(Please see all previous disclaimers)
As Lancex grew closer to completely mastering his skill, back at the base, Ratchet detected a problem. "Optimus, we have a problem" Ratchet called out.
"What is the issue?" Optimus asked, greatly concerned at Ratchet's statement.
"The con ship is heading right for our base. We need all bots that are out to come back if we hope to survive" Ratchet responded. Arcee and Bee looked to Optimus as well.
"I will call Lancex and the others back. We must also find a safe place for the kids" Optimus stated. Bee quickly took care of finding a safe place for the kids. They didn't like it, but didn't fight it.
Meanwhile, Optimus called Lancex and the others. "Bulkhead, Lancex, and Predaking, I need you to return immediately" Optimus stated over the comms. The command was clear.
"On our way" Bulkhead answered, and the three soon left. Secretly, Heatwave and the others were glad they were gone, but didn't say anything.
It didn't take long for the trio to arrive. "What is going on?" Lancex asked, seeming to get that this was more than what was being said.
"It would appear that the Decepticon ship is heading right for this base. They will kill us if we remain and do not fight. Are you ready to implement our plan, Lancex?" Optimus asked as he informed the trio of recent events.
Lancex nodded. "I can't say for sure if I completely mastered the skill I planned to master, but I am ready to head into battle, regardless. I know for a fact that Megatron is after me and won't attack until he knows I am safe from being destroyed" Lancex replied. Optimus nodded and sent the bot out. Bulkhead and Predaking were worried, but they trusted Optimus and Lancex, though all were unaware of the deviant device that Megatron would bring into the fight.
Meanwhile, Megatron smirked. He had finally found where the cursed Autobots were hiding from them. Thanks to wherever that random space bridge came from, Megatron now knew where to find the bot he wanted. Dreadwing had made two devices that delivered the same glitchy programming to be used. "Now remember, cons, you can destroy any bot except Lancex. If you so much as harm him, you will pay dearly" Megatron announced, his ice cold voice making it clear that he meant business. The cons nodded. No one foresaw just how chaotic this strange battle was going to be. But all were prepared to make the other side pay.
