Summary: 4 million years ago, the Autobots were preparing to leave Cybertron. Starscream's ambitions were failing and soon the Autobots would leave and Energon would be wasted in a pursuit of them. But an unexpected visitor meets Starscream and gives him the knowledge to defeat the Autobots and Megatron in one fell swoop. How is this possible? (An Alternate timeline story.)
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters or anything of the transformers brand. All rights belong to Hasbro.
Hello tranfans. Sorry it's been a while, it's taken a long time. First I had to know exactly what i wanted in these next few chapters. Which characters to use, which chapter to put them in. When these ideas i have should come in etc. So yeah it's been a few months sorry about that i guess. Well i had.. well my life for one thing you impatient little scraplets (JK). I had to made chapters for my other three stories. They have to be progressed as well you know, check them out if you haven't already, two of them are set in the Reign of Starscream timeline after all. Anyway here is the next installment, I hope you enjoy. This will have no action, but it will have character development and will act as a set up for 'One particular character', and the fate of all Transformers. Please R&R and i'll such things. if this doesn't live up to the wait time i'm sorry. But this is what i planned anyway so live with it. or hate me and spam me with rude Pm's. (please don't =) )
Transformers: Reign of Starscream
Chapter 9
Plans and Revelations
Location: Kaon
One solar cycle later
The situation had still not calmed down. Now instead of riot, there was excitement. More along the lines of they were preparing for a final assault against the Autobots. However the memory of Megatron's demise still haunted them, their entire faction was founded by him. Now thought they mostly had faith in Starscream/Shockwave etc. He had only been officially leader, since this morning. Although Not exactly giving anyone confidence in his abilities. But they did appreciate Starscream's ability to rally them, in their time of need. A few however, are not convinced, sceptical or perhaps seek their own agendas, whatever they might be.
Decepticons began returning to their regular duties. Whether guarding, reporting, making or training. Calm appeared to be settling in, the thought of a coming reckoning against the Autobots was exciting enough. The chance to honour what they stood for, was fantastic for them. With preparations underway, the Decepticons prepared for their soon to be coming attack plans etc. Now the remaining commanders now are being reshaped into Starscream's new vision. The Cons were okay with this as their usual commanders either went up or down in rank to compensate for the heavy losses taken by the accident. So no drastic changes there, Shockwave had become Starscream's second in command. While Onslaught, though few really remember his... earlier days (see Combaticons Rising for that story) he has yet to be a proven strategist to those unfamiliar with him. They have however heard good things about him, mostly from rumours/legends etc.
Though confidence was their... a plan was needed to have almost complete faith that Starscream's reign, would benefit anyone at all.
Location: Kaon, Unknown location
early morning
The rest of the day was set for planning for the current campaign. But right now Starscream had set a meeting with another con, but for more personal reasons.
Starscream's ally had been chuckling with joy since, the last stellar cycle. He had almost completed his task. Starscream was now leader of the Decepticons. Megatron was destroyed and soon the Autobots would be too. History would change for the better. As for him however though his ambitions were almost complete, they relied on Starscream to succeed. You can imagine he had a bit of scepticism.
'About time, things are FINALLY shaping up. He imbecile Megatron is finally gone, offline, kaput, dead, obliterated, perforated, terminated, executed... hmmm note to self, look up more abolishing words. Oh wait... um... destroyed, nullified, finished, obliterated... yeas that'll do'. He thought to himself, getting clearly carried away in his boredom. He sipped from an Energon cube and waited for Starscream.
'Why is it whenever a simple task needs to be done he can't do it on time? Oh right... now I remember 'he thought flatly. Quickly setting aside the past... present? Future-present? He decided to focus more on being patient, he realised Starscream's position and gave him some credit. 'Indeed this is a brilliant strategy, giving him my ideas and making him do the dirty work is great for me. Have more time to achieve my own goals. Goals which will stem from the success this Starscream creates. It's strange... I'm possibly trapped here, and interfering with an established timeline. How far can I change THIS future?' The ally pondered. Thinking about this made him frustrated even more. He couldn't believe he was relying on Starscream to help him. He was already changing this version to suit his own ends.
'At a certain point... I will become part of this time, a part of its history. Once I have changed the future enough... I can remain here. I will be safe from Galvatron, Optimus, the Quintessons, Unicron and all those other fools. Mwa ha ha ha... finally I can remain safe from the annoyances of that world. By Primus this feels good.' He thought amusingly. He sat in his throne, waiting. He read the data net every now and then. Some bits were intriguing, especially regarding the step up in war effort, although the rest was extremely boring.
Then he heard a cybertronian jet land nearby. The sounds of it were easily recognisable. He had arrived. Starscream entered the room, with the biggest grin on his face. It was almost sickening. He stood in front of the throne with a triumphant yet arrogant face.
'Well well well, look who's looking a bit happier. I told you I would succeed and I have. I suppose from that little data pad of yours you know how far we have come' Starscream boasted. He looked at his ally; he seemed in a similar mood. However Starscream was a pretty good judge of character especially when he had been with cons and bots for millennia. His ally was however even closer to home. 'You seem distracted for someone who helped me conquer Cybertron. What's the matter? Jealous?' he said smugly.
His ally laughed. He forgot how humorous Starscream could be. It was difficult when the only humour came from him/at the expense of others. Sometimes you're on your own, even when you're in a faction, always the loner, the stand out...'The idiot'. Sometimes the best company is yourself, even if you don't want it to be. (Note- 'blerch' I'm sorry it's getting all mushy... but hey CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT).
'Me jealous of you? HA HA HA... you're so funny. No, anyway... how goes being ruler of the Decepticons?' his ally asked. Quickly recovering from nervous laughter
'Oh fantastic, It's everything I wanted. No Megatron. I have thousands of followers and the chance to show my true leadership skills. Everything is perfect...' Starscream answered.
'Oh that's great, I'm real happy for you'
'Yes it is fantastic I now know why Megatron enjoys it so... the power of tyranny is like the essence of primus himself' Starscream boasted.
'Um hmm...' his ally said stoically.
'Yes it is the best feeling in the world...'
'Oh that's good for you...'
'Of course it is, the loyalists are gone, and Megatron is terminated and have achieved what you tasked me with. Now I lead the Decepticons' Starscream cried out loudly.
'Yes, yes, yes excellent work' he said with a hint of frustration.
'Why only an idiot would not attempt to lead, it feels glorious. Now I have all the power I ever wanted' Starscream continued in his boasts.
'ALRIGHT I GET IT' his ally screamed. It was almost deafening.
Starscream paused, clearly quite shocked.
'Uh I mean... let's talk about something else... how is everything coming? I assume you've managed to work with your new chain of command somewhat?' His ally asked, quickly covering his tracks.
Starscream was a bit intrigued by his ally's previous reaction. But he let it slide... for now. Now he might as well answer him. 'Well it's going excellent. Shockwave has been surprisingly easier to work with. He offers ideas and new advancements for the war effort. And as much as I hate to admit... he did help me get rid of Megatron. I suppose the effort is worth it' he said reluctantly.
'Well well who would have thought it? I did after all give you the idea. Technically it was mostly my doing. Oh and the Combaticons... and the weaning of the loyalists. Oh and the...'
'Alright I get it you have been very helpful... are you happy now?' Starscream said frustratingly.
'Oh yes... how are the Combaticons doing? I barely worked with them for more than a few days before... Well er... perhaps it's best not said' His ally quickly said. Stopping himself from perhaps altering the future even more.
'Luckily I stopped myself, if I told him that the Combaticon betrayed the cons in a matter of day in my timeline. It might affect the war effort. Whether Starscream likes it or not... he needs those psychopaths' his ally thought.
'Oh well... I've obviously told you about their... recruitment. It was quite stressful and they made me look like an idiot but...'
'Well that's a first' his ally said smugly. A mischievous grin lit up his face.
'HA HA very funny... you know for someone trying to help me rule Cybertron you spend a lot of time, mocking me instead' Starscream stated flatly.
'Ha ha, well if you lived to be like me. Then you would know why... the pain and horror I've endured for over four million stellar cycles, how I was treated, enslaved, threatened and worse. Then you would probably realise why I try to have fun with you... it truly is the first time in years I have had someone worth talking too' he explained.
'Oh... anyway' Starscream continued. 'The Combaticons are... co-operative. They all are especially onslaught, willing to help us with war plans. Blast Off and Vortex are a benefit to are dwindled seeker count, and have joined Thundercracker and Skywarp as air brigade commanders. Swindle has been a help on the economic side of things. While brawl is a general, he is quite god. He knows how to... well kill things effectively. Plus he commands respect... or fear one of the two. Overall I'd say they are fitting in well. For being imprisoned for millennia' Starscream explained.
'Well that is good. Do you command respect?' he asked.
'Well they... agree to follow me to serve their own ends. Let's leave it at that for now. Saying they follow me gladly, is a suicide run' Starscream said frowning.
'Oh well... you've made a better impression on them than I did. I had to trick them into working for me. You've appealed to their desires, a cunning strategy. I'm still quite surprised to be honest. Especially considering when I come from and who you are' he said cryptically.
'Well then... if you don't mind. Plans are to be made if we are to strike at the Autobots sparks in a matter of solar cycles. So I bid you farewell. Too bad your 'situation' means you can't join my forces. I suppose you would have liked a bit of revenge... well technically you can't have revenge in this timeline... can you? Oh slag this timeline scrap' Starscream moaned.
'Perhaps it's best you just go, farewell Starscream I wish you luck on your endeavours. May your enemies die at your servos and your rule be absolute' he said respectfully.
'Why thank you my ally, when I do rule Cybertron I am sure their will be a place for you' Starscream left the room and flew off. Leaving is ally to his own devices. His ally looked out of a hole in the roof, managing to see him fly over.
'Yes good luck, I guarantee you will win my friend. Oh dear... how I wish there could have been another way. I have grown quite fond of you .Like you said there will be a place for me in your army. But intend to reach the top. Even if it means having to deal with you my all you see...I didn't come to help you...but to help you help me' he smiled sinisterly
He took another sip of energon and grinned. His time would come soon enough. He just needed the hard part done first.
Location: Kaon, Kolkular
Starscream had arrived at Kolkular a bit late but it didn't matter. Shockwave and Onslaught were already there. Along with other cons of importance to the war effort, the central hub was being used as a war room. Here the plans and tactics would be made to complete the final assault. Starscream would have preferred not to be in a room with any of them. But great trumps come from small beginnings.
A large table was I the middle of the room. Around it stood the main chain of command. Those considered being the most important o the cause, especially after the incident which took Megatron, Soundwave and a large proportion of seekers.
The table however, also served as a holo map/pad or tactical illustrator, often used to analyse the field of battle to prepare tactics. Today all those options were being used. The final assault against Iacon and the Ark was being prepared for. All these cons need to do is devise a brilliant strategy to wipe them out. Or at least delay the launch for as long as possible. Ego's aside, the Autobots haven't survived this long by being cowards. Despite what cons would have you believe. The Autobots hold a impressive defence. The most notable of which would be in the city of Iacon, their last refuge. Optimus has achieved a lot over the millennia... although he has lost more.
'Under Megatron we were destined to fail. The Autobots would have survived and escaped like the cowards they are. We would have followed them and went into a downward spiral. We would be entrapped on a deadlock, in which it would have been impossible to escape. Thanks to my ally, I have saved the Decepticons from this torture. But me as well, he has told me of my fate If it was to come to pass... now I will forge my own destiny' Starscream recollected to himself. He stood at the table looked at the data net, before looking at the others. Shockwave stood there with an unreadable expression as always. Onslaught appeared bored but Starscream figured once he started planning he would lighten up.
Shockwave had spent the past few stellar cycles planning, new plans, inventions, war machines and tactics. Not in as much detail as a military commander but beneficial enough. He had been analysing multiple scenarios that could happen in the future based on Starscream's actions. His logic centres had been in overdrive given all the recent influxes of data, after the destruction of Megatron. So may scenarios and so little time to prepare. Even with the delay the riots caused the Autobots. Hypothesise, recommendation, interrogatives and conclusions were all being formed. The loss of Megatron was still a plague on Shockwave, even with his changed mind frame. He had always served loyally and Megatron was simply a lost cause.
But he had great ideals, they only have started to be tainted by the desire for revenge, rather than political urges. Though he has a new purpose in the upcoming order, the death leaves a burden on the Decepticons future. At least under Megatron, they never really had to worry about it. Even shockwave was becoming oblivious until Starscream came along. However, he is now focused on the task at hand. The future of the Decepticon cause will be decided in the next few solar cycles.
The newest member technically was onslaught. Even though during the first million stellar cycles of the war, he and his unit were already a valuable addition to Megatron's rebellion. After millennia of imprisonment, they were given a second chance. However Onslaught is great judge of character. The day Starscream broke his unit out. He was won over by him. But he knew he was quite incompetent to some degree, although he admired some of his cunning and his seeker abilities. He knew of his traitorous streak, especially given his understanding of his fellow Combaticons new personalities.
'I can't stop thinking about what happened why I'm here now and what we could have been before. Sentinel changed us... made us savages... turned us on each other even. Now I can barely keep them under control, if Starscream hadn't told me of his intentions beforehand. We might simply have declared war on Megatron again. Even I now know that is idiotic. We barely beat Megatron before the Decepticon rebellion was in its prime. How would psychopaths now incompatible, with one another and basically unable to have a conversation without, wanting to tear out each other's optics, work together to fight through an entire planet of loyalists. No it would be impossible, but that changes nothing. Only my quick thinking stopped them. That was only because I remembered what we are, sadists. That is what we now are... merciless killers, Unstoppable, and with only a hint of what we once were...
All of our once great attributes are now utilised for one purpose. To tear apart our enemies circuit by circuit. Our lives, our passions our sparks are consumed by hatred. The worst part is... only I remember what we once were. The others remember Sentinels betrayal. But I remember almost everything. I do not tell them; after all we are supposed to be strong. But I am haunted by the past. I sometimes wish I wasn't... I wish I was like Brawl and the others, with hatred towards sentinel. But none of the pain, the memories of what I once was. They are my demons, and they will not leave' Onslaught recollected. He was hiding behind a stoic, expression. The military demeanour and mouthplate help with that.
Onslaught was only here to conduct tactics, and as a proven strategist. He was in charge of preparations for the assault. This was the only good thing he was getting out of the alliance with Starscream. If he hadn't have given them that option. Then the Combaticons would most likely fulfil their carnal desires and take revenge blindly on all Decepticons. Onslaught was the only one who saw it, and had to be sure it was worth it. Now he can fulfil his ideals of becoming a full time military strategist. Back during his teams, first millennium under the Decepticons. Hey were used as little more than living weapons. Though it was much to the Combaticons pleasure, Onslaught now knows he needs more. His original personality was beginning to emerge... if only in the form of the passion to strategize.
The three, along with the other commanders, were about to begin planning. Though there was already tension in the room. The loss of Megatron often means that they now have to come up with ideas to set up not only a final assault, but also the future after that. How will everything be run. What will change and what will remain the same. How much of Megatron's original vision be conducted, or changed or overlooked. Will this be an entirely new order?
Even Starscream could tell it was going to be a long, stressful few stellar cycles. Even with his ally's help/knowledge and secret messaging. Starscream only really knew how to lead militarily, however politics was not his strong suit. He did have some idea of what to do however. But he was more focused o the war, and keeping the populace in check with something to do. If he won the war, then he would be proven to be competent.
15 cycles later
The discussion/debate/war planning had begun. Starscream and Shockwave pretty much headed it at the start, both inputting ideas and stratagems. Some militaristic, some political, some about who was best to do a certain task. It was quite civilised for a while.
Then when a battle plan was formulate from those ideas. Onslaught jumped right in, criticising almost everything that was put out. Maybe he said 'your reliant on this' or that is too specific for a battle situation. He provided excellent criticisms. Much to Starscream's dismay, he hates being corrected, especially by an underling. So arguments awoke. First small, then they began to escalate.
(Authors note- p.s. the following will be a sample of a conversation, but not a full debate. I mean c'mon it's taken me two months to create some form of schedule of which stories to do first. And to fully know what I want in the next 2-5 chapters. So this bit will not explore the plans in much detail. Let's leave some stuff out or this story could go on longer then I would like.)
And so the debate continued. Some good came out of it, some not so good.
'No you fools clearly the seekers are our best strategic option. We have been the best trained and skilled warriors since even before the war. We should be the key factor to the tide of the battle' Starscream argued.
'Indeed they are an excellent asset. But with our already declined numbers of seekers, a heavy reliance on them is not a strategic option, especially if the Autobots adapt to this tactic. As former air commander I understand your point when it comes to skill among other things relating to our air force. However the fact remains, it is a one dimensional tactic. Therefore it is illogical to conduct such an action' Shockwave replied unemotionally.
'Oh really, Shockwave if only you could look past logic. Perhaps you can see that not every situation needs it. A full assault will not work. We have done it before and it is effective. But the Autobots have had millennia to adapt to our tactics. There is the highest possibility that a full assault as always will fail to wipe them out. Sure there is the matter of the heavy attrition a few strikes will make. But we have a short window and we need new tactics. Hit and run have never been explored. I have always wanted the chance to apply my desires to our cause. Now with Megatron's unfortunate demise, we need new direction. We cannot carry the burden otherwise' Starscream replied frustratingly.
Onslaught watched with interest. He had bid his time until he could see both sides finally. Now as they debated. He could pitch in and perhaps bring his towards an actual conclusion. He stood up and looked at both of them. 'Oh an excellent argument from the both of you, but this gets us nowhere. Starscream you desire aerial combat and bombardment. Shockwave believes new strategies will be needed. Why not combine these ideas and start coming up with some actual tactics' Onslaught said flatly.
'You dare speak to the leader of the Decepticons that way!' Starscream replied angrily. Gesturing his and in an authoritarian manner while his cape flapped to the side as he did so, showing of some form of power and grace. It was unclear if this was intentional. He stared shockwave and Onslaught down. Shockwave didn't show the slightest reaction. While onslaught gave the subtle, 'so now he has come out of his shell' look at him. It was also slightly a warning to Starscream that he needs to watch his place.
Starscream didn't show it but he immediately recollected himself out of realisation/fear. 'I understand what you mean Onslaught but the fact remains that, you have not contributed yet. Perhaps your experience will aid us. Or would you prefer to watch us squawk like sparklings?' Starscream asked rhetorically.
'Oh very well, if you really require assistance oh great one, you only had to ask. First your idea of stepping up aerial combat is great. But the fact remains it is too one sided. Starscream you are biased. And shockwave you have the right idea but still your logic blinds you to the possibilities here. These Autobots... clearly are different from the ones back in my solar cycle. They are all changed by millennia and this 'Optimus'. We need to ensure we are prepared for all scenarios. Our plan is foolproof. And we maximise usage of all assets. Air and ground units utilized to wipe them out. I recommend drop ships to have a heavy role also. And I to be leading the assault, from the ground and my own unit to complete our own set tasks' Onslaught offered.
'Intriguing, but how exactly shall we utilise all assets. How shall we create a tactic that is unbeatable? But also be able to ensure all soldiers, have a part in order to make sure that the Autobots will not recover. We need logical strategies now' Shockwave stated.
'Well how about you start coming up with some you walking computer. We have lost a lot and we have limited time to avenge him' he cunningly lied.
'Alright alright everyone shut up' cried onslaught. 'Right first things first, we should take out the competition. Once the prime and a main bulk are gone, we then can come up with better strategies to wipe them out. Now sit down and let's come up with ideas. Not arguments. Onslaught said calmly.
'FINE' Starscream said. He sat down waited to discuss. 'I can't believe this' Starscream thought as they had to now crate a plan to get rid of Optimus and more, before they could make another plan. It was going to be a long few solar cycles.
While discussions were being made, so were revelations, revelations which would give one such Cybertronian, difficult choices indeed in stellar cycles to come.
Location: The (former) Decepticon Detention centre, Kaon outskirts
(Authors note- in order to get some idea read all of the Thundercracker stuff in the last chapter. You'll perhaps get a sense of what he is trying to do and why he's doing it.).
Thundercracker had just arrived in the area. He transformed and surveyed the surroundings. He didn't like what he saw. What was stellar cycles ago a functioning facility. Was now a barren wasteland covered in rubble and the remnants of former cons. It was quite a depressing site. Especially for TC, but he had expected as such. He was not here to admire or hate the view. Rather he had set a mission for himself, and here seemed the best place to start.
Meanwhile the higher ups organised the assault along with other things. Everyone else did their own thing. That includes TC, who instead of perhaps joining the other seeker to train, prepare or talk. Decided to conduct his investigation into the very bowels of the situation the Deceptions were in. Not that he would socialise with anyone other than Skywarp anyway. Even that gets annoying sometimes.
No Thundercracker was here to discover what secrets this new Decepticon order was hiding. What Starscream's true agenda's were. How far Starscream was willing to go to achieve his ideals of likely self worship, and overall if the Decepticons will become better or worse. Here is the first recorded instance of something sinister. All TC had to do was find some evidence to know how this 'accident' occurred. Then his investigation could truly begin.
Thundercracker began inspecting the wreckage. Mostly all he found was... well nothing. Sometimes he found some recognisable things, but of no importance. He saw the remnants of former guards and prisoners. It was difficult to tell them apart however. As he continued still nothing appeared. The entire facility was pretty much rubble, say for a few standing walls or pillars. It looked like any conquered Autobot city.
'I this it, is this all that is left. No computers, no records or obvious physical evidence. What the slag am I supposed to do? If I find nothing then I might as well walk blindly into an empire under an idiot, which is exactly what I don't want. There must be something to help my investigation. Something to show what happened here and ultimately reveal if things will become better, or much, much worse. Megatron already turned us into savages. What will we become in the future?' Thundercracker contemplated. He continued searching the area. Attempting to find things based on his memories of the complex.
Eventually he came across a bit he recognised. It was the same as any other chamber from the shape etc. It was the remnants of an energon storage chamber. It was clearly worse for wear. He examined the 'room'. The walls, floor and rubble. Hoping to find something.
'Interesting... from the way the rubble is facing, the scorched metal and surrounding area. This has the most damage. The way the rubble faces outwards. Means that, his was indeed where the explosion originated. Given that the facility was destroyed so quickly, it can be the only logical origin. The question is what caused the combustion. The facility would most likely have fire repellent systems in place or warning alarms. So the detonation had to be instantaneous'. Thundercracker thought inquisitively. He inspected the wreckage, examining the melted metal, looking for any clues or any remnants of something salvageable. After looking through the piles for cycles, he almost gave up.
'What... what's this?' he thought as he stopped himself, he saw something definitely out of place. I n amongst the rubble was a shining metal object. About a quarter of it was missing. Wires hung out. The object was thin, circular and had some form of screen display on it. Although he noted, the device clearly was dead. Thundercracker examined it, every angle and bit. He had found something of definite interest.
'It's a detpack. There is no reason for it to be in the storage room, unless it was placed here at the time of the explosion'. He rummaged further finding more parts, but only in pieces. 'Then it appears that these were the spark that lit the flame'. He returned to the device, which was clearly the same as the other objects. Except that some of this objects had some different appearances. But the more intact piece was more important. It was the first piece of evidence that this was indeed intentional sabotage, maybe even intentional murder.
He continued examining the construct. The Detpack had survived the explosion. Not just that, but the fact it wasn't in pieces suggested something else. 'It didn't detonate' TC realised. 'That means it should be safe to take back. Finally some evidence I can use'. He stared at it for a moment, before he opened his cockpit. There he placed the pack. He continued searching for many a cycle, checking the rubble. He found damaged weapons and various things which held no benefit to his investigation.
Eventually he came across a pretty much intact, data terminal. It looked like it could be salvageable. 'Interesting... this looks like a record archive. Designed to help you access history of the prisoners and their location. If I can get any info at all out of it, it could be a great help. I should check inside the casing, perhaps I will find something of value' He thought. TC examined the terminal, trying to find a way to access it. There was a removable panel. He removed it and looked inside. It was the various components, cores and drives of the terminal. He took stuff out examining it, checking for damage. Some were melted or damaged, clearly by the explosion. After cycles of searching, TC found something extremely beneficial.
At the back of the terminal, there was a square like object. Quite large, and clearly some major component, TC recognised it. It was the hard drive. And not just a hard drive but it also works as a connection to the prison network. All updated info to the data net/prisons update network; therefore it would have all information, prior to the facility's destruction. Therefore it could hold data of great value to TC. 'If this hard drive is indeed functional, then I have evidence that would be extremely beneficial to my investigation. If this drive has anything from say the last 30 cycles before the explosion. Then I could get a great idea of what happened and why. The detpack already tells me that it was intentional sabotage, perhaps this can shed a light as to why' he theorised. He placed the drive in with the det pack, and continued searching.
Eventually he gave up searching the rubble and walked towards what remained of the catwalk that led to the prison. While he walked he thought about his 'collectables'.
'The detpack proves that this accident was in fact sabotage. But to what purpose, this prison isn't designed for Autobots. Rather rouge, mentally unstable or proven conniving nature. Cons that have attempted coups on higher ups or Megatron himself, if they are allowed to live are contained here for millions of stellar cycles. They are serving a sentence, why blow them all up. Surely waking up after stellar cycles in stasis is punishment enough. The detpack clearly shows that this was either a distraction, or it was a way to cover that murderer's actions. But what could be here to gain. Is it really worth destroying all these prisoners for whatever valuable thing once rested here? These cons could have been reformed or realise the error of their ways' TC thought sadly.
As he reached the catwalk he decided to look at the det pack once more. It still seemed useful. Not only was it one of the clues to this mystery. But it also seemed functional, and if that was so then that could change everything. It could help TC learn what class, mode or perhaps even the name of the Cybertronian who did this. 'This det pack would usually be used by a seeker, especially when I, have used such models in the field. However if someone had well enough hacking skills them they can wipe out the radio frequency and replace it with their own. Thereby it would be then controlling it. The only way I can know who detonated those packs is by disarming the pack. Then once I call a few favours I can access the frequency database. I can then connect the pack to it and go through which frequency activates it.
However I would be searching through the entire Decepticon database. I need more evidence to narrow it down. The evidence would have to be here. It would also need to highlight whether it is a seeker or not. Then that will narrow down the search. Now if I can only find some, but it has all been destroyed save these two bits I've found' TC sighed. Without at least one more piece of evidence, he could be investigating forever. By then it would be too late.
He sat down with his legs dangling over the chasm. It was a long way down indeed. If a cybertronian didn't have flight they would die from a fall down there. TC picked up a piece of rubble and in his frustration/boredom threw the piece down the chasm. His seeker origins gave him keen sensors. The most effective being sight, he could see further as cleared than cons with ground modes. This meant he could keep track of the falling object. However what caught his attention the most. Was when the rubble didn't hit the bottom, but a large strange piece of metal at the bottom? It was difficult to see but the shape looked like it had limbs, albeit quite mangled.
'What the slag... that looks interesting'. He said inquisitively. He jumped off the edge, Tucking in his arms and legs to reduce air resistance and fall faster. He then near the bottom spread out his arms and activated his boosters violently. But stopping them to continue falling, but at a much lower rate. He continued this until he landed safely.
The bottom was a wasteland. No energon, not even in crude form. Waste metal and rubble from above littered the landscape. TC looked around and found the object... though clearly heavily damaged by the fall. It was definitely a cybertronian body, and unlike the rubble more intact. TC realised this meant it was here before the explosion. And the lack of rust meant that it was only recently before.
'Surely a con isn't stupid enough to fall off. Even Skywarp has enough common sense' he thought. He took a closer look at the body and noticed wounds that could not have been from the fall. Wounds and holes, which could only come from projectile or sharp weaponry, were their ad they were not pretty. 'The con must have been attacked from up there. If so that means that seen before the explosion, the subject was murdering coldly. This Decepticon was only doing his duty, he didn't deserve this. What sick twisted cybertronian could do such an act? No matter what faction this murderer is on. This is barbaric and the must face justice. No matter what rank they are or location they are at' he thought determinately.
He looked at the body more closely, remembering that he need more evidence. 'Hmm... Dents from physical attacks are evident. Meaning punches and kicks. But where they are placed suggests skill and training. No average con has such things. The puncture wounds are large, and penetrate deep. Some wounds go right through the body, especially the ones going through the chassis and neck regions. Wait a klik... these wounds are by a blaster. But the concentration means that it was specially designed' he used his servos and sharp materials to cut open and examine the body.
'The circuitry damage, around the blast holes shows that they are fried, deactivated even'. He looked into the optics. 'The optics are damaged heavily, likely from the same thing that affected, the shoulder joints. That means the electrical systems were fried, maybe even blocked. The clear evidence points to the fact that the assailant was skilled and had weapons that fry and disable electrical systems. The only class that has such weapons and training... would be the seekers' he realised sadly.
He stood up and closed his optics before returning to his stoic state. 'One of us... committed sabotage and murder. This is dishonourable and a betrayal. Even followers of a lost cause don't deserve this. If I have to investigate my brethren... so be it. The must be torn from the shadows and brought to the light. Although I must take caution, luckily the Decepticons will be distracted by this assault they are planning, to be too interested by us mere grunts, especially after Starscream's speech'. He transformed and flew back up to the ledge.
He took out his evidence and though about what he needed to do. 'First I need to find out what is on this hard drive. If I switch out my own for this one, then my actions cannot be tracked. As the prisons system is separate to the main one. No one will check a dead system. Then perhaps I can find out what the murderer is covering up, that could be valuable in prison. What information, object could be taken. Or who could be worth breaking out. This holds the key to that question' he thought. He then looked at the det pack recollecting the evidence in his head.
'This det pack was definitely used by the assailant. Or at least one of his accomplices if there are any. The design of the pack and the evidence on the body are a positive match that a seeker did this deed. I am lucky there is salvageable evidence; the saboteur likely didn't think that they could slip up like this. Once I find out which personal frequency activates this pack. Then I will know who murdered those guards and prisoners coldly. This evidence, with the hard drive to boot, will mean that I will find out who they are and what they did this for.
For all I know... this could have been Skywarp... by primus please don't make it so. Not the only person I can stand being with and talk to in this world. Especially now... everything is changing. We the soldiers get war, and nothing else. When we win... what do we do next? Even without Megatron... will our race fall any deeper or will we finally create that society that was promised millennia ago. Only time will tell. But maybe my investigation will help clean up our faction for starters. This traitor must face punishment... no matter who they are'. He thought determinately, but also a hint of sadness was there. He returned the evidence to his chest compartment. He then transformed and flew off towards Kaon. Little did he know that a figure, had been watching him the entire time He had seen his evidence gathering and knew what he was doing.
'SLAG... I forgot about you Thundercracker. Your conscience and ideals have always been a hindrance. Now unknowingly you are tampering with Starscream's plans... but also my own. If you get too close...then I might have to silence you as much as I would prefer not to, you might leave me no choice. My old friend... you walk a dangerous path. I just hope it doesn't lead into mine...' He transformed to jet mode and returned to Kaon, albeit in a different direction to Thundercracker.
What will Thundercracker discover? What will become of the Autobots? What will become of the Decepticon cause? And who is really pulling the strings here? ... Only time will tell.
hey guys hope you enjoyed. So their is not much progression, as i said this is set up. I did not want to just make up the war plan in one chapter. yes you will go into that assault chapter with only the slightest idea of what will happen.
I've given you some insight into Starscream and his ally. Onslaught of course is becoming more prominent. I'm sure the fact that he starred in two chapters about his team highlights that.
Finally Thundercracker, one of my fav characters has started becoming that key character that the description highlights. I love him, especially because he relates to me so well. Now he will be investigating the Cons as the war effort and the decepticon faction change forever. please give your feed back, was this chapter good for you, what do you think will .
In some sad news it was reported on May 17th, 'John Stephenson' the voice actor for G! Thundercracker, Alpha Trion, Huffer, Kup and Windcharger has passed away at the age of 91. It is quite sad, the performances i have noted here were great. It as his voices and acting that made the characters of Transfromers stand out. made them memorable, his portrayal of Thundercracker always will be great, even when read the IDW comics, i use the voices of G1 for those characters. His portrayals were great and it was quite a shock. Especially when i as working on this chapter and it had G1 Thundercracker as a main character. =(
RIP John, i hope being one with the Matrix is as great as it sounds. Just know that your characters will live on, as long as this show is remembered. it lives on through the fans, me and will continue, like Optimus says 'as long as freedom exists'. =)
Anyway don't expect me to take months, but don't expect chapters every day either. That is all, you guys are great. See you next time Transfans.
Till all are One.
