Transformers War for Cybertron: Joining the War

by bigvic150

In this reboot of Corvowing Prime's story, he and his family unit are transported by Primus to the day of Megatron's murder of High Councilor Halogen to change some things about the Great War. Will Corvowing Prime succeed? Or will Megatron bring order to Cybertron? Rated T for violence, death and censored swearing. Every Autobot lives except for Zeta Prime. Autobot Starscream AU.

6. Defend Iacon

Transformers War for Cybertron: Joining the War.

Chapter 6: Defend Iacon.

(Author's notes: Just so you know, there might POSSIBLY be a fight scene between Corvowing Prime and Roughstuff in the Decagon. Maybe, maybe not.

Additionally, this shout-out goes to fellow fanfiction writer Crystal Prime. Crystal, your fanfiction story of "Your War, Our Battle" is coming along perfectly in terms of providing some reading entertainment. Keep it up!

In the meantime, enjoy chapter 6.)

(Streets of Iacon, third person POV...)

The Autobot scout known as Bumblebee is driving as fast as he can to find Optimus Prime and has to contend with two Decepticon Soldiers shooting at him up ahead.

Coming up to a ramp, Bumblebee transforms at great speed and blasts the two Decepticons with his Plasma Cannon before switching back to vehicle mode to continue driving.

After a few missed shots from two more Decepticon Soldiers, Bumblebee gets knocked out of his forward momentum with an Energon shot.

Bumblebee switches to robot mode again and comes to a kneeling stop, having felt the effects of the Energon shot slightly damaging him.

As the two Decepticons prepare to make the killing shots, a warship explodes from behind them and Optimus Prime comes barreling towards the two Decepticons in truck mode.

As he rams one of the Soldiers, Optimus transforms to robot mode and slashes the other Soldier with his Energon axe.

Optimus helps Bumblebee to his pedes and says, "You're a skilled fighter and a trusted soldier, but you really shouldn't be out here alone. Autobots are no longer safe here in Iacon."

Ratchet comes to a stop in front of them and switches to his robot mode.

Bumblebee explains, "The Decepticons control the Airwaves. The only secure way to communicate is by usage of messengers. I volunteered. Name's Bumblebee."

Optimus says to his oldest friend, "Ratchet, this Autobot needs repairs!"

Ratchet brings out his Energon Repair Ray and states, "Be still. I'll get you fixed up."

Bumblebee stays still and is fully repaired in no time.

Bumblebee states back, "Thanks, Ratchet, but I need to find the one called Optimus Prime. I have important news for him."

Optimus says to clarify, "I – am Optimus Prime."

Bumblebee states, "You're Optimus Prime? Sir, it pains me to tell you this, but our first leader, Sentinel Zeta Prime, is dead."

Optimus growls, "Megatron..."

Ratchet then asks, "And what of the High Council?"

Bumblebee answers, "They went into hiding and cut off all communication from the outside. Optimus, with Sentinel Zeta Prime gone, our forces are directionless and ineffective."

Optimus clenches his fist and says in response, "The High Council will emerge when it's safer. And if Sentinel Zeta Prime is dead, then I will humbly take his position as leader of the Autobots with Corvowing Prime as my protégé. In the meantime, Ratchet, Bumblebee, you're with ME."

Optimus, Ratchet and Bumblebee make their way to a headquartered Autobot building and descend via the elevator.

Ratchet remarks, "Megatron is determined, I'll give him that. He means to see Iacon destroyed."

Optimus corrects him, "Not destroyed, Ratchet. Simply taken. He knows we are at our weakest with Sentinel Zeta Prime gone."

Bumblebee states, "Megatron can take this city over my twisted, lifeless shell!"

Ratchet replies, "We'd prefer no further loss of life, Bumblebee."

Optimus calls out calmly, "Focus on the task at hand, Autobots."

After exiting the elevator, the hologram screen plays a transmission from the Autobot Air Guardian Jetfire.

Jetfire states, "To any Autobots on this frequency, this is Jetfire. Come in."

Optimus answers, "Jetfire, this is Optimus Prime. Glad to know you're still airborne. What's your status?"

Jetfire replies, "We're taking heavy damage up here! Put me through to Sentinel Zeta Prime – we need him to activate the planetary guns."

Optimus reveals the truth as he states, "Zeta Prime is dead."

Jetfire asks a bit dejectedly, "He's dead? What are we going to do?"

Optimus answers, "I have assumed command, Jetfire. After all, I AM Zeta Prime's successor. Let the rest of your flight squadrons know. And don't worry; we'll get those guns online."

Ratchet activates the console to open the front door to the building and as the three Autobots make their way outside, an Autobot Soldier calls out, "Scrap them all, Optimus!"

Once outside, another Autobot calls out, "Heads up! That warship's coming in pretty hot!"

As the Decepticon warship prepares to crash in front of the building, another Autobot Soldier calls out, "Take cover!"

The Decepticon warship lands in front of the building, smashing some statues in the process.

An Autobot Soldier cries out, "Whoo-hoo!"

After making it to the downed warship, Optimus and Ratchet gun down two remaining Decepticon Soldiers.

While progressing to the first checkpoint, Bumblebee revives a downed Autobot Soldier and meets up with Optimus and Ratchet.

Upon making it to the checkpoint, two Decepticon Soldiers speed forward, switch to robot mode and open fire.

One of the Decepticon Soldiers calls out, "Over there! Get them!"

Optimus calls out, "Autobots, engage the enemy!"

Upon gunning down one of the Decepticon Soldiers, another sneers, "Face your death, Autobot trash!"

After progressing through the checkpoint to an access elevator, Optimus calls out, "Don't let up, Autobots! Keep going, for Zeta Prime!"

After destroying the next batch of Decepticon Soldiers, the door to the elevator opens to reveal three additional Decepticon Soldiers.

After neutralizing them, the three Autobots make it into the elevator and ride it to the top.

Upon reaching the top, and taking out two more Decepticon Soldiers, Optimus states, "There! The controls for the planetary guns! Activate them now!"

Ratchet activates the console that controls the planetary guns, and soon enough, the planetary guns take out several Decepticon warships left and right.

Bumblebee exclaims, "Yeah! Take that, Decepticons!"

Optimus says to his scout, "This is far from over, Bumblebee. The skies might be clear, but our ground forces are in disarray."

Ratchet adds, "Optimus, if we can get the communication grid back online, we might be able to coordinate our defenses."

Optimus responds with, "The communication grid is in the Decagon. If we get there in time, we've got a chance."

Suddenly, a planetary gun shoots down a Decepticon warship and the warship comes crashing down in front of the three Autobots.

Bumblebee exclaims, "Look out!"

The three Autobots take cover as the Decepticon warship crashes onto the building before sliding to the ground below, disabling the force field on the building in the process.

Optimus declares, "Every second counts. Let's move!"

After jumping down to the ground below, Ratchet comments, "Not bad for your own style of command, Optimus. You're better at this than you give yourself credit for."

Optimus replies meekly, "The Autobot High Council of Elders will choose the next Prime. I'm merely a stand-in until that choice is made, maybe with me being tasked to find the Matrix of Leadership."

After gunning down the remaining Decepticon Soldiers, the Autobot trio makes their way to a bridge, only to encounter a group of Decepticon Seekers.

After taking care of the Decepticon Seekers, the three Autobots drive to the next building.

After going inside, an Autobot Soldier comes running and exclaims, "Thank Primus you're here!"

Suddenly, a Decepticon Brute drops down on the Autobot Soldier and kills him with a hammer bash to the head.

The Brute lets out a roar of rage and the fight commences.

Of course, because Ratchet has an Energon Repair Ray, it was all too easy for him to repair both himself and his comrades while managing to fight the Brute.

After the Brute goes boom, the automated repair system fixes up the three Autobots and energizes the door leading to an elevator.

All the while, Ratchet remarks, "The automated repair systems are still functional, it seems. That's a good sign."

As soon as the door opens and the lift arrives, Ratchet calls out, "Autobots, onto the lift!"

The Autobot trio move onto the lift and Optimus activates the console for the elevator.

The elevator starts to descend, but then, it descends too quickly with the emergency brakes malfunctioning.

The elevator lands harshly on ground level and the three Autobots topple over.

Getting back up, the three Autobots switch to vehicle mode and they drive towards a bridge.

A falling building destroys part of the bridge, forcing the Autobots to use their Vehicle Jump abilities to jump the gap to the other side.

Optimus calls out, "Move! Quickly!"

Ratchet mutters, "That's odd. Optimus, I'm picking up a concentration of electro-tetronic anomalies close by."

After arriving at another building, the three Autobots transform back to robot mode and come across a window.

On the other side is several Autobot Soldiers fighting a Decepticon War Machine.

Bumblebee asks, "Wow... what is that thing, Ratchet?"

An Autobot Soldier calls out, "Fall back, now!"

Another Autobot Soldier calls out, "Watch your head!"

Ratchet starts to say, "I'm reading a massive surge of—"

But Ratchet doesn't get to finish as the Decepticon War Machine charges itself with a Dark Energon burst.

Bumblebee calls out to the Autobot Soldiers, "Guys, get out of there! Now!"

But it's too late, for the War Machine disperses a Dark Energon burst, killing the Autobot Soldiers inside.

Optimus remarks sorrowfully, "There was nothing we could do, Bumblebee."

Soon, the Autobot trio makes their way through the building, shooting through several Decepticon Soldiers in the way and the Dark Energon crystals.

Suddenly, Jetfire calls Optimus on the commlink and says, "Optimus, this is Jetfire. Do you copy? You've got a squadron of Decepticon Seekers headed your way. I couldn't stop them all."

Optimus replies, "Roger that, Jetfire."

After shooting some more Decepticon Soldiers, the Autobot trio encounters some Decepticon Seekers, only to shoot them out of the sky.

After progressing to a part of the platform with turrets, the Autobot trio bears witness to an Autobot dropship being shot down.

However, to everyone's surprise, Corvowing Prime and an away team consisting of the Aerialbots and Soldiers known as Cinderline, Grizztron, Jetsteel, Leaddive, Cranktop, Rhinocrusher, Iceraider, Apehammer, Jetshift, Deftdome, Chainworks, Photonheap, Breakburn, Autoflow, Grandtracks, Scrapbolt, Bulkheap, Fangviper, Skyglider, Shockfight, Sidehorn, Leadtop, Bombbeam, Tigersweep, Motorlock, Cloudcut, Silverheap, Doomwise, Hanglock, Topdrive, Deepcharger, Cloudslide, Dunescope, Phasesplitter, Fieryguard, Retrowatch, Ripboom, Steelbeast, Gloompounder, Rapidways, Deftlight, Jawdrive, Hammerboom, Rollwatch, Drophead, Photonsnarl, Stormspot, Lightbrawl, Fieryhorn, Leadrake, Magmatop, Strikeblade, Cliffstream, Dinobrawn, Gearblaze, Retroheap, Steelcrush, Dropspin, Bonehide, Razorcut, Hotbot, Flybite, Hailthrust, Sideflight, Wreckbolt, Longwave, Autosling, Oilflash, Bouldertracks, Brushshift, Frostfire, Doomworks, Flyhide, Sparkwheels, Airjump, Hangboom, Shockglider, Seacycle, Vicetrack, Jawclaw, Wreckstrong, Freestrike, Fieryrake, Helidome, Icespike, Grindwise, Twincrack, Botanidome, Joltfoot, Landblaze, Longsiren, Grimblade, Vicecrack, Autosteel, Lockslinger, Rapidwhip, Wolfslinger, Hardside, and Fusecrack among others had just arrived with the various Autobots that had been killed throughout the Great War to even the odds.

And that included the Autobots onboard the dropship that had been shot down just now.

After contending with some Decepticon Soldiers and Rocket Troopers on a platform in the short distance, Jetfire contacts Optimus again and says, "Optimus, inbound Decepticon Seekers! I think you can take them out with the gun emplacements!"

The elder Prime replies, "Understood, Jetfire. Autobots, man the turrets!"

Corvowing calls out to his Heavy Soldier/Aerialbot hybrids, "Hailraider, Turbobird, Nightvortex, Rollcycle, Grindmaster, Fangdive, Bullslide, Roughjump, Halfwire and Flashdrift, take down those Decepticon Seekers!"

The ten hybrid soldiers call out in unison, "Sir yes sir!"

The ten Autobots bring out their Heavy Ion Displacers and begin firing volleys of bullets at the Decepticon Seekers while Optimus, Bumblebee and Ratchet operate three available turrets.

After shooting down the various Decepticon Seekers and Decepticon Rocket Troopers, the fourteen plus Autobots shoot down an incoming Decepticon warship, destroying the platform that the remaining Decepticon troops were using.

Once that was done with, Optimus, Bumblebee and Ratchet dismounted the turrets as Jetfire and two of his Aerialbots arrive on the scene and revert to robot mode.

Corvowing's fourth away team also arrived on the scene as Jetfire commented, "Nice shooting, Optimus. Air Raid and I have control of the skies now."

Optimus replies, "Thanks, Jetfire. We need to get to the Decagon fast. Are the Iacon Speedways still drivable?"

Jetfire answers, "From the sky, they look barely usable, but you can try. Good fortune, Optimus. With Zeta Prime gone, we're all looking to you now."

Optimus states in response, "I'll do my best. Autobots, transform and roll out!"

Every Autobot sans the ones posted on the platform leaves in vehicle mode.

Optimus, Bumblebee and Ratchet started to drive through the Speedway while contending with Decepticon Snipers along the way.

Suddenly, everyone hears Soundwave say on Decepticon radios, "Autobot signatures detected in eastern access highway."

Bumblebee exclaims, "Oh no... was that Soundwave? Optimus, that was Soundwave!"

Along the way, part of the speedway blows up, forcing the Autobots to take a downward part of the speedway to continue.

Soundwave then said, "Activate thermal detonation probes. Target: Iacon Highway."

Suddenly, the highway is barraged with laser fire as the thermal detonation probes on the highway are detonated.

The three Autobots switch back to robot mode as they tumble down to the ground below.

After dusting off their armors, Ratchet calls out, "Damage report! Is anyone hurt?"

Bumblebee remarks, "Nothing you can't fix."

Ratchet retorts, "Bumblebee, it wouldn't kill you to exercise caution."

Optimus replies, "Ratchet is right, Bumblebee. But for now, let us focus on our mission."

After moving into a building entrance, an Autobot Soldier is gunned down by a Decepticon Sniper.

The Prime calls out, "Heads up, Autobots! Snipers!"

The first batch of Snipers is gunned down and the three Autobots continue while reviving a downed Autobot Soldier.

As the Autobot trio moves up the ramps, they take out more and more Decepticon Snipers.

Upon reaching a command post, a hologram of Megatron comes up on the main holo-screen.

Megatron's hologram states, "You may rejoice, citizens of Iacon! Your new ruler, Megatron, has arrived! No longer will you be plagued by the burdens of freedom and choice. Henceforth, MY will is the only guidance you shall require. Embrace the Decepticon way, and reap its rewards... or resist and face destruction."

Corvowing's voice calls out on the trio's commlinks as he says, "Autobots, be advised. Soundwave and a group of Decepticon Soldiers are loading prisoners and Energon cubes onto a Decepticon dropship. After you take out the Soldiers, the first ever Decepticon Heavy Soldier will come along. Use the supplies in the command post as best as you can."

Optimus replies, "Understood, Corvowing. And Corvowing, thank you for helping us throughout this entire war."

Corvowing replies back meekly, "I'm an Autobot, Optimus. It's in my programming to assist you and our fellow Autobots. Corvowing Prime out."

After collecting the supplies in the room, Soundwave is spotted overseeing a transfer of Autobot prisoners onto a Decepticon dropship while spawning Energon cubes out of his chestplate.

If Corvowing was there with his nineteen family members, they would've mentally described it as Soundwave inheriting a superpower from the Generation 1 cartoon.

Soundwave spots the three Autobots and calls out, "Alert! Autobots detected! Destroy them!"

After the shielding for the exit door goes down, Soundwave quickly boards the ship and it takes off.

After taking out the Decepticon Soldiers, the first Decepticon Heavy Soldier comes along, as Corvowing predicted.

Then the Heavy Soldier is decimated along with his comrades.

Suddenly, Ironhide calls Optimus on his commlink and says, "Optimus, this is Ironhide. There's a huge faction of Decepticons massing outside the Decagon's main gate."

Optimus replies, "Take out as many as you can. I need a pathway cleared!"

Ironhide replies back, "Understood. And Optimus, glad to see you've finally stepped up."

Optimus responds, "Just doing what needs to be done, Ironhide."

Ironhide replies back, "Yeah, well, just try not to get us all shot to pieces in the process."

The commlink disconnects as Ironhide hangs up.

Ratchet asks, "Old friend of yours?"

Optimus replies, "Old – and cranky."

After jumping down the first platform, the three Autobots shoot down the Dark Energon crystals barring their path.

Optimus remarks, "Megatron has somehow found a way to weaponize Dark Energon."

Bumblebee asks, "Dark Energon?"

Optimus answers, "Yes, Bumblebee. Dark Energon is the source of these crystals. I've read the stories, but to see it for real... that is something I didn't count on."

Ratchet states confusedly, "Dark Energon? I thought that was the stuff of legend?"

Corvowing's voice tells them, "As far as I've learned during my one hundred and ten stellar cycles of existence, the thing about myths and legends is that sometimes, they turn out to be true."

The three Autobots shoot their way through the Dark Energon crystals barring the corrupted hallway.

After going inside the corrupted hallway and making it to the room with the Decepticon War Machine, Optimus states, "A Decepticon War Machine! I've seen these in the archives. They're used to dispense Dark Energon! Shoot its legs out!"

With the three Autobots wielding Heavy Ion Displacers, it was easy to shoot out the leg armor of the war machine.

Once the last pieces of leg armor falls off, the core of the war machine becomes exposed for everyone to see.

Ratchet calls out, "Aim for the chest! Aim for the chest!"

Bumblebee and Optimus successfully shoot out the core in the war machine's chestplate.

The machine topples over, completely deactivated.

Bumblebee calls out, "Aw YEAH! We've got it down now! Bring on the rest of 'em!"

Optimus remarks, "That's the spirit, Bumblebee. Autobots, to the Decagon!"

After making it out through a secondary exit, the three Autobots come across another door.

They pass it and jump down one of the platforms, which was structurally weak.

They make it to the beginning of the Iacon Speedway and shoot out the Dark Energon crystals barring it.

Ratchet remarks, "its working! Taking out the source makes the roots retract! Now, Iacon can start repairing itself!"

Optimus calls out, "Remember, Autobots, blast the spikes, but never touch them! Transform and ROLL OUT!"

The Autobot trio transforms to vehicle mode and drive down the Iacon Speedway, which is very long.

There were also occasional checkpoints where Decepticons need to be cleared out.

At the end of the straight road, the three Autobots come under attack by more Decepticon Seekers.

After shooting them down, they contend with another fleet of Seekers.

After that, the three Autobots continue down the speedway until they see a point where the speedway ends because part of it was obliterated.

Bumblebee bemoans, "Oh GREAT! The Speedway is out!"

Optimus replies, "Don't worry, Bumblebee. We'll find another way to the Decagon."

The Autobot trio jumps down to the courtyard where they run into Vulturewave Prime, Owlfeather Prime, Ravenimus Prime, Hawkthruster Prime, Strigtimus Prime, Cuervoflight Prime, Chouettesplicer Prime and Vulturicus Prime.

Optimus asks, "Who are the eight of you supposed to be?"

Hawkthruster Prime replies, "We're Corvowing Prime's siblings. But no time to explain; he sent us to assist you."

Optimus nods and contacts Ironhide as he asks, "Ironhide, what's your status?"

The Autobot Veteran answers, "Still working on clearing that path for you, Optimus. These Decepticons are REALLY stubborn. Be advised: I've got some Defenders near your position engaging some Decepticon War Machines."

After entering the courtyard, the eleven Autobots assist one of the Defenders and four Autobot Soldiers with the initial Decepticon assortment.

The sixteen Autobots keep pushing forward without taking damage until they come across a large gate.

Ratchet activates the gate opening switch.

While keeping the Decepticon War Machine busy, Optimus hurries over to a downed Autobot Soldier and revives him while one of Corvowing's Corvobot Soldiers takes him to headquarters for repairs.

After the second Decepticon War Machine is dealt with, the eleven Autobots leave their soldiers to hold their positions and enter an elevator room.

Along the way, Ironhide states on the commlink, "Thanks Optimus! We appreciate the help!"

Optimus answers, "You are most welcome, old friend."

After the elevator starts to go up, the automated repair sentries repair the eleven Autobots as they assist the sentries by shooting out the Dark Energon around the room.

Once the door on the top floor opens, the eleven Autobots proceed to the open area.

Among the way, several Decepticon Seekers arrive.

The eight Autobot multi-changers take out the Decepticon Fliers.

Bumblebee asks, "The Decepticons are really giving it all they've got here, aren't they?"

Ratchet answers, "That they are. All Autobot communications funnel through the Decagon hub. It's the lifeline for the entire city."

Optimus adds, "All the more reason to reach it quickly!"

The eleven Autobots continue forth eliminating any Decepticons that get in their way.

The eleven Autobots make it to the room with the slow-moving turbines.

Ratchet calls out, "We're gonna have to ride the turbines to reach the other side!"

However, Owlfeather Prime states, "Screw that! There's an Autobot Soldier somewhere in this area and he might need help! If we take too long because of the turbines, the Soldier will die!"

Optimus declares, "Then you will transport us in your Avianoid modes. That way, we can save the Autobot Soldier and make it further to the Decagon."

The eight multi-changer Autobots switch to their crow, owl, hawk and vulture modes and lift Optimus, Ratchet and Bumblebee respectively to the other side.

All the while, video screens show Megatron's propaganda as he says repeatedly, "Citizens of Iacon. I, Megatron, have destroyed your unworthy leader, Sentinel Zeta Prime. Now, you will have the privilege of experiencing MY rule! I shall not be denied!"

After making it to the other side, Owlfeather revives the aforementioned Autobot Soldier and the now twelve Autobots deal with the Decepticon Rocket Troopers below.

After that, they switch to vehicle mode and drive down the highway until they can see the Decagon up ahead.

The twelve Autobots make it to an allied command station.

The twelve Autobots switch back to robot mode and Ironhide appears with two more Soldiers on an elevator.

Ironhide calls out, "Optimus! Your path is clear! I'll move on and flank the Decepticons in the northern sector!"

Optimus calls back, "You have my thanks, old friend! Good hunting!"

Once Ratchet, Bumblebee and the nine fledgling Primes stock up, a Soldier opens the door leading to the battle in front of the Decagon Plaza.

Ratchet exclaims, "The Decagon Plaza!"

Soon, the firefight for the Decagon begins.

After taking out all of the Decepticons, a Brute comes up and charges.

However, Ironhide comes barreling in robot mode and slams the Brute into the ground while bashing it in the head, permanently deactivating him.

Another Brute comes along and tries to swing his hammer at Ironhide, only for the Autobot Veteran to duck and hoist the Brute over his shoulder plates.

Then, Ironhide RIPS THE BRUTE APART WITH HIS BEAR HANDS. Thus showing that Ironhide is one of the strongest Cybertronian soldiers on the Transformers home planet of Cybertron.

Ironhide remarks, "That guy should've stayed home."

Then, Ironhide hoists up a piece of debris blocking the entrance and calls out, "Hurry up! I'm not gonna stand here like this all day!"

Optimus states, "Thanks, Ironhide!"

The eleven Autobots make it inside as Ironhide releases the debris while making sure to move out of the way.

Ratchet then states, "Optimus, the Communication Grid is located at the top of the Decagon. We need to find a lift up."

Optimus replies, "True. You've got the schematics, Ratchet. Lead the way."

Ratchet leads the way for his friends while they make sure to deal with any Decepticons in the way.

Upon finding the elevator, only to find it destroyed, Ratchet calls out, "The elevator's wrecked! We'll need to find another way up."

After making it to the next room, the eleven Autobots find the data stream for the Decagon.

Ratchet remarks, "There – that's the main terminal for the communication grid. We can reactivate it by aligning the data streams... I think, in theory anyway."

Owlfeather shoots the left side of the calipers, completely aligning the data streams.

Vulturewave activates the console in the middle, completely activating the machine.

Optimus states, "Good job, fellow Autobots. The grid is back online. Let's get to the broadcast room up top so we can reconnect Iacon's defenses."

Bumblebee bemoans, "Ahh, the elevator's busted! How do we get up there?"

Ravenimus Prime holds out a disk-like object and suggests, "We could use this teleportation disk to teleport ourselves to the broadcast room to avoid wasting time and so we can be prepared for any Decepticons who might arrive in the room looking for a fight."

Optimus states in response, "Excellent thinking. Then, we can strike back at the Decepticons in full force. Um, what is your name?"

Ravenimus answers, "I'm Ravenimus Prime, Corvowing Prime's younger sister."

Optimus nods in understanding as the eleven Autobots clasp servos on each other's shoulder plates all the way to Ravenimus' shoulder plate as she activates the teleportation disk.

The eleven Autobots emerge in the broadcast room and they start to establish contact with every Autobot Soldier in Iacon.

Just then, Corvowing contacts them and says urgently, "Optimus, my dear siblings, be advised. Roughstuff is heading your way. He found out what you're up to. He's gonna try to stop you, and Jetfire and Silverbolt tried to stop that treacherous Air Commander, but the two Aerialbot Air Guardians sustained heavy damage. Use rocket launchers, and be careful. Roughstuff is as dangerous on the ground as much as in the air, and he's as dangerous as much as he's treacherous. I'm heading to headquarters for a rest."

Optimus replies, "Understood, Corvowing. See you at headquarters." He turns to his companions and says, "Autobots, exercise caution. Like Corvowing said, Roughstuff is as dangerous as he is treacherous."

Bumblebee remarks, "Just give me a clear shot."

The eleven Autobots prepare their weapons as they hear a Cybertronian jet flying closer and closer to the broadcast room at high speeds.

Suddenly, Roughstuff emerges and he switches to his robot mode.

He states mockingly, "Trying to restore your precious communications, Autobots? How pathetic."

Roughstuff switches back to vehicle mode to start his assault.

Optimus says to the Decepticon Air Commander, "You've committed crimes against Iacon, Roughstuff! It's time to pay for them!"

Roughstuff retorts, "Oh, I think not. Optimus Prime, is it? Prepare to die!"

After doing his first bombing run, Roughstuff remarks tauntingly, "You're no match for the speed and power of ROUGHSTUFF!"

After Owlfeather lands a few hits on the Air Commander with explosive darts, Roughstuff states angrily, "A lucky shot! Now you've made me angry!"

Optimus retorts, "Get used to disappointment, Roughstuff!"

After Roughstuff gets hit a few more times, he switches to robot mode and starts hovering.

However, he is soon punched in the face by a clone of Corvowing with his jet and truck modes.

Optimus starts to ask, "Corvowing...?"

The clone interrupts, "Nope. I'm merely a clone with Corvowing's jet and truck modes. Please, allow me to handle this traitor to our very Creator-God."

Corvowing throws the first right cross, and then follows it up with a foot sweep and a stomping kick.

As he gets up, Roughstuff tries to execute a running knee strike, only for Corvowing Prime's clone to teleport behind his opponent and execute a running knee strike of his own.

The Triple Changer clone of Corvowing Prime capitalizes even further with two right and left jabs to Roughstuff's face plate, and then capitalizes further with a low roundhouse kick, a groin kick, and a joint kick.

Roughstuff tries to retaliate with a front thrust kick, only for Corvowing's clone to counter it and copy it. He then capitalizes with a front snap kick, an axe kick, a jumping front kick, a roundhouse kick, and a crescent kick.

Roughstuff tries to retaliate with a spinning right cross, only for Corvowing Prime's clone to dodge it and retaliate with a reverse-spinning left cross, a bolo punch, an overhand right punch, a check hook, and a haymaker punch.

Roughstuff tries to retaliate with a backhanded strike, only for Corvowing Prime's clone to dodge it as well and retaliate with a jumping double front kick, an in-to-out crescent kick, a downward roundhouse kick, a circular falling kick, a falling roundhouse kick, and a tornado kick.

By this point, Roughstuff is getting exhausted from the beating he's receiving, mostly because of the clone of the Twelve Changer Prime having superior speed, absolute invulnerability and superior strength levels. But since Corvowing Prime and his clones happen to know Roughstuff all too well just like Starscream in the original timeline before the Grimlock Smash chapter of the Fall of Cybertron video game, he knows that he won't give up that easily.

Corvowing's clone manages to execute a low roundhouse kick and an overhand left punch. He then capitalizes once again with a tornado kick, a jumping kick, a jumping knee strike, a jumping front kick, a jumping roundhouse kick, and a jumping back kick.

The two combatants roared in unison as we charged each other and punched each other in the face plate.

The two combatants each skidded back from the impact of their blows.

Roughstuff tries to go for a Scatter Blaster and a Null Ray pot shot, but because Corvowing's clone is faster and stronger than Roughstuff is, the clone dodged the pot shot. Corvowing's clone punched Roughstuff multiple times in the face as hard as the clone could before jumping back a few feet to shoot green bolts of necroplasmic electricity.

Most of the bolts of necroplasmic electricity connected, but Roughstuff shrugged them off as best as possible while he charged the clone.

Corvowing's clone countered Roughstuff's move with a jumping double spinning kick, and a grounded face punch before jumping back again.

Roughstuff charged the clone again but the Triple Changer clone teleported a good distance before he shot more necroplasmic lightning bolts. Then the clone took out his chained spears.

Corvowing's Triple Changer clone threw them towards Roughstuff and they wrapped around him. Once they completely wrapped around the Decepticon lieutenant, Corvowing's clone charged the spear chains with electricity, completely electrocuting Roughstuff.

But knowing how durable Roughstuff's armor was before he got his femme-lookalike body frame, Corvowing's clone knew that wasn't gonna be enough. So, the clone decided to up the ante.

Corvowing's clone got some distance when Roughstuff came at the clone again.

The two combatants were trading blows in this up close and personal punch and kick fest.

But while Corvowing's Triple Changer clone was still energized, Roughstuff was mildly winded. But he wasn't giving up just yet. It's not in his corrupted programming to give up without a fight. Not when he might have things to lose if he failed his new duty to Megatron.

Roughstuff gave the Triple Changer a couple of strong punches to his chestplate and his face plate, but because Corvowing's clone was absolutely invulnerable to physical damages like the real Corvowing, the clone didn't feel the pain.

Corvowing's Triple Changer clone jumped back and wrapped his chained spears around Roughstuff's neck armor in an attempt to choke him.

It was working for the most part, but then, just as Roughstuff was about to pass out, the clone's danger sense kicked in. The clone's danger sense warned him that Roughstuff was gonna try to throw the Triple Changer a considerable distance by using his chained spears.

Thinking quickly, Corvowing Prime's clone got in front of Roughstuff as the clone's chained spears released him and the clone used the momentum of his backwards jump to make the back of his head hit Roughstuff in his nasal plate.

Roughstuff inspects his mouth plate to see he's leaking Energon.

Before Roughstuff could do anything further, Corvowing's Triple Changer clone backhanded and kicked him hard enough to send him back a couple of feet.

Corvowing's clone fired a couple of necroplasmic fire balls at Roughstuff, and they connected, slightly damaging his armor even more. But he still wasn't giving up.

Corvowing's Triple Changer clone jumped to avoid a pot shot and used one of his chained spears to open up an eruption of fire underneath Roughstuff's pedes.

The force of the fire knocked Roughstuff back and damaged him some more.

Corvowing's Triple Changer clone flew towards the Air Commander with one of his pedes on fire and kicked Roughstuff in the face.

Before Roughstuff could punch the clone, the Corvowing Prime clone teleported above the Decepticon lieutenant and grabbed him by his helm, smacking his face plate into the stone ground.

As Roughstuff got up, Corvowing's clone quietly snuck behind the Decepticon Air Commander.

Corvowing's clone brought out his twin swords and the clone kicked Roughstuff in the face once, and connected it with two spinning punches, and used a spinning chest kick to knock back the Air Commander a few yards.

Roughstuff sees the clone's two swords and deploys his own two swords.

The two combatants charged each other and clashed swords about six to seven times.

Roughstuff tries a double hammer strike, but Corvowing's clone teleported behind him and stuck one of his swords into the back of Roughstuff's neck armor.

Roughstuff stumbles a bit before regaining his footing.

Roughstuff growls in anger as the clone's sword reappears in his servo.

As the two combatants charge each other for another sword clash, Corvowing's clone teleported behind the Air Commander again, dodged one of his sword strikes and kicked Roughstuff as hard as the clone could.

Roughstuff was sent back five feet.

Corvowing's clone charged the Decepticon Air Commander in his ground vehicle mode, which was a 2012 Peterbilt model 579 with an optional trailer.

Roughstuff tried taking pot shots at Corvowing's clone, but he missed.

Corvowing's clone eventually reached an impromptu ramp and jumped it, knocking Roughstuff over the side of the drop in the process.

Corvowing's clone transformed in mid-air as he roared like the Armada Unicron, and Corvowing's clone landed on Roughstuff.

Corvowing's clone then pulled an Optimus trick by using his leg tires to scratch up Roughstuff's optics so bad that he couldn't see.

After about twenty seconds, Roughstuff eventually grabbed Corvowing's clone by his head and threw the clone off him.

But Corvowing's clone ran back to him and started pounding him in the head, borrowing Optimus' strikes and Scorpion's strikes.

With every punch to Roughstuff's face plate Corvowing's clone threw, splashes of blue and pink Energon spilled from Roughstuff's face plate.

Even if it weren't for his temporary blindness, Roughstuff always missed every time he tries to punch the clone of Corvowing Prime.

After Corvowing's clone threw the last punch, Roughstuff skidded back and rubbed his optics with his forearm, allowing him to see.

But he was unprepared for the clone's strongest uppercut.

He was sent flying about three feet and landed on his back plate, completely worn down and exhausted.

Corvowing's clone teleports both himself and the Decepticon Air Commander back into the broadcast room to have the other Autobots have a shot.

As easily predicted, Roughstuff presses on, only to be bashed into a holographic screen by Optimus Prime's Energon axe.

Roughstuff gets high in the air via his jet boosters in his pedes and declares, "You'll see me again, Autobots! That's a promise!"

Roughstuff transforms to jet mode and blasts off to Decepticon Headquarters.

Bumblebee cries out, "Run, you yellow-plated coward!"

The real Corvowing Prime appears and bumps fists with his Triple Changer clone.

Optimus remarks, "Good work, Autobots. Now, let's coordinate the city's defenses."

Just then, Sentinel Zeta Prime broadcasts a transmission as planned by Megatron and as predicted by Corvowing Prime.

Zeta states, "To anyone receiving this broadcast... this is Sentinel Zeta Prime. I am being held captive in Megatron's Kaon Prison Complex."

Optimus notices and asks confusedly, "Prime is alive?" He turns to Ratchet and states, "Ratchet, home in on that signal and boost it!"

Ratchet replies, "I'm on it!"

As Ratchet does his assignment, Zeta continues, "I am... downloading vital... information that could and will help the Autobots win the war. Hurry, Autobots... I don't know... how much longer I have..."

The broadcast ends.

Bumblebee exclaims, "Optimus, let's go! We have to save Zeta Prime!"

Ratchet finishes and says, "That wasn't Zeta Prime, Optimus. It couldn't be."

Optimus explains, "The message carried his unique data signature, Ratchet."

Ratchet replies, "Perhaps, but we all saw the wreckage of what Megatron did to him. No one could have survived that..."

Optimus states back, "Even if there is the smallest possibility that Zeta is alive, we must act."

Ratchet protests, "Optimus, it's a TRAP! Surely, you SEE that!"

Corvowing adds, "Yeah, and I heard on the Energon vine that Megatron planned Zeta's broadcast and planned for you, Bumblebee and Sideswipe to be captured so that Megatron can destroy you guys personally."

Optimus replies back, "Maybe so, Corvowing, but it's a chance we'll have to take. But don't worry; I have a backup plan in case your prediction comes true."

Optimus says to Zeta through the Primes' bond, "Hang on, Zeta, my friend. I have a plan..."

Soon, it was settled: Optimus would allow himself, Bumblebee and Sideswipe to be captured by the Decepticons with Air Raid, Corvowing and his fifth away team providing cover fire and escape time long enough to free the prisoners and defeat Soundwave long enough to get Sentinel Zeta Prime to the High Council chambers.

Of course, Corvowing was a little hesitant, but he said that regardless of the outcome, he trusts Optimus Prime's judgment.

To be continued...

(Author's notes: There you have it, ladies and gentlemen: the sixth chapter of my War for Cybertron fanfiction.

Next chapter, Corvowing Prime's fifth away team helps Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Sideswipe and Air Raid infiltrate the prison complex, free all of the prisoners, including Arcee and Jazz, and free Zeta Prime after the fight with Soundwave. But Zeta Prime will die just like in the chronological video game chapter because if he doesn't, Optimus Prime will never be promoted to leader of the Autobots or get the Matrix of Leadership from Cybertron's core. Think about it: how would it look for Optimus Prime and Sentinel Zeta Prime to be fighting for the Autobot leadership position because of specific differences between how they handle prisoners, how they want Megatron taken down, and ideologies of how the Autobots should win the war?

See you all in chapter 7: Kaon Prison Break.)