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Underworld Mission of the Matrix
Chapter 2 - An Unexpected Encounter
Beneath the surface of Belobog lies a mysterious area known as the Underworld, a place shrouded in isolation and secrecy, completely cut off from the bustling Overworld above. The Overworld is far more prosperous in terms of architecture and having a government that keeps order in the city, while the Underworld is productive in terms of treasures. Deep within the core of everything lies Belobog's Great Mine, a place brimming with abundant resources. Among these treasures, the most coveted is Geomarrow, a remarkable ore that fuels the vast heaters of Belbog. These powerful contraptions help combat against the relentless icy grip that threatens to engulf the entire planet.
In the depths of the mysterious Underworld, where darkness reigns and despair lingers, a unique group of individuals emerges, known as the Vagrant Miners. In their relentless pursuit of survival and financial gain, these daring folks fearlessly delve into the depths of treacherous mines, undeterred by the perils and legal ramifications that may lie in wait.
Recently, in a thrilling turn of events, their carefully crafted plans were once again thwarted by the cunning alliance of Seele, the Trailblazers, and Bronya. However, amidst the chaos, an inkling of desire emerged as they stumbled upon a remarkable discovery that would aid them in acquiring the much-needed precious materials. They came upon two construction vehicles during the course of one of their efforts to scavenge in order to increase their chances of obtaining some uncommon resources. It's a rather rare occurrence, as these things are typically discovered in the Overworld. Yet, they effectively utilized it to their benefit.
It was a minesweeper and dump truck, both of them were painted in the exact same color scheme of green and purple. What's truly captivating is that it bears no resemblance to your typical run-of-the-mill construction vehicle. The design is so sleek and futuristic, it's as if it was crafted by extraterrestrial beings and transported here from another world.
"We should count ourselves lucky! I don't know where these two construction vehicles came from, but they're really helping us extract these purple crystals." One of the Vagrant Miners chuckled to himself as he leaned by the side and watched the other miners use the new construction vehicles to extract some new resources.
"Wonder how much these things are?" Another miner came by to have a look at the crystal, but he was too scared to touch it. It seemed as if he was concerned that it may have some kind of negative effect on him.
"Instead of wasting time asking, we should hurry up and grab as many as we can! Those pesky Wildfire members might stop us, or we might have to share our riches with other people." As the leader's words echoed through the dimly lit cavern, a silent understanding passed among the miners. With a resolute nod, they returned to their task, delving deeper into the unknown depths of the earth, their eyes fixed on the enigmatic purple substance that held secrets yet to be unraveled.
Regrettably, their eagerness for a quick buck overshadowed their better judgment when it came to handling the enigmatic Dark Energon. A little caution and a thorough resource check could have saved them from the impending consequences. Alas, their desperation for financial gain clouded their priorities, leading them down a treacherous path. Little did they know, they were unwitting pawns in a grand scheme, completely oblivious to the fact that the obscure construction vehicles before them bore a sinister insignia.
Since the arrival of the future Supreme Guardian in the Underworld and the mischievous Vagrant Miners stirring up trouble, the land has been relatively calm. Not much else has unfolded in the wake of these extraordinary occurrences. By some twist of destiny, a little adventurer with golden locks and an enormous ushanka hat stumbled upon an enchanting expedition, her insatiable curiosity propelling her towards unexplored trails, where exhilarating escapades eagerly awaited her arrival.
"*yawn* There's like, totally nothing much to do, you know? Honorary Mole and his group left to do some grown-up things. And the rest of the Moles are out for some recon mission I've sent them to do. But now Hook is super-duper bored!" This girl was Hook, and she rambled on since it was very unusual for her to have a dull day like this. What's worse is that she's now back at the original location where she started, which is outside Natasha's Clinic.
"AAAHHH!" Just as she was about to unleash a torrent of complaints, a piercing scream shattered the air, capturing her attention and that of the entire town. All eyes turned towards the mysterious source, bracing themselves for a potential threat lurking in the shadows.
"What was that?!" Hook drew herself closer to the action in order to acquire a better understanding of what was going on. Unfortunately, she was knocked back to the ground as people started running away in the opposite direction and didn't watch where they were going.
The rambunctious young girl was about to unleash her fiery retort at the onlookers who dared to lay a finger on the esteemed leader of The Moles, when suddenly, the reverberating hum of machinery seized her attention. Her eyes grew wide with shock as a horde of battered Automations lumbered towards the town, their metallic forms tainted by the malevolent influence of Dark Energon. The possessed Automations began their assault on the community gradually but steadily, wreaking more havoc on the already-devastated town while harboring the nefarious aim of taking the lives of the citizens.
"More evil robots! Like, so many evil robots! Hehe, this is my chance for some fun! Yay! Get ready, villains, as you're gonna taste the awesome power of Pitch-Dark Hook the Great!" The Leader of The Moles found herself in a perplexing predicament. As she observed the robots transforming into menacing opponents, a mix of fear and excitement coursed through her veins. It was as if a thrilling new chapter in her life had just unfolded, beckoning her to embark on an exhilarating adventure. With a swift and determined motion, she unsheathed her colossal mining claw weapon, known as Diggertron. Fueled by a fiery resolve, she charged ahead, ready to confront any evil wrongdoers audacious enough to threaten her beloved hometown.
Ever since the Dark Energon infused Automations mysteriously appeared, the once functioning Boulder Town on the other side has been plunged into chaos and despair. Because they were emerging so close to the mine's entrance, the locals were unable to use the clinic as an evacuation hub in their time of need. As a result, the remaining Wildfire members were compelled to relocate the innocent bystanders within the confines of the Fight Club, which served as the new temporary evacuation area.
Despite their best efforts, they found themselves in a constant struggle. The odds were stacked against them, as their fellow comrades wielded nothing more than worn-out spears and outdated rifles. Though they felt confident, convinced that their weapons would be sufficient to combat the hordes of malfunctioning robots. Little did they know, however, that a mysterious purple substance had infiltrated these mechanical foes, granting them an unexpected surge of power.
"Gah! What is happening with these Automations?!" An associate of Wildfire gave it his all in the struggle against the possessed Automatons. His fellow comrades also rallied to his side, their spears converging into a single formidable force. Yet, despite their valiant efforts and the evident damage inflicted upon the mechanical monstrosities, they were still cruelly repelled.
"No matter how many times we strike them, it seems as though they will not go down!" The shooting squad of Wildfire fired forth as many rounds as they could, but because their guns are less powerful than conventional ones, the bullets were ricocheting off the metal shells and missing their target.
"Maintain your stance! If we were to collapse, the entire Underworld would perish as well!" Oleg, the fearless second-in-command of Wildfire, emerged as the sole beacon of hope in the relentless battle against the Automations. With a remarkable history as one of the elite Silvermane guards, he possessed the skills to take on numerous Automations, unleashing his prowess by hurling an explosive Automation Spider that decimated a significant portion of their ranks. But alas, the relentless march of time finally caught up with him, causing weariness to seep into his very bones during the fierce battle.
They were no match for the Dark Energon Automations, and they quickly found themselves outmatched; yet, they had no choice but to keep fighting or else the people would perish as well. Nevertheless, the tides of battle would swing in their favor when Optimus, in his truck form, would drive a handful of Automations into a wall. The difference now is that instead of Prime dealing with the remaining handful, all the people who were sitting at the back of his chassis jumped up and engaged in combat.
With fast reflexes, Dan Heng skillfully wielded his spear, piercing through the metallic bodies of the relentless Automation Hounds. Meanwhile, Caelus, armed with his trusty baseball bat, swung with all his might, unleashing a symphony of powerful strikes to keep the enemies at bay. Together, they formed an unstoppable duo, fighting against the odds. On the other side, Bronya maintained a safe distance from the menacing Automation Spiders. Her sharpshooting skills were put to the test as she skillfully aimed and fired, ensuring that each spider met its explosive demise far away from any innocent bystanders. Finally, in a breathtaking display of skill and precision, Seele effortlessly obliterated the entire squadron of Automation Beetles, leaving them no time to even raise their shields in defense.
Emerging from the truck's front doors, the remaining passengers joined the scene. March 7th and Natasha breathed a sigh of relief as they arrived just in the nick of time to rescue the endangered lives. At the same time, Clara's heart sank as she surveyed the sorry state of the infected Automations.
"Oleg! Is everyone in town doing okay?" Seele quickly raced up to the other co-leader of Wildfire while also scanning the surrounding area to get a sense of how the other people were faring.
"Seele! I anticipated that you would return! Regardless, do you know why this is occurring? Did the negotiations with Svarog fail?" Oleg's mind raced with curiosity as he pondered whether a glitch had occurred in Svarog's programming. The sheer magnitude of violence unfolding before them seemed far beyond what one would expect from a mere unsuccessful negotiation.
Clara wanted to try to speak out and defend her family, but Natasha noticed her nervousness, so she decided to step in for her. "In reality, Oleg, the negotiations were fruitful, and we were able to persuade Svarog to reveal crucial information. These possessed Automations also assaulted their robot commander, threatening to annihilate him."
"Then what are we up against?" Oleg and the other members of Wildfire were wondering what they were up against at this time when they heard the sound of thunderous footsteps approaching the location. In a heart-pounding encounter, they found themselves locked in a thrilling confrontation with an imposing Automation Grizzly and a menacing Direwolf. These formidable Automations seemed to radiate an aura of malevolence, amplified by the mysterious and powerful Dark Energon coursing through their circuits.
Fear gripped those who had never come face to face with these unusual beings, causing their bodies to tremble uncontrollably. Their hope wavered, teetering on the edge of despair as they questioned whether they possessed the strength to endure and overcome these imposing threats.
"Seriously?! Couldn't we get a reprieve at this point?" Everyone held their ground, bracing themselves for the worst after seeing the threatening new appearances of the possessed Automations that had come. Though the group that just arrived also drew their weapons, they weren't too worried like the rest of the bystanders.
"Ah relax. Look, those junkyard scraps are gonna disappear, even if I don't lift a finger." Caelus made the remark in a nonchalant manner as he looked to the side to see the red truck they were riding on slowly prepare itself for battle.
"Now is not the time for humor! Quickly, we must organize a general strike-" In a split second, Oleg's words hung in the air as Optimus sprang into action. Without delay, he unleashed a devastating energy blast, aiming straight for the core of the terrifying Automation Grizzly. After that, he swiftly turned around, grabbed the hilt of the chainsaw that was carried by the Automation Direwolf, and thrust it directly into its own chest, efficiently eliminating both of the freshly arriving dangers.
"See, I told ya! There is no need for me to move a single muscle." Caelus poked Oleg playfully in the ribs and watched as the other man's jaw dropped in surprise. The sight of the colossal robot left everyone in awe, their jaws dropping in unison. It was a spectacle that none of the evacuees had ever witnessed before. However, a hint of trepidation lingered in the hearts of those who couldn't help but wonder if there was a chance, that he might secretly be harboring the touch of Dark Energon.
Natasha could see the confused expressions on the faces of the people who were hoping for some answers, so she made the choice to give them a formal introduction to the Autobot Leader. "Ahem. Oleg meet Optimus Prime. He's an autonomous living robot. Moreover, he assisted us in managing with the infected Automations."
"A-a living robot?" The news hit Oleg like a bolt of lightning, causing him to recoil in disbelief. The mere thought that a robot could experience emotions akin to humans was mind-boggling, leaving him utterly perplexed.
"Commander Oleg, I've been informed that you are the second-in-command for Wildfire. It is an honor to make your acquaintance." Optimus Prime lowered himself to the ground and pulled his mouthplate back in order to have a closer look at the other people in the village. Seeing his face with a serious expression was enough evidence for the crowd to somewhat accept him as a living being.
"U-um the feeling is mutual, fellow soldier. I've lived a long time and witnessed many things, but I never anticipated something like this." Oleg's hand instinctively shot up in a crisp salute, a gesture of respect that he couldn't suppress. Being a retired Silvermane guard, he possesses a keen eye for recognizing his own kind. It was evident to him that Prime, too, carried the unmistakable aura of a seasoned soldier. As the co-leader of Wildfire gazed into the Autobot leader's eyes, a flicker of recognition sparked within him. It was as if he could peer into the depths of battle-hardened wisdom that surpassed his own.
"You are contending with reanimated automatons possessed by a lethal substance called Dark Energon. Even if you destroyed their heads or certain body sections, they would still be able to move, making it difficult to defeat them. Targeting the core of the automation to sever their connection with their possession is the most effective method for dealing with this situation." The leader of the Autobots went around to each of the troops and spoke over all of this important information with them. This was done to ensure that when they next come across the enemy, they will be able to deal with them in a suitable manner and not have any problems doing so.
"I see. Thank you for providing the details! This would undoubtedly be beneficial." Oleg eagerly nodded his head in agreement as he absorbed the clever tactics shared by Optimus. After that, he circled back around to check that the other members of Wildfire were paying attention to the directions for dealing with the cursed adversaries.
As soon as everyone had finished taking in the new information, they began to huddle around in order to discuss possible plans for the cores of the various automations and where they would be located. Clara was the only one who appeared uneasy about the notion. She carefully approached the Autobot Leader's foot in the hopes of hearing a different suggestion. "Is there no other means to save them, Mr. Optimus?"
"I understand your sentiment, Clara. I, too, am opposed to using excessive violence for this purpose. However, it is the most effective method for preventing them from causing further damage to others. In addition, they have fallen before, but their serenity was shattered when they were resurrected as murderous puppets. I'm sure they would want to go back and rest again." Similar to Clara, Optimus also yearned for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. However, in the midst of war, one must swiftly adapt and make the necessary adjustments to navigate the treacherous battlefield. As the shy girl listened to his reasons, a mixture of emotions played across her face. Though she reluctantly nodded her head, it was clear that she understood his perspective, even if she couldn't fully embrace it.
"Now we must determine the location of all these Dark Energons and destroy them. There are already numerous issues to contend with, and it would be preferable if they did not multiply." Bronya seized the attention of the entire group, unveiling an ambitious proposal to tackle the looming challenge. Her conviction stemmed from a belief that speedy resolution could be achieved by obliterating the very source that fueled the problem. In addition, she firmly holds an opinion that the disposal process should not be as challenging as dealing with the enigmatic Stellarons.
"Perhaps it is near the Great Mines. One of our Wildfire members stated earlier that strange things are occurring within it. I would have dispatched a team to investigate, but the unexpected appearance of infected Automations forced us to concentrate on defending the city." Oleg related the account of the Wildfire group's activities during the time when Seele and the other individuals were occupied working on the negotiations.
"So all we have to do is get to the mines. Seems simple enough." March 7th thought taking down Dark Energon should be a piece of cake, especially when they have Optimus Prime on their side.
"Not quite March 7th. We cannot leave the city unguarded, as it appears that more Dark Energon Automations are on their way. And I doubt that everyone has been evacuated." As much as Natasha wanted to tackle this new issue, she was more worried about the security of the neighborhood. The doctor could see that Dark Energon is quickly doing more damage, and they don't know how to stall it like the Stellaron. However, as she gazed upon the wide-eyed expressions of the townspeople, a surge of commitment coursed through her veins, compelling her to remain steadfast in her resolve to protect the besieged town.
"Then Natasha remains to medically treat the injured citizens and console them if their mental health is poor. The first crew in control of the west side evacuations would be Caelus, Dan Heng, and March 7th. Caelus and Dan Heng will provide cover for March 7th while she evacuates the town's inhabitants. While Bronya, Seele, and Oleg will be in charge of the evacuations on the east side. The roles are identical, with Oleg evacuating the population and you two covering for him." Prime, being capable leader that he is, was able to devise an approach that he believes will be the most effective in terms of resolving the issue and preventing more harm to innocent people.
"Hang on a sec. Now what will you do?" Seele was a free spirit, always marching to the beat of her own drum, never one to be confined by the constraints of a well-laid plan. Furthermore, she had no desire to be under the thumb of a robot that simply stood idly by while humans did all the grunt work.
"Me and Clara will travel to the Great Mine in search of the Dark Energon's source. My sensors should aid in my ability to locate it. And as I travel there, I will eliminate any Automations under their control along the way." The Leader of the Autobots originally wanted Clara to stay safe here in the evacuation area, but he did make a promise with Svarog, and he intends to keep his word.
"That... sounds like a reasonable plan." Oleg wholeheartedly embraced the plan, seeing no grounds for objection. The same could be said for Natasha, who was seen nodding her head in agreement with the other leader.
Optimus extended his giant robot hand towards Clara, and the little girl slowly hopped on top of it. Prime gently positioned her beside his towering smokestacks, ensuring she had a secure grip. He did this so that he would have an easier time maneuvering with Clara while ensuring that she was protected from harm.
"Good luck, soldiers." The Autobot Leader went in the direction that his sensors were urging him to go, which was towards an area that had significant activity of potential Dark Energon. Now everyone left is preparing to bring Optimus' plan to fruition.
"Are we seriously gonna just mindlessly obey a robot's commands?" Doubt crept into Seele's mind as she pondered whether she should continue with the plan. The allure of taking matters into her own hands and promptly dealing with the onslaught of robot junk was tempting, after all.
"He is not your average Automaton. Furthermore, as a commander, I endorse his strategy. I was of the opinion that we should all work together to deal with all of the town's Automations first, but his strategy appears to be more effective overall." Bronya encouraged her new friend to get along with the plan, and that was enough for Seele to slowly accept it. Together, the two of them, as well as Oleg, hurried forward to the eastern side of the town in order to initiate the evacuations.
"At least we have a plan and no longer have to rely on March 7th or Caelus's irrational luck to save us." Dan Heng made his way toward his two traveling companions while keeping an eye out for a sign that would indicate they were both prepared to get going.
"Hey!" March 7th's face contorted into a playful pout, as if she had been intentionally wounded by her teammate's words. Though a rosy blush crept up her cheeks. Deep down, she couldn't deny that her teammate's words held a grain of truth.
"If it works, it works." Caelus shrugged his shoulders before taking charge, and the other two followed behind him. The last individuals who remained were, of course, Natasha and some troops who stayed behind to defend the Fight Club evacuation area, and they all gave them one giant wave of good luck.
In accordance with the strategy laid forth by the Autobot Leader, the Trailblazers on the western side of the city divided up the tasks associated with the evacuations equitably. Though the difference is that Caelus decided to help March 7th with evacuations, as Dan Heng told him he could hold off the automations and the people were more important.
"Come on, guys, let's go this way! Don't worry, we'll make sure you're safe and head over to the Fight Club for evacuations." March 7th yelled as she led a group of individuals out of the building and pointed in the direction of the location of the evacuation center as they left the structure.
"I think I got 'em all outta this building." Caelus made one last sweep of the area to verify that all of the inhabitants had left the premises and were in no danger. Curiously enough, it appeared as though he had a mysterious object clutched tightly in his right hand.
"That's good. At least you managed to... Why are you walking around with a trash can?" March 7th's eyebrows furrowed in perplexity as she observed her teammate, a puzzled expression etched across her face. She couldn't help but wonder what on earth possessed them to be lugging around such a peculiar and seemingly unrelated item.
"I uh… Don't know. There's an unusual vibe about this one." Caelus couldn't help but wonder if this trash can had a secret life beyond its cold and metallic exterior. In fact, it felt warm and soft for some reason.
"*sigh* Leave it right here, please. I'm sure you'll find more special ones across the universe." March 7th was dreading the inevitable encounter with Caelus and his mischievous antics involving trash cans. She had heard all the wild tales and was not in the mood to deal with his shenanigans.
"W-wait! Don't leave me!" When the garbage can started talking, everyone was taken aback, and Caelus actually dropped the object out of shock. In a blink of an eye, the scene transformed before their very eyes, morphing into the image of a mysterious, brown-haired child who seemed strangely familiar.
"Hang on… Hey, aren't you that Julian kid from the Moles who completely transformed while playing hide and seek?" March 7th made a snapping motion with her fingers as she recalled him being one of the obnoxious children they were required to discover during the game they played in order to get information.
"Of course! I'm just here to do a super sneaky mission to find out stuff that will help the Moles! And, like, what's a super cool way to get info from others than blending in with everything around you?" Julian attempted to exude confidence, standing tall with his arms poised at his sides. However, his voice quivered and his face betrayed his nerves, revealing a different story altogether.
"Doubt." Caelus and March 7th wore expressions as unreadable as a secret code, clearly unconvinced by his tale.
"Okay, okay, you got me! I was super scared of everything that happened, so I turned into a trash can, hoping those meanie robots wouldn't find me." Julian yielded to pressure and confessed the truth. The sight of those robots sent shivers down his spine, leaving him with no choice but to seek refuge. After all, he knew he couldn't match the sheer strength and power of their formidable leader, the legendary Pitch-Dark Hook the Great!
"If you two are finished arguing at the shape-shifting garbage can, I would suggest moving to the other area to rescue more people." Dan Heng made a remark out loud when he defeated one of the possessed Automations as he was in the process of doing so. Almost instantly, Caelus and March 7th came to the same conclusion and set out to save further individuals.
In a thrilling battle, Dark-Energon possessed Automations were being annihilated from both sides. No matter what wicked schemes those nefarious individuals devised, they were consistently met with a swift slash of a blade or a powerful blow that sent their accomplices hurtling through the air, resulting in a stunning explosion amidst their ranks.
A resolute Seele was the one who was responsible for this, and she did it by using her scythe to destroy each and every one of them. To be completely frank, she was seeking an outlet for her pent-up frustration. And what could possibly be more satisfying than unleashing her wrath upon a horde of rampaging robots, wreaking havoc upon her beloved hometown?
Her onslaught was briefly stopped as a giant-possessed Automation Direwolf arrived on the scene and prepared to fight against her. She had some difficulty during her first encounter with one of these monstrous beings, but now that she has learnt the secrets and her fighting spirit is surging through her veins, she is prepared to take on this challenge all by herself.
With the ferocious fury of a wild beast, the Direwolf unleashed a relentless barrage of swings and slashes, driven to overpower Seele. However, like a nimble dancer, Seele effortlessly evaded each attack with a grace that seemed almost supernatural. Cunning tactics were employed by Seele as she deftly executed a hit-and-run strategy, unleashing powerful strikes upon the Automation's chest to expose its vulnerable core. Then with impeccable timing, she swiftly retreated just as the enemy prepared to launch a counterattack, leaving them bewildered and unable to retaliate.
After a few more slashes and dodges, the Direwolf began to dwindle down as a result of absorbing an excessive amount of damage, and the core began to become revealed. Seele took advantage, shifting her scythe from behind to deal the fatal blow. Just as she was about to take action, a thunderous gunshot echoed through the air, shattering the core of the mighty Automation Direwolf before she could even blink. As soon as that took place, Seele turned to see who had taken her kill, and the first person she saw was Bronya who was clutching onto her rifle.
"I could've totally handled that junk pile, no sweat." Seele muttered something annoying as she whirled her scythe and dispatched an Automation Hound that was headed in their direction.
"I have no doubt that you would have done so." When individuals say things like this, they almost often do it with a sarcastic tone, but Bronya was smiling genuinely because she was certain that Seele would be able to handle anything that came her way. Seele just rolled her eyes before returning to the fight against the Automations, with Bronya providing backup. Oleg, who was in the process of evacuating everyone, could only look on in amusement as he saw everything unfold before him.
Amidst all the wild and crazy antics unfolding for the rescue teams, Optimus and Clara found themselves in a much more serious scenario. Navigating towards the location of the treacherous mine proved to be quite the challenge, as swarms of possessed Automations stood guard. However, the Autobot Leader fearlessly rose to the occasion, swiftly neutralizing the threats with a combination of quick Ion Blaster shots and masterful sword strikes. And if there were any innocent bystanders in the path of the battle, Optimus Prime would rush to their rescue before pointing them in the direction of the Fight Club.
While Clara's face was etched with a melancholic frown. Her heart ached witnessing the plight of the innocent robots, forced into battle only to meet their untimely demise once more. Nevertheless, she grasped the gravity of the situation, recognizing that this crucial task was imperative to prevent an impending catastrophe that could claim the lives of all. She did little more than pray for an alternative approach to the problem that did not include resorting to armed conflict.
However, as she gazed into Optimus's sharp optics and listened to his powerful words, she sensed a flicker of reluctance within him. It was evident that even he, a mighty warrior, found this task distasteful. Yet, he understood the magnitude of the issue and recognized the vital importance of safeguarding all forms of life.
From past experiences, Clara observed that people didn't really care about robots getting destroyed because they only viewed them as disposable objects. Despite her fervent desire for robots to possess emotions, society remained indifferent, even finding amusement in their demise at times.
On the other hand, Optimus did not have any of those sentiments, and Clara was able to sense that he was hesitant to go through with all of this. Contrast to others, he will consider a single entity to be a living thing if it is sentient, regardless of what it is.
In her perceptive gaze, she could discern the weariness etched in his eyes, a testament to the toll of relentless violence. Yet, undeterred by the chaos, he valiantly continues to battle, fueled by an unwavering belief that a day of tranquility will eventually dawn upon them all.
As a result of this, Clara discretely put her hand next to Optimus's shoulder that she was sitting on in an effort to reassure him that everything is going to be OK, that he shouldn't be so hard on himself, and that she appreciates the fact that he's there.
Eventually, the duo was finally able to arrive at the entrance of the Great Mines. Optimus stood tall, his senses heightened, ready for the next wave of Dark Energon-infused automations to emerge. But to his surprise, the eerie silence persisted, as if the enemy had vanished into thin air. Minutes turned into an eternity as they scoured the area, yet not a single assailant dared to challenge them. Clara couldn't help but also find it peculiar. After all, this place was teeming with a fascinating array of Automations, each one with its own unique purpose, mingling with the miners.
Since there had been no attacks up to this point, Optimus took advantage of the situation by continuing to go ahead at a rapid pace in order to discover the location of the Dark Energon source inside the mines. He continued traveling until Clara's attention was drawn to something, which caused him to come to a stop. "Mr. Optimus, wait! Can you please stop first?"
"Is there something wrong, Clara?" Amidst the desolate wasteland of the mine, the Autobot Leader's curiosity piqued as he pondered the mysterious request of his new human companion.
"I just spotted a robot that needs our assistance." To back up her claims, Clara pointed to a broken machine that was having trouble staying upright. The object bore the scars of countless encounters, its surface adorned with a variety of claw marks. Its inner workings were laid bare, circuit wires exposed to the world. A haunting voice emanated from within, a desperate struggle to cling to life, its words lost in a symphony of static.
"Automation does not appear to have been infected with Dark Energon, based on the available evidence. Instead, something or someone must have been responsible for the devastation." Because the feared substance was not present in any manner, Optimus was able to safely determine that the piece of automation that was in front of them did not offer any risk of becoming reanimated.
"Please, Mr. Optimus, can you put me down? I believe I can help him. There are a few extra components lying around that I could use." In the eyes of most people, a severely damaged robot would be beyond repair, but in Clara's eyes, there is always the possibility that they may be saved. Moreover, she adorned her eyes with a pleading gaze, hoping to sway Optimus into granting her the opportunity.
"Please be cautious, Clara." With utmost care, the Autobot Leader delicately set Clara down from his towering shoulder, right next to the battered and broken Automation. After all, he was interested to find out whether or not what Svarog had stated regarding her abilities was accurate.
Without wasting any time, Clara dove headfirst into the task of resurrecting the ailing Automation, refusing to let a single second slip through her fingers. After doing an in-depth investigation, she came to the conclusion that the metallic casing must be altered, the circuit boards must be updated, and some dazzling new lights must be installed.
Fortunately, nestled beside the battered remains of the Automation lay a treasure trove of discarded components from various other defunct automatons, each with its own tale of unfortunate demise. Clara is a resourceful person, as seen by the fact that she recycled the pieces of those damaged robots and then transferred them to the one that she is presently mending.
Clara rummaged through the pockets of her coat, where she stores the many tools she uses, now that all of her components were assembled. She removed the broken shell with the use of a screwdriver, and then proceeded to take out the outdated circuits so that she could replace them with recycled circuits that were functional. Then, she carefully replaced the lights, which serve as the creature's eyes, with ones that were in working order after discarding the damaged ones. And she concluded it all by reattaching a new shell where it looked dirty, but at least it's better than the old scratched and torn one.
"There you go! That should be plenty for you to function." With beads of sweat glistening on her forehead, Clara eagerly pondered whether her tireless efforts to fix the Automation would be enough to bring it back to life.
"Bzzt! Thank you!" Although the Automation's voice lacked excitement, there was a subtle undertone of gratitude in its words. The robot then slowly made its way out of the area and into a secure location, however on its way out it accidently brushed up against Optimus' foot.
"You're welcome!" When Clara waved farewell to the robot, she did it with a huge grin on her face. Despite her usual shyness, there's a secret key to unlocking her radiant smile: the enchanting sight of vibrant robots living their best lives, thriving and flourishing thanks to their ingenious programming.
"Your prowess in the realm of robotics is truly extraordinary. I'm sure even Ratchet would be impressed by your abilities." Optimus, the wise and experienced, has traversed countless realms and witnessed extraordinary wonders. Yet, amidst his vast knowledge, he values and respects individuals who possess unique talents, embracing the brilliance they proudly wield.
"Who's Ratchet?" The mention of an Autobot she doesn't know perked up Clara's ears. She immediately switched her attention back to one of the main reasons she accompanied Optimus, which was to get more information about the sentient robot species he was originally from.
"A longtime acquaintance of mine. He serves as the esteemed medical officer of our team, diligently tending to the restoration of any injuries we incur during our battles." As Optimus gazed up at the vast expanse of the sky, memories of his dear friend flooded his mind. With a heart full of hope and a plea to the mighty All-Spark, he wished for the safety and triumph of not just Ratchet, but his entire team and the precious planet they called home.
"So he's like your group's Natasha. It's comforting to know that you have someone who will fix and treat your wounds." Clara's heart swelled with relief, knowing that even in the face of danger or the threat of a mysterious robot illness, Optimus would never be alone.
"Yes. Without his presence, our collective functionality would likely be compromised at this moment." Whether it was patching up battle scars or nursing him back to health during a bout with the notorious Cybonic Plague, Ratchet, the trusty Autobot medic, always had the Autobot Leader's back.
"Can you tell me more about your other buddies, Mr. Optimus?" Clara's eyes sparkled with anticipation as she leaned in towards the Prime, her curiosity bubbling over and threatening to spill out.
By the expression on his face, Optimus seemed ready to pique her interest. Yet, it would be unwise to stray from the path in the midst of a conflict. "The present moment may not be the most opportune for engaging in these matters, as our primary focus should remain on completing the mission at hand. Once all tasks have been fulfilled, I solemnly promise to engage in meaningful discourse regarding my companions and the realm of Cybertron with you."
"I can't wait to hear everything!" The good news is that Clara was understanding and willing to wait. To divert her insatiable curiosity, she delved into a whimsical world of imagination, envisioning the myriad of occupations that Prime's friends could possibly hold in the realm of robots. Her youthful imagination was filled with possibilities, such as a robot chef, a robot director directing movies, or a robot constructor.
In a split second, a cacophony erupted from the ceiling above, shattering the tranquility of the environment. With a thunderous crash, the ancient wooden floor collapsed, sending billowing clouds of dust swirling into the air. It was difficult to determine what precisely caused it, but one thing that immediately stuck out was what seemed to be the shadow of a gigantic hand.
"Move behind me, Clara." As soon as Optimus gave Clara the warning, she sprinted up to the back of his leg and grabbed it tightly in a distressed way. The Autobot Leader pulled out his Ion Blaster and directed it towards the smoke, getting ready to neutralize the figure if it turned out to be a problem.
"Alright, you metal hunks, where are you?! Don't say that's all you have! Pitch-Dark Hook the Great still has more left in the tank!" Emerging from the dissipating smoke, a colossal hand revealed itself, its distinctive high-pitched voice echoing through the air. It was none other than the infamous Diggertron, belonging to the notorious Hook. Now that she has appeared, Optimus was taken aback since he had not anticipated seeing a youngster in such a perilous environment.
"Hook?" The familiarity of the voice was enough to have Clara take a peek out, and a look of confusion now appeared on her face.
"Huh? Clara? Uh-oh, a mean robot has got you trapped! Don't worry, I'll save ya!" Immediately, Hook sprung into action and drove her Diggertron directly into Optimus' foot. Normally, when a kid hits a giant robot, it shouldn't do much, but the Autobot leader was caught off guard when Hook was able to push back his feet a bit.
"W-wait! D-don't hurt Mr. Optimus! He's a good robot!" In a desperate frenzy, Clara pleaded with Hook, her voice trembling with urgency. She couldn't bear the thought of Prime sustaining any unwarranted harm.
"That's exactly what he wants you to believe, Clara. But then, when you turn around, it'll fire off a laser at you!" As Hook relentlessly slashed and punched Optimus' colossal foot, it became clear that her attacks were losing their impact. Despite her best efforts, all she managed to inflict were minor scratches, as Optimus stood resolute, his footing unyielding.
Realizing that the situation was spiraling out of control, Prime made a bold move to diffuse the tension. He reached out and gently took hold of Hook, hoping to engage in an honest conversation. "Dear child, it is wise to heed the counsel of your friend and listen to their reasoning. Otherwise, misunderstandings could cause harm to all of us."
"Child?! Who are you calling a child!" Ironically, after Hook stated that, she had a temper tantrum and started wildly swinging at the air without hurting anybody.
"If that offended you, I apologize. Nevertheless, it would be prudent to resolve this matter through diplomatic means. If I were to embrace malevolence, the course of action would have been to swiftly terminate both you and Clara in this very moment, rather than resorting to the art of manipulation. And should your faith in my words still waver, I implore you to undertake this action for the betterment of your dear friend." Optimus made the decision to take a fresh strategy and pointed in Clara's direction so that Hook could see the desperation on her face.
"Please listen to him, Hook!" Clara's head bobbed in agreement, her hands clasped together in a pleading gesture. She desperately hoped that her friend would once again be open to reason.
"Fine. I'd rather not see Clara upset. So, how is this big red robot different from the ones that appear scary?" After some initial reluctance, Hook eventually agreed, and the Autobot Leader carefully placed her back on the ground so that he could be ready to begin explaining everything.
"I am Optimus Prime, and my presence alongside Clara is not without purpose." And then the Autobot continued by providing a summarized account of everything that was transpired once he arrived here to the present time. Starting with his arrival and moving on to the question of why the Automations are behaving strangely with the Dark-Energon. Now if you were to judge her reaction from the expression of childish amazement that had taken over Hook's face, it was clear that she was left speechless by all that she heard.
"Oh wow, so you're like a super cool robot superhero who's here to protect us from the bad guys? Why didn't you say that before, huh? I could've made you my sidekick instead of bonking your legs." With a proud smile, Hook eagerly hoped that Prime would finally join her and their fearless comrades in the esteemed ranks of the Moles. Imagine the sheer awesomeness of having a colossal robot by your side, a true teammate of epic proportions.
"I apologize for the confusion. But it appears that our attempts to engage in rational discourse were made, yet regrettably, your receptiveness was lacking." Despite the tense situation, Optimus found solace in the fact that a peaceful resolution was reached, sparing him the arduous task of pacifying an irate and misinformed child.
"Whatever happened happened. Oh, by the way, I'm the leader of The Moles, hehe! You can call me Pitch-Dark Hook the Great!" Diggertron was carried high in the air by the head of the Moles, who then struck a slick stance to demonstrate how amazing she is.
"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance as well, Hook. You are aware of the reason why Clara and I are present, but can you tell us what you are doing here?" Now it was Optimus' moment to pose the question, and as he observed Hook's formidable combat skills and daring nature. He couldn't help but wonder where the responsible adults were, keeping an eye on her adventurous spirit.
"Well, if you must know, the town needs a hero in their time of need, and Hook is here to help! I've dealt with most of the scrap junk here in the mines. And I'm busy trying to find more villains to take down. But I haven't found anything in the past few minutes other than a bunch of miners sleeping with red scratches on them, like, seriously!" Hook could still almost remember everything, but just the details that stuck out to her the most. For example, when she was able to annihilate an entire pack of Automations that were tainted with Dark Energon. The only reason she could recollect the bunch of miners who were just dozing off at work was because they had a repulsive odor.
"Might you kindly provide additional elucidation regarding the state of those miners?" Prime's eyes widened with worry as Hook vividly recounted the harrowing tale of the miners. The way Hook spoke, it seemed as though their fate had already been sealed, leaving the Autobot Leader with a heavy sense of concern.
Just as Hook was about to delve into a captivating explanation, the sudden roar of a vehicle engine pierced the air, instantly capturing the attention of everyone present. As their gaze shifted towards the mysterious sound, a sudden barrage of objects came hurtling towards them, catching them completely off guard. However, it was not a thing; rather, it was a collection of the bodies of Vagrant Miners who had been murdered in a particularly gruesome manner, either by claw cuts or by blaster bolts.
"There! Those are the same guys I saw before, and they're still snoozing on the job." Hook remained completely unaware of the unfolding events, while Clara's eyes widened in sheer terror, her hand instinctively flying to her mouth to stifle a gasp.
This did not sit well with Optimus since he did not approve of the mindless slaughter of anybody, and he wanted to discover who was guilty so that he could stop them. But just as he was thinking about that, his longing came true in the form of a green and purple minesweeper and dump truck that emerged from the shadows.
Since Clara and Hook had never seen these trucks before, they became confused as to how they had managed to get at this location. Hook was itching to hop behind the wheel and give it a whirl, while Clara couldn't help but feel like these trucks were straight out of a sci-fi movie, with their sleek, futuristic design resembling mechanical marvels.
The instant that Optimus' optics caught sight on the insignia that were on their sides, his eyes expanded to an alarming degree. Gleaming in a regal shade of purple, these symbols bore an air of ominous power, resembling a crown fit for a villainous ruler. They were exclusive to a single faction, known as the Decepticons.
"Clara and Hook, find somewhere to hide! Gah!" But before Optimus could finish his sentence, he found himself caught in a whirlwind of chaos as the two mighty construction vehicles forcefully propelled him out of the treacherous mines. Thankfully, at the split second before the vehicles was slammed, Hook was able to grab Clara and save her from the collision.
"Oh no, ya don't! Hook isn't gonna let you hog all the action." Hook had been longing for this moment, a break from the monotony. Finally, something captivating had unfolded, igniting a spark of excitement within her. It was her chance to unleash her extraordinary heroic talents and leave everyone in awe.
"H-hook, we should definitely follow Mr. Optimus' advice. Although a part of me wants to assist him." Clara's heart raced as she witnessed her newfound robotic companion being ruthlessly ambushed, sending a surge of concern coursing through her veins. She suspected, on some level, that the humans who were driving those trucks were planning to dismantle Optimus for his components and that was the reason they attacked him.
"No time to dilly-dally about that, Clara! Let's just roll into action without second thoughts!" The massive hand on Hook was able to transform into several wheels by just tapping a few buttons. On most times, she makes use of her ability to get herself ready for a speedy and devastating explosive assault. But, on very rare occasions, she also employs it as a mode of transportation.
"Maybe we could go there at a-aaaaahhhhhh!" Diggertron was off and racing in a heartbeat, hot on the trail of both Optimus Prime and the vehicles that had attacked him unexpectedly. Although Clara did not seem to be enjoying the ride based on her cries of panic, Hook did like the trip and had screams of joy since the adrenaline was pouring through her.
"Phew. That's all of them, right?" March 7th wiped some sweat from her forehead as she, along with Caelus and Dan Heng, finished rounding up the people to evacuate.
"I believe so. We meticulously inspected our section and ensured that everyone was safe." Oleg was absolutely convinced that they had accounted for everyone, but Natasha had a hint of doubt on her face. It was as if she had a sixth sense telling her that a certain mischievous blond-haired child was mysteriously absent from the group.
"So, what's the plan now?" Caelus questioned the party about whether they need to remain with the locals or even attempt to locate and eliminate the Dark Energon source alongside their new robot friend.
"Let's go to the mines. Optimus may be a great fighter, but even someone like him probably needs backup." Seele made the suggestion because she was still not satisfied and wanted to eliminate more of the Dark Energon-infected rust buckets who dared attack the town.
Most of them have decided to go with Seele, with the exception of Oleg, who has expressed a desire to remain behind in order to provide assistance to Natasha in her efforts to ensure the health and safety of the community. Just as the team was on the brink of embarking on their perilous journey into the depths of the mines, a cacophony of earth-shattering sounds abruptly halted their progress.
Caelus made the executive decision to go ahead in order to have a better view of what was taking place, and to everyone's amazement, he discovered that Hook was using Diggertron's mobility mode. The mighty wheel and its immense power were exerting such force that the very ground beneath them trembled and cracked, unleashing destruction. Meanwhile, Clara clung desperately to Hook's left hand, her life hanging in the balance.
"Okay, big rigs! Where did you go? Think Pitch-Dark Hook the Great won't be able to catch you?" The leader of the Moles came to a dramatic halt, her eyes scanning the surroundings with an intense resolve. She was prepared to unleash her fiery spirit and engage in a fierce battle with the mysterious driver of those menacing trucks. At the same time, poor Clara, feeling disoriented and dizzy, struggled to regain her balance and gather her wits amidst the chaos.
"Hook? Where have you been?" Natasha was the first person to question about Hook, and she did not seem to be thrilled as her flashy form of transportation caused some unwanted collateral damage.
"T-the witch! I mean, Natasha… Hook was just making sure she was keeping the evildoers in check." As the leader of the Moles caught sight of the doctor, a wave of unease washed over her. An ominous feeling crept up her spine, as if a storm of words was about to rain down upon her. The anticipation of a potential lecture loomed in the air, causing her heart to race and her palms to grow clammy.
Despite her strong urge to unleash a torrent of disciplining upon Hook for her audacious and hazardous actions, Natasha's attention veered towards the innocent girl standing by her side. "Clara, weren't you with Optimus? What happened that forced the two of you to separate?"
"He needs help! The vehicles in the mines suddenly started bumping into him. I believe the miners might attempt to dismantle him for spare components." Clara was eventually able to recover her bearings, and as soon as she did, she adopted an anxious tone.
Curiosity gripped the entire group as they pondered the enigmatic words she had just uttered. They had ventured into the depths of the mines before, their eyes scanning every nook and cranny, yet the sight of any vehicles was missing from them.
Before any more inquiries could be answered, there was a deafening explosion, and then the missing Autobot leader was launched in the direction of one of the buildings, forcing it to collapse as a result of the impact. A collective gasp of disbelief escaped the crowd as they witnessed their homes being subjected to further destruction.
"Mr. Optimus!" Clara's heart raced with concern as she witnessed Prime being hurt, her immediate instinct urging her to rush to his side. However, her rush was abruptly halted by the chilling sound of menacing footsteps echoing in the distance.
People in the surrounding vicinity were likewise mystified as to why they could hear booming footsteps that sounded as if they were from a gigantic being. In addition to this, it seemed as if a moderate earthquake could be felt with each step that was made. Their responses were quickly uncovered as two individuals emerged from the cloud of smoke.
A wave of fear washed over those who weren't battle-hardened, their faces contorted with terror. Meanwhile, the brave warriors of Wildfire and the Trailblazers stood in shock, caught off guard by the unexpected turn of events. But this time they had a sense of caution since they couldn't help but notice the eerie glow emanating from the eyes of these mysterious figures, instantly giving away their unfriendly intentions.
"Hahaha! I was beginning to despise this pitiful planet, believing it to be infested with insignificant insects that posed no challenge to me. Though, it appears that everything has taken a turn today." The minesweeper, who had been transformed into a gigantic robot, snarled fiercely as he banged his claws together and the enormous robotic claw on his back began pinching noisily.
"Ah, how enjoyable it is to witness your insatiable thirst for chaos! And what more delightful way to satiate that insatiable desire than to mercilessly eliminate the influential leader of the Autobots?" The dump truck, which had also taken on the appearance of a robot, readied his weapon and seemed elated at the prospect of doing something that wasn't dull for a change.
"So this is where you sought refuge when Cybertron fell… Bonecrusher and Long Haul." Optimus Prime fixed his gaze on the two Decepticons while at the same time rapidly coming up with a strategy to stop them from inflicting any more needless damage.
Author's Notes
Alright, for this one. Sorry if it took awhile. I had a lot of college work to finish, so I had to focus on that first. And in advance, I have to say that chapter 3 might take a while since I'll go back to focus on writing the new chapter of the other fanfic I write, as I only wrote 20% of that so far, then I have to do college stuff again. Also, I guess I should let all of you know this, but I envision this fanfic to only last a grand total of 4-6 chapters, then it will end. Anyway, enough about that. I hope you all enjoy this chapter and have a good day.