unfortunately, before the tornado was unleashed, Starscream already charged up his Null Laser Cannons to full power. And not only was the charging sequence completed, when he got caught up inside the tornado, the combined forces of the ice and snow caused him to misfire, as the twin beams to connect to a nearby summit. What happened next would cause a high adrenaline rush.
The impact of the lasers already began an avalanche, in which the wave of ice and snow steadily began to gain speed upon its terrifying descent. And worse of all, Tusklaw realised, it was heading right in the direction of the kids and the Minicons! By the Allspark, groaned the mammoth, why must someone throw a monkey wrench into fate? With no other option, he quickly grabbed the protective orb, and began running in the opposite direction. Regrettably, he was not built for speed, as the incoming wave was catching up to him. Up ahead, there were no other options as the Maximal saw that they were heading towards…
(A cliff edge? Are you trying to get us killed?!) Yelped Sureshock as their giant friend headed toward it. "You think I'd run towards it without a backup plan, Sureshock?" replied Tusklaw as he prepared his chain mace. Before they got their answer, he leapt off the plateau, and whirling around, he set his plan into motion. With his left hand holding his precious cargo, his right hand quickly sent the spiked ball right on the ledge, the spikes digging into the snow just in time as the wave swept over them. Unfortunately, the mammoth Maximal was now face two problems: One, the attacking flyers were about to go for another round, and two, the grip of the mace was about to loosen gradually.
But unbeknownst to the combatants, an unusual anomaly has suddenly decided to make its appearance. A formation, which resembled a low flying cloud, somehow flew towards the cliff face where the heroes were at the moment. As it flew, it somehow shifted near the rocky wall, so close that the friction caused a few fragments of rock to fall. And not only that, the same friction was causing the cliff point to separate.
But there was no time to lose as Tusklaw saw that the flyers have unleased another barrage. Quickly scanning the cloud, he saw that not only it provided excellent cover… it was not a cloud at all. "Not that I wanted to do this, ladies and gentlemen – but hold on!"
A gulp has already surfaced out of Alexis's throat. "Oh no… don't tell me we're going to juuuuummmmmmmmpppppppppp!!!!!!" she screamed, as the missiles and lasers made contact, combined with the wave of snow, which finally loosened the chain mace. With that, the whole group was sent plummeting to what seemed like their doom, disappearing inside the cloud.
Autobot/Maximal HQ…
"Tusklaw? Tusklaw, can you hear me?" shouted Red Alert as they lost communication with the Maximal templar. Besides Carlos, Longarm, and Grindor looking at each other in worry, Optimus just managed to show up, quickly contacting Aura, who was nearly at the site. "Optimus to Aura, do you copy?"
The Himalayas…
Back to the flyers, they were trying to scan for any signs of wreckage from the Maximal, the Minicons or the kids. But in an odd twist of fate, there was no sign of their targets anywhere in sight. Something did not seem right to each of them. "Where'd mammoth bot go?" demanded a puzzled Waspinator as he looked around.
"Call me crazy Bugface, but I thought he and the brats fell into that cloud…" murmured Cyclonus, as he increased his scanners to maximum. As they looked around, they noticed the formation fly above them. Strangely enough, a sound of turbines were emanating from it as it flew past slowly.
"Time we found out what's going on!" replied Starscream, as he and the others transformed into vehicle/beast mode. "And concentrate all weapons fire when you see him so we can retrieve the Minicons as well!" Little did they know however, they would find a surprise waiting for them as they headed inside the cloud. It was only until after they disappeared inside, there were a few sudden flashes of light, in addition to their screams. And there… the Himalayas became quiet again.
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"Oh man, say it ain't so Aura!" groaned Carlos with concern over the com. link. "Not Rad, Alexis, Tusklaw and the Minicons!"
"I wish I refuse to confirm the worst," replied the Transmetal Phoenix worriedly as she scanned the area, circling above it in beast mode. "But no doubt this was the work of the flyers – with the craters, angle, everything. Judging by the amount of snow blown, an avalanche was caused and I don't see any signs of our friends or wreckage," Thanks to her time with the Predacons and Decepticons, Aura had slight knowledge of some of the tactics used on the battlefield. "And not only that, thanks to that snowstorm I encountered along the way, I can't seem to get a lock on our friends anywhere!" she added with frustration.
Optimus was the next to speak up. "Calm down, Aura. Try doing another recon sweep around the area. If you see any of the flyers, do not engage, understood?"
Nodding, the Maximal switched off her com. link as she prepared to do another scan. As she looked around for any signs of hope, her optics widened as she quickly hid behind a cliff wall. What greeted her was quite unexpected indeed, as she magnified her vision.
When she took a closer look, the answer came into the three smouldering forms of the flyers themselves. Normally, the two Decepticons and one Predacon would pose a threat, but in this case however, they were very much worse to wear. Judging by the amount of damage inflicted upon them, they almost looked like they were damaged almost beyond stasis lock. This was proven with Starscream and Cyclonus' major damage to their frames along with Waspinator's missing wing and a hole in his thorax. It seems that they were trying to get away from something considering their movement, when they warped back to their own base.
Interested, Aura quickly decided to warp back to base as well to make her report.
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"WHAT?!" Megatron demanded as soon as he saw the three horrendously damaged flyers in robot mode lying down in pain in front of him. "Did Tusklaw and his friends did this to you?"
All three of them shook their heads quickly. Starscream quickly began, "It wasn't just the mammoth who did it – it was some sort of monument!" That earned some nodding heads from Cyclonus and Waspinator.
With the Decepticon leader demanding answers, Cyclonus started off with, "It all started when we pursued Tusklaw and the brats, thinking that the group were eliminated. They somehow fell into a cloud, Megatron – only it's not a cloud at all…"
Flashback begins…
For a moment, the three flyers flew inside the cloud, still searching for their targets. It did not seem right to them as normally the victims would fall through them and land a gruesome death on the ground. However in this matter, something did not seem right, and they ventured deeper inside… they were greeted by an unusual sight.
They have just entered into the center of the cloud… and inside they found a clearing. A large island was somehow floating in the sky… that was quite remarkable indeed. Surrounded by a rocky barrier, the majority of the land was that of a tropical ecosystem, with some sort of urban area in the center. But there was no time to discuss the wonder as Cyclonus spotted Tusklaw's group, and laughed as he went into his trigger-happy vigour again, his comrades following him. Fortunately for the kids and the Minicons, they were hidden behind several boulders as their mammoth friend continued retaliating at the flyers.
But their battle was about to be interrupted as in the urban center of the island, a large structure was about to activate. An obelisk, the size of a Cybertronian skyscraper, began to glow a blue hue, as it was charging up for something. And the flyers are going to get a truly nasty surprise from it…
Seconds later, after the obelisk has finished charging, it simultaneously fired three blue beams, hitting the trio and sending them out of the island.
Flashback ends…
"… And by the Pit we were unable to warp out until we got away from the island… we barely made it out alive…" finished Starscream, as he, Cyclonus and Waspinator collapsed in a heap. After listening to their story, Megatron's interest sparked. "So… a flying island hm? Concealed from view, and belies a power weapon – equals usefulness. It should provide us a tactical advantage to end the Cybertronian Wars once and for all," he then turned towards the flyers' Minicon partners; "Get them to the CR (Cryogenic Restoration) Chamber at once." With the help of a few other Minicons, Swindle, Crumplezone and Shrapnel carried them off.
There was no time to waste on loosing this opportunity for power, as the Decepticon leader quickly ordered, "Tarantulas, Shatterbelt, Demolishor, Sideways, prepare for immediate departure to that flying island." At once, Leader-1 made a suggestion. (Megatron, don't you think it would be worthwhile to find out who created this place?)
"I agree with Leader-1," added Sideways. "Such an artefact would have properties unknown to the rest of us."
"Unlike the incident with the Skyboom Shield, I have taken precautions – I already sent Soundwave to have a look. He should be within range right now," At once, his comlink beeped, and the familiar monotone voice sounded.
"Soundwave to Megatron, did you copy?"
"Affirmative Soundwave," replied Megatron, as his turned towards the rest of his men. "At least there are some Decepticons and Predacons who would not disappoint me." He added, referring to the flyers in the CR Chamber.
"Shall I return to base?"
"Not yet – this mysterious flying island intrigues me. Dispatch any of your flyers to investigate. And if you see Tusklaw and his friends on the island, report back at once."
"As you command, Megatron," finished Soundwave, as the communications shut off. Standing on a ledge near the battleground, his chest cavity opened up again. "Fractyl, eject. Operation, reconnaissance."
And so, the assigned group were preparing to set off for their mission. But before the four departed, Megatron quickly motioned to Shatterbelt and Demolishor, quickly whispering something on their audio receptors. Tarantulas however, has a sneaky suspicion that the Decepticon leader suspects him, but decides to play along for now.
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"Are you sure you saw them?" inquired Optimus as Aura came back for her report.
"I'm sure sir – no doubt it was Starscream, Cyclonus and Waspinator, and they are looking pretty worse to wear! Although something doesn't seem right about the damage though…"
Red Alert, who was also in the conversation, concluded, "Not Tusklaw. He's normally not the type to always go all out offensive considering his templar nature, though there are some occasions."
"In the way of strategy, he's at a disadvantage," added Bladestriker. "Considering he has two kids and three Minicons with him, it'll be trouble for him if he faces a whole bunch of Decepticons and Predacons while looking out for them at the same time." At that moment, the communications opened up, revealing Hotshot.
"And speaking of trouble, do you want the bad news, or the worse news? Because not only Tape-boy released Fractyl, Demolishor, Sideways, Tarantulas and Shatterbelt are at the scene now!"
Quickly turning to Hotshot, the Autobot leader quickly commanded, "I'll send Aura and Blurr to back you up just in case. Don't move from your position til they arrive, okay?" Hotshot's typical gung-ho reply was mentioned just as the said sniper came in. "You wanted to see me, Optimus?"
"Yes, you and Aura are to meet up with Hotshot at the Himalayas," he ordered, also adding. "Can I ask you three to follow them without the Decepticons and Predacon spotting you?"
"Count on it!" came the reply, as they transformed into their respective alternate modes (vehicle). A few clicks later, Aura and Blurr have just been sent through the warpgate, and after they were, Scavenger couldn't help but think. "Whatever's got Megatron worried, that's certainly enough to sent five of his soldiers to investigate."
"Maybe it's Alexis and the others!" replied Billy hopefully, for he was one of the people affected the most by his friends' disappearance. Even though he got over his crush on Alexis after first meeting with the Transformers, he still couldn't help feel for her safety.
"We could only hope, Billy," added Optimus grimly. "But if Tarantulas and the Decepticons reach the group first – then their chances are quite slim indeed. And I don't intend on accepting any losses."
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They never thought of laying eyes on this place at first glance.
It was only a few cycles after their attackers have been driven off. After managing to climb over the edge of land, Tusklaw, Rad, Alexis and their Minicons wondered how by some miracle, an island saved them. Laying their eyes for the first time… it was more than just a place of beauty… it was a paradise.
Part of the island was surrounded by natural flora and some fauna, like some insects and even a few birds. Native plants decorated around the border, and most of the area was of grassland. But besides the tropical ecosystem, there were also signs of technological development, like a few futuristic-looking buildings for example. There was also a dirt path that leads to a tall obelisk, which was on the center of the island. In fact, this island was a balance of the technological and organic.
Awestruck, the Maximal and his friends looked around in wonder. Alexis, for one was quite relaxed, as she then sniffed an alpine rose that was lying there. "It's beautiful… I never thought a place as peaceful as this would have existed."
Tusklaw, who was in beast mode, gazed at the area. "I agree. Truly this is a place of wonder," Smiling, he took a small sip of water and found it to be quite fresh. "I feel like this is were my spark should be."
(Although I wonder who built this in the first place.) Added High Wire as he rolled around. (Judging by how it was built must have taken a lot of teamwork. Even so, something smells familiar here.)
"Must be the kind of place you guys wanna be in right?" smiled Rad as he joined up with Alexis. Unexpectedly enough, a monarch butterfly landed on his nose, causing nearly everybody to giggle and for the boy to sneeze. It then decided to land on the Transmetal Woolly Mammoth, who calmly offered his trunk as a landing spot. Alexis then decided to answer Rad's question. "Of course – considering they were caught in the war between four factions of giant robots. But fighting aside for now, I didn't know that there's a tropical ecosystem in the Himalayas. I don't think that'll be part of our assignment anyway. Hidden from sight…" she trailed away, as the group continued to walk on.
But little did they know as they strolled through the greenery, they passed through a particularly large boulder. And they failed to see a familiar, glowing red symbol on it, when somehow; the spot they were walking on began to rock violently.
Thanks to Tusklaw's timing, he quickly managed to scoop the kids and the Minicons out of harm's way just as suddenly, a large hole opened up. If any were foolish enough to stay, that being would have fallen out of the mysterious island and into certain doom.
"…and protected from invasion too!" finished Tusklaw as he realised that somehow they triggered a trap. But they weren't out of danger yet as the earth began to shake again. And this time, they were surrounded. Suddenly, thin, armlike appendages were slowly rising from the ground. For a moment, the group wondered what it was going to do, only to see a large stone on each clawed support. With no time to lose, Tusklaw quickly yelled out, "TUSKLAW – MAXIMISE!"
With the kids rapidly getting on their steeds, who transformed to vehicle mode, and Ice Freeze powerlinking to the Maximal, they quickly began to move. As if they were catapults, the arms' bindings were released, and each stone slammed down on the ground in full force. Each of them slammed around them, causing the kids, Minicons and Maximal to dodge the crude, but deadly weapons. As they avoided the stones, Alexis was quick to notice something familiar, though the colouration was red. "Could it be… the Minicon symbol?"
But she was quickly interrupted as two more arms prepared to attack, and were unlocked from their bindings. Tusklaw was quick to shoot the first one, but wasn't quite as fast when suddenly, the second one headed right towards the girls! "NO, ALEXIS, SURESHOCK!"
Just in time however, Rad and High Wire pushed the girls and themselves out of the way as the stone slammed onto the spot near them. Sighing in relief, they were glad they were saved; another second the girls would have been pulverised by the two traps. However, escape would be hindered again as the group heard a familiar whine of a charging weapon. "What the slag…" began Tusklaw, but he was instantly interrupted when the obelisk fired a lancing blue beam of light, the same beam that shot the flyers from before. Only this time, Tusklaw quickly headed towards the kids in vehicle mode, but with the incoming beam, he wasn't so sure if he was to make it in time even with Ice Freeze powerlinked to him on his side.
All of a sudden, what looked to be a miniature SR-91 Aurora stealth jet quickly attached itself to the Transmetal Maximal. However it appeared was quite unexpected, because it wasn't detected by radar. But what it did do was give Tusklaw the speed he needed to quickly save the kids and their Minicons just in time, when the obelisk finally stopped firing. What was left of that spot were a few remaining boulders, with a few of them demolished along with additional scorch marks on the ground.
"Alexis, Sureshock! Are you both okay?"
Alexis's eyes were still closed when she thought she and her friends were done for. After hearing Rad's voice, she slowly opened her eyes… only to find herself in the arms of her saviour. Both of them instantly blushing, the brunette quickly stammered, "I-I-I'm fine, thank you!" She then hopped out of his arms, standing up and blushing immensely. Rad rubbed his head in embarrassment. "T-t-that's okay Alexis, I-I-I wouldn't want to see you harmed!"
(Either way, Tusklaw, thanks for saving us four from that beam.) Smiled Sureshock. But a look of question appeared on the Maximal, who was now in robot mode. "But that's not my top speed… who did…"
(That would be me, sir!) Replied a voice, as the six beings looked up. Floating near the tree branches was a Minicon, obviously designed for flight, with a colour scheme of red, gunmetal black and gold. His seeker like appearance and the crossing of his arms seemed to show a bit of superiority in his pose. His jet cockpit and neck became the legs and feet while the back portion had already swivelled into the upper torso. His wings were positioned upside-down to the sides of his arms, while the thrusters were somehow positioned to the back of him. Finally, a streamlined helmet protected his head, which also has a pair of red optics and a pair of winglike appendages on the sides of his helmet.
Ice Freeze couldn't help but be pleased at the sight of a new Minicon. (It seems you haven't been offline for long. Who are you?)
Saluting the group, the Minicon responded, (I only just woke up about three deca-cycles ago, slept for a few weeks before us Minis woke up. By the way, the name's Blitzwing, at your service, and I shall be your tour guide around my flying island!)
"Wait a second," exclaimed Alexis. "You mean this island was designed by the Minicons?"
(Designed by me personally.) Replied the jet with an air of self-confidence, until a ham-sized stone suddenly hit him on his head, in addition to another voice, (Egotistical idiot. Don't take all credit for yourself, Blitzwing; we had our hand building this place too!)
The group turned around to see a trio of Minicons. One of them seemed to have parts of a crane for his alternate mode – as noted by the crane cab for his chest, and the body for his arms and legs. He also wore a black helmet with a stout pair of horns on it, and has a pair of blue optics. The second robot has the alternate form of a cement mixer, as aforementioned by the cement barrel on his right arm and the cab as his feet. He also has a blue T-shaped visor on his face. The final Minicon looked to be the leader of the group – with optics of gold that showed an air of rank. He also has a backhoe loader as his alternate mode, with the rear arm as his right arm.
"Whoa, who are you guys?" asked a stunned Rad, who, like the others, saw the new team of Minicons for the first time. The backhoe loader was the first to speak. (We're the Construction Minicon Team. I'm Scrapper, team leader of this unit. I see you're meet Blitzwing and his ego here…) he trailed, indicating the now sitting jet Minicon, who was rubbing his head in pain, grumbling, (Well I wanted to attract the tourist industry…)
Scrapper then indicated the two other Minicons beside him, starting off with the crane. (This one here's Grapple,) he said, while the said Minicon did a slight bow. (And the cement mixer's Mixmaster.) Unlike Grapple, Mixmaster replied, (Honoured to meet you.) In return, Tusklaw and the others also introduced themselves.
With that, the Construction Minicon leader warmly said, (Welcome to our Flying Island! It may not look like much, but this is our intention for a sanctuary for all Minicons. And we intend to keep it away from any enemies that try to disrupt the peace.)
"That explains the traps on this island. Not only that… argh!" Tusklaw never got the chance to finish as somehow, he began to sort out as electrical fields sparkled and crackled all over his robot form, causing him tremendously large amounts of pain. "What the…"
(Sorry, I forgot to mention, its best you transform back to your alternate mode,) Apologised Scrapper. (Somehow, the Minicon ship we were on has enough resources so we were able to create Energon, but because there was too much of it including the oil utilised on ground before it's quite unstable to most races.) Without any further questions, Tusklaw switched to beast mode. "I see what you mean – my Transmetal body's somehow soaked up some radiation. Judging by the concentration of Energon, it must have been enough to power this island. How was this place built anyway?"
(I haven't been awake for long,) Began Blitzwing. (But all I know is that these three were one of the few teams who weren't locked into stasis lock upon impact. Some of the ship parts, along with the most of the cargo must have landed, and I guess the Energon affected an oil source, turning it into raw, natural Energon. With a help of a few tribes, they were able to build this paradise, but we ran out of resources. Plus there was the hindering by three Minicon criminals so they had to seal their panels away, inside this obelisk. A few cycles later, that's when the team found, my panel, as myself. This place needed a stealth cover and I was the bot to do it!)
(Well at least you were good at something, Blitzwing – besides your ego.) Sighed Mixmaster, his words stinging. (What the slag you mean by that?!) Snapped the Aurora in return.
(I'm saying, Blitzwing, besides your ego, you're the technical wizard when it comes to espionage. But what amazes me was to how you got onto the Military Command Team when you got the worst scores at military school, and that your ego got you into trouble at most.)
(Hey!)
(Knock it off, you two!) Yelled High Wire as he managed to settle the argument. (Now back to the question – you said this island was a paradise. And obviously the traps and the Energon concentration are designed for the 'Bulks'. How come us Minicons aren't affected?)
(Not that I don't trust you, but probably because since us Minicons made that Energon for the ship to carry, and before we came to Earth, we were modified to be shielded from it,) Replied Grapple. (The oil affected also became part of that Energon too, as part of the obstacles. And speaking of obstacles, it's best not to use Energon, laser or missile weapons on this island so you must be careful. And you unfortunately, you can't warp in or out of the island, or communicate as well.)
With a distant look, Tusklaw looked throughout this guarded but otherwise peaceful land. "Then for now… let us not be invaders… but visitors to the island." He didn't have enough time to muse around as he suddenly sensed something… and that something wasn't good.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
"Heeheeheeheeheehee… so this is the place," mused Tarantulas as he and his crew met up with Soundwave in the Himalayas. "Those flyers certainly lack intelligence as witnesses but their description does match it. Have you discovered what's inside the cloud yet?"
Scanning around for Fractyl, the communications officer was quick to spot them as the pterodactyl Decepticons made their way back to his master. "Report Fractyl. Show visuals."
Beaming the screen onto the nearby wall, the four Decepticons and one Predacon watched the scene. The screen showed the journey the Compacticon made as he flew into the clouds. As the clouds cleared away from screen, it showed a magnificent view, a balance of a tropical ecosystem and an urban residential area. But that's not what they were looking for, as the visuals continued. As the pterodactyl's flight continued, it came what it was looking for – a large obelisk the size of a Cybertronian building, supported by a base with staircases leading inside. Strangely enough, how it got there was quite a mystery, as it was unknown where that came from. But it was no doubt the center of power – and as an added bonus, on the side of the pyramid-shaped point was a familiar blue symbol… in fact, it was the Minicon insignia. With that in mind, Fractyl began to fly back, but not until it sighted a set of footprints – multiple sets – which could mean one thing; the humans, the Maximal and their Minicons survived. Somehow later, the screen shook, showing the Compacticon experience signs of Energon build-up. With no time to loose, he quickly rocketed back, and the film ended.
"So what was with the turbulence?" demanded Demolishor when the recording was finished.
"It means, Demolishor, we're going to have some trouble – considering that Fractyl collected the stats on the Energon on this island. And that Tusklaw and the others survived." Replied Sideways.
"Well what are we waiting for?" exclaimed Shatterbelt, who was impatient as always. "Lets just nick whatever Minicons built the island, and secure the Energon and the island for Megatron himself! Piece of cake!"
"Before you decided to get yourselves scrapped, I brought along these," interrupted Tarantulas as he produced some small microchips for the rest of the group, minus Soundwave who was ordered to return to base by Megatron. "In case of a mission involving Energon Surges, these should absorb the radiation." After giving the three some grappling guns as well, they then proceeded to boarding the island.
But their efforts did not go unnoticed when two familiar Autobots and one Maximal arrived at the scene in robot mode, clearly surprised. "What's this?" questioned Blurr as he magnified his vision. "The spider and co. manages to lasso a cloud? Strangely enough, they actually succeed for once."
"There's no time to comment the opposition Blurr!" snapped Hotshot, who was impatient as ever. "We have to follow them before they disappear inside that cloud or whatever it is."
"No choice but to follow them, Hotshot. Carefully." Finished Aura, as she transformed into her beast mode. After Blurr also transformed into vehicle mode, the three warriors quickly powerlinked with their partners, and flew after the enemy. But in return, before the opposition disappeared into the cloud, Demolishor was quick to spot the flyers following them…
Minicon Flying Island…
After coming out of his hiding place, an annoyed look appeared on Tusklaw's mammoth head. "Damn Fractyl. If he came just to scope out this land of peace, it wouldn't be peaceful for very long."
"Then what are we supposed to do?" Alexis inquired, as she became worried. "If the island is in danger…"
(Not if, Little Lady,) Blitzwing interrupted, (When…) but that was when Grapple blurted out, (I knew it wasn't a good idea to get others involved. Now this island would be all for naught.)
"Is there something wrong, Grapple?" asked a concerned Rad. The crane replied, (Sorry Rad – I shouldn't get all worked up and all especially when the island's at stake.) That was when Scrapper answered, (Grapple's one of the best architects on Cybertron and in our team – most of the work he's done were so good they were like art to him. But now with the war, he tends to get depressed when his projects are destroyed. And that island was going to be a sanctuary for the Minicons by the way – where Minicons can live without being invaded.)
Sureshock placed a reassuring arm on Grapple's shoulder. (I'm not sure if the island would be saved, but we'll do whatever we can to defend it. All we need now are some reinforcements.) Slowly nodding his thanks, Grapple quickly detected a familiar, birdlike cry. (Is that…) he trailed, as he saw three familiar shapes in the air. For a moment, there was relief…
That is, until Demolishor decided to launch one of this missiles, which sailed through the sky. And unfortunately, it made a direct hit on Aura's chest, sending her spiralling down onto the island, with Hotshot and Blurr quickly following her. Demolishor however, let an ecstatic cheer.
"Aura!" cried Alexis as she saw the phoenix fall. Just as she and the others headed towards the trio, she heard the familiar whine of the charging beam. And a second later, it fired, scattering the Predacon and the three Decepticons. Fortunately for them, the beam didn't send them off the island.
Whistling, Shatterbelt couldn't help but be amazed by the weapon's power. "You gotta admit, for Minicons they sure know how to put together kickass weaponry!"
Tarantulas shook his head at the simplicity at the situation. "You do realise that if we fire, that obelisk would hit us! We have to tread carefully if 'we' are going to obtain that island's power for Megatron!"
"And who knows what traps this place has…" added Sideways, as the group proceeded to enter inside the island. But as they did, Demolishor had a suspicious feeling that their Predacon scientist was not to be trusted…
Later…
"Aura! Aura, can you hear us?"
Groaning, the Transmetal Phoenix can back online after hearing Tusklaw's voice. "Ow… I can't believe I was this stupid to get hit… especially after telling Hotshot and Blurr to be careful…"
"Is she going to be okay?" asked a worried Hotshot, who was in vehicle mode after hearing the warning. Tusklaw's reply was grim since somehow the Energon radiation was interfering with his recovery powers. As a result, she was healed halfway. "All she needs is some rest," he said. "Her beast mode will make the rest of the repairs but it will take time."
"But what about Tarantulas, Sideways, Demolishor and Shatterbelt?" demanded Blurr. "We have to stop them!"
"Don't worry, Blurr. Thanks to the Construction Team, they gave me permission to mobilise my Cyber bat Frostbite and Blitzwing to base with a message while Aura was unconscious. With any luck, they should have the message right about… now."
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"It's a good thing you didn't fire, Smokescreen." Optimus sighed in relief when Frostbite and Blitzwing warped to the base. Most of the team have gathered at the control room to find out what's going on.
"C'mon Optimus, you know how I react at times to unknown signals but with Frostbite there, something's up."
"And besides – he missed." muttered Bladestriker under her breath causing Smokescreen to snap. Blitzwing was darting about fuming about bots jumping to conclusions and trigger fingers when Optimus ordered silence. When all was ready, Frostbite opened up its screen, and it showed a familiar face.
"Tusklaw and the others – they're alright!" cheered Tomoyo, who was glad to see that her friends are still alive. Then the message began so they all listened.
"Attention Autobot/Maximal HQ! This is a Code 1 Emergency Message from Tusklaw. The others have arrived for the rescue but Aura's injured. We are stranded on a flying island, built and designed by the Minicons. This island is a combined balance of a self-contained ecosystem and urban area, and weapons and traps of simple but powerful design guard it. It was planned to be a sanctuary for the Minicons as a land of peace. It also has a very high concentration of Energon and that you are unable to warp to this location. Tarantulas, Sideways, Demolishor and Shatterbelt are already on this island! If they gain control of this island, they'll not only destroy the base…" Simultaneously, Wipeout, Scavenger and Fred yelled, "WHAT?!" just before the message ended with,
"AND WIN THE GREAT CYBERTRONIAN WAR!"
New Minicons: Grapple, Mixmaster and Scrapper (Construction Minicon Team), and Blitzwing
Minicon Sub-Unit Identification
CONSTRUCTION MINICON TEAM
Name:
GRAPPLE
Alternate
Form: Crane
Name:
MIXMASTER
Alternate
Form: Cement Truck
Name:
SCRAPPER
Alternate
Form: Backhoe Loader
Faction:
MINICON
Function:
Construction/Engineering
Abilities:
None
Quote:
"Accomplishment is a goal worth building for!"
When it comes to construction and architect planning, these tough little guys really know how to get the building job done. For many eons, even before the war, GRAPPLE, MIXMASTER, and SCRAPPER have trained themselves to help other races speed up the work for new projects, when requested on Planet Cybertron during the times of peace. Unfortunately the Great War usually limited their projects, but though they weren't designed for war, these MINICONS are always ready to shine out. Combining GRAPPLE's planning, MIXMASTER's strength, and finally, SCRAPPER's leadership, these attributes make them a favoured team for AUTOBOT, MAXIMAL, DECEPTICON, and PREDACON alike.
Strength
- 9.0
Intelligence
- 7.4
Speed
- 6.0
Endurance
- 9.0
Rank
- 5.5
Courage
- 8.9
Fireblast
- 4.2
Skill
- 8.2
To be continued…
FG: Something tells me this: should I change Tusklaw's profile slightly, or should I leave it that way in Chapter 5? I just thought I'd give him some development in the fic. And also, it's about time we have some good-guy construction Minicons too! Not only that, for those who read the Dreamwave comics of Transformers Armada, you may find that there are some references to them.
Also, just in case you didn't check my profile page, I'm now a Deviantartist in Just so you know, I go by the name, Blackvegetable, and I'm an origami folder! Besides that, in a few weeks time, I hope I'd gain my job as a Mail Officer soon! Though I still have to study for my learners…
Just to finish things off, I hope everybody has a lovely Christmas, and that New Year was a breeze too! In the meantime, take care!
This is Final Genesis, signing out!
P.S: Read and Review!
