Chapter 12: Way of Flames

Since Bulkhead and his team arrived at Solaris Village, Chromia and her team informed them of what has been happening including Arcee being kidnapped and taken to Parvus Oppidum for unknown reasons. Both Amazons and Autobots were gathered inside the meeting chamber of Temple of Solus Prime. They were discussing and planning a way to fight back and defeat Camien Armada while rescuing their friend for good.

Moonracer activated the meeting chamber's computer as it revealed the holographic map of Parvus Oppidum. Both Amazons and Autobots looked at it carefully and firmly as they were trying to study and analyze the situation.

"So, any idea of how do we get in?" Hot Shot asked curiously.

Groove nodded, "Yeah. By the looks of this place, it's more of a fortress than a palace. I wouldn't be that guy to mess with."

Streetwise shrugged, "Yeah. No kidding."

"That is because Parvus Oppidum was not only designed a decorated and beautiful majestic palace but also an impregnable and armed fortress to withhold enemy lines and artillery." Victorion said proudly and happily, "Our ancestor designed it to show the world that we will never bow and fall before our enemies. You can count on it."

"Quite formidable, no doubt," Red Alert commented in concern, "Reminds me of Darkmount Fortress."

"Oh yeah!? I would like to give a shot on that!" Warpath exclaimed happily.

Hound chuckled, "Good one. You're speaking of my language."

Firestar groaned, "Outsiders... Are they always so incompetent and arrogant?"

Moonracer hummed thoughtfully, "I don't know about you, Firestar. I would like to get to know more about the worlds. So many things I would like to see. I can't wait to find out more."

"Terrific..." Firestar remarked dryly.

"But still we can bring down the fortress, right?" Bulkhead asked hopefully.

Mistress of Flame hummed in concern, "No, Bulkhead. It's impossible to 'bring down the fortress'. But infiltrating within the walls is possible. It would require some great skills of patience, agility, speed and stealth to do so. But I fear the fortress will be filled with patrols and guards. Obsidian and Strika will never let down their guard at ease."

"Unless we draw their attention to us," Prowl added thoughtfully.

Cliffjumper gasped, "Oh! Like distraction? I can do that."

"By chatting with the enemies?" Drift asked annoyingly and doubtfully, "Unlikely."

Cliffjumper scoffed, "Hey, it works sometimes."

"I believed that the assault would be enough to get our enemies' attention," Master Beta said firmly and calmly, "But we require large scale of assault."

Everyone gave some thoughts of what kind of assault that will draw the enemies' attention. Chromia then looked at Victorion and Protectorbots, and some spaceships and artillery weapons. This gave her some ideas.

"I might have some idea," Chromia said calmly. Everyone turned and looked at her. She turned her attention to the map. She then placed some chess pieces on some areas, "Victorion and Defensor will lead the assault. Mistress of Flame, Warpath, Hound, Firestar, Cliffjumper and Drift will help them, with some heavy artillery."

Bulkhead hummed thoughtfully, "That leaves me, you, Moonracer and Master Beta will be stealth team." He groaned, "I might bad at it..."

"Well, we ladies can't be alone without some men..." Chromia joked.

While Moonracer and some ladies snickered and giggled amusingly, Bulkhead blushed in red, "I don't know if that is a joke or compliment."

"Either way, it's a perfect plan," Prowl said confidently and proudly, "We might have the chance to defeat our enemies."

Mistress of Flames nodded, "Indeed. This will be our last chance to retake our home and defeat the usurpers for good. Order will be restored." She held a grip tight on her hammer, "I made the vow to my ancestors that I will bring balance to Caminus."

"That's one thing puzzle me," Cliffjumper asked in concern, "Why Arcee? What is it they want with her?"

Drift hummed, "That's an indeed excellent question. What does she has for them to value?"

"Yeah, no kidding," Bulkhead agreed, "I've known Arcee for a while. She's a warrior but got some mad skills and stealth. I don't believe that she has some kind of Cybertronian Magic with her or even get some special treatment."

"Special..." Chromia said in concern yet suspiciously. She turned and looked at the ancient slab, "Could it be..."

Moonracer gulped fearfully, "You don't actually think that..."

"I do," Mistress of Flames said firmly and calmly, "We're running out of time. We must find and rescue her. Who knows what our enemies have plans for her? What kind of disaster they want her to do?"

Within Parvus Oppidum's Sacred Chamber, Quintessa has managed to 'convince' and 'negotiate' with Arcee to join her side. In-return for providing the assistance, the witch will help her get what she wanted the most in her spark - Optimus Prime to fall in love with her.

The witch guided and led her to another chamber. It consisted of various yet previous Mistresses of Flames portraits and tombs in spiral. And at the center of the chamber was large lively blazing flames from the abyss. Both of them walked on the large well-built plank. They both stood before it. They're now looking at it.

"Now, Arcee, do you know what this is?" Quintessa asked calmly.

Arcee's eyes glowed in dark purplish-magenta colors as she nodded, "I do, my mistress. The sacred relic of Caminus - The Way of Flame..."

"Yes, indeed it is," Quintessa said calmly and amusingly. She turned and looked at the Way of Flame, "Since Mistress of Flame has told you about the relic and its purpose, but not everything. This sacred flame not only allows you to communicate with the Primes, but also served the pathway to their realm."

Arcee looked surprise and curious, "Is it possible?"

"Yes, Arcee. The sacred flame is also the guardian of between the living and the death. However, like any guardians before, the flame will test and deemed if the one is truly worthy enough to enter the pathway. If so, the worthy ones shall meet and have the audience with the Primes. I have no doubt that they will test you."

"I see. How do I prove myself to the sacred flames? I fear I am not the one."

"Do not worry, Arcee. I am confident that the Way of Flame will not burn you. It knows that you are the Chosen One and the Maiden of Prime. It will not deny you. It will allow you to enter. I can assure you that."

"If that is your wish," Arcee said unemotionally.

Quintessa smiled, "I am certain, Arcee. Now go. Prove to the Sacred Flame that you are her..."

Arcee nodded unemotionally. She turned and marched slowly and calmly towards the Way of Flame. She then stood before it. She was glancing and looking at the blazing flame blankly as if it doesn't seemed to scare her off.

"I am Arcee." Arcee declared firmly. She then raised her hand up as she slowly approached to the sacred flame, "I am ready to face any trial you throw at me. I am not afraid to face them. I will not stand down until I meet the Primes. I am the Maiden of the Primes."

After Arcee let her hand touched the Way of Flame, nothing has happen to her or anything. While she remained unemotional and calm, Quintessa looked impatient and annoyed yet remained calm and patient as well for something happen. The Way of Flame remained still and burning calmly as if it was trying to scan and check on her like security scanner. It slowly changed its yellowish-reddish colors into bluish-pinkish colored. It then formed and reduced into smaller size before disappeared.

It then exploded and unleashed the powerful beam of pure white and black colors to the sky. It then revealed the gateway-like to another realm. While Arcee remained unemotionally and blank, Quintessa smiled darkly and amusingly.

"Remember, Arcee. Find and bring the Matrix of Chaos to me," Quintessa said calmly, "And then, you shall be rewarded. Be mindful of your surroundings and trials. They will not provide you some simple challenges. It will be difficult."

Arcee nodded firmly, "Understood..."

Arcee turned and faced to the gateway. She then marched towards it. As soon as she reached her destination, she disappeared in thin air as if she has enter to another dimension. Quintessa smiled amusingly and darkly as if she was expecting it to happen.

"With both Matrix of Leadership and Chaos under my control, I shall unify all the Cybertronians as one. I shall restore order and balance to the universe. All indigenous lifeforms shall ceased their existence..."

After entering the Way of Flame's portal-like entrance, Arcee has been transported to another realm, which was filled with nothing big pitch black space. Then suddenly, she spotted something in the pitch black. She saw something shinning out brightly. She saw a star among. But it wasn't alone as more stars and some planets emerged as well. The pitch black is slowly replaced by crimson-black colored background. It was also covered by a mist which surrounded her feet.

Arcee hummed calmly, "This must be the Realm of Primes. So, all I need to do is find and get the Matrix of Chaos. Where do I start looking at?"

As if her question has been answered, Arcee spotted the shooting star was flying and heading to the north.

Arcee hummed amusingly yet calmly, "Just follow the shooting star. Right..."

Arcee transformed into her motorcycle mode. She was driving out while following the shooting star now. She hoped that will lead her straight to the Matrix of Chaos.

"STARSCREAM!"

Starscream and his soldiers were inside the war council chamber with Camien Armada Officers. They were discussing about their next plans. Unfortunately, they haven't finalized it if not for Lugnut interrupt the meeting. He stormed off angrily as he marched straight at Starscream. The Second-in-Command of Decepticons turned and glared at him.

"I demand some explanation, Starscream!" Lugnut demanded angrily. Starscream remained firm and calm. He continued, "Why are we not leaving now?! We have complete their mission! We have collected enough supplies of Energon and weapons! We even have our own ship! We even secured and making sure your original body is safe and secured! So, why do we not leave?! Why do we not search and locate Lord Megatron?! Tell me now!"

"Quiet, fool!" Starscream snapped darkly. He turned to both Obsidian and Strika, "You'd have to forgive his idiocy. He tends to be rude and have no patient with our plans."

Thunderblast sighed happily, "He's such a dreamy."

Obsidian nodded calmly, "Understandable, Starscream."

Strika sighed, "I never understand why Lord Megatron recruit someone to imbecile as him among the Decepticons."

Lugnut groaned angrily, "Starscream!"

Starscream groaned as he turned back to Lugnut. "If you must know so badly. Lugnut, we are devising a strategy that will ensure our victory over the Autobots."

"What?! Why on Cybertron would we bother with them?!" Lugnut asked angrily, "They have been defeated and lost the battle?! There is not reason to deal with them! We're victorious!"

Strika, annoyed, punched and knocked Lugnut to the ground hard. She groaned, "Fool! Just because we have succeeded our missions and destroyed their home, doesn't mean we're vuctorious! The enemy will no doubt regroup and prepare to strike us down."

Obsidian nodded calmly, "Indeed. They are coming now. We must mounted the defense against them."

Both Decepticons and Camien Armada nodded and chatted in agreement with their concerns and strategy. Lugnut remained oblivious and annoyed about their strategy.

"Ha! That is foolish and ridiculous," Lugnut remarked darkly and amusingly, "The Autobots wouldn't dare to attack our base. They're too weak to fight back. And they do not have the strength to fight anymore, they have lost."

BOOM! Everyone yelped in shock and surprised upon feeling the ground shaking. While most of Decepticon Troops and Camien Armada chatted in fear and concern, Starscream and his allies remained firm and calm.

Blitzwing scoffed, "Looks like you make a big mistake, Lugnut."

"Looks like they have return," Thundercracker said calmly as he checked on the monitor. It revealed the army of Autobots and Amazons were laying siege on the Parvus Oppidum's walls and soldiers. He hummed, "They've got new reinforcement now."

Skyward chuckled, "The more the merrier. I like it."

Starscream groaned, "It appears that they have located this planet and come to aid them."

Obsidian chuckled , "Indeed, they have. Shall we deal with them?"

Strika nodded, "We shall. Prepare to repel our enemies!"

Decepticons and Camien Armada nodded in agreement. They all headed out at once to deal with the enemy threat now. Starscream was the last one to go, but halted by Obsidian and Strika.

"Starscream, we have the mission for you and some lieutenants," Obsidian said firmly.

Strika nodded, "No doubt the enemy's assault is nothing but distraction. Their true intent is draw out all of patrol and guards while letting smaller group to infiltrate our base."

Starscream hummed calmly, "They're here to rescue Arcee. What needs to be done?"

Obsidian and Strika smield darkly and amusingly. They then whispered and explained to him about their strategy, which amazed and amused him a lot. He can't wait to start the plan.

At the Parvus Oppidum's Outer Walls, Defensor and Victorion were leading the army to assault and lay siege on the castle walls. Their allies are also assisting and joining the battle as well. Hound and Warpath roared wildly as they both gone in blaze of glory wildly and happily by firing and blasting their arsenal at the enemies. Drift swung his twin katanas at the enemies while covering his allies reaching their destination. Mistress of Flames remained behind, with both Cliffjumper and Firestar accompanying her.

As the Autobots continued laying siege on the Parvus Oppidum's Walls, the Decepticons and Camien Armada responded by repelling and fighting back as hard as they can. They used various armored and strong heavy turrets, tanks and jets in taking them down.

Strika roared angrily as she jumped off from the walls. She transformed into her armored crimson giant tank with twin giant cannons and missile launchers. She slammed to the ground. She rolled out while firing out her cannons and missiles at the enemies. Skywarp, Lugnut, Blitzwing, Thrust, Dirge and Ramjet transformed into their armored aerial jets, along with the army of Vehicon Seekers. They began to fire and bombard at the enemy forces now.

Strika was now fiercely engaging with Hound and Warpath through both combat and firing their blasters at each other. Skywarp, Lugnut and Blitzwing were firing their blasters and bombarding at both Victorion and Defensor, who were swinging their punches and firing their blasters at both air and ground unit. Thrust, Dirge and Ramjet header straight for Mistress of Flames. She was saved and protected by both Firestar and Cliffjumper, who are now battling with Thrust and Dirge. Ramjet tried to take Mistreas of Flake down but missed and get hit by her hammer firmly and strongly.

While Mistress of Flame's Forces are laying siege on Parvus Oppidum's Outer Walls as distraction, both Master Beta and Moonracer helped and guided Bulkhead and Chromia infiltrating the palace fortress. However, it has proven them some difficulty and tricky due to Bulkhead struggled to balance himself, often panicked and also as he tried to hid from the enemies. Thanks to three female Cybertronians, they were swift and quick in taking enemy patrols before they could alert the enemies.

After managed to infiltrate the fortress, Bulkhead and his stealth team have entered the palace. They began to looked around and searched for Arcee, as well as taking out the enemy commander for good. But so far, they found nothing. Eventually, they then came across to a large chamber.

"What's in there?" Bulkhead asked in concern.

"That is the chamber of the Way of Flame," Master Beta explained calmly, "It is where we kept the spiritual Sacred Flame in. And only Mistress of Flames is allowed to enter and communicate with the Primes from another realm."

Moonracer nodded in confirmation, "Eeyup. No one is allowed to enter and use the chamber. If you tried to use the Way of Flame, you'd be burnt into disintegration. Trust me. You wouldn't want to mess with it."

Bulkhead and Chromia looked at each other as they can't help but feel concern and suspicious while looking at the chamber's entrance. He spoke, "I get the feeling that someone wanted to use the Way of Flame."

Chromia nodded, "I think I know why they want with Arcee. They think she's the Chosen One."

"Wait? What?!" Bulkhead asked in shock and confusion.

Master Beta hissed in concern, "If they used the Chosen One to enter or commune with the Realm of Prime, the enemy will no doubt seek out and bring destruction upon our world"

Moonracer gasped, "This is terrible! There's no telling what kind of catastrophe they may use on us! We must stop them!"

"Definitely," Chromia agreed, "I have to save my little sister!"

"I'm afraid you will not," The calm yet sinister voice spoke.

Bulkhead and his team turned to their back, where they found Starscream, Obsidian, Thundercracker, Thunderblast and some squadron of Seekers have cornered and surrounded them.

"Oh Scrap!" Bulkhead cursed in concern.

"So, this is the infamous yet former Wrecker Bulkhead," Starscream commented amusingly. He then chuckled, "A pleasure to meet you face-to-face."

"And you are?" Bulkhead asked in confusion.

Starscream smirked, "I am Starscream. Lord Megatron's Second-in-Command."

"Starscream?!" Bulkhead asked in shock and surprise, "I'd thought you'd be scrawny type of a guy. Didn't expect you to be a muscular bot."

Starscream chuckled, "I was expecting you to be more foolish thug with no patient and balance. Clearly, I was wrong about you."

Bulkhead groaned as he readied with his mace. Chromia held him back while demanded, "Where is my sister?!"

"The one called Arcee?" Starscream asked amusingly. He slowly turned and looked at the Way of Flame Chamber, "I do not know. All I ever did is deliver her to my colleague. There is no telling what she will do with two wheeler. But I can only assume one thing - torture her, interrogate her, scarred her, traumatized her or maybe favorite part of this - turned her into a perfect Decepticon Weapon."

Shocked yet angered in rage by Starscream's taunts, Chromia screamed in anger as she charged and rammed him away from the rest of their allies. Bulkhead screamed angrily as he charged and swung his mace at Obsidian, who got recovered and engaged the combat with him at once. Thundercracker fired his blasters at Master Beta, who swiftly and quickly dodge and fought back at him. Moonracer and Thunderblast screamed out loud as they both charged and engaged the fierce duel.

And at the same time, the Autobot Stealth Team also need to fend off both Decepticon Troops and Camien Armada Warriors while dealing with the opponents. They have to defeat their enemies if they want to rescue Arcee from the colleague...

In the Realm of Prime; Arcee, in her motorcycle mode, continued followed and chased down the shooting star. It has led her straight to the rainbow colored bridge-like, which connected to the large white entrance door with the blue crescent moon with the Cybertronian Symbol that represents 'Wisdom'. She then approached to the monitor's screen, where she read the instruction.

"Trial of Wisdom... Through this Door of Wisdom, you shall encounter and face the most dangerous yet painful obstacle from your previous life. You must make the decision of what must be done. May the wisdom guide you on the righteous path..." Arcee read out loud. She hummed calmly, "I faced many dangers. No matter the cost, I must complete my mission."

Arcee turned and approached to the Door of Wisdom. She pushed and opened the door. Beneath the door, it slowly ignited and shined its light on Arcee's eyes. She was blinded for the moment.

As soon as the light dimmed down and dispersed, Arcee slowly opened her eyes as she looked around of her surroundings. She found both Lockdown and Airachnid were badly beaten and shackled before her. She even found more Autobots and more Cybertronians were cheering and giving applause to her. She was confuse and uncertain. She turned and found Optimus Prime stood before her.

"Op... Optimus Prime?" Arcee asked in shock and surprise.

Optimus Prime smiled, "Well done, Arcee. You have defeated and captured Lockdown and Airachnid alive. They shall now face the justice for the crimes they have committed against both Master Yoketron and Tailgate."

"I... I don't understand... I didn't capture them."

"Do not be modest of it, Arcee. You have succeeded your mission. That is important. And now, you have the right to punish them."

Arcee was surprised yet amused, "I see. I am honored. For Master Yoketron and Tailgate."

Optimus Prime nodded as he passed the blaster to Arcee, "Very well." And just before she could approach her enemies, he halted her for the moment, "Remember. May the wisdom guide you on the righteous path..."

Arcee was surprised and shocked of what Optimus Prime has said. She shook her head as she turned and faced at Lockdown and Airachnid, who looked beaten and scared. She aimed the blaster at two of them. They both quivered and shivered in fear while looking away.

While pulling the blaster's trigger, her finger has halted. Arcee was in shock and confuse to see her hand was hesitating. In fact, her body was shaking and quivering in fear. Her spark was aching electrically like it was in pain. She even breathed and panted heavily and uncontrollably as if she was hyperventilating. While her mind desired the vengeance and revenge on her enemies, her spark was telling her not to.

Everyone was looking at her. They all chattered and whispered in concern as they wonder of what Arcee was doing. She should do it. Furious with her hesitation and her people's doubts, Arcee screamed in anger as she fired her blaster at both Lockdown and Airachnid's heads.

Instead of cheering and applauding, Arcee heard they gasping and screaming in shock and concern. She was confuse and uncertain before she looked down. She gasped as she found both Master Yoketron and Tailgate lying died on the ground.

"W-What?!" Arcee asked in shock and concern.

"Arcee..." Optimus Prime said in concern. Arcee turned and looked at him. He asked, "What have you done?"

"No..." Arcee protested in concern. She then screamed, "Nooooooooooooo!"

Arcee gasped in shock as she got up at once. She breathed and panted heavily. She found herself back at the Realm of Prime. She turned back and found another rainbow colored bridge-like, which connected to the large white entrance door. Unlike her previous visit, the door has the crimson sun with the Cybertronian Symbol that represents 'Courage'. She then approached to the monitor's screen, where she read the instruction.

"Trial of Courage... Braced with courage to journey and fight your greatest feared yet dangerous opponent in your life. Do not fear of doubts and hesitation as it will lead you on the right path. May the courage save you from the rage..." Arcee read out loud. She groaned, "What kind of trial is this?! Are they making fun of me?! I will not fail!"

Arcee turned and rammed through the Door of Courage. Like before, the light shined and blinded her again.

Arcee groaned in pain as she opened her eyes. She found herself in another realm. She was confuse and uncertain. She was facing at Bumblebee, who looked scared and worried while holding the blaster and aimed it at her.

"Bumblebee? What is the meaning of this?!" Arcee demanded in fury. Bumblebee beeped in shock and fear. She gasped, "You did what?! Bumblebee, how could you?! I trusted you! I will tear you apart, traitor! I can promise you that!"

And just before Bumblebee could explain, Arcee screamed in anger as she charged and attacked him at once. She then punched on his face and even using her scythes to cut and wound him a lot while screaming in fury.

As she continued, Arcee groaned and screamed in pain as she felt her spark has again ached in pain. Her hands slowly lose its grip. She even sobbed and cried out loud while tears slowly formed and flowed down from her optics. She can't help but feel sad and angry with Bumblebee's betraying her team and friends. But in her mind, she is doubting herself and refused to believe that he would do such a thing. Nevertheless, she continued punching and wounding him a lot.

Bumblebee groaned and moaned painfully as he unable to withstand the pain. Arcee took the sword as she swung and struck her sword at Bumblebee's chest, thus ending his spark. Bumblebee beeped painfully before his optics' glowing eyes dimmed down and dispersed. She panted heavily while glaring at him.

Suddenly, she heard the blasters clicked like they were aiming at her. Arcee turned to her back and found Autobots aimed their guns at her. Optimus Prime was among them. She was confused and scared.

"Arcee, you killed Bumblebee?! How could you?!" Optimus Prime exclaimed angrily.

"He was the traitor! He was going to Megatron to plead him to attack our base where you will be vulnerable!" Arcee protested and explained firmly.

"No, Arcee. Your're wrong. Bumblebee was an undercover agent, not a traitor. His delivery of our camp schematic map to Megatron was meant to lured to our trap. It was supposed to end the war." Optimus Prime explained firmly. Arcee was in shock and pain as she looked at Bumblebee. He raised and aimed his blaster at her, "You betray us!"

Arcee gasped, "Optimus! Nooooooo!"

BANG! Optimus Prime shot the blaster at Arcee's head.

Arcee screamed in pain and shock as she got up again. She found herself back to the entrance door again at the Realm of Prime. It now has love shape with the Cybertronian Symbol that represents 'Kindness'.

Angered and fury, Arcee screamed, "I am getting tired of this! When will I get the Matrix of Chaos?!"

After her screams, she panted and breathed heavily as she slowly calm herself down. Arcee groaned, "I am tired of this." She turned and glared at the monitor's screen. She scoffed, "Not a chance. I don't care. I have a mission to perform."

Arcee marched and entered the door. Like before, the light shined out brightly and blinded her again. She is now entering the trial again.

Arcee opened her eyes and found herself at the battlefield. She then looked back as she found large numbers of innocent Cybertronians and children were hiding behind the debris. They were quivering and shivering in fear.

"What?" Arcee asked in shock and confuse, "How did I-?"

"Arcee?!" Optimus Prime's voice called. Arcee responded to the call. He continued, "Arcee, the enemies are coming from the north. Be prepare for the attack!"

Arcee nodded, "Understood."

"And remember. Megatron must be stopped, no matter the cost. Today ends the war!"

"Will do."

Arcee armed herself with the blasters. And just before she could get out and meet the enemies, she was halted and pulled by the Cybertronian Child, who looked scared and worried.

"Please, don't go." Cybertronin Child begged fearfully.

"Sorry, kid. I don't have time. Head to the South now. The Autobots will be there for you. Go now, kid." Arcee said firmly. However, the Cybertronian Child refused to left go. Her eyes glowed in purplish-magenta colored as she groaned angrily, "Beat it!"

Cybertronian Child gasped and yelped in fear. She quickly ran off to her parents. She groaned, "Fine. Stay here until I dealt with the enemies. It won't be long."

Arcee scoffed as she turned and faced to the front, where she found the large numbers of enemy troops coming and advancing to her direction. She came out from the building. She charged straight at them. She began firing the blasters at them. Close to the enemy positions, she began punching and striking her scythes at them one-y-one.

During the fight with the enemy troops, Arcee has yet again have the spark ached. And this time, she can't shake the feeling that something bad has happen. And at the same time, she is also concern for the Cybertronian Refugees. She wondered if she should have taken them to safety or not. However, she did not have the time to think about it.

While Arcee continued battling the enemy troops while gaining grounds, she then heard of the jet engine noise. She looked up and found the army of Vehicon Seekers flying straight to the ruined buildings, where the Cybertronian Refugees reside. They then began bombarding and destroying most of the city.

Arcee gasped in shock, "W-What have I done?! Noooooooooooooooooooo!"

Arcee has returned to the Realm of Prime. She was in deep shock and hurt of what she has done. She panted heavily and sadly. She shown her sad and pain looks. She dropped to her knees while covering her face. She not only failed three trials, but also losing her spark as she feared to become a Decepticon.

"Arcee..." The gentle voice called. Arcee turned to her back, where she found Solus Prime and Megatronus Prime stood before her. She continued, "What have you done?"

"I... I..." Arcee was in shock and concern while showing her eyes of magenta-purplish colored.

Megatronus Prime sighed, "We have seen that before. You've been bewitched. You have let desire control you. And therefore, you have failed all three trials."

"I know..." Arcee admitted bluntly, "I am not her. The prophecy. The Camiens. And even myself. Everything is wrong. I am not the Chosen One. I have failed my missions and betrayed my own friends. I am more Decepticon than Autobots. I don't deserve to live..."

Activating the scythes, Arcee was about to commit suicide. She was stopped by Solus Prime. Megatronus Prime helped to get her up.

"Yes. It is true that you have failed your mission," Solus Prime said calmly and gently,"However, you are not the Decepticon, my child. You are still and always will be an Autobot because you have the spark of compassion and love."

Arcee was confused and shocked. Megatronus Prime continued, "If you had shown the feelings, then we would have not talk right now."

"You are the one, Arcee. The Chosen One and Maiden to the Last Prime. You will be the one to help him to defeat the Ancient Witch."

"You will restore the Balance of the Universe. You will save and protect all Cybertronian and Indigenous Lifeforms. You will help him achieve it, where we have failed the most."

"How can you all be certain?!" Arcee demanded in fear and concern, "How can you all trust me to be Chosen One after what have I done?! How can I?! I could betray and hurt my sister and Optimus Prime. I don't want that happening."

"Remember, Arcee." Solus Prime said calmly and firmly, "Never forget your spark. For it was your spark that made you an Autobot. Whether you have made right or wrong choice, you will learn and redeem yourself to be a better Cybertronian." She held and gave a kiss on Arcee's forehead, "You can and will protect them all, my descendant."

Arcee was in shock and surprised. Her magenta-purplish color slowly faded and turned into bluish as she has returned to herself.

Megatronus Prime nodded as he revealed the ancient relic with dark purplish Energon Spark - Matrix of Chaos to Arcee, "You can do it, Arcee. We believe in you and Optimus. You may lost your faith on yourself, but never others. They will be there for you."

"You are not alone, Arcee..." Solus Prime said calmly, "They will always be in your spark..."

"My lady... Megatronus Prime..." Arcee said in shock and surprise, "Are you sure?!"

Megatronus Prime and Solus Prime smiled, "We are. Protect the Matrix of Chaos until the time is right..."

And just before Arcee asked, Solus Prime and Megatronus Prime slowly disappeared into nothingness. The Realm of Prime slowly engulfed into a large bright light as it entirely blinded and engulfed her yet again.

Mistress of Flames' Forces have did their best to distract the enemies as long as they can. Due to Parvus Oppidum's Defense, their turrets and missile launchers have rapidly firing at the assault units and even Defensor and Victorion.

Both Defensor and Victorion did their best to defend their units while firing and destroying most of defense turrets, tanks and flyers. However, they also have to deal with the Seeker Armada, which was led by Lugnut, Skywarp and Bliztwing. The Decepticon Fighters have launched bombardment on both two Combiners and the assault unit. Most of the soldiers got hit and wounded while some were killed by it. Defensor and Victorion were weakened by the attack as well. The Seeker Armada returned and launched multiple bombardment on the Autobots and Amazons again. The Combiners tried to hit them but only missed as the enemy force dodged and evaded the attacks swiftly and fast. This has weakened and damaged the assault unit a lot.

Lugnut and his team were about to launch another bombardment. Luckily, Victorion quickly raised her shield to cover her and her partner from the attack. And at the same time, Defensor activated his Fire Hose Blaster-like in hitting most of them before firing his gauntlet's blasters in hitting them. Most of Seeker Armada were destroyed while Lugnut and his team were forced to return to outer wall, where they assisted the soldiers to repel the enemies. Two Combiners turned their attention to assist and help assault unit to breach and take down the fortress wall.

Cliffjumper and Firestar were defending Mistress of Flames from Thrust, Dirge and Ramjet. Three of them persistently attacking them by combating two warriors, who dodged and evaded the attacks while striking back at them. Mistress of Flames swung her hammer in knocking and killing most of Vehicons and Camien Armada Soldiers while often fired her Sacred Flame Burst at them as well.

Though not fast and swift to dodge Thrust and Dirge's teamwork and attack, Cliffjumper blocked and endured the attack as long as he can, though he often get hurt by face and guts a lot. After few rounds of punches, they got themselves exhausted. Thus, this allowed him to strike them back hard.

Cliffjumper turned and noticed Firestar struggled to fight off Ramjet, who was laughing and taunting which annoyed her a lot. She unleashed and struck her Blazing Sword in attacking and burning him alive, but missed a lot. After few rounds of attacking him, Ramjet grabbed her hand as he took her all the way to the midair. He turned and thrown Firestar straight to the ground hard. While she struggled of getting up, Ramjet transformed into his jet fight as he flew straight down while armed with blasters and missile launchers. He aimed them at her.

And just before Ramjet could finish her off, Cliffjumper jumped from the small hill as he slammed a powerful punch on Ramjet straight to the ground. He then landed on the ground. He approached and held his hand before Firestar, who was in shock and surprised.

Though angered and pride that she allowed an Outsider to help her, Firestar sighed as she allowed him to get her up.

"I could have handle it," Firestar said proudly.

Cliffjumper scoffed, "You're welcome, missy."

Firestar and Cliffjumper turned and found Thrust, Dirge, Ramjet and the army of Vehicon and Camien Armada. And just before the enemy could do anything, Mistress of Flames jumped up high before slammed her hammer to the ground, unleashing the powerful stroke of lightning and shockwave. It knocked and repelled most of them off.

"Wow..." Cliffjumper remarked in surprise, "She's tough..."

Firestar smirked amusingly, "She's our ruler. Don't mess with her.

Strika, fiercely alone, has fought and defeated most of the enemies by punches and firing cannons. She turned and found both Hound and Warpath, who were going in blaze to defeat their enemies. She roared angrily as she charged and rammed them both. They both got and turned to her.

"Wow?! Who's this guy?!" Warpath asked in shock.

Strika roared, "I'm woman, fool! You will pay for the insult! I promise you for that!"

Hound groaned, "Way to go, Warpath! You pissed her now!"

"Hey! How am I suppose to know that she's a woman?!" Warpath asked angrily and annoyingly. He scoffed, "Aw well! Kaboom Time!"

Warpath used his nose cannon in firing at Strika, who easily and angrily blocked and knocked the blasts aside for three times. She then grabbed him as she slammed and swung him around of her surroundings. Hound roared angrily as he jumped and struck his knife at her from back but she quickly throw the crimson warrior at him off. She then unleashed the barrage upon them both. Luckily, they both rolled over as they transformed into their Cybertronian Armored Tank and Armored Tactical Truck. They both charged and rammed at her while firing at her as well. Strika endured and held them both back before punched and knocked them hard.

Strika then transformed into her giant armored tank as she unleashed the barrage of laser beams and missiles at her enemies. Hound and Warpath quickly transformed into their robot modes. They then tried to fire back at her, but they got hit badly by chest and legs. Eventually, both of them got injured and wounded by the attack. She was about to finish them off if not for Drift jumped and struck his twin swords in damaging her. Strika transformed into her robot mode. She tried to grab Drift, who dodge and evade from getting caught. She managed to get his leg before thrown him off.

Strika found herself surrounded by Warpath, Hound, Firestar, Cliffjumper and Drift. Five of them charged and attacked her. Warpath and Hound unleashed their barrage of blasters at her while three fighters engaged her in combat. They persistently managed to attack and wound her a lot including cutting off her right hand and twin cannons by Firestar's Blazing Sword and Drift's Twin Swords.

Strika continued to endure and withhold the attack, despite the injuries. And at the same time, her body glowed in red aura like she's about to explode. As expected, Strika has unleashed a powerful blast of shock wave in knocking her enemies off. And just before she could finish them off, Mistress of Flames appeared as she slammed her hammer on Strika's head to the ground. And just before the leader of Camien Armada could stand, the Leader of Amazon continued hammering on her until her head turned into smithereens.

After seeing her enemy defeated, Mistress of Flames turned and faced to all of her allies and soldiers. She raised her hand up while giving the loud battle cry. They responded by cheering and applauding for her victory.

Within the Parvus Oppidum, Bulkhead and his team struggled to fend off Starscream, Obsidian, Thundercracker and Thunderblast.

Bulkhead tried to slam his maces and fists in knocking Obsidian, who dodged and blocked the attacks quickly before firing his missile barrage on him to knock out. The Vehicon and Camien Armada Soldiers were fighting off Master Beta and Moonracer, who fought them very hard. Thundercracker and Thunderblast combined their Stun Blaster and Thundering Shock Blaster in electrocuting and stunning them both. Chromia was fiercely angry to attack Starscream, who merely blocked it amusingly before punched and knocked her five times. Autobot Stealth Team was defeated.

Starscream and his team dragged and taken Bulkhead and his team into the Way of Flame Temple. Their soldiers held the prisoners up while they were in shackled. Quintessa was still waiting while looking at the sacred flame. She turned and looked at her allies.

"My lady, we've brought more prisoners," Starscream said calmly.

Obsidian nodded, "They have come to rescue Arcee, no doubt..."

Chromia groaned angrily, "Where is my sister?!"

BOOM! Everyone yelped in surprise. They turned and looked at the Way of Flame, where they found Arcee slowly emerged from it. She stood before them. She also hold the Matrix of Chaos as well. The Autobots were in shock and concern. The Decepticons were amused of it.

"Arcee?" Bulkhead asked in shock while looking at her magenta-purplish eyes. He gasped, "Your eyes..."

Chromia gasped, "No. Not you..."

"Well done, Arcee..." Quintessa said calmly as she slowly approached to Arcee. She was about to get the Matrix of Chaos, "I will take it. You shall be rewarded."

And just before Quintessa could get it, Arcee withdraw back a bit, surprised and alerted everyone else. They then looked at her carefully. They found her magenta-purplish color turned into blue.

"Think again," Arcee snarled a bit, "You're not getting the relic!"

Arcee activated and fired her blasters at Quintessa, who quickly teleported and escaped at once. She shot Obsidian's head off before turned and fired at the rest of her enemies. Starscream groaned in anger as he transformed into his jet and blasted off. Thundercracker and Thunderblast did the same thing as well. Bulkhead and his allies fired their blasters at them. However, the Decepticons have escaped.

Bulkhead and his team turned to Arcee, who smiled weakly while holding the Matrix of Chaos. She grunted a bit as she was about to fall. Bulkhead and Chromia quickly helped and held her.

"You okay?" Chromia asked.

Arcee smiled, "Yeah, I am. Don't worry."

Bulkhead looked at the Matrix of Chaos, "What is that?"

Arcee hummed in concern while looking at it, "Don't know. But I bet Mistress of Flames can tell me about this 'Matrix of Chaos'. And why me?"

Starscream has alerted the rest of his Decepticon Army including Thrust, Dirge, Ramjet and their soldiers to retreat at once. They all managed to regroup and arrived at the hanger bay. All of them quickly boarded into four of large spiky armored transporters. They all then lifted off and flew into the space. They have escaped now.

Starscream and his officers were settling down now. Skywarp and Blitzwing were piloting the transporter. Thrust, Dirge and Ramjet piloted their own transporters while following the main one. Lugnut desperately and frantically trying to contact and reach his master. Thunderblast hummed happily as she was cleaning and waxing Starscream's Original Body happily while marveled at it. Thundercracker was busy checking, analyzing and even studying the weapons.

Starscream was alone in his chamber as he was standing and looking at the window display of space. As expected, he turned to his back, where he found Quintessa stood before him.

"Things did not go as we plan, didn't we?" Starscream asked amusingly and calmly.

"Do not worry, Starscream." Quintessa said calmly, "Everything will be on right track. My connection to Arcee has yet to be severed."

Starscream smiled gleefully, "This means..."

Quintessa smiled darkly, "Yes, Starscream. I still do..."

After the fierce battle at Parvus Oppidum, Arcee and her group regrouped with Mistress of Flames and her main forces, who have arrived and entered the palace-fortress. All of them were celebrating and cheering for their victory. They have regained and reclaimed their home planet from the enemies. Both Obsidian and Strika have been defeated and killed for good.

Everyone was celebrating and cheering wildly and happily such as Cliffjumper and Firestar were arm wrestling, Warpath and Hound were firing and shooting at the target practices, Protectorbots ad Torchbearers were chatting about their normal lives and evens showing off their abilities, and even Drift and Master Beta were alone to enjoy his tea. Arcee, Bulkhead, Chromia and Moonracer were talking with Mistress of Flames, involving of Matrix of Chaos.

Mistress of Flames hummed in concern while looking at the Matrix of Chaos, "This is indeed the Matrix of Chaos as I feared." She turned and looked at her allies, "Like the Matrix of Leadership, it possessed powerful yet deadly and destructive force of nature. Unlike the Matrix of Light, its purpose is to destroy anything and even Cybertronian and indigenous lifeforms. It also can bring the death to the living as the undead puppet. It could also corrupt innocents into pure evil demons. And the worse is it served the connection to the Chaos Bringer..."

"Unicron..." Moonracer said in shock and concern.

Chromia hissed, "Man. That can't be good."

"No, it isn't," Moonracer agreed in concern, "The Primes must have banished the dangerous relic into Realm of Primes, where no one can find and get it or even get to that place. It's the safest and secured place to safeguard that relic."

"I still don't get it," Bulkhead said in concern, "Why would the Primes let Arcee get the Matrix of Chaos?"

Arcee hummed in concern, "He's right about that. But Megatronus and Solus did say something about when the time is right..."

Mistress of Flames hummed, "I believed that the Matrix of Chaos played the important role into the future. Though it possessed dangerous power source, it still can be used for good."

"Somehow, I doubt it," Arcee said in concern.

Bulkhead nodded, "Not to mention, I don't feel comfortable about having it with me. It gives me the cold and creep."

"Regardless of what it does, I believe it will serve us good. Who knows? It could perhaps assisted the Matrix of Leadership to defeat our great foe such as Ancient Witch," Mistress of Flames said calmly, "After all, our Creator works in mysterious ways..."

Arcee sighed, "I supposed so. I just hope it doesn't affect anyone or turn them into mindless monsters."

"Fret not, Arcee. As long you do not give in, the Matrix of Chaos will not feel it," Mistress of Flames said calmly, "Since you all will be leaving, I would like to have Moonracer to join you as both your companion and representative of Caminus."

Arcee and her friends were surprised. Moonracer looked shock, "Really?"

Mistress of Flames nodded, "Yes, Moonracer. You did have great desire of traveling and learning about the world and its culture. This is your chance."

Moonracer can't help but feel happy and proud. She bowed, "Thank you, milady. I will not fail you!"

Mistress of Flames smiled, "I'm sure you won't."

Arcee groaned, "Great. Now I'm a babysitter..."

Bulkhead chuckled, "This could be fun..."

Arcee and her team boarded on Bulkhead's Junk Shuttle. They even brought Moonracer, supplies of weapons and Energon, and even some soldiers with them. They all waved and said goodbye to Mistress of Flames and her allies, though Cliffjumper and Firestar continued cursing and shouting at each other angrily and wildly about who's the winner. This annoyed most of them, though.

Junk Shuttle has departed and left Caminus. They're now heading off to find and regroup with Optimus Prime and his allies.

Protectorbots were piloting the junk shuttle. Warpath and Hound were checking and making sure the weapons and armory secured and readied for the next battle. Drift was meditating, with Cliffjumper chatting happily. Chromia, Bulkhead and Moonracer were discussing and planning of which planet they should go and regroup with their allies.

Arcee was alone in her own quarter. Feeling tired and dizzy, she entered the bathroom chamber. She was near to the sink, where she tried to rinse her face to get herself awaken. After three times of rinsing, she looked at the mirror. It shocked and scared her off. She is now looking at her own reflection's left eye, which shown to be magenta-purplish colored eye. It scared and worried her a lot.

"No..." Arcee said in concern and fear, "How?"

"Do not worry, Arcee. Your time will come soon. I promise you for that..." Quintessa's Voice said darkly.

Arcee quivered and shivered in fear and concern as she slowly squatted down while covered herself up. She muttered and quivered in fear. And at the same time, the canister that kept Matrix of Chaos within has glowed darkly like it was detecting something or someone else...

"No... No... No... Not again... I can't hurt my friends. I can't hurt my sisters. Not Optimus Prime too..."

To be Continued...

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