Before beginning this chapter, a bit of Transformers News to share. See, I downloaded a game on my phone that is called 'Transformers: Forged to Fight'. From what I could understand, it is a Mortal Kombat like fighting game where you journey throughout an unknown planet and fight a variety of Autobots and Decepticons across many universes. From what I saw is that they have characters from G1, Beast Wars, and the movieverse. Looks pretty cool and shows a lot of potential. Course I'm using an old phone from my family so it could get a little choppy for me. But I can get the use of it. Still, I wonder what type of characters they have in that game. I mean if they have the G1, Beast Wars and Movieverse versions, will there be characters from other series such as in Armada, Energon, Prime, or the two Robots in Disguise series. The possibilities are quite endless. I might have to look this one up and see what other characters they have. Still, big recommendation for those that want to give this game a try.
Checking on the last chapter, it looks really good. Four full reviews and almost 400 hits. I always knew that my own version of season 3 of Transformers Prime is the popular thing on my Fanfiction page. Wish all my other stories had that type of popularity. Oh well, it is what it is. Still, the most popular one is the first episode of this arch. This one however, not so much. Since this is a crossover story, not everyone would notice this story at all since they will get confused by an episode five instead of an episode four. But they'll figure it out and looked through my profile page to find episode four. So we shall see about that.
Now on this chapter of Family, Jack and June were shocked that John and Elsa came and are kidnapped by the Cons. How will they be able to rescue them? Will they give Starscream his ransom in exchange for them? And what of John and Elsa? Will they discover the truth of what happened to June and Jack? So many questions, so little time, all of which will be answered now.
Chapter Notes
In this chapter there will be a scene from one of my earlier episodes when I started. It's a little something that would fit John searching for answers and getting them in the worse way. Not going to explain much, but giving the situation, you will already know it by the time you read it.
Disclaimer: I don't own Transformers Prime or Gunslinger Girls
Chapter Eleven: Dark Revelations
In the Lake Eerie base, everyone stood silent as they witnessed Starscream's newest guests, John and Elsa. They knew that they were taken when one of the highways leading to Detroit was destroyed and the group was captured. They never imagined that they would see them imprison against their will and being used as ransom. Those that were worse were Jack and June, as they never imagined John and Elsa here, and taken. Jack stood there in complete shock as his processor was trying to calculate the situation. Not finding an answer, he looked the leader and demanded what he just saw.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Did… Did my optics deceive me? Tell me that wasn't who I think it was. Did my father and Elsa get taken by the Cons?"
Optimus remained silent as he turned away, realizing that the truth was out before he said it. Looking up to his student, he answered the best he can.
Optimus Prime: "I'm sorry, Rodimus, but it's the truth. Your father and Elsa came back to the states only a few solar cycles ago."
Rodimus blinked and demanded why they came.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "But why? Why could they come back here?"
Optimus just sighed and told him the complete truth.
Optimus Prime: "Because he is looking for you."
Jack remained silent and didn't think that he could get an answer like that.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Wha…"
Optimus then explained by telling the whole story.
Optimus Prime: "Apparently, your father was worried of you and your mother, since the attack of Jasper. So much so, that he left the Agency to find the two of you."
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "And how did they manage to find out we're here?"
Ratchet then came in and answered his question.
Ratchet: "Obvious he did some research on where you currently live and used any means necessary for find you both. Guess he figured things out by knowing where Miko's host parents and Raf's family lives and came to Detroit to look for you."
Optimus then decided to continue where the medic left off.
Optimus: "And due to his investigation, led him to this base and came here while you, Altra, and Arcee left."
Now Jack was in a state of shock as he realized that John and Elsa were at the base today.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "They were here?! As in, in the base here?! How did they manage to find it?"
Before anyone answered, Smokescreen came in and decided to speak to him about that.
Smokescreen: "That would be me. Apparently, this Elsa chick placed a tracing device on me in my vehicle form while I was picking up the kids, without me knowing it. They figured out our base in here and found of the secret entrances around the lake. Didn't know it until they came in and said it."
Rodimus turned to him and rolled his optics around over the whole thing.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "You know, you're really are too distracted when it comes to being an Elite Guard member."
He soon turned to the Prime and wondered about if they knew the whole truth.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Still… There is the question of what you said about my mom and me. Have you told him everything about us? Like, everything?"
Optimus lowered his head and took a deep breath, explaining the best he could.
Optimus Prime: "I only told that you and you mother were out and would return later. I didn't state anything of what really happened to you two. Still, they would be coming tomorrow to find the both of you again. Of course, that was before the Decepticons caught them."
The new Prime sighed in relief and was glad that they didn't know what really happened to them. Yet, there's a question of anyone knowing of this.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Yet you didn't tell me about this until now. Did anyone else know of this? Anyone?!"
He turned to the others and demanded if they knew of this. They all remained silent as they turned their heads with a bit of shame on them. The Prime in training backed up and immediately knew the truth.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "You all found out. Yet, you never told me of this? Why?!"
They all looked to each other and wondered how to explain this. That's when Raf and Miko approached him and explained their meeting with his father.
Raf/Firewall: "Well, Mr. Darby came to our school yesterday and caught us by surprise."
Miko/Kaosu: "Totally. He was giving us twenty questions in asking about you guys. We tried to keep what really happened a secret and stall as much as possible."
That's when Vince approached the edge of the lounge and rested his arms on the railing to explain further.
Vince: "And I saw Elsa after taking care of a few bullies. She said the same thing in looking for you. I told her as much as possible, leaving the whole 'they are turned into robots' part."
That's when Fowler, who witnessed the whole discussion on his computer, decided to finish this up.
Agent Fowler: "And he contacted me after I was at the general's office on any potential candidate for my position as liaison. He wanted to know what happened and I had to leave the human to bot thing on the DL."
Rodimus gave a deep sigh and could tell that he was being kept in the dark of the whole thing. Optimus though decided to ease things through and explain him of what transpired.
Optimus Prime: "Rodimus, you are right to be mad at us. But please understand we did what we did for your own protection. You father and Elsa still don't know what really happened to the two of you. And if they ever found out about you, then there will be complications between the four of you. Please understand that until the time is right, we need to make sure that your secret is well hidden. Do you understand?"
Jack turned to the leader and was a little sad about this whole thing.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Sure thing, Optimus, I understand. But that doesn't mean you could keep all this from me. Even worse is that now my dad and Elsa are caught by Cons and are held for ransom. I just wish I wasn't in this situation that I am now. I… I should go to my room and be alone with my thoughts. Excuse me…"
He walked away from the group and headed to the dormitories to be alone in his room. As he left, the group remained standing there and was silent of what happened. Giving the situation they were in, they never thought that Jack's response was something like a dejected child. The only bot that didn't get involved in this argument was June. She was watching the whole scene and decided to not get involved. She felt sorry for Jack on John and Elsa coming and the team keeping this a secret until Starscream showing them on the screen. But as he was upset about it, she couldn't help but to put herself to blame, since she is the one that didn't contact John when she was taken and turned into a Cybertronian. And now it's hurting his son and she needs to comfort him. Slowly walking up to the Autobot leader, she requested something.
June/Altra: "Optimus?"
He turned to see her and wondered what she wants.
June/Altra: "Permission to speak to my son? Someone needs to comfort him and I think I should be the one since I'm his mother."
Optimus looked on and wondered if that was wise. Of course, giving the situation that just happened, he needed someone to look after the young Prime and she could be the one for the job. So with a quick nod, he decided to let her speak to Jack.
Optimus Prime: "Of course… Go on right ahead. He might need you more then ever."
June nodded as she follows Jack through the dormitory. As soon as the two left, Arcee decided that she had enough and decided to speak to Optimus of what just happened.
Arcee: "Optimus, I know what you are trying to do was right in not telling John or Elsa of what happened to June and Jack. But now this situation is far worse as Starscream has them in his possession. And giving the radical demands he has given it will not only worsen the situation, but also complicates how we tell them of what happened to the rest of the family. What are we going to do?"
Optimus thought this one through and decided to begin tracking Scream's call, to see where they will be meeting him.
Optimus Prime: "While the situation is grave, we must not loose John and Elsa from Starscream's clutches."
He turned to Firewall and asked for a quick favor.
Optimus Prime: "Firewall, see if you can track Starscream's private frequency. It's obvious that he's keeping his comm. on on purpose just to have us meet him."
The hacker turned to him and nodded
Raf/Firewall: "On it, sir."
He quickly approached the terminal and placed his digits in the keys, typing away. At the same time, his compartments opened and the cables came out and connected to the slots Ratchet installed for the hacker to gain any access he pleases. The data streamed down his visor as he was keeping track on that frequency call Starscream still has. As he was tracking the ship, Wheeljack approached Prime and explained about the situation.
Wheeljack: "Listen boss-bot, I appreciate the fact that we need to save these two humans. But with all due respect, do you really think we can accept Starscream's offer and give him everything he wanted? That is a bit extreme if you ask me."
Smokescreen then went next to him and was in complete agreement.
Smokescreen: "I agree with Wheeljack. We nearly risked our sparks in saving you and the relics and we have an actual base the Cons don't know about. It's bad enough that I have to give up my Phase Shifter after I retrieved it from them. But giving the Cons the location of our base, we might as well think of surrendering them the rest of the planet while we're at it."
Optimus heard the complaints from the two and knew what they meant when it comes to negotiations.
Optimus Prime: "I am fully aware of the situation and understand the grasp of it. While I do not want to surrender all that we have rebuilt, I cannot let two more innocent lives be taken by the Cons."
Arcee crossed her arms and still wasn't sure of this.
Arcee: "Okay… But this is Starscream we're talking about. The slagger is a manipulator, a deceiver, and lowlife that likes to hurt others to please himself. I should know… He took Cliffjumper away from me…"
She turned her head in disgust and was seething over the whole thing. Optimus thought of this and was in agreement with her. They do not want to surrender the relics and their base location, yet they cannot let more humans get taken from them. Rubbing his chin, he thought of something and spoke to the others about it.
Optimus Prime: "Maybe there is a way in saving John and Elsa while keeping our relics and the secret base."
The group heard him and started to wonder what he was planning.
Ratchet: "You have a plan, Optimus? Well then tell us what it is!"
Optimus looked towards the team and wondered if they're ready for it.
Optimus Prime: "I will… But keep in mind, it is something that most of you won't like."
Meanwhile, up in the sky, the Nemesis was flying high in the air, reaching to the meet up where the Autobots would make a trade. Starscream was up on the bridge looking to the view of the sky and waiting until they reach their destination. One of the drones then spoke to him of the status report.
"Commander Starscream. We are approaching the meeting point. ETA; ten breems."
Starscream heard him and was pleased with the news.
Starscream: "Steady a course, and make sure the ship is hovered over the trading site above the clouds. I do not want to cause any panic from the humans, yet…"
As the flagship was approaching its destination, the door opened up and Knockout came in, asked of the commander's plan.
Knockout: "Starscream, I'm fully aware that we are all desperate in eliminating the Autobots and conquering this planet. But with all due respect, this is a little extreme, even for you. Are you really going to make that huge of a risk, just to have Megatron gain your trust?"
Starscream turned to him and told him that he has everything under control.
Starscream: "Knockout, I understand your concern, but this is something that must be done. Megatron needs my trust as a commander of his armada. And the last thing I want is to get exiled, yet again. This ransom of those two humans would help me in getting into our lord's graces."
The doctor rolled his eyes and could tell that he had forgotten something.
Knockout: "And what about our mission? We were suppose to find out on how the Autobot's human companions turned into Cybertronian. Now you're trying to do this in an attempt of improve on our master's trust. Don't you think that maybe what we have is proof enough that he would accept it?"
Starscream sighed and told him that he has some.
Starscream: "Oh, I got proof, so far. Just going to need to see what Soundwave managed to recover. But if I give him what he wants, then perhaps there won't be any more doubts between Megatron and myself. I will be set for life!"
Knockout: "And what about the Autobots? Will they be able to accept your ransom and trade those humans with all those things you wanted? For all I know is that they won't be fooled easily by your promise."
Starscream turned to the medic and assured him that it was going to work.
Starscream: "Oh, they'll pull through with their side of the bargain. After all, they're weakness is the protection of humanity. And giving that those two are close to that team, Optimus and his rag tag group would have no choice in saving them, especially when we'll kill those humans soon after. Two more casualties in this war, I say."
By the time he said that, the door opened again and this time, Soundwave came out of it. Scream slanted to the side to see him and was pleased that he had come.
Starscream: "Ah… Soundwave. What an opportune time in coming here. I need you to start alerting the humans around the area to evacuate. I want our trade with the Autobots to be a private affair and do not want any humans to witness it. I don't want complications…"
Soundwave remained silent and stood there like that of a robot, even if he actually is. The commander looked to him and wondered what's the hold up. He quickly marched towards him and demanded why he isn't sending the message."
Starscream: "What are you doing, Soundwave, deliver that message to the humans so we can be alone with the Autobots!"
He got a closer look at the screen and wondered if there is something he needed. That's when the monitor was turned on and it showed the progression bar fully at 100%. Scream saw this and realized what he's trying to tell him.
Starscream: "What's this? You have fully recovered the data we gathered in those human terminals?"
The Intelligence Officer nodded in response as Scream bashed him for not showing it.
Starscream: "Well, what are you waiting for? Show me!"
Soundwave responded by showing the information he gathered on his visor from any known detail that he has. Scream and Knockout looked to this and could tell that most of the information is tempting. But the one thing that caught the doctor off guard was the logo in the middle that had the planet with a cog wheel border and the title that was very familiar.
Knockout: "MECH…? Wait a nano click! I know them! They were the ones that dissected Breakdown and used his hallow shell as a vessel for Silas."
Starscream heard him and remembered that group as well.
Starscream: "Indeed… They are the same ones that took my old T-Cog as well. So MECH is the one responsible for turning those humans into Cybertronians. Question is, why?"
He looked through the information and noticed what appears to be a bunch of video logs within one of the windows. He soon told him to open it.
Starscream: "Soundwave… Those video files… Play one of them."
Soundwave nodded and clicked on the video file from the list. From there, a video recording popped up show a shadowed man sitting on his desk looking confident and stern. Though the commander didn't get a chance seeing this person's face he could hear him in that southern accent, explaining of past events.
Director: "The uneventful betrayal of Silas was is bit of a blow throughout MECH. Still, his unexpected departure could leave opportunities for me. See, while Silas's Project Chimera had some possibilities, his idea of controlling it like a remote control car tends to have some flaws. In order to create a perfect robotic soldier, one must have a soul to match that of the body. See, by obtaining Silas's files and the combination of ingenuity by Professor Sumdac and the energon searches, I have finally been able to complete my own experiment. All I needed are a few test subjects that would prove that it works. I already got Commander Rourke and his men dispatched to retrieve these test subjects. They are of course friends of these Autobots and they would be perfect for experimentation. I promise the board that Project Metamorphosis will succeed as planned. Let us hope that all that hard work has paid off."
The video soon stopped as the window closed. Both Starscream and Knockout watched it all as the medic was intrigued by it.
Knockout: "Hmm… Project Metamorphosis, huh? That sounds a little interesting…"
Starscream thought of that too and decided to keep checking the rest of them out.
Starscream: "Open the rest of the videos. I need to see more of this experiment MECH performed."
Soundwave nodded as he opened up the next video for more information.
Back at the base, Optimus explained on his plan and given enough details in how it will go down. The team listened in and didn't like where this plan was going.
Bulkhead: "You're kidding us, right? You want us to do that?! With all due respect, sir, I do believe your time in Darkmount must've made you loose some of your processor power."
Arcee then was next to him and explained about it to.
Arcee: "I agree with Bulkhead, Optimus. This is the worse idea you can come up with!"
Optimus understood his team's concerned and explained that it was the only option they have.
Optimus Prime: "While it isn't much of a wise decision, it is the only way in saving John and Elsa."
Arcee crossed her arms and didn't like it at all.
Arcee: "Even so, it is the heaviest risk you've made so far. I'm all up for saving those two from the Cons, but what you're saying is downright ludicrous!"
Fowler was watching the whole thing go down on the live feed and spoke to him of this.
Agent Fowler: "Arcee is right, Prime. Of all the missions that almost got yourself into trouble, this one takes the biggest piece of the American apple pie. What makes you think this plan is going to pull through?"
Optimus turned to him on the screen and answered the most honest way he can.
Optimus Prime: "Because you have to trust me on this mission and see it succeed all the way through. With John and Elsa in grave danger, we must pull all the stops that we have in order to rescue them."
Ratchet the approached his side and asked of one part of the plan.
Ratchet: "As much as I appreciate this plan of yours Optimus, are you sure it is wise to bring them along? It could risk the mission, let alone the safety of John and Elsa."
He turned to the medic and told him that it is the best he has.
Optimus: "While it is a risk in having them on this mission, it is the only way in saving the two humans. If we do not pull this off, we will not be seeing John and Elsa again."
The rest of the team heard him and knew that they have no other option left on the table. He soon turned to Arcee and told her to get the two Cybertronians not present just now.
Optimus Prime: "Arcee, bring Jack and June back here. I'm certain that the young Prime has already calm down."
The femme nodded as she left the command center and headed to the barracks the other two went into. Once she left, Optimus turned to the others and gave them the orders.
Optimus Prime: "Once Firewall is able to pinpoint the actual location of the meet up with Starscream, we will begin with the mission. Ratchet, you, Bulkhead, and Wheeljack head to the treasury to gather all that we need and place them in my trailer truck when we get a lock on Starscream's position. We need to be prepared when we roll out."
Ratchet heard that and realized something.
Ratchet: "But Optimus… You're still recovering! You are not clear for active duty yet, even if you are a Prime!"
Optimus turned to him and told him that it will be all right.
Optimus Prime: "While my injuries would slow me down, it doesn't mean that I can still fight for what I believe in. And what I believe in is to make sure the no more humans will suffer from the Decepticons wrath, including John and Elsa. We cannot let them die in our watch, no matter what. I just pray that no harm had come to them."
Back at the Nemesis, Starscream and Knockout watched every video log that was made and knew what really happened. Knockout especially as he rubbed his metal chin with interest.
Knockout: "Huh… So that's how those new Cybertronians are made. Very unique if I do say so myself."
Starscream though looked to him and wasn't impressed.
Starscream: "Oh please… Is that how they created these new soldiers of theirs? Turning them into energon, altering their genetic structure, and shocking them back to life? It's almost like they want to become the next Primus, which is against all things that our creator stands for. How pitiful…"
The medic though looked to him and told him that it would be something they should do.
Knockout: "Still… Don't you think that maybe we could've done that for our armada. I mean, we have a huge army, maybe it would be best if we use this information to make it bigger."
Scream turned to him and decided to let him know that it was not the case.
Starscream: "As much as we can improve our ranks, I still think that it is extremely unsanitary that we turn the very things we despise into one of us. I don't believe Megatron would approve of that."
He soon thought of something and had a wicked grin on his face.
Starscream: "Looking at all of the evidence, however, this does open the door to other opportunities."
He turned to the Intel officer and told him to go with the commander.
Starscream: "Come with me, Soundwave."
He soon walked away as the Intel officer followed him. Knockout looked to this and was confused at what was going on.
Knockout: "Um… Where do you think you're going, commander?"
Scream stopped as the door opened in front of him. Without turning, he explained what he's going to do.
Starscream: "Why, I'm going to see our little guests and show them something. Let me know when we're at the meeting point."
So he started to walk away with Soundwave following, closing the door behind them. That left the medic starring on and was dumbfounded.
Knockout: "Okay…"
Back at the holding cell, both John and Elsa were still kept hanging as they had to find a way in escaping. Still, with them suspended in the air with stasis cuffs and electric chains, there is no way in making their way out of this. John slowly turned to see his fratello and asked if she's all right.
John Darby: "Elsa…? Can you hear me?"
Elsa heard him and turned to respond.
Elsa de Sica: "Yes… I hear you."
John Darby: "How are you holding up…?"
Elsa grunted and told him that she's fine.
Elsa de Sica: "I'll manage…"
John chuckled and never thought she could survive that.
John Darby: "Good… I'm surprised that you can take that much punishment. No one would survive something like that. How did you do that?"
Elsa sighed and remembered about the changes in her body.
Elsa de Sica: "I don't know… But my guess is that the changes in my body have made me more impervious to pain. So I guess that all the energon coursing through me is just a mere tickle compared to what a normal person feels."
John heard that and couldn't help but to feel relieved by it.
John Darby: "You are always full of surprises, huh Elsa?"
She nodded and smiled to him. He too smiled back before he got serious and decided to focus on getting out.
John Darby: "Regardless, we can't get out of this prison and find a way out. Do you know anything in your arsenal?"
Elsa shook her head and responded.
Elsa de Sica: "I don't think so… Whatever is happening to me, there is still doubt that I could make my own escape. But I got to figure out what else I have that could be effective."
John Darby: "Well you better make it quick. There's no telling when that Con is going to show up."
By the time he said it, he could hear the sound of metal steps getting closer. Elsa heard it too and knew what it meant.
Elsa de Sica: "Too late… Here he comes!"
The two turned to the cell door and waited for it to open. Once the footsteps made an immediate stop, the door slip open and Starscream came in with a cocky confidence on his face. Behind him was Soundwave this time, as he stepped in and was by your side. The two soon approached the prisoners as Starscream decided to speak to John of something. The Darby though wouldn't let down as he decided to play it cool.
John Darby: "What do you want this time, Starscream. I already told you that I won't tell you of the location of the Autobots base. So don't waste my time."
The commander though wasn't going to do that as he got close to him and decided to let something out.
Starscream: "Oh, I have all the time that I need, human. And I'm going to use that time to have a little chat with you."
John Darby: "And what, pray tell, do you want to speak about?"
Scream gave a low laugh as he decided to discuss about what they were talking about earlier.
Starscream: "You've stated before that you are the sire and companion of the two humans that the Autobots have. Tell me, how long since you last saw them?"
John looked to the commander and could tell that he was planning something. Wish he knew what it was. He decided to play this game and explained as much as he could.
John Darby: "Last time I saw them is when I was leaving from Jasper, after saving Elsa and recovering the Intel you Cons took from the agency. Optimus promised me that he will keep them safe. Though I find it highly unlikely since I came back and he told me that I'm not ready to see them yet. Wish I knew why?"
Starscream could see that he was telling the truth and knew that he was right.
Starscream: "At least he's being honest. But I do believe why he told you not to see them."
John looked to him with a deep stare and wonder what he meant by that.
John Darby: "What are you talking about?"
Starscream soon got him where he wants him and decided to let him know of something.
Starscream: "You see, Mr. Darby, Optimus is keeping a deep and dark secret from you. See, while you left, a lot has changed during your absence. Not only that the Autobot/Decepticon war was revealed when we attack your home, but you family has changed, in the worse of ways."
John heard that and was really confused.
John Darby: "You do you mean by a dark secret? What changes?"
Now that got his attention, as Starscream decided to show him.
Starscream: "Oh, I would like to explain everything in fine detail. But why don't I show you, what you humans call, a wake up call. Soundwave?"
He turned to the Intel officer and waves him to show the Darby something. He nodded and approached the prisoners while the commander stepped back. He soon was in front of the two prisoners and got down to the level where they could see his visor. Almost immediately, the screen was turned on and showed static. John starred at the screen and wondered what this Con was up to. But when the screen changed, he saw something really shocking. He saw what looked like his wife and son inside a strange glass tube of some kind, along with Raf and Miko. His eyes were wide and were completely surprised by this.
John Darby: "June!? Jack!?"
In this video a mysterious man was in the view looking to the four as he was explaining something with his southern like accent.
Director: "You see, Silas's Project Chimera had proven so much for our cause. Our technology, combined with the alien's biology had proven to be quite an effective weapon. Unfortunately for him, he failed to accomplish one thing. For even though he created the body of their kind…"
Raf: "He didn't create the soul of one."
He looked at the young boy and smiled at his answer.
Director: "Quite perceptive of you Mr. Esquivel! Quite perceptive indeed. You see, although Silas understood the Cybertronian's structure and inner workings, he failed to grasp the understanding of their soul. All he created was a lifeless, mindless, soulless machine without any thought or feelings. Such a shame that it was laid to waste. But what he lost, I gained. With him gone, I now have possession of all the research Silas made since he discovered this alien race. What I discovered is that they are sort of like us. Aside from the few variations we lack, we have such strong similarities, from genders, to what keeps us alive. After studying his research, I have found a way to create the perfect robotic soldier, both inside, and out. And you four, are going to help me make that possible."
Jack just heard every word he said and was getting uncomfortable with his words.
Jack: "What does it have to do with us?"
The Director turned to him and asked him something.
Director: "Have you ever gone to a science class Mr. Darby? Did they teach you about the metamorphosis of a butterfly, starting from a caterpillar to a cocoon, all the way to the final product? With the help of Professor Sumdac here, we have created the ultimate invention that is similar to the butterfly's lifecycle. Allow me to introduce you all to: Project Metamorphosis."
The second he said that, all the lights in the room went on as the camera panned to where they project was located. John got a good look at the screen and was incredibly shock by what he was witnessing. He could see a huge room, big enough for a robot to fit in. On the left, he saw large multiple berths, with wheels that can be moved remotely and a humanoid mold at the top. Above the berths were crane like arms meant to hold some kind of object. There was another command console next to the tanker with many laser-guided arms used for something important. And to top it all off, a huge tanker right behind the four. John looked to the sight of it and was extremely confused by it all.
John Darby: Wha… What is all this? Why are my family stuck in those tubes?!"
Starscream was starting to enjoy the show as he told him to keep looking.
Starscream: "Keep watching. It gets better…"
The audio was faint when the two were talking, but John got a chance hearing this southern guy explaining about the project.
Director: "See, by looking into Silas's research, I knew that what he was missing was to make his robot like that of a human, filled with feelings and emotions. This project is capable of fixing that problem. In short, like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly, all of this will turn a human into the kind that MECH has been interested in for some time."
There was a brief silence until Miko looked at this person and was a little confused.
Miko: "And what it that supposed to mean?"
Raf heard this too and tried to piece it all together. After gathering the information, the realization hit him as he turned to Miko for the answer.
Raf: "Don't you get it Miko? He said that all of this is used to turn humans into Cybertronians."
He then made one big gulp and realized what they were in for.
Raf: "And we're the first in line to take part in this."
John heard this and didn't think that was going to be possible.
John Darby: "Turning humans into Cybertronians? That's not scientifically possible. Is it?"
Scream was enjoying this and told him to continue watching.
Starscream: "Keep looking at the screen… You might be surprised…"
He John starred and the screen as the person that's holding his family captive started to explain about it.
Director: "Though I can't turn the four of you directly, I do know a way of doing it step by step. But perhaps a little presentation would be in order."
He walked away to what appeared to be a table with a wine glass and a metallic gray canister as the camera panned to him. John watched on and wondered what he was going to do to them. When he approached the table, he picked up the canister and slowly opened the lid. Once it was fully opened, he looked at the four and asked them a quick question.
Director: "Tell me my friends; can you guess what this is?"
He started to lift the container over the wine glass and poured it in. What came out of the container was a strange light blue liquid with a low glow to it. Looking at this liquid, Jack knew what it was.
Jack: "Uh guys? That's energon."
John heard that and was curious about that.
John Darby: "Energon? What does that have to do with my family?"
He continued to watch the visor as the person that captured them chuckled as he lifted the wine glass filled with the liquid and examined it.
Director: "Quite right, my dear boy. Energon. From what Silas added to one of his reports was that energon is the Cybertronian equivalent of human blood, and can be used for fuel, ammunition, and medicine. But what I've discovered is that this energon is actually the basic building blocks for creating these alien beings. Upon closer examination, I discovered that this energon has its own molecular structure, its own genetic code if you will. If I were able to alter that type of code, I could create the robotic soldiers needed to change history as we know it. The only problem is that the code is bland, impossible to alter. But there is an alternative solution."
Jack swallowed a lump in his throat and didn't like the sound of it.
Jack: "Alternative solution?"
The camera panned back to the four captured humans as the machine they were in started to hum to life as compartments behind and above them opened up. They didn't know that the scientists at the main computer had started to work on this project until it was too late. Red beams then came out and slowly started to scan them. The Director placed the glass on the table and headed back to the main console, explaining to them what they were in for.
Director: "You see this substance, like any other substance, is mostly made out of water. And believe it or not, the human body contains 35 liters of water along with some other saline fluids. The perfect opportunity to test out the first phase of my project, the caterpillar stage if you will. That huge tanker attached to your containers contains around 50,000 gallons of Energon, enough to create a huge army. It wasn't easy searching for untapped mines holding that much energon, but we were successful regardless. Once you all have been converged, we can use your genetic code to make some alterations. Making you more like your friends, if you will."
Jack heard all of this and wondered what he meant by "converged". But then it hit him. The energon, the containers, and this "first stage" he was talking about. He suddenly realized what he was going to do to them.
Jack: "You're going to turn us into energon?!"
John heard this and was shocked by what this guy's plan was.
John Darby: "What?! Turning humans to energon? And they're starting with my family. That's insane!"
Starscream heard him and told him that it wasn't.
Starscream: "That's where you are wrong, human. Just wait until you see the end result."
John heard this and looked to the screen to see the video still rolling and this person talking.
Director: "In order for me to create new life, I need to destroy the old. Sometimes success requires sacrifice, including human lives."
Miko turned back to the Director and had a disgusted look on her face.
Miko: "Dude, that's sick!"
The Director turned to her and responded.
Director: "Is that so? Well I'm not a sick man, girl. What I am is an innovator, trying to change history every second. This latest work will prove to the world that MECH is a dominating force. And what better way to test Project Metamorphosis than with the help of the Autobots' friends. You should feel lucky; you are going to take part in this wondrous event."
He turned to one of the scientists and gave a nod to begin. The four then heard a humming noise from behind and knew that the machine was distributing energon into their tubes. They heard compartments opening at the bottom of their tubes and looked down to see what was coming. What they saw was energon pooling around their feet and slowly rising. The glowing pool rose up to their knees, then their waist, then their chests, until they were swimming in the goo. Fear was accelerating in their hearts as the energon pool was filling the tube and their heads almost hit the ceiling. The Director looked on and was smiling at their predicament. He turned his back to them and headed to the console to complete the job leaving the view of the camera.
Director: "I should let you know that you won't be able to experience the rest of my project, given the condition you will soon be in. So whether this succeeds or fails, I would like to thank you for taking part in my grand achievement."
Miko decided to pull a last ditch effort and threatened this new leader.
Miko: "You are going to be so sorry for this, four eyes! When the Autobots rescue us, they are going to teach you a lesson!"
There was a short silence in the room as the Director listened to the girl's useless threat.
Director: "The Autobots? Rescue you? I'm counting on it…"
By the time he said that, the four tubes had electrical prods on the top and bottom and they started to glow brightly. Instantly, the four were shocked by multiple volts of electricity, each successive shock stronger than the last. June, Raf, and Miko screamed in pain as the electricity coursed through their body and the energon glowed brighter from the volts with Jack keeping his mouth shut during the whole torture. John watched on and struggled to get out of the cuffs after watching that torture. But it seemed fruitless as he was suspended in the air and the cuffs were difficult to get out. He soon watched the screen and saw something he never expected. What he saw are the bodies of him family, Raf, and Miko melting into the substance with high enough intensity and was combining with the energon. He starred with his jaw agape and was horrified at the sight of it.
John Darby: "My god…"
Back at the Autobot base, June was walking through the hall barracks to find her son. Looking around, she looked to the door leading to his room and knew that he was in there. Approaching that door, she gave a deep sigh and wondered if she would be ready for what he was going to say. She gently knocked on the door and asked if he was in there.
June/Altra: "Jack…? Sweetie…? Are you in your room? It's your mom. Can I come in? I want to speak to you about something."
There was a bit of silence as she waited to see if he would respond. After a few seconds, she could hear Rodimus's voice through the door.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Come in…"
By the time he said that, the door opened, letting Altra to get in. Taking a deep breath through the ventilation system, she entered his room and saw Rodimus sitting on his berth, looking right at the picture he recovered during the rescue mission at Darkmount. Seeing this, she decided to speak to him of how he's feeling.
June/Altra: "How are you holding up?"
Jack kept starring at the picture as he answered his mother's question.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Oh… Well… I'm feeling alright. I mean, other then seeing my own dad and Elsa captured by the Cons and held for ransom, and the fact that the rest of the team knew of them coming here before hand and not telling us till now, then yeah… Just dandy…"
The nurse heard him and knew that he was really bummed of what just happened. So she decided to head to his berth and sat next to him. She took a good looked at the damaged pictured frame and saw the group picture of them, Raf, Miko, the Autobots, and John and Elsa in the old base, way back when the two were once human. Looking to the picture, she couldn't help but to smile over the look of it.
June/Altra: "Ah… Isn't that sweet. It's us with John, Elsa, your friends, and the Autobots. This was when John and returning to Italy and thought we have a group picture before he was leaving. Always place it on the living room night stand to remind me of that occasion."
Jack nodded and remembered about that.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Yeah… Was able to recover this picture at our old home in Jasper during that rescue mission. It is the only thing that reminded me of what we were before… Well… What we have become."
He looked to his servo and flexed it, remembered that he used to have been human before MECH took them and experimented on them. Altra heard her son and sighed about what happened.
June/Altra: "Yes… How could I forget about that?"
Jack then took a breather and explained about what had happened in the command center.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "You know, I never imagined dad coming back to find us. I thought that he would stay in Italy, away from the whole Decepticon invasion. But now… After seeing him and Elsa on the video, held for ransom, and in grave danger… I don't know what to think. I know that everyone was keeping that secret from us for our own protection. But they should at least let us know about their arrival as soon as possible. Now the Cons have them and has threaten to kill them if the Bots don't give Starscream what they want. And I don't know who should I point blame on. Optimus? Fowler? Anyone on Team Prime? I never felt so conflicted in my life!"
He put his servo on his face and was completely overwhelmed of the whole situation. June looked to her son and felt sorry for what he's going through. After all, he had seen his dad and Elsa in the hands of the Decepticons. And now he doesn't know what to do. Seeing this, she decided to comfort him and told him all he needs to know. Placing her servo on his shoulder, she decided to calm his troubled processor.
June/Altra: "Jack… Listen… I know that you are going through so much right now, after what you saw. But please understand, the Autobots had a really good reason in keeping this from you. I mean, just look at us. We're no longer human! We have become Cybertron thanks to MECH and you are now a Prime. And your father, my husband, doesn't know of what really happened to us. Do you really think that if he found us and saw us like this, you think that he would be happy after seeing us looking like Autobots ourselves?"
Jack turned to her to see her Cybertronian body and realized what she meant.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "I guess you made a good point. If dad saw us like this, he would freak out."
June chuckled and was in agreement with what he said.
June/Altra: "Exactly! That is why Optimus and his team kept it a secret from us. Not only does it keep us safe, but it also prevents John from knowing what really happened to us. We all know what the end result was going to be John upset about it. Now as far as what you said before, you can't put blame on anyone in the team. If there's only one person you could blame on, it should be me."
Rodimus looked to her and was a bit shocked by it.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "You…? Seriously?! You're pulling my leg."
June/Altra: "No, it's true. See, I was planning on calling John to let him know that we're all right once everything was settled in the whole Jasper Invasion incident. But when we were being taken to be relocated and MECH attacked and took us to become their science experiment… I… I never got a chance to speak to him, cause I was afraid that he would get suspicious and come here to see us like… this! And now that he and Elsa came back and got taken by the Cons, I don't know what to do. If maybe I would've told him sooner, then none of us shouldn't be in this mess. I feel so sorry for what happened just now."
She slumped her shoulder blades and could feel at fault of the whole thing. Especially since June didn't tell him the moment things got settled before the MECH incident. Jack listened to her and understood why she didn't say it soon. He even couldn't help but to feel sorry for her. She was the one that kept speaking to his dad on hold and he understood that situation of what would happen. And now that it has gone down, there is no avoiding it. Sighing, he decided to comfort her by placing his servo to her knee and rubbed it.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Mom… I'm sorry… I never knew you kept this from me."
Altra sighed and knew that he didn't like what he heard.
June/Altra: "I suppose that you hate me for this, huh?"
Rodimus shook his head and explained about it.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "No, I don't hate you! To be honest, this is the same situation I had to go through when I had to keep the secret from the Autobots not long ago. And we all know how that went."
June shivered and remembered about that time.
June/Altra: "Don't remind me… I still have nightmares of that spider thing that wanted to melt my face."
The two were silent as Jack decided to say something about before.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Mom? Do you remember what you and Arcee told me a while ago?"
The nurse turned to her son and knew what he was saying.
June/Altra: "I do. That no matter what happens, we will always be a family."
Jack turned to her and said that she was right.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Exactly! Indeed, what you did was a bit questionable, but you're not the only one that kept a secret. I was the one that kept the secret from the Autobots from you for your own safety. Not only that, but dad kept the secret of the agency and their operations from us when he first came back. We didn't know of that until Airachnid decided to attack the both of us and Elsa. Not to mention Elsa revealed the secret to protect dad. Whatever the case, we all kept secrets from each other and felt sorry about it. However, giving the reprecautions that transpired, we all learn to accept it and move on to our lives. And that's what a family does. We worked together, we share each other's secrets, and we accept what we did and learn from them. And this secret you kept from him has led to dad and Elsa getting caught and being used as bargaining chips by the same enemy that took me and my friends to surrender the Omega keys. Now, we need to work together to save them, as a family."
June listened to him and was in strong agreement. He was right that it was her fault that she kept this secret that led to her husband and Elsa being taken by Cons. It is her fault that they are in this mess, and now she has to get them out of it. Giving this some serious thoughts, she decided to take his side and looked to her son with determination.
June/Altra: "You're right, Jack. We are a family! And as a family, we need to save John and Elsa from the Cons. It's my fault their in this mess, now it's our time to save them!"
The Prime in training smiled to her and was pleased with her decision. Just as she said that, the two heard a voice from in front of them.
Arcee: "And what better time then now?"
The two heard that and turned to that direction to see Arcee standing there, leaning on the open doorway. Rodimus blinked and was surprised she was there.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Arcee?! How long have you been there for?"
The femme rolled her optics around and answered back.
Arcee: "Not long… Though I did hear what you said. Certainly learned a valuable lesson, did ya?"
The new Prime turned red and turned away. Before things could get awkward, the two-wheeler got serious and told them to return.
Arcee: "Anyways, you are needed back at the command center, post haste. Optimus has a job for the two of you."
Both Darby's heard that and got off the berth, both of which having surprised looks on their faces.
June/Altra: "Has the team got a plan to save John?"
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "And Elsa?"
Arcee rubbed the back of her helm and answered them somewhat.
Arcee: "Um… Sort of… Come with me."
She soon walked away while the two followed, wondering what the plan is.
Coming back to the Nemesis, John watched helplessly as he saw the video feed on Soundwave's visor of what has happened to his family. The results shocked him so much as he saw June, Jack, Raf, and Miko melted into the energon and turned into multicolored energon cubes. Then those energon cubes are taken to a machine with red lines that looked like they were writing their genetic structures. Then all the energon cubes were taken to huge berths with a molding on them and were poured into the substance. He witnessed it all and found it to be completely impossible. The camera panned to the three individuals, while the stout one, who was the scientist was slowly amplifying the energy output and electricity shocked the berths, making the energon bubble. But the person in charge of the project wasn't impressed and amplified the energy output to the highest of power. It was then that the electric prods started to overheat and cause an electrical surge that is just as powerful as an EMP. So powerful that in knocked the camera out and has nothing but static. John watched in disbelief as he wondered what really happened to them. After a couple of seconds, John saw the screen returning to normal and noticed the energon pools in the mold heavily bubbling. That's when he saw wires coming out of the energon and spreading on the berths. He could even see parts materializing and armor covering those said parts up. But the one thing he got caught with are the faces. When the faces were fully formed, he could see the likeness of his son and wife in many ways possible. Once the changes were complete, the person in charge of the project turned to his people and muttered these words.
Director: "Gentlemen, savor this moment. Because tonight, we have officially made history…"
As soon as he said that, the video cut to static and the visor was turned off, ending the video feed. John watched it all and was completely speechless of what he just saw. Starscream could tell that he was perplexed and approached him to see if he can even breathe.
Starscream: "You seem awfully quiet, human. Is there something the matter?"
John slowly turned to Starscream and demanded some serious answers.
John Darby: "Wh… What did I just saw? What was that on the screen?! I want answers, and I want them now!"
Starscream could tell that John was extremely confused and wanted to give him what he wanted.
Starscream: "Why Mr. Darby… I'm shocked! You always wanted to know where your family is. Well, now you got your answer."
John looked to the screen and then back to Starscream, not believing anything he saw.
John Darby: "No… No! I don't believe this! It has to be a trick! That's right! You Decepticons always have a knack in deceiving anyone. You fixed a recording to make me think of what happened! That wasn't real!"
Scream sighed and knew that he's being thick headed, so we tried to explain about it in detail.
Starscream: "Why is it so hard for you to understand. That recording you saw actually came from a terrorist organization most of us are familiar with. We were investigating the appearance of some unknown energon and managed to recover some Intel at one of the spots. What you saw was actual video evidence of what happened to your family. Because that said evidence do state that they have been transformed into Cybertrons, transformed into us."
John was very horrified at the fact and lowered his head down in complete shame. He was doubting what Starscream said and contemplating if it was the truth or not.
John Darby: "No… It can't be… There's no way my family would turn into robots… There isn't…"
The commander got him where he wants him and approached the Darby. Placing his sharp digit to his cheek, he made him look up to him and decided to deliver the crushing blow.
Starscream: "You doubt me, human? You think that I'm a liar? Indeed I made mistakes that I have the experience in bending the truth here and there. But this time, I'm being awfully honest to you. Your family had been turned into alien robots, over some human's personal game and are stuck like that for the rest of their lives. It's a shame that you never got a chance meeting them since their changes. Which is why they never contacted you, for fear that they will know of what transpired to them. I just hope you're happy about what you find. All that hard work, all the investigating had come to this. This is what you wanted, answers to the whereabouts of your family. You got it. You don't believe me? Why not ask Optimus, since he knows of this as much as any other Autobot. In fact, we are going to be meeting with him and his team for a simple tradeoff. I'm sure you two will have a lot to talk about."
John turned his head away and didn't want to speak about it. Soon enough, he could hear a beep in is helm as someone was calling him. Placing his digits to his audio receptor, he asked of what is going on.
Starscream: "Yes. What is it?"
It was then that he heard Knockout on the other end and explained the recent news.
Knockout: "Forgive the interruption, commander, but we are approaching the trade off point. Shall we bring the humans out to begin the trade?"
Starscream was silent until he came up with the perfect plan and a low and quiet voice.
Starscream: "No, that will be too simple. Leave the humans on the ship. We'll have the Autobots trade the relics and the location of the base on our own. Once there, we bring the humans to them, in pieces no doubt."
Knockout was quiet until he responded.
Knockout: "Understood. I will begin the landing procedures. Just be here when we land, okay? Out."
Starscream nodded and turned off his comm., getting ready to leave. He soon turned to the two prisoners and told them to stay put.
Starscream: "Now if you excuse me, I need to meet up with the Autobots for a little trade. You two get comfortable until I get back. I won't take too long, I promise…"
He soon walked away from the two as Soundwave followed behind. As soon as the cell door closed, John starred off into space, trying to reflect on what he just witnessed.
John Darby: "No… This cannot be… This cannot be… My family can't be Cybertronians… It's not true… It cannot be true…"
While he was debating if what he saw is real or not, Elsa looked to him and felt sorry for him in many ways. She too saw everything on Soundwave's visor and was a little skeptic of the portrayal of John's family's demise. She knows that it was impossible to turn humans into Cybertronians. But she was a cybernetic soldier created by an organization that lied to the public that it was a charity facility. So whoever created Cybertronians out of humans could have some type of tech necessary to change John's family. And seeing John himself conflicting on what he saw, she is worried of what his mentality will be like if he actually sees them. Will it be rage? Sadness? Confusion? Anger? Those were the things that will be swirling in his head after watching that. Still, she hoped for the best as she mutters his name a little lowly.
Elsa de Sica: "John…"
Back at the base, the Autobots were waiting for June and Jack to come in so they can begin the rescue attempt. As they were waiting, Raf picked something up on the map and told Optimus about it.
Raf/Firewall: "Optimus! The traced call Starscream has left us has stopped!"
The Prime leader turned to the hacker as the others looked on in wonderment.
Optimus Prime: "Are you sure, Firewall?"
He nodded and showed him where the dot has stopped at.
Raf/Firewall: "Positive. I've been tracking the comm. frequency Starscream made and been following it since. By the looks of the trajectory and the vast landscape, I assume that the Nemesis has made its stop…"
He let one hand let go of the keyboard as the wires reverted back into his arm and pointed to the dot at the trade location.
Raf/Firewall: "There! It's over New Orleans. Fortunately they are not near the city entirely, just a small patch of land far away from humans. I'll get a visual of the mapping grid."
He went into his keyboard and typed furiously with both his hand and the wires on his arms. As he did it, the image fizzled until it shows a live map of the Nemesis hovering over what looked like a theme park that was abandoned for some time. Miko looked to this and was a little skeptic.
Miko/Kaosu: "So the trade off is located in an amusement park? Unless that Cons are inviting you to ride some rides, I find that highly unlikely."
Vince looked to this and remembered what this theme park was.
Vince: "Wait a second… I know that place! It's Six Flags New Orleans!"
Sari and Sam turned to him and was a bit shocked while the other looked to him with confusion.
Sari: "You kow about that place?"
Vince turned to her and explained about it.
Vince: "My family went there years back during our family vacation and it was a fun place to visit."
Sam though snickered and thought of what he said.
Sam Witwicky: "So you head to theme parks when you were younger and before you became a residential bully?"
He turned to Witwicky and was a little annoyed.
Vince: "Hey! I like to go on the roller coasters when I was younger. I've been a thrill seeker back then."
Sam cocked an eyebrow and was still amused by it. Vince though was seething and could tell that he didn't like Sam's reaction.
Vince: "Don't judge me…"
Fowler, who was on the screen, heard that and checked on the park itself. Searching through the web, he got some detailed information and explained about the place.
Agent Fowler: "Six Flags New Orleans, which was once known as Jazzland, was one of the many lines of theme parks that harbor the Six Flags name and has been a huge success for three to four years straight. But when Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, the levies broke and caused a massive flooding that swept the lower areas of the city and land. And that park was one of its casualties, flooding most of the area in seawater. It had suffered so much damage, that the maintenance deemed the park beyond repair and abandoned it completely. There were rumors that they were planning on demolishing the place and replacing it with a new park or a mini mall, but that hadn't been official, giving that the contractors need to make an approval of the land entirely. Till then, the park will still be in limbo and will remain decretive until any news is announced."
Wheeljack look to the location and was a little perplexed by the location.
Wheeljack: "Even so, the Cons would be this stupid in placing the trade off there. Why at an abandon theme park of all places. There could still be some eyewitnesses around the area driving by."
Fowler sighed and explained about that.
Agent Fowler: "Because the government closed off certain freeways that lead to the park. Sometimes it's miles away, meaning there will be no one seeing the trade off with a few exceptions of those Youtubers who take a tour of the amusement park for hits."
Smokescreen thought of this and came to the conclusion.
Smokescreen: "So basically no one has been there in quite a long time. Let's hope we don't run into a camera crew."
Optimus turned to the team and decided to get this going.
Optimus Prime: "Regardless, we now have the Decepticon's location and will begin to save John and Elsa for it."
Bulk though approached the Prime and asked about this plan.
Bulkhead: "And are you sure that this plan of yours works? This is a very hefty risk we're taking."
The Prime turned to him and told him that it was best for them.
Optimus Prime: "That might be true. But if we are to succeed in this, we must use everything necessary to complete this mission. Which is why we need Rodimus and Altra to aid us in the rescue."
By the time he said that, he could head Arcee from the distance.
Arcee: "And speaking of which, I got them."
Optimus turned to her location and saw her with Jack and June behind her. He soon looked to Jack and asked if he was all right.
Optimus Prime: "Rodimus, I'm hoping that you are okay right now, considering what you have witnessed."
The future Prime shrugged it off and told him that he'll manage.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Well, I am still a little upset about all of you keeping this from me and my mom. But I think I can handle that. Anyways, Arcee said that you have a plan in rescuing my dad and Elsa."
Optimus nodded and explained about it.
Optimus Prime: "Indeed we have. However in order to pull this off, we are going to need your help. And it is a bit risky…"
Both June and Jack looked to each other and wondered what he meant by that. Jack soon turns back to him and decided to take the risk.
Jack/Rodimus Prime: "Whatever the case Optimus, we are ready for this. So, what's the plan?"
Optimus starred at him and didn't know how he should approach this. Taking a deep breath though his ventilation, he decided to explain the plan in thermal detail.
Half an hour later, the Nemesis was hovering over the abandon Six Flags theme park while a squad of Decepticons were on high alert on the ground. Down at the main square of the park, Starscream, Soundwave, and Knockout were waiting for the Autobots to arrive with everything they needed but seem to be taking their time.
Knockout: "The Autobots seem to be taking long."
Starscream looked to his medic and told him that it was nothing to worry about.
Starscream: "Patience, Knockout. The team does know how to make an arrival. Just give them time."
The medic soon looked around at the decrepit park and was a little weary about it.
Knockout: "Still, I do believe you would've thought of a more suitable place then in some rickety old theme park for humans. I swear, these fleshies built these places and leave them to rot away. They are certainly lazy in their creations. You certain that no humans will come here?"
The commander gave a chuckle and told him that it won't be a problem.
Starscream: "Humans have never come to this place since this park was abandoned after some flood brought it under water. No one would come here other then to record something on that mindless video website. Even if they would come, I'll have Soundwave play a sound bite to drive them away. I'm certain that there won't be any distractions."
So the three waited for the Autobots to come until they could see a green and blue portal opening up. Everyone saw this and readied their weapons for a standoff as Scream smirked sinisterly on his faceplate.
Starscream: "Here we go…"
They all waited to see if someone is going to come out. That's when a red and blue semi truck drove out of the portal with a light gray trailer truck with an Autobot insignia on the front sides driving out of it followed by a blue and pink motorcycle, a yellow and black Camero, a green supped up SUV, a blue and yellow race car with sevens on the side, a white, red, and green sports car, and a purple and pink McLaren with flame decals. They all drove past the demolished entrance and reached the square where the commander and his comrades were waiting. The moment they stopped, all the vehicles transformed and the Autobots stood proud. The drones pointed their blasters to the team, waiting for the moment to fire. Starscream though raised a servo and ordered them to stop.
Starscream: "Hold your fire! This is only a trade, nothing more."
He soon approached the Prime leader and was glad to meet with him again.
Starscream: "Optimus Prime… So glad to meet you. Last time we've seen each other, you were a guest at Darkmount. Could see that you are recovering well."
He looked to see his leg looking a little limp and added to that.
Starscream: "Though it looks like you still have a bit of a limp on your step. You should really look into that."
Optimus gave a deep glare and remembered the torture he had to go through at Darkmount and blame the Cons for all the injuries he sustained in both the destruction of the old base and at the fortress. He still needs to keep his composure and continue with his plan. Looking around, he noticed John and Elsa weren't around and asked of that.
Optimus Prime: "Where are the prisoners?"
Scream waved it off and explained it to him.
Starscream: "They're in the Nemesis. Thought it would be best they are kept safe on the ship then out here. Could imagine the mentality of what would happen. What about you? Do you have what I requested?"
Optimus heard him and nodded in agreement.
Optimus Prime: "See for yourself."
He turned to the team and gestured them to show him. Arcee gave a nod and approached the trailer, pushing a button on the side. Soon enough, the trailer opened up and revealed what looks like a variety of items. What they were are the Iacon relics comprised of the phase shifter, the polarity gauntlet, the immobalizer, the apex armor, and the Forge of Solus Prime. Starscream looked to this and had a pleasing look on his face.
Starscream: "Excellent…"
So that ends eleven with a bit of a cliffhanger. Now I know there are a lot of people that are a little confused on why the Autobots would surrender their Iacon relics to the Decepticons. Well, that's the genius in Optimus's processor. Optimus always has a plan and he has one that involves the surrendering the relics. What is it? You just need to wait for the next chapter to see for yourself. Trust me, it will be something that will put you at the edge of your seat. Please Review. #WherearetheGoodCartoons?
