Skids was playing things safe, keeping his distance from the planet, so they could do passive scans before they were spotted. They found plenty of Decepticon signals among other things. Nautica seemed confused by the readings though, "Are you sure these readings are right? They look like…"

"Zoid signals…" Sky-Byte rotated the model of the planet. "There's no doubt about it. They aren't 100% identical, but they are Zoids, or have a similar makeup to them."

Dropshot didn't get it, "So what? We got sent to the future or something?"

"Or a possible future…" EDI looked over to the display. "We are dealing with a situation where a number of participants do not originate from the same universe after all."

That only gave Shepard more cause for concern, "So how many more versions of Zi or other worlds could the Decepticons find new recruits on?"

"It may not be as large as we might think."

Vibes looked over, "What are you thinking Skids?"

"Well, given everything that we do know, Deluge and Flamewar have been conducting many experiments on both Zoids and Cybertronians alike. Any good scientist will always have a baseline to compare their work against. From everything we've seen, the planet we visited had little to no interference from any Cybertronian presence within their history."

Vibes understood what he was getting at now, "And this planet could be the safe haven that the Decepticons are hiding from the Reapers on…"

Roadbuster groaned, "That probably means there'll be no roads, again. Getting sick and tired of chipping the mud and gunk out."

Whirl laughed, "That's what you get for staying ground bound my friend."

Zaeed huffed, "What's wrong with a little dirt. It builds character."

"It's not me I'm worried about dirtying up. It's the buildup on my guns."

Breakaway seemed more interested in the planet as he interrupted, "Well, gun maintenance aside, how are we approaching the planet? It'd be a short trip if we got blasted out of the air."

"That shouldn't be a problem," Vibes turned to Legion as he made the strange gurgled geth noise.

The geth took over the projection, displaying the Xantium in orbit of the planet. "The primary concern is detection during planetary entry. We have been working on that."

Tali walked forward, "The Xanitum is no Normandy, but we might be able to mask some of the signals in a similar fashion. It won't last long, but it'll be long enough to get to the surface."

Joker pointing out, "Right, so no one'll notice another ship coming to the planet."

"We had a thought on how to cover that, Jeff." EDI took control next. "While the system won't completely hide our approach, we can mask it even further by creating a meteor shower."

"Sounds like a plan," Dragonblade was taking a closer look at a cluster of Zoid signals. "Then we head to this settlement here and assess the situation with the locals."

Ashley pointedly noting, "Assuming they'll work with us."

Minerva wasn't worried, "I know we'll be able to get through to them."

Whirl laughed, "And if not, we'll just blast out way to victory."

"As a last resort." Vibes smiles, "We'll get started on gathering some rocks while the stealth systems are implemented."


After the meeting, Fireshot left to be found by his twin Vanquish. "So, do you believe them?"

"It's too soon, and this 'Autobot attack' is too convenient. If the real archives are true, then we can't fully trust them." Fireshot turned to Vanquish, "Can you stop using my brother as one of your disguises, Soundblaster?"

His 'twin' started to change, turning back to a form akin to the body type once used by Soundwave. "You requested that I not be seen outside the council." Soundblaster is not his true name, though he takes that particular form so often he has adopted it as a name.

Fireshot remembered his own orders, "You're one of the last Shifters we have and the only one I can entrust with this important task. I'm sure this Slipstream character will want to find recruits. Infiltrate their ranks and find the truth about our past. And don't use that form. It might draw too much attention from the Decepticons."

Without much effort, Soundblaster started to change. Turning his wheels for scales and taking on a serpentine-based form. With a gracious bow, he transformed to his new robot form with a beastly new head, "A pleasssure to meet you sssir. I am Night Viper, a loyal reconnaissssance ssspecialist of the Maximal sssecurity force."

"Just remember that tension between the Vehicons and Predacons have escalated as expected since we leaked the news about the destruction of the Reapers. This could be the spark we need reignite the inert power we have suppressed for so long."

Soundblaster dropped his new voice for the old one, "I will see what can be done and uncover what the Decepticons really want."


Conduit was working on Astrotrain, preparing him for his next transport assignment. As he worked, Conduit couldn't help himself as he noted, "It's always reassuring to know that such a dependable cog of the Decepticon war effort has never failed his duties, despite the risks and hazards." Astrotrain didn't say a word, though he never really got the chance as Conduit continued with this one-sided conversation, "It is often a thankless job, both you and I. Often our efforts would go completely unnoticed but are a necessity to have when operating for so long away from reinforcements." The somewhat sparkfelt moment was ruined when Conduit added, "I would wonder what would happen to Slipstream's control should the two of us no longer preform our tasks. Well everything checks out and you're ready to fly again."

Astrotrain looked to the strange medical officer, "And what would happen if I wasn't?"

Conduit glanced back, "Well, if you weren't in too many pieces I'd have to have a word with you." Astrotrain couldn't tell if that was supposed to be encouragement or a threat. "Regardless, our purpose and mission are clear. We will return to Megatron's service. Nothing will stand in our path toward the light."


Thundercracker and the Nightbird sister snuck their way into the masses gathered for the protest. It was relatively peaceful, a few more vocal members demanding more be done in the immediate, though nothing too spectacular. That was until an interesting rumor reached their audio receptors. Someone leaked information regarding the altercation that happened in the Archives. This was either an attempt by the local authorities attempting to flush them or some of them disliked the constriction of information.

Regardless, this gave clever ninjabot a few nasty plans. Thundercracker didn't know what she was thinking, he only knew that he wasn't going to like it. The bot walked up to a group of three Vehicons, "Hey, did you hear about that Autobot in the Archives?"

"Yeah, we were just talking about it. A genuine Autobot. I thought they were extinct."

"Well I'm be finishing the job!"

"You? Ha! You couldn't even hit that sign on your best day."

Before a fight broke out, she stepped in, "Well, I heard something new." That got their attention, at least before the next fist is sent flying, "I've heard rumors that this Autobot is a Shifter, that's how it's managed to survive for so long. Worst yet, it grabbed a Vehicon hostage."

That caused the stir she wanted. "Those greased politicians!"

"They don't care about us!"

"We need to tell everyone!"

The trio went off, speaking with other Vehicons to spread the news, just as expected. Thundercracker and the Nightbird snuck off, though Thundercracker didn't see the point, "I thought we were supposed to be blending in. Won't this only cause more chaos?"

"Exactly. The more unrest and anger toward their leaders over the lack of transparency, the more Vehicons will to want to join us. The greater divide will also give more flexibility for Slipstream and Sixshot to have in any negotiations."

The rumor was spreading faster than an oil fire. Some of them had already started a chant regarding the lack of information and the need to search for the 'Autobot' and the 'captive'.


After fiddling with the Xantium's systems, and running a few tests, they prepared to go planetside. With some assurance from Roadbuster and Broadside, they knocked around some asteroids to cover their approach as planned.

They could only hope that their plan worked, as they skirted the tree line until they could find a clearing large enough to land the Xantium. Whirl was the first bot out, though he kicked around so foliage. "Well, definitely a lot more organic life."

Vibes was looking over the scans they have, "That gathering of Zoids we're assuming to be a town or village is only a few kilometers away from our landing zone. Commander, are you and your team ready to mobilize?"

The Gun Sniper, Rev Raptor and Houndsoldier walked out the second ramp, "We're ready to go. We'll establish contact before we approach the town."

Zaeed had some concerns of his own, "Still think we should being Rago'Za's flyer with us."

"And it would expose the Xantium's location."

"Never said it was a good idea. Just rather have the aerial backup when things go south."

Rago'Za was standing on one of the walkways, "I'll fly over when you call, though hopefully that won't be necessary."

The Rev Raptor turned to the Normandy crew, "Are you sure about this, Tali? I'm getting some resistance here…"

Tali nodded, "We don't know what you'll meet. If these are Zoidians, they might not trust you if I was in the cockpit of one of the Zoids. Just try not to fight him too much, Ash. He knows what he's doing just as much as you."

"I'll keep that in mind."

Hoist was doing a few last-minute adjustments on the new accessories on the Zoids, "Just remember to try and get as many scans as you can. The more data the holoprojectors can get, the more natural your disguises will be."

A loud roar boomed from the other hangar arm as the doors opened, "Scorn, Slag. Follow me Grimlock!" The three Dinobots seemed to be glad to finally dig their claws into something that wasn't the ship, or at least being able to stretch their limbs and run.

The Zoids and the Dinobots rushed toward the potential village, hoping to gain insight on the planet's situation and perhaps new allies.

Krok watched as they moved off, "Are we sure we can trust them?"

Grunt laughed, "You're talking about the Dinobots. They're the closest thing to krogan you'll ever get. They'll keep Shepard safe."

Krok returned into the ship, "Not the reason I'm concerned."


With a moment to herself, Nightbird checked in on various matters, "Report sisters. How are things proceeding?"

"Thundercracker still hasn't figured out which of us is assisting him. We're currently using the alias of Thunderclash while planetside."

"The DJD are starting to get itchy for action. Especially when word that Zoids were also on the planet reached up here."

"They're trying to find a new leader. Someone who might be able to lead the others in overthrowing Slipstream perhaps."

"Keep a close eye on them. They will have their uses, but if they prove problematic, we'll find a way to deal with them. Until then, don't do anything that'll garner any extra attention. We're about to 'investigate the Autobot and hostage'."

"Without us, Slipstream would never have learned about this world."


Flamewar kicked the hatch open, "That's that for the backups. Some of the newer data was lost, but most of it is easily recreatable or simulated."

"Good. Those ninjabots were quite useful in spreading information. Letting them sneak around was easier than I thought, though trying to hide the information did seem to be fun for them. Flamewar, if you'd please…"

She nodded as both of their insignias shifted from the Decepticon symbol to an insect's head. "Lab, establish the bridge. We have data and specimens recovered."

A space bridge formed before Flamewar as Deluge joined her with the organoid specimen in hand. As the two walked through a new detonation occurred, destroying what little remained of their research station on the moon.

The two emerged into a proper lab with at least five others working around the area. "Welcome back, sirs. As you anticipated, the Vehicon protests have erupted in earnest thanks to Decpeticons interference. It'll only be a matter of time before a Predacon, Maximal security or the Council end up creating a civil war."

"Good, that means the Autobots shouldn't be too far behind and really throw this planet into turmoil. Any other anomalies we should be aware of?"

"Nothing too extraordinary." Another bot stepped forward, "There have been a few attacks from the natives, mostly testing our defenses again. Admittedly, they are getting better at it. And sensors detected a small meteor shower, though most of it burned up before impact. I doubt there's of any value from it."

Flamewar shoved some data drives to him, "That's the Autobots. Show us where the shower occurred and identify the settlement they're closes to."

Deluge smiled, "Perhaps we'll be able to recreate that combat data after all."


The Gun Sniper returned from scouting, "They're pretty well defended. They've got sniper towers covering the area with Zoids at the front gate and patrolling the perimeter along with more guards patrolling the wall."

Ashley looked over, "Not to mention that massive rock face guarding their flank."

Grimlock groaned in boredom, "Me Grimlock want to rush in. Guards not strong enough to stop Dinobots."

"We're not trying to siege them, you big stupid lizard."

"Be careful, human," Grimlock snorted over the Houndsoldier's cockpit, fogging it up, "You can be squished easy." Slag started to dig into the dirt as Scorn moved to Houndsoldier's flank.

Shepard rushed in-between, "Enough. We're not here to fight or start a fight. Grimlock, stay here with your Dinobots. If things go south with our interactions we need you to cause a disturbance so we can escape."

Grimlock pulled away, "Me Grimlock no like, but we follow your lead, human."

The three Zoids returned to the main path toward the gate, trying not to be imposing despite the weaponry. Though that wouldn't be too problematic as the two guarding Dark Horns turned their weapons on them, "State your name and business here."

It was fortunate enough that a language barrier wasn't going to be a problem. "We're just a small band of nobody mercs just doing a job. We wanted to resupply and rearm before heading back out into that hell."

"That's not good enough."

Zaeed pushed his way forward, "Look pal, either we go through you and put the tab for the extra repairs on your bosses or you let us in and we pay like the good citizens we are? We don't want trouble, but we will end what you start."

It took a moment though the guards and Dark Horns eventually eased up, "Proceed. But if there is even the slightest hint of trouble from any of you, you're all gone."


As the gates opened for the three strange Zoids, the guard captain looked up to the city's wall. "Are you sure about this, sir?"

"No, but the higher ups seemed to think they might prove to be more valuable then they're letting on. For now, we're to keep a distant eye on them until orders say otherwise. Don't forget, the scanners detected minor blips of the invader's energy signals so stay alert. This could be a distraction to avert our eyes inward in preparations for an assault."

A hooded figure walked out of one of the guardhouses, "I sense, deceit, but no ill intensions. How curious."

"Just be careful. We can't afford to lose you, ma'am."

"Don't treat them any differently from any other visitors we receive." She watched as the trio of Zoids were led to the hangars before disappearing through the back to follow.


Hoist didn't mention that the range of the holoprojector's scanners could cover most of the city. With enough diversity to make decent disguises for mercenaries. They also removed enough ammo in the Xantium to appear to have been fighting for quite some time.

There were some concerns about finances though Zaeed promised to cover for it. When the Zoids docked, Zaeed was the first to climb out, now with a fake eye patch over his damaged eye and a different set of armor. He walked over to the head mechanic to deal with that, "So what's the damage?"

"This is only assessment from the looks, but I'd have to wager a minimum four thousand gallows. Probably high after including ammo and any other maintenance required."

Zaeed looked up, rubbing the back of his neck as though that wasn't good news, "Well that's what happens when scouts end up in a fight against those damn machines. Listen pal, that's a little out of our expenditures, but work with me," he grabbed the man in a headlock, pulling him closer, "You help us, and I promise to get you a little extra something to cover this."

"I'm sorry but I can't…"

Zaeed walked away from the Zoids, "Look, we need to get back before our boss does something reckless against those monsters. Listen, if you can get all three of them ready by tomorrow I'll give you all of our expenses, minus a night's rest."

It seemed to be working as Zaeed waved to Shepard and Ashley to head into the city. Shepard nodded to him as they proceeded. He whispered to Ash along the way, "Looks like this should be fun…"

"Why's that?"

"I think Zaeed wants me to pickpocket…"

"You aren't considering it?"

Shepard shrugged, "We don't exactly have any usable currency, though even if I wanted to, I think I'm too rusty to try it in the square."

Regardless, this was still a recon mission, trying to get a feel for the inhabitants and the situation they're having with the Decepticons.