Hello again! I'm alive! (Wow! 34 reviews, 47 faves and 50 follows, thank you so much everyone for liking this story and giving it a chance :D) sorry there weren't any updates, Halloween came around (I was Danny Phantom XD), plus commissions, art projects, real life, etc. it got really hectic. So the only time I was able to get in some writing time is around 12 am+, (I can't write during the day, siblings are too loud DX) but I've been losing sleep and have been unconsciously nodding off and experiencing dizzy spells, so I needed to take a break.
Then thanksgiving rolled in, so super busy there with family. Internet got cut out for a bit as well... But good news is! I found my notebook. bad news is, I got a new bed time which equals less writing time, but I made this chap super long! (9,596 words) to make up for my absence.
Just to say, a few unexpected ideas popped up into this chap, fair warning, watch out for a reference XD.
Maybe I can write another chap around Christmas? but if you guys want to get me really motivated, write me a crossover fanfic of Spiderman and the Avengers where Spidey gets turned into a kitten and the Avengers take care of him till he changes back, (they can or don't know his identity) the rest is up to you.
DISCLAIMER TIME!
I don't own Transformers Prime, Hasbro does, nor Danny Phantom, Butch Hartman does, I just own the fanfic idea, all mistakes are my own.
Reviews at the bottom!
~~~~~~TFP~~~~~~
Bumblebee and Arcee had split off from the group to scope the area ahead. Since Arcee had a lighter frame out of the two, she was stealthily moving along the sturdier branches in the trees like a deadly jungle cat not making a sound. Meanwhile on the ground Bumblebee navigated fairly quickly through the forested area, not being heard or seen which was quite a feat due to his brightly colored paint job. Bulkhead and Optimus weren't too far behind, they were keeping in contact with Ratchet for activity change within the area, who knew how long the connection would last due to the thick overgrowth.
Bumblebee peaked around a boulder, observant optics scanning the space for the enemy. He was both relieved and disappointed when there was nothing there before proceeding to run across the clearing to the thick covering of trees on the other side. The rustle of leaves above signaled him to look up just as Arcee crouched down on the lower branches.
"Bee." She called "Decepticon drones are doing a sweep in that area-" she pointed it out with a nod "- so be careful, were getting close. Contact the others and tell them our progress." Bumblebee gave a curt nod in understanding "while you do that I'll keep watch." And with that she vanished into the tree again, leaving the scout alone to relay their findings to the rest of their comrades.
Bumblebee activated his pinging it to Bulkhead's frequency, the older mech picked up almost instantly. "Hey Bee what's up?"
Bumblebee looked around double checking if the area was safe "the sky" he replied cheekily.
He smiled behind his battle mask mouth piece at hearing Bulkhead's chuckle. "Ha ha no seriously kid, anything happening over there with you and 'Cee?" He nodded even though his friend couldn't see it.
"Uh huh, were getting close, Arcee saw some cons a little ways from where I'm at now, speaking of which, how long until you guys get here?"
"most likely a minute and a half, give or take."
Bee could practically see the other cybertronian shrug on the other end "alright, yeah okay. Sounds good." He said distractedly, his head swiveled this way and that, constantly trying to keep up with his surroundings listening for a possible threat. I could of swore I heard a branch snap over there... So absorbed at the task at hand he barely registered his com. shut off as Bulkhead ended the call with a quick
"see you in a bit".
The fragrance of sun soaked pine needles was a welcomed scent to his abused ventilation systems. His tanks threaten to purge themselves at the thought of what transpired almost half an hour earlier. The last time he smelt something that horrible was when he and Bulkhead had ground bridged to New York in the Midtown area where they were investigating a strange energy frequency coming from the underground sewage system. It was quiet for the most part of the mission; that was until what looked like a red and blue dressed human figure darted pass so quickly he was hardly seen, followed by a roaring, giant man lizard barreling after the former. The two blinked in shock at what they weren't sure of what they'd just saw, but they were pulled from their thoughts when the ground began to rumble-followed by a flood of dirty water.
Next thing they knew they were getting a full on assault full of sewage water as the duo was thrown about in the polluted current. They smelt rank for a week after that, and Smokescreen only then arrived two weeks after on earth. Lucky bot.
Bumblebee drifted back into reality, those thoughts were irrelevant to the task at hand and he needed to remain focused, otherwise he'll end up dead.
Finally Bulkhead and Optimus arrived just as Arcee dropped out of the tree she was in "found out what their guarding; looks like an Energon mine, just east from here." She announced nodding her head in the appointed direction. Optimus nodded for her to lead the way, a brief flash of a smirk was seen before Arcee back flipped twisting while airborne to angle her body in the right direction, a crouched landing for a few seconds before sprinting off, Bumblebee hot on her heels followed by Optimus and Bulkhead.
Once they got to their intended destination, they realized they were near the edge of a ravine leading down to a rocky hill side. Ducking behind large boulders monitoring the enemy below. There were only two drones at the mouth of the recently tunneled cave. How recent? probably made a month ago. It was kinda odd how there were only two Decepti-drones out keeping watch, but perhaps there were more inside?
"So Optimus," Arcee started "whats the plan?"
Optimus remained silent for a few seconds before answering "Arcee, you and I will take out the guards. Bumblebee, search and assess the situation, Bulkhead your his backup. Afterwards Arcee and I will rendezvous to your location." He received simultaneous nods in agreement before everyone took their positions as the plan commenced. Surprisingly Optimus and Arcee found a way to get down without being seen nor heard, the Decepti-drones didn't know what hit 'em as Arcee's arm blades slid out as she decapitated one and Optimus punched a hole straight through his chest instantly killing him. A flash of yellow passed by signaling Bumblebee had entered the cave, followed by the heavy steps of Bulkhead. Optimus and Arcee dragged the bodies off out of sight in case the next shift comes to swap places only to immediately find them dead and quickly call for back up. Nuh-uh, the plan would go south so fast if they didn't take extra precaution.
Now inside Bee heard faint banging and pounding, his wrist transformed to reveal a twin barrel sided blaster as he rounded a corner. Nothing. Quickly glancing behind to make sure Bulkhead was following before breaking off into a run, the noise was getting louder now. His eyes narrowed at the thought of what they'll find, mining more Energon? Building something? perhaps unearthing another relic? all those possibilities needed answering and he was gonna get them.
Bulkhead was pretty much next to him now. Briefly nodding to each other weapons prepared to fire for the possible battle field that lied ahead before whipping around the next bend. Instead of being greeted by cons, the duo was met with five tunnels, sounds coming from each one. Echoing steps came from behind, Bee already knew it was Arcee and Optimus. Once they regrouped, Bumblebee couldn't help but ask "so what tunnel should we go through?"
Optimus looked a bit grim before replying "We'll have to split up, it'll save on time and we need to find out what they're doing, take extra precaution." The three nodded in dissatisfied acceptance before heading off into a tunnel to try to stop the eventual doom that would await them if they failed.
The entry point in the cave was much brighter in comparison to the darkness he was now experiencing, the light his optics and blaster gave off barely made a difference as Bumblebee continued to walk gingerly into the darken area, listening intently for trouble to make up for his lack of sight.
fifteen minutes hit and Bee was starting to have second thoughts on turning around and go find the others, something wasn't right here; rocks occasionally kept falling like it was unstable, but the sounds of mining could be heard as clear as day. So the question on his mind was: why work in a dangerous area when it looked like it was gonna cave in on them? well he was going to get his answer now as he spotted a light overhead; the racket was defiantly coming from there. Leaning against the wall was second nature, drawing his blaster out in front of him prepared to fire was instinctual as he edged to the corner off the wall. Ten seconds passed and work hasn't stopped yet, well it's always great to have the element of surprise Bumblebee mused before diving out of his hiding place with a tuck and roll and landed propped up on one knee about to fire.
Bumblebee blinked dumbfounded, where were the cons? the room was empty with a light hanging over head and yet, he could still hear the noise coming from this area. Studying the space his eyes landed on a small device, hesitantly walking over he picked it up to discover it was a recording system set on replay. He angrily crushed the device in one swift movement before tossing it aside, the mining noises ceased instantly. Stupid cons and their stupid tricks, stupid me for falling for that. Annoyed thoughts echoed in his head as he glared at the discarded objected.
Bee paused mid sigh, was that a ticking noise he heard? something dreadful settled deep into his spark as the ticking continued. With foreboding he turned towards his right and what he saw made his eyes widen in horror. There resting innocently on the rock structure was a timer, ticking off numbers in its countdown... Five... Four...Three...
Taking a running start he headed for the exit, horrible awareness hit; there was no way he was gonna make it out in time.
Two...One...
Everything seemed in slow motion. The ticking turned into quick beeping with a light flashing red signaling tauntingly about his upcoming predicament, instead of an explosion it sent out a strong vibration through out the loose walls, debris was falling everywhere as the pebbles gradually changed in size. The exit was so close but he was instantly stopped in his escape as vast amounts of boulders rained down on him instantly pinning him, pain erupted in his doorwings as they promptly got crushed by the onslaught as he let out a silent scream, his doorwings were quite sensitive and now with the ongoing rocks piling up on him he might as well had been pouring acid on them. Bumblebee feebly reached for the escape rout, almost begging for it to come closer before it vanished behind a pile of rocks, the pounding of rocks stopped and the rubble had settled. All was silent.
He was trapped in the darkness... Alone.
~~~~~~~
Arcee coughed out the dust that entered her vents, she had just avoided a cave in when the tunnel turned out to be a trap. She stumbled about in the dust cloud that followed her out, she needed to find the others. That's when the ground began shaking, much more intense then the mini earthquake that went off in her appointed tunnel, Arcee steadied herself against the wall to keep balance as the rumbling continued. Just wait it out, it'll be over soon. She mentally told herself as a small shred of comfort.
True to her belief, it did. Arcee sighed before taking an uneasy step forward, followed by a much stronger one. A determined look settled on her face before taking off with a running start.
Finally reaching the start up point, she searched all the tunnels the others had gone through only to find them blocked off at the end by rubble, and at each one she called for her teammates names. No answer was heard, she growled in irritation "ugh! this is just like last time when we got split up in a cave with Megatron and Starscream," she spat out the last name with so much bile that if words alone could kill, Starscream would of been dead a long time ago before entering the fifth entrance that was on the far left "maybe the others found another way out". After the tunnel ended it open up to clearing, she jumped back in surprise. "So there is cons here after all." Arcee muttered angrily. There were about forty in total, bumbling about, some were looking at a handheld device that was displaying something as they shouted things like "the sonic pulse went off," and "we have to leave quickly." or "tell the others."
Upon searching for her missing teammates, a familiar shade of blue caught her eye, swiveling her head to see of a large amount of Energon crystals that easily towered over her height, strange though that they went processing the fuel into cubes for easier transport, instead there were a couple of them huddled around it at the base doing something. Arcee huffed silently, it was obvious they weren't here which meant she was gonna have to turn around. A few minutes passed before they dispersed and headed for the center of the clearing where the obvious higher-up of the drones stepped forward "alright everyone, we have at least twenty-three minutes to get outta here before the whole place goes kablooey, double check and make sure we didn't forget anything." It's audience gave a chorus of "understood D-165" before they disassembled from their rough circle and began picking up tools, lights among other things.
Arcee frowned eyes trailing back to the crystallized fuel stash, it looked like a timer planted on the side of it upon closer inspection "what are they-" realization cut her off as her eyes widen in alarm; the sudden spike in activity, the cave ins, the flipping mined Energon crystal that wasn't being deported, it all added up. Megatron planned this, it was a trap rigged to blow!
She barely registered that she was running until she was entering another tunnel that one of her comrades had entered. Scrambling at the rock pile that was in front of her she hastily tried to removed the rocks in front of her. "Optimus! Optimus!?" her cries went unanswered as her hands pulled desperately at the rubble. It was no use, there were too many rocks and there wasn't enough time to get her leader out let alone the others.
She clawed at her head nervously desperately trying to think up a plan to help her team- no family- out of this dangerous situation "come on think Arcee!" she berated herself "there's gotta be a way to get them out!"
She opted to pacing to hopefully stimulate some ideas and to try to keep her mind from drifting to all her lost partners, Tailgate, Cliff jumper...
Briskly shaking her head at the thought "gotta stay on track. There's gotta be something you can do, If only I could just phase through the rocks so I can pull the-" Arcee paused mid sentence as she realized what she just said. Of course! the Phase Shifter! but it was back at base with Smokescreen but maybe if she hurried she can get back here in time.
Nothing was changing her mind now, running through the dark tunnels recalling where the turns came and jumping over rocks. It felt like forever before she burst out of the cave into the open air, the sun still shining brightly offering its warmth on the troubled warrior, but time was at the essence and it couldn't be wasted by basking in its warmth not even for a second. Propelling herself upwards she transformed mid air into her vehicle mode (which was a motorcycle in case you've forgotten) and drove up the rocky hillside, and then driving along the dirt path into the forest.
Arcee expertly avoided anything that got into her way, trees, boulders, logs and cliffs that led off to something. She passed by the area that she and Bee were navigating through, ignoring the negative nagging thought that quietly whispered: might be the last time you'll ever spend time with him too. She bit down a shout of frustration continuing forward. The trees began to thin out and Acree choose that this would be good place to call in for backup. Transforming back to bipedal mode she reached for her com. when she noticed her hands kept refusing to find purchase, she brought it back into view to examine it. No wonder why, her hand was shaking like a wet cat left in the cold, as well as the rest of her body, she was just so scared, and even that thought alone frighten her. She needed to be at the top of her game and she was just letting her fear take over her to the point where she couldn't even make a call properly. "I-I just need to relax a bit."
She let her body go lax as she recalled calming memories. Once she was sure that she wasn't shaking (as bad) anymore she repeated the motion she did earlier as her com. clicked on connecting to the base's secret frequency.
"*Ratchet?*"
"*Arcee? what happened? all of your tracking signals disappeared and you finally popped up again, whats going on over there?*"
"*I don't have time to explain Ratchet, but I need you to ground bridge Smokescreen over here, I need his help asap.*" And as an after thought she added "*and possibly Danny too, he might be helpful as well.*"
"*Arcee Optimus ordered those two to stay at the base for the trouble they cause-*"
Arcee just snapped "*Look Ratchet! it doesn't matter what Optimus said! unless you want our friends to die then send them over here, the rest of the team are trapped with a bomb rigged to blow and I'm running out of time just explaining this to you! just get those two over here now!*"
It was silent on the other end, maybe she went a little too far "*Ratchet I'm sorry it's ju-*"
"*no your right.*" She blinked, well of course she was right but she just got a little impatient and she shouldn't have gone off like that. "*they're on their way now.*"
~~~~~~DP~~~~~~
The cleaning process was going fairly well, but somehow Smokescreen and Danny started playing pranks on each other again, it wasn't planned, it just sort of happened- nothing to big of course so Ratchet wouldn't catch wind of it. Smokey had grabbed the box of borax and 'accidentally' dumped it on Danny, snickering "oops, clumsy me. Now your as white as a ghost" Danny just glared and went back to his cleaning. Then when Smokescreen was preoccupied with wiping the walls down, Danny whipped out a a glitter pen and wrote on his doorwings "destiny gotta look fab" or something like that, the penmanship wasn't really that intelligible as Smokescreen bit back a gasp of horror, he shot Phantom with a glare of his own deadly whispering to him when he floated by "it's on Casper."
Danny grinned and mockingly waved "bring it on Speed Racer."
Miko surprisingly didn't want to be involved, she wanted to get done as soon as possible so she and Bulkhead could go to the 'Battle Of The Bands' later; it was Slash Monkey vs Dumpty Humpty. And if the intangi-bros came to close to her cleaning station, she would pull out her vinegar spray bottle and spray them.
Ratchet had already asked- and by asked Danny meant yelled at-them to turn the music off but Miko managed to convince him that music was making the cleaning process go faster before he begrudgingly admitted defeat but managed to convince them to turn it down a bit.
The cleaning was almost done anyways, Danny noticed that it actually looked better now then it did after he regained conscious. I bet Optimus just wanted free cleaning service. He snorted at the thought as he mopped up the dirty water from the floor.
"Three...Two...One... Dance time!" Raf called out grinning. Every so often they would pause in their cleaning when Raf shouted 'dance time', and dance battle each other. It wasn't helping though when they'll purposely try to make each other loose by making crazy faces and saying something weird.
It was taking every part of Danny's will power right now to contain his laughter, Miko was moving fancily on her feet while motioning with her arms 'come at me bro!' while Smokescreen was shimming his shoulders saying "you can't take this! I'll dance you off into oblivion!" bouncing on his tip toes as he continued his stare off with the Japanese teen, neither were backing down.
Hearing laughter, he turned around to see Raf and Jack- who knows where the heck he popped up from- rolling around on their backs howling with laughter "my money's on Miko!" Raf squeaked out as he continued to giggle.
"No way! Smokescreen's totally gonna win!" Jack protested back, he was trying to pull himself back up with the railing but was failing miserably as he fell over again.
Danny caught sight of Ratchet in his peripheral vision, turning to face the old bot he saw he was tsking. Ratchet must have realized he was being watched as he turned to face him. "See what you started?" it sounded almost accusing but he detected a different tone to it.
Danny shrugged "hey it's not my fault that my awesomeness rubs off on others, can't be helped."
Ratchet scowled "your being cheeky again aren't you?"
Danny beamed "that's the spirit Doc! be cheeky with me! and I don't mean in the buttocks area." Danny narrowly avoided a wrench being tossed at him "geez, Miko's right you do have wretch throwing issues, I know a psychiatrist in training, I can totally sign you up for sessions with her, it would really make her day." Another wrench was thrown in response but Danny just let it pass through him "fiiiiinnnneeee, I won't take you to a psychiatrist, but at least join in on the fun!"
"No."
"No? what are you, the Grumpy cat? come on and live a little! I won't stop bugging you till you do." If it was possible Ratchet's scowl just intensified, Danny briefly wondering if robots could get wrinkles.
"No! just leave!"
Danny huffed blowing a stray white strand of hair away. "Fine, whatever dude, your probably just scared that you'll lose anyways." Danny shrugged carelessly "you probably wouldn't even know how to dance even if a Just Dance game hit you face." Every living being in the base paused what they were doing, hardly believing what they just heard. Was Danny challenging Ratchet?
"Excuse me?" Ratchet said walking towards the ghost.
Oh boy, I think I just made my grave. But Danny's mouth had other plans "you heard me retirement home." Danny just wanted to disappear now, but he didn't want to seem like a coward. He got himself into this mess and he was gonna get himself out. Moon-walking out there was probably the best choice, he was gonna go out in style "yippee Ki-yay mother-hugger ."
Oh god he was so dead.
"Oh Primus no! you ain't getting away with that. Raf replay that song, it's on now." Everyone gave the two some room as they watched from the sidelines.
Soon enough the song returned with it's catchy auto-tuned beat. Ratchet rolled his head, popping a few satisfying kinks in his neck while fixating Danny with a stare making him feel exposed. Slowly the bot's foot tapped into rhythm while his arms swayed. Everyone was put to shame right then and there as Ratchet started busting out some moves that none of them knew the medic could do, but there he was, spinning on his heel before doing the robot, followed by something that looked suspiciously like Gangnam style. Everyones mouths dropped as Ratchet started doing a few hip hop moves and to finish, span around on his back with his knees tucked in before unfolding into it's classic pose as he lied on his side with an arm propping his head up.
Finally getting back up, he dusted himself off before jabbing a finger in Danny's direction "now that's dancing, don't make battles you can't win." Yup, there was definitely a mocking tone to his voice.
"True, but I still won" before anyone could rudely interrupt him Danny continued "I got you to join in on the fun didn't I? so technically I won." Danny smiled broadly "but I didn't know you had it in you, so I think everyone can agree that you won the dance off." The others began cheering as Danny joined in on it, clapping shouting his approval "a big around of applause for the Doc!" the cheers intensified, everyone was wearing a grin, even Ratchet was having trouble trying to wipe away his obvious amusement.
"Alright, alright, you've made your point. Now shush." Ratchet instructed before turning away and headed back to the monitor area, tapping away at the touch screens keys instantly becoming engrossed in his work. Well the medic was fun while he lasted.
"Well it looks like the cleaning's done." Smokescreen stated as he stretched, Raf had already cut the music off as per Ratchet's request and was helping them reload the cleaning supplies back into the cart. Danny flew over and placed the items he used back in and doubled checked to see if anything got left behind.
Finding nothing he grabbed the handle in a tight grip "cleaning supplies go in that one closet on the left in the hall right?" he asked pointing a finger in its direction.
Miko nodded tossing the empty bucket in "yup! good to see you remember that from the tour, didn't think that you would with the zoned out look you had."
Danny huffed a bit irritated, he wasn't that bad. "Yeah whatever," he said with a roll of his eyes before taking off towards his destination. Just as remembered the closet pulled up and Danny opened the door and parked the cart in there before shutting the door once more. Pulling out his cellphone to check in with his parents, he was a bit annoyed at the lack of cellphone service "great no bars, hopefully they won't want me here any longer so I can go home." Danny whispered to himself. This has probably been one of the longest times he had to stay in ghost form for a while, the longer he stayed the longer his energy depletes. If his first encounter with Vlad has taught him anything, its to never trust those who even seem nice when you first meet. They could back stab and try to manipulate you if they detect any form of leverage.
Danny shook his head clearing the negative thoughts that wanted to consume his mind. Better get back to the others.
When he entered the main hanger he noticed the solemn expression that flashed on Ratchet's face, bowing his head down as he gripped the monitor desk like it was the only thing keeping him standing. Danny was hesitant to approach the old mech, after all, Danny and him didn't really leave on good terms earlier. He floated a bit closer and was able to hear Ratchet talking to someone- perhaps with a com. device like the Fenton phones?
"*no your right.*" Ratchet sighed wearily, whatever was said to him left him shaken"*they're on their way now.*" Ratchet turned around slowly "and yes I know your there." Danny smiled meekly as he ducked his head, it was then that Smokescreen and the humans showed up.
Upon noticing the silence Smokescreen asked "did we interrupt something..?" the question lingering in the air when neither replied right away.
Ratchet sighed avoiding eye contact, Danny felt his stomach drop; he didn't do something wrong right?...He didn't recall anything that would make Ratchet look like some one had just died...
Finally for what seemed like decades Ratchet spoke up."Arcee needs your help; both of you-" pointing at Danny and Smokescreen who in turn exchanged glances, Danny's was one of worry and Smokescreen was one of interest "-I'm firing up the ground bridge, and you have to hurry." as if on cue the iridescent vortex swirled to life in the gaping hole in the wall, briefly reminding him of the Fenton portal back home when it first activated-with him in it.
Danny suppressed the shudder that threaten to rake his body. He heard Miko groan behind him "Aww! how come newbie here gets to go? I never get invited to secret missions."
Jack let out an irritated huff "how come you always have to complain? seriously Miko you should know how dangerous it is already and you just want to put your life on the line because you think its some sorta of game called 'hero vs villain', you don't have powers or anything to protect you."
Danny fully turned around now watching the argument continue. Miko look at lost for words, her mouth stumbled to form something before she finally got a grasp on her words "you know what Jack? you wouldn't understand would you? just as naive as always." She sneered back her eyes sparked with spite causing Jack to take a step back, a affronted look clear on his face.
"What? I'm not naive, your just being stubborn as always. At least Danny is dead with supernatural powers, it's not like he can die again."
Something boiled in Danny, rage perhaps? how did he know whether or not he could die again? Jack never seen a ghost get wasted before like he had, so he had no right say they couldn't die again, like he was knowledgeable in the fields of the supernatural anyways. He wanted to insult something back but bit his tongue, if he let his temper get the better of him he might say something he would regret. Instead Danny let out a silent growl to decrease some of his built up anger.
Miko let out scoff "whatever Jack" before angrily spinning on heel and turned away, but before she left she called out to him "careful on the way out Danny, you might feel a little nauseous." Came her cryptic message before the stomping of her boots echoed on the polished floor indicating her departure.
"Hurry up Danny! I'm leaving with or without you!" Smokescreen called before disappearing in the portal. Danny sighed before hastily flying after him. Danny was momentarily awed by the colors swirling around him, it was beautiful; almost reminded him of a nebula that was sparking in every direction, just as quick as it came it ended when a bright flash of light. Danny blinked his eyes to find himself in a forest, no sign of the rainstorm that was in Jasper anywhere, just the tropical air that hung appealingly in the air, were they in Florida? Miko's warning now made sense; it felt like his ghost core and heart had plunged themselves into his stomach, not to mention he felt a little off balance.
Most. Intense. Portal. Transwarp. Ever.
Shaking himself to clear the feeling he flew after Smokescreen who seemed unaffected. Probably due to the fact that he was Cybertronian, duh. Danny rolled his eyes when he saw how Smokescreen was grinning at him "get seasick like how the humans do?"
"Nope." he blatantly lied making the 'P' pop.
"Liar" Smokescreen laughed running off to find his awaiting teammate Arcee. Danny kept up with him, flying hardly caused any strain on him.
"Okay maybe not as bad, but I'm a ghost remember? besides, the Ghost zone has tons of portals so I'm used to traveling through vortex's." He admitted with a wave of his hand.
"Wait, whats a Ghost Zone?" Smokescreen asked raising an eyebrow. Oops, he didn't mean for that piece of information to get out. Hopefully The bot didn't see the cringe he made.
"Oh, you know, just a alternate dimension where all the ghost live."
Smokescreen blinked "seriously? there's a dimension for ghost? huh, who would of thought-hey! did you tell Ratch?" When Danny shook his head he continued "I bet he would love to hear about it, science is one of his fortes -along with hurling a stray wrench-, maybe he would be interested in that. But nothing really excites that old geezer nowadays so don't get your hopes up. Hey look its Arcee!" With that Smokescreen began to wave at her, dorky grin in place, but she didn't seem to notice them "you think she sees us? maybe I should bark."
Danny facepalmed as his shoulders shook with mirth "bark! bark- I mean woof woof arf! yes! I think she sees us."
Danny looked over at the weird bot "if she asks, I'm not friends friends with you."
Smokescreen raised a hand-or was it servo?- to his chest and let out a mock gasp "that hurts you know that? it hurts me right here." Danny just rolled his eyes whilst shaking his head.
Arcee stormed over and kicked Smokescreen in the shin, it kinda reminded him of something Sam would do to Tucker- scratch that; that is something she would totally do, Danny mused with a growing smirk.
"What the heck is wrong with you?! The cons trapped our team under rubble in a cave about to blow in around seventeen minutes and your joking around!?" Arcee threw her arms up for more of an affect.
Danny and Smokescreen remained silent as their eyes widen in horror. Neither knew what to say.
Danny blinked before his face turned somber "which way?" but the way he said it sounded more like a demand then a question.
"They're this-" she was cut off when a black blur flew past "-way." Danny was gone. quickly snapping out of her daze the duo took off after him.
Danny was speeding ahead, trees flying pass his vision as he focused on the destination ahead.
Nasty Burger building ahead, his parents, his sister Jazz, his friends Sam and Tucker and lastly his teacher Mr. Lancer were gagged and bonded with Ectoplasmic restraints in the half destroyed food joint. Fear displayed openly on their faces.
Danny was just recovering from using his Ghostly Wail on his dark self, the building that Dark Phantom had crashed into crumbled on top of him burying him under rumble. Just when he seemed defeated he arose from the trashed building, scraped and bruised and pretty much bald now that his fiery hairdo was extinguished, he grabbed his side painfully "well, that's it, isn't it?" he questioned mockingly. Danny glared "times up." he announced before pulling out his Fenton thermos and began sucking the weaken ghost in. Before he disappeared into the depths of the device he gave one last warning before he did "huge mistake! now your too late to save them." The Dark Phantom gave one last cry of anguish before he was gone. Recapping the lid as relief flooded him. I did it, he thought with a small smile, but it was short lived when The Dark Phantom's message made sense. "Oh no" he whispered as the timer finally hit the danger zone as it beeped in warning before exploding altogether.
The saucer barrels overheated and began to crack as steam shot out of them. Danny ran as fast as his tired legs would carry him towards his trapped friends and family, he tried in vain to call his transformation rings to him so he could fly the extra distance but failed "I can't go ghost!" he gasped, not paying attention to where he was running, too focused on them as tried to get closer, he tripped on some fallen rubble and fell onto his stomach.
It was the last time he was going to take in their faces he realized as sweat rolled down his face. They all look fearful, knowing that it was going to be their end, but they also had a look of understanding on their faces, accepting their fate and probably to discourage him from feeling too badly from not being able to save them, he hated and loved them for that.
Then the explosion came, throwing him back with so much force his world spun, his heart quenched horribly in his chest as tears rolled down his face. Then everything slowed down...
He glowered as the growl arose in his throat. I'm not letting that almost happen again, he vowed. Ugh! those Decepticons are just like Vlad, pulling a filthy trick like that to get one over on their enemies. No honor whats so ever. Danny's movements became quicker and more reckless, sometimes when he was weaving through the trees he would nick one of them, barely acknowledging the pain that radiated from the inflicted spot.
He eventually had to stop once he went headfirst into a Decepti-drone, landing onto his back. He let out grunt as the force caused his head to rattle, with a few good shakes his vision cleared as he looked up into the red visor that was presumably his eyes, he immediately fell into a battle stance. Decepticon troops littered the clearing and Danny was just able to make out a cave behind the thick crowd. Danny gritted his teeth once everyone's attention was on him, the hum of their weapons coming online in sync, the static in the air made the hair on his neck stand on end. Every barrel of their guns was aimed at him, ready to fire at any moment if he moved. Danny scowled "I don't have time for this!" in response their weapons glowed in warning as the electronic whine increased.
Now would be a good time for backup to arrive. Then Danny just decided that the best thing to do was disappear. It was somewhat entertaining watching the cons make a fool of their selves as they frantically looked around for the missing teen. "Guess who?" came the echoing voice of the ghost boy before a green blast shot the head clean off one of them just as he reappeared. Enemy fire came his way, expertly dodging them as he flew towards his next victim, turning his hand intangible he stuck it into the con's chest before tearing out its cords and wires which were like internal organs in retrospect, they sparked a few times before the con fell over and the visor dimmed into nothing. Danny turned around as a feral look entered his eyes causing the troops to get a little more distance but the blasts never ceased. turning his whole body intangible he flew straight through several cons before becoming tangible again, in his hands were fistfuls of wiring just as the cons collapsed, never to stand again. "Who's next?" he spat burning the wires in his fist with an ecto flame. Apparently these guys were idiots as they continued shooting.
Touching another one he used his Ghost Stinger on them, cold electric sparks danced on the con's frame before it dropped still.
Pew!
Danny hissed in pain as a blast from one of their canons singed his shoulder, the smell of charred flesh and spandex made him want to vomit, it stung almost as badly as an ectoblast but if they adjusted the settings on them they could be just as painful or even deadly. He raised a hand and fired numerous ectoblasts, some met their mark. A new flash of colors came from out of the corner of his eye instead of the colors of drone, Danny was greeted by Arcee and Smokescreen.
"Backup has arrived!" Smokescreen crowed over the noise as he blasted a con in the chest. Although grateful for the assistance Danny needed them to get the others out before it was too late.
"Smokescreen! go with Arcee and help get the others out!" Danny shouted ducking as a blast just missed his face.
"Hold on, let me take out a few cons first to even the odds!"
Danny shook his head getting a bit aggravated "there's no time! I can handle these nimrods, just get the others to safety and I'll come to help as soon as I can!" Danny grunted as he received a kick to the side sending him flailing through the air before he hit the ground roughly, definitely bruised a few ribs. "Yeah but you need my help too!" Smokescreen protested as he tried to make a path through, it wasn't helping as cons were trying to tackle him. "Smokey! I said I can handle it! now go!" Danny flew back into the brawl hands balled into fist as he let out a battle cry before diving into a con.
"But I-"
"Smokescreen!" Danny yelled, he was beyond angry now "go! now! make like Rihanna and 'shut up and drive'!" he managed to bit down the pained cry that burned in his throat when the con took it's claw like fingers and raked it down his side drawing beads of ectoplasm to run across the black material.
"Kid you did not just-"
"NOW!" Danny practically screamed, his eyes sparked brightly as green trails of energy burned from them. That got Smokescreen going, he transformed into some type of race car- Danny had his suspicions due to the rookies choice in decals- and sped off into the dark cave entrance.
Danny turned around from the fallen corpse to face the remaining troops "who else want's some!?" his voice screamed frantically, his whole form was quivering with contained adrenaline waiting to be unleashed, his core pumped erratically, his whole body was tensing preparing for the next attack. A drone charged at him, Danny charged into as well using the momentum to propel them upwards "come on klutz number one! it's time to have some fun!" once at a high enough altitude Danny grabbed the con by it's arm tightly and spun them both around into a tight circle, the wind churned loudly around them as he focused on his targets below. At last Danny released it, sending it hurling towards the earth below slicing through the air at a quick pace like a giant canon ball. His comrades realized too late when their flown off comrade careened into them, the force killing a few. Danny lowered himself closer to the ground and put on a fake smile "thank you for flying air Phantom, it was lovely having you, please come fly with us again." Danny didn't even notice until some of the cons managed to transform and head skyward, about twenty of them were airborne and were heading off in the opposite direction in retreat.
Five were still left though, persistent as always as the barrage of energy blast flew towards him. Quickly pulling up a ectoshield to defend himself, hollow thuds echoed within the enclosure as they ricocheted off. Taking down the shield he flew back into the fray. Six solid punches was what it took to actually dent the cybertronian metal armor, followed by a strong ecto blast to leave a gaping hole where the assault was made before the body tipped over.
The last four made a grab at him, one of Danny's limbs in one of their mitts as they began to pull. He couldn't focus properly on his energy blast, intangibility was putting to much strain on his core at the moment. Danny bit his lip as he tried to think of something else he could use against them. Finally an answer presented itself as he began to focus on his transformation rings, but instead of transforming back to human, he wanted the rings to send out an energy blast outwards like a mini explosion. After a few seconds the rings came as it did just as hoped they'll do what Danny wanted. The cons were thrown back from the impact and scrambled to get up, before they transformed and flew off.
Danny panted heavily assessing his surroundings to make sure he didn't miss anyone. When all that turned up was dead bodies Danny sighed in relief, but it was short lived when he remembered the others. "Oh no."
Summing as much energy as he could he flew into the dark cave.
~~~~~~TFP~~~~~~
Arcee was back to work with trying to find Optimus, when Smokescreen wasn't looking she had snatched the Phase Shifter from off his wrist, which she was glad she did because he was taking forever. The only thing that she found so far were rocks, no sign of the missing Autobot leader anywhere. Arcee had her blaster out as a form of light, her eyes trailing all over the cavern until she caught a glimpse of red. Arcee's ventilation's stopped, not daring to get her hopes up. Cautiously she walk over and gasped.
It was Optimus all right, but he was unconscious and he had a huge gash on his side and was leaking Energon, it didn't look too bad, he most like passed out from the impact instead of the Energon loss. Hooking her hands under his arms, she dragged the unresponsive Autobot out of the rock pile. Once outside of the trapped space she switched the Phase Shifter off and dragged the extra weight of Optimus along.
It was slow going, but she managed to get them out of the tunnel and into the forked clearing. She paused when she heard footsteps, drawing out her gun as it hummed in warning to the approaching threat.
Instead of a Decepticon trooper, Acree saw the familiar-annoying- face of Smokescreen "whoa! it's me!" he exclaimed as he raised his arms to appear non threatening. Arcee huffed as her gun morphed back into her servo "should of called out ahead then. Here." Acree reached towards her wrist and pulled off the borrowed device before tossing it over, Smokescreen caught in with a look of surprise "wait, you-... Never mind" Smokescreen shook his head dismissing the thought as he placed the Phase Shifter back onto it's original place.
"Hurry up and get one of them out." Acree said with a nod "we don't know how much time we have left." With a nod Smokescreen took off into one of the shafts disappearing into the dark.
Arcee turned back to Optimus as she shifted him towards his uninjured side. "Don't worry Optimus," she whispered gently "were gonna make it out of here..."
Smokescreen ran; legs pumping hard until he reached the blocked off end. Determination shown on his face as he clicked the device on, passing through the barrier that serrated him from his teammate. The feeling of rubble passing through him felt weird to say the least, it was like getting road-burn but with out the sting, just rough and bumpy. "Hello?" he called out hesitantly "is anyone there?"
It was silent for a few moments before a groan was heard. "Bulkhead?" Smokescreen called out as he followed the noise.
"Mm... Over here kid..."
Finally he found him "are you alright?" he asked, only the top half of the other mech was seen. Bulkhead was lying on his back with his arms over his head, supporting the rocks above to prevent them from burying him all the way under.
"Never better." Bulkhead grumbled.
"Looks like the Wrecker can use a little clean up." Smokescreen joked referencing the Wreckers' motto. Bulkhead smiled grimly at that. Reaching over, Smokescreen let the intangibility spread over the downed Autobot as he grabbed his arm, the rubble easily passed through him as he moved to get up.
Smokescreen noticed that Bulkhead was limping. "Leg got crushed?" he asked sympathetically.
Bulkhead nodded as he let out a grunt "nothing too severe that the Doc can't fix." He reassured as Smokescreen shifted to help support his weight. "Nothing a Wrecker can't handle."
Smokescreen smiled sheepishly all of the sudden, making Bulkhead get worried "what?"
The rookie gave a humorless laugh "see, funny thing I forgot to mention... The whole joint's rigged to blow in a few minutes soooo..." He drawled out with a nervous frown "we need to hurry."
Their pace quicken greatly at that, they didn't even slow down when they exited the rock barrier. Arcee and an slumped over Optimus came into view, upon noticing the leaking Energon they stopped. "Is he-?"
"Alive?" Arcee cut in "yes he is, just unconscious but he's slowly coming to, he had already took a few steps with my help but he won't respond."
Danny then appeared from the main entrance, scraped up and bleeding a weird green ooze out of his cuts, snowy hair sticking up wildly like he was dragged through the pit, he seemed to be favoring his shoulder as he gripped it gently, he look liked scrap to put it lightly.
The kid smiled reassuringly "don't worry took care of them, most of them left anyways."
Bulkhead frowned "kid you look horrible." but instead Danny waved him off "I've been through worst, it's not as bad as it looks."
But then he blinked, studying the group for a moment before asking "wait... Where's Bumblebee?"
"Still in that cave." Acree pointed "I'll go get him."
"No, I'll do it."
Arcee fixed him with a stare "excuse me?"
"there's not enough time to make another trip back, get the others to safety." Danny said firmly, heading towards the direction only to stop instantly when Arcee called out.
"I said I'll get him." Danny turned around only to see Arcee glaring at him. Smokescreen fidgeted on his feet nervously, why is 'Cee acting like this?
Danny glared at her right back "what's your problem? why can't I just go get him? the whole place is gonna come down in a few minutes and you want to argue?!" Danny shouted throwing his arms up in irritation.
Arcee narrowed her eyes "Well it's not my fault that I don't trust you."
"Trust?" Danny scoffed his lips drawn back, teeth bared "that's what this is about? trust issues!? well guess what? your gonna have to trust me now or at least have a little faith in me, I promise that I'll get Bee out safely, but I need you guys to get to safety yourselves; you already have two hurt teammates that's gonna take a bit of time to get them out. Just let me do this okay? then you can go back to your trust issues later."
Smokescreen gulped nervously, if he thought long enough he could see the numbers on the timer quickly counting down in the other cave. "Arcee!" he called out, but she didn't turn around "time's running out! just let him help, after all, he did get rid of the cons out front, what more proof do you need that he's on our side?" when she still didn't answer Bulkhead picked up where Smokescreen left off.
"Would you really want to feel responsible if Bee-or anyone one of us for that matter- didn't make it out knowing that there was a way that you could of prevented it?"
No one spoke as the seconds ticked by, tension thick in the air as Arcee's and Danny's glare match continued. Finally Acree begrudgingly admitted defeated "if anything happens and it's your fault, I'll find and end you. Got it?" Acree whispered harshly.
"Crystal." Danny muttered before taking off into the awaiting tunnel.
Smokescreen sighed with relief as Bulkhead and him began walking again. Arcee gave one one last glare at the tunnel Danny disappeared into before supporting Optimus out the dark exit tunnel.
It took about two minutes before they spotted daylight; it was probably around five thirty by now judging by the sun's position in the sky. It didn't take long to get back up the rocky incline to enter the forest clearing above. Optimus was starting to come too "wha..." He trailed off as he stifled a groan, his hand shooting up towards his injured side. He blinked open tired blue optics to find Acree helping him walk, she glanced up at him with concern.
"Don't worry, were gonna call Ratch for a ground bridge soon."
He nodded, looking around like he was trying to remember where he was.
That's when the ground shook; much more intense then all the previous earthquakes that happened earlier, little wild animals scrambled to safety as a rumbling was heard.
Ka-boom!
Then they saw it; the Energon explosion flooding out of the mouth of the tunnel in a fiery outburst, neon blue flames engulfing the clearing of dead bodies.
They gasped, Bumblebee and Danny were still in there!
~~~~~~DP~~~~~~
Danny had turned the rocks invisible until he spotted the missing Autobot, he wasn't that far from the entrance either, pinned under rocks and seemed to be losing conscious. Quickly Danny flew through the barricade as soon as intangibility washed over him and headed for him. Landing next to the giant's face he spoke "hey Bee, you still with me?" patting his face.
Bumblebee's eyes fluttered open at the unexpected touch, his eyes trailed upwards to meet the worried eyes of the ghost teenager "Yeah." He answered painfully.
Danny sighed relieved "awesome, nothing's hurt right?"
Upon seeing the sad optics Danny knew that the bot hadn't come out lucky either "just my back and my doorwings, but I think I can walk." Bumblebee beeped.
Danny hissed sympathetically before patting his arm as a sign of comfort. "Don't worry, I'm going to get you out of here, cave's about to 'go boom' too ."
Bumblebee's eyes widen as he tried to push himself up, before he warbled in pain as the pressure on his wings increased "hey hey hey!" Danny quickly tried to stop him, hands held out in front of him as he tried to calm him down "it's okay, just relax. I'm gonna phase us out of here but I'm going to need you to stay still okay?" when he received a nod Danny grabbed hold of his hand "we're gonna go nice and so not to disturb your injuries, just hold on a second."
Danny closed his eyes and focused on his powers, they kept fizzling out due to his weaken state so he needed to really focus on them to get them to come out. The familiar emptiness washed over him and spread over to his companion. Danny opened his eyes and let out a small smile, gently tugging the bot's hand to urge him forward. Bee stood up as Danny floated, taking gingered steps out of the rubble and into the open space of the cavern.
Danny formed as Bumblebee's guide, not flying too far but kept pace with him. It was probably a minute as darken walls started to lighten, they would be reaching the exit soon. But that's when the ground shook, Danny quickly steadied Bumblebee so he wouldn't fall due to lack of balance. "Oh no." Danny said in horror "it's happening..."
Neon Blue flames were racing towards them and they could already feel it's heat, there was no way they were gonna be able to outrun that in their weaken state. "Quick! get behind me!" Danny yelled, Bumblebee unconsciously obeyed.
Danny's adrenaline spiked heightening his instincts and giving him an energy boost, Danny threw his arms out in front of him, ecto energy sparked at his finger tips before dispersing to form a giant force field to shield them, the explosion reached them hitting the dome like a wild storm colliding on the outside as horrible Déjà vu washed over him.
Danny would've marveled at the pretty hues of blues if it weren't for the fact that it would burn him to a crisp.
Danny glanced behind him "h-how you holding up?"
Bumblebee didn't answer, his eyes seemed glazed over permanently staring at the explosion outside in terror. The flames pounded on the outside like thunder, just as menacing as a lions roar. Even with a shield up Danny could still feel the heat trying to penetrate the dome, his ghost core rabidly dispersed cold air through him giving him a sort of heartburn. The onslaught continued making him worried; it was like another world out there, nothing but neon blue fire clashing against the barrier, would it ever cease?
Danny's eyebrows shot up in fear as heard a cracking sound, swiveling his head upwards he noticed that his forcefield was breaking due to the strain. "Oh crud." came his shaky whisper.
TheHeroOfAkatosh~ aw thanks ^^ well here it is, can't wait to see your new pen name.
Guest ~ Thanks :D
dragonblade 5 ~ I'm sorry! I'm really am, but I made this one longer, I hope you enjoy it.
pissed at udragn~ Sorry D:
WesRing~ I'm glad you did, so happy it made you laugh :D