17- Second Chance.
A few days passed since Predaking was brought to New Iacon. He woke up and saw himself in a room surrounded by advanced equipment and scientific items. He started to get up in order to know where exactly he was, but before he could…
"Dat, dat, dat." Ratchet stopped him standing in front of him while he pushed him back to his resting place. "You have passed through a very delicate and vital procedure, and your body needs time to assimilate repairs. I know you may have some questions, but right now, for your well-being, you need to rest."
"I better listen to him, Predaking. We were starting to think you were not gonna make it." Iris added, entering the room.
Predaking got surprised at seeing her: the human girl who acted nice at him. Seeing his injured now better looking, surely an expert's work, he realized he was feeling much better, but not still recovered. So he decided to lay again on his site and allowing Ratchet to check his wound. After seeing how he was doing, Iris and Fraxure returned back with the group, who were also debating about Predaking's acting.
"And that's how Predaking and I managed to get out of the Decepticon warship. Right before you guys came to the rescue." Ash narrated.
"Yeah, we acted just in time."
"Em, excuse me Max, but exactly what did you do to help?" Dawn asked.
"Well, I helped Clemont, Fixit and Blaster, that's something!"
"Hahaha, yeah surely." Misty laughed. "But I still don't believe the part when you created an energy shield to protect yourself against Starscream's gadget."
"But it is true. Although I don't recall exactly how I did it. Only that it was shiny and blue. Just like…" Ash was telling.
"Like the aura energy?" May anticipated.
"Yeah, that one."
"The what?" Ritchie asked.
"The aura is the living essence which flows through all living beings, or at least from this world." Clemont explained.
May nodded. "The same as some pokémon like Riolu and Lucario, it is said that long ago there were humans capable to manipulate aura like them. We were confirmed that Ash is one of those humans."
"That's the reason why he goes along very well with Riolu." Tracey deduced.
"Ash, do you think there's a way you can learn how to use the aura properly?" Clemont suggested.
"I don't know. For now I just can use the aura to see beyond my eyes or to feel someone with the same strong connection. Maybe I will have to learn from someone who already has master it."
"That if there is one." Iris pointed.
"Hey, there's one. Remember that guy with a Lucario when we were traveling through Sinnoh? He was an expert using the aura." Dawn reminded.
"Oh yeah, I remember him."
"Maybe we can ask the pokémon rangers about it."
"Piplup." Piplup nodded.
"Pika?" Sparky asked confused.
"Pika pika." Pikachu said shrugging his shoulders.
"Well, after everything which has happened, I'm glad you are back safe and sound." Serena said taking his hand.
"It's Predaking the one we should thank for that. If it wasn't for him I don't know what the Decepticons would have done to me." Ash corrected.
"Not to mention getting our hands on these babies." Seaspray said holding the plasma cannons. "You have no idea how hard has been to us to recover the weapons of a Decepticon guardian. Studying how it functions to achieve its firepower is going to be interesting."
In that moment, Ash's Pokétch started to sound with a melody. "Oh, that's mom."
"Don't tell me that since your kidnapping your mom has become overprotective."
"Haha, no no Bonnie. She just calls me sometimes."
"He's right. Delia started to do that once she knew we were together. It's normal." Serena reassured them.
"Hi mom." Ash saluted once her image appeared on the Pokétch's screen.
"Hi honey, hi Serena. I'm glad to see you're fine, as everyone. By the way, how is Predaking doing?"
That surprised everyone.
"Huh? Excuse us?" Dawn said.
"Why are you asking that, Ms. Ketchum?" Ritchie asked.
"Well, he was the one rescued Ash and brought him back risking his own life. Is the least I can do."
"He's getting better, Ash's mom. I'm sure he just needs a few retouches more from Ratchet and he will be back in shape." Iris said.
"And from now on he will no need to worry for that ever again." Bonnie added, but everyone looked at her with confused looks. "What? Did I say something weird?"
"Em, Bonnie, that's a little drastic, don't you think?" Dawn started.
"Why?"
"Have you forgotten? Predaking fought against some of our friends." Max reminded.
"But that's because Galvatron played with his mind, remember?"
"Yeah, it's not his fault he was forced to fight the Autobots." Iris defended.
In that moment Ultra Magnus approached them. "But that doesn't mean he has answered from siding with the Decepticons, and the things he did while then." He said looking at his hand. "Some wounds are hard to forget."
"But sir, that's the past, and it's better to leave what happened in the past in order to forget it. Besides, you got your hand back, so it's like nothing happened." May discussed, making the Autobot commander look at his hand again while he thought about that.
"We know it because it also happened to us. Remember we used to face Team Rocket?" Misty started, making the Autobots, now present too, to nod. "Well, there were also times when we decided to put our differences aside and work together in order to face a bigger challenge."
"And that even made us feel like if they were also friends of ours." Ash added.
"During those times they even looked nice guys." Tracey pointed.
"Including Meowth." Iris added.
"So, are you saying they are like...heh...what was that word again? Frenemies?" Sideswipe invented.
"More or less." Max accepted.
Arcee laughed. "I'll wish to see a Decepticon like that."
"We all know that's impossible." Smokescreen pointed.
"Ha, the day I meet a Decepticon which fits that description I will change my tank form for a single civilian vehicle."
May chuckled. "Don't wish for something like that, Warpath. It may end becoming true."
"The point is now that we know Predaking is good deep inside, he may become part of the team."
"You have a kind heart Bonnie, but I'm afraid is not that simple. We received him because of our hospitality, and we are not sure if he would like to stay. He also may be holding a grudge against us for what we did to his kind. Indirectly, but still happened." Bumblebee objected.
"But still there must be something we could do for him in exchange. Unlike us, he's alone." Ash pointed.
"But what could be enough for him to make him feel better?" Serena wondered.
Right after saying that, Ash thought about something. So he went to talk to the Autobot leaders.
"Optimus, Elita, there's something we want to talk with you."
Time later, Predaking, now back in robot form, finally rose from the medical berth and noticed his wound was finally healed. He exited the lab and took a look to the Autobot base. He admitted it looked more cheerful than the Nemesis, but this was the Autobots' home. How they would react to his presence?
"Predaking." Optimus called, making him turn to Prime. "Ratchet said your are completely recovered."
"How are you feeling?" Elita asked.
"Fine, thanks for asking." Predaking appreciated as he checked his arms, not feeling pain.
"You have nothing to fear: not any of our Autobots have intended to take advantage of your state."
That surprised him. "Have they forgotten of our previous experiences?"
"No. But it is a rule of the Autobots to assist the one in need." Optimus answered.
"Even if it is the enemy?"
"We did it with Starscream, although he may never change his nature." Elita revealed.
"Hpm, I agree on that."
"Do you have intention of leaving? We heard you have been wandering from one side to another, maybe without a proper place to stay. I know we have had our differences, but our place can be a shelter for you if you want." Optimus offered.
Predaking looked at them surprised, but simply turned his back at them. "Even if I'll like to consider your offer, my mere presence may bother your comrades."
"That's up to you. Also, we are not the ones who thought about that."
"But...even if you don't accept it, it may be an alternative." Elita revealed, making Predaking to look at them again.
Moments before, a ground bridge appeared in the deeps of a cave, and the whole gang and their Autobot guardians came out.
"Whoa, I always wondered how much a confined space can change after the detonation of a powerful explosive. Now I know." Seaspray observed.
The place they appeared on was a wide chamber, which remains of former equipment, cables, huge boxes and cylinders.
"Are you sure this is the place?"
"Yes Dawn. The looks may be different but there are some parts which I still remember." Wheeljack confirmed.
"Besides, the ground bridge coordinates also were familiar." Blaster supported.
"Can you memorize locations by just the coordinates?" Tracey asked surprised.
"Well, he's not Soundblaster's counterpart by nothing." Max said.
"Let's hope some ones may have survive." May hoped.
"Let's spread out so we cover more ground." Ash decided.
"We should check under the rubble in case it may be buried." Ritchie suggested.
Not just the gang divided to search whatever they were looking, but also did their Autobot friends. They moved aside the rubble and remains on possible areas. Some ones were too much big or heavier for the humans. Ritchie had an idea and called out one of his pokémon.
"Espy, I need your help. Think you can move this rubble?"
"Espeon." Espy nodded.
Espy managed to lift the huge rubble aside with Psychic. And once most of the rubble was retired…
"Woah. Guys, I think I have found one." Ritchie called.
"Us too. Take a look." Bonnie said pointing at something buried under a pile of metallic boxes which Dedenne found.
"There's another one here too." Serena followed when she and Max were looking through a broken cylinder.
But they weren't aware that outside, at the cave's entrance, someone else seemed to be interested in what it was inside, as some shadows looked right at the entrance.
"You three guard here. Make sure no one follow us in." An adult voice ordered.
"Arg, I hate guard duty." Another voice complained.
Moments later, another ground bridge opened in the same place, being this time Predaking and the Autobot leaders who passed through.
"And what's exactly that alternative you mentioned before?" Predaking asked.
"You are seeing it already." Elita answered.
At the moment Predaking saw where they were he stood speechless: he recognized that place.
"This is...the place where my brethren was supposed to be born: Shockblast's outside laboratory."
"Yeah, where you kicked our butts in an impressive demonstration of brutal force. No offense, big guy, you're strong as anyone before I met." Wheeljack said giving him a friendly punch on the shoulder.
"Perhaps this was result of Galvatron's machinations, but it is true the consequences of our actions left you as the only one of your kind." Optimus detailed while Predaking looked around.
"Then why have you brought me here?"
"To show you what the alternative offer consist of. An image is worth a thousand words."
Predaking saw the human kids trying to clean, dig up and take out an amount of metallic items which seemed like bones.
"Are those...the remains of my brethren?" Predaking asked in disbelief.
"Yes it is." Bonnie nodded.
"Well, actually the ones which seemed to survive." Tracey specified.
"We know we need to respect your choice if you wish not to stay on our base." Ash started while Pikachu and Riolu, who helped locating the Predacon remains with his aura, helped him.
"But in that case you are the only Predacon out there, right?" Dawn added, making him to nod.
"Well, that's why we though that if the Decepticons were able to create you and the other Predacons, then why can't we as well?" Serena revealed, surprising Predaking.
"We debated about using the remains which survived here to recreate each Predacon, so that way you'll stop being alone." Clemont explained. "Think you can do it, Ratchet?"
"Well, genetic manipulation and fossil restoration are not my specialty, since Shockblast was more specialized on many scientific fields. But...I will do my best to try to recreate his work. Hum, it may be quite an interesting challenge." The Autobot medic responded from New Iacon.
"See? Good idea, huh?" Iris ended.
"But...Shockblast told Galvatron nothing from this survived." Predaking remembered.
"It probably was a trick to make you believe another truth, in order to keep control over your mind." Bumblebee supposed.
"They came up with this idea." Optimus said.
"They thought it would be a proper way to thank you for bringing Ash back home." Elita told him.
Predaking was speechless, he didn't expect this: that a group of humans went through the hard work of recovering what was left of his former companions to bring them back without asking something in return. Maybe that's why the Autobots interacted with them in special ways, like when those wild pokémon offered him shelter. After taking out all the remains, everyone placed the bones like making a puzzle to complete the skeletons, most of them at hand while Espy helped with Psychic, speeding up the process. Suddenly, the silence was broke when an echo was heard.
"Did you hear that?" Warpath asked.
"It sounded like…" Sideswipe started.
"Footsteps." Arcee finished.
"And it seems to be coming surely from where we entered the last time." Smokescreen said looking to a tunnel.
"It seems we are not the only ones looking for something here." Moonracer supposed.
"Then we better check what it is." Ash announced.
"Pika." Pikachu nodded.
"Guys, you stay here and make sure the remains are transported back to base. We will see who is it." May requested.
"Are you going alone?" Bee asked.
"We are smaller and harder to recognize, and we have our pokémon with us in case something happens." Ritchie answered.
"And that way if things look bad, we can warn you." Serena added.
Hot Rod looked to Optimus. "I know that look, Optimus. They are serious."
The Autobot leader nodded. "Alright. But be careful. Contact us if situation gets too much big for you."
"Fear nothing, we got this." Max saluted before leaving.
Predaking got more surprised at seeing how they volunteered to cover what they were doing, no doubt these kids were special. After a while walking through the tunnel, they arrived to the big chamber where, as Wheeljack mentioned before, he, Ultra Magnus and Predaking rumbled once. Then, they started to hear familiar voiced, so they hid.
"Are you sure it's worthy to come back here? It's not supposed that Shockblast reported nothing from Project Predacon was left to recover?" Knock Out's voice sounded as he and other Decepticons entered the cave.
"I only said what was obviously required for the current situation. Despite my report, no recognition of my former outside lab was performed after its destruction. Only the cybertronian cybermatter as result of the explosion." Shockblast revealed.
"Which means if any remains of the Predacon clones could survive, it may still be there. Ready for being used once again." Starscream added.
"I still don't get why this scouting is so necessary. We may find just a bunch of rubble and broken items." Stinger said.
"I agree with you, pal. With what you described, it is clearly impossible anything could have survived an explosion of that magnitude." Roadkill supported.
"And what's so important about this project?" Dropkick asked.
"Lord Galvatron once requested an army of beasts as a crucial factor for his plan to summit the natives of Earth after the great performance of the first Autobot hunter." Xiaxus narrated.
"But of course, then the so called Majesty revealed to be not as dumb as we thought and we were force to end the project. But now that we know Predacons' loyalty can be secured even in such evolutionary state, we can restore more so the Autobots will not have any chance to stand against us. As we intended to do on Cybertron." Starscream proclaimed.
"Is that how our three beast machine super soldiers with appearance similar to some pokémon were created?" Nightbird asked.
"As you have said. And for Project Predacon to continue from where it left off, recovering any surviving remains is required." Shockblast nodded.
"Well, let's hope we find enough for it to be worth it." Shatter opined.
"I wonder how the new beasts will look like." Host expressed.
The gang heard everything from their hiding place.
"What are those doing here?" May asked.
"They said they were going to recover the Predacons' remains to continue Project Predacon."
"We heard that already, Max. It's just we can't still believe it." Dawn excused.
"We cannot let them get them, that's what we came for."
"Iris is right: if we let them get their hands on it, they will restore them just for using them as weapons." Ash reminded.
"And Predaking will still remain alone. Poor him." Bonnie lamented.
"But they said no previous recon was made since the lab was destroyed. So that means they aren't aware of the current situation." Clemont pointed.
"Which means they don't know we are here, so we have the element of surprise." Tracey added.
"Exactly, and we will make sure they don't interfere until our friends are done." Ash nodded.
"But how are we gonna do it? They are a lot, not to mention bigger and armed." Misty recalled.
"Hey, I think I got it: in pokémon contests sometimes more than one pokémon perform a combination of more than one attack. So how about something like that but way bigger?"
"Serena, that's a wonderful idea." Ritchie congratulated.
"That will caught them off-guard. But how are we going to do it?" Max asked.
"I think I know how." Tracey started as the whole group reunited in a circle and started to elaborate the plan.
Next, while the Decepticons were still looking for the right access to the lab, the group divided and positioned on different places of the cave: Ritchie with Sparky, Espy and Cruise, Tracey with Scyther and Marill; Misty with Gyarados and Golduck; May and Max alongside Blaziken, Glaceon and Beautifly; Dawn with Piplup, Quilava and Pachirisu; Iris accompanied by Dragonite, Emolga and Gigle; Clemont and Bonnie with Dedenne, Diggerby and Luxray; and finally Ash and Serena accompanied by Delphox, Sylveon, Pikachu, Noctowl, Torkoal, Torterra, Oshawott and Noivern. Once in position, they waited until all the Decepticons got in middle of the cavern.
"Initiate phase one, now!" Tracey whispered through his Pokétch.
"You heard him, Cruise. Sandstorm." Ritchie instructed.
"Gigle, go with Sandstorm." Iris followed.
"Sylveon, Fairy Wind." Serena requested.
"Noctowl, Whirlwind." Ash added.
"Gyarados, Hurricane." Misty commanded.
All those moves started to create a huge whirl around the Decepticons.
"Whoa, what's going on?" Stinger asked in confusion.
"No idea, suddenly it has gotten windy." Nightbird noticed.
"That's weird: a strong rotating air current inside a cave?" Starscream wondered.
"Arg, at least it could not lift all dust from the floor." Knock Out complained.
For Knock Out's misfortune the particles of sand which accompanied the wind ended covering his paint job. While this happened, Fraxure returned with the Autobots.
"Fraxure, what's going on? Where is everyone?" Smokescreen asked.
The pokémon draw the best he could on the floor in order to explain it to the Autobots. The draw was a lot of little human figures against the Decepticon emblem.
"Are you saying the Decepticons are here and that they are facing them?" Bumblebee interpreted, earning a nod from Fraxure.
"Did they discovered them?" Hot Rod followed, earning a nod which made him sign in relief. "Thank Primus."
"The humans are facing the Decepticons on their own?" Predaking repeated surprised. "Why?"
"It seems they don't want them to discover our intentions in order for our efforts to not being in vain." Optimus deduced, making Predaking think more about them.
"And they are doing well?" Sideswipe added curious, making Fraxure to draw two funny scared Cons inside a tornado. "Oh, I see. Ha, I wish I see how they are doing right now."
With the combined strength of all moves the whirl became a strong tornado, which started to raise the smaller Decepticons in the air.
"Whoa, this wind is getting stronger than I expected." Roadkill saw.
"Is working. We go to phase two: suspension in the air and lack of visibility." Tracey communicated.
"You heard him, Quilava. Smokescreen." Dawn authorized.
"Your turn, Beautifly. Use Psychic." Max instructed.
"Go Golduck, use Confusion." Misty commanded.
"Now Espy, proceed with Psychic." Ritchie ordered.
While the smoke clouded the Decepticons' vision inside the whirl, the psychic attacks made the rest of them to levitate with the rest. Even they moved along with the wind.
"Hey hey, what's going on?!" Dropkick demanded.
"I can't see a thing!" Host complained.
"Are we...levitating?!" Xiaxus asked in disbelief.
Starscream gasped nervous before changing to vehicle form and accelerated, in an attempt to escape the wind's strength. Shockblast, Shatter and Xiaxus followed his lead.
"They seem in the air already. Let's move to the next phase: let's start launching attacks. Scyther, use Razon Wind." Tracey instructed.
"Luxray, Swift." Clemont instructed.
"Torterra, now! Use Leaf Storm! And Noivern, Supersonic!" Ash followed.
The following moves started to affect the Decepticons inside the tornado, so much that Starscream and the others in vehicle mode started to lose balance, specially because of the sonic attack.
"We can proceed with the final phase: elemental intervention." Tracey indicated. "Marill, Water Gun."
"Now is your chance, Piplup. Use Whirlpool." Dawn allowed.
"Glaceon, you attack with Ice Shard from one side, and Blaziken, you from the other with Overheat." May instructed.
"Delphox now, use Mystical Fire." Serena commanded.
"Go for it Dragonite, Flamethrower at full power!" Iris encouraged.
"You too, guys. Torkoal, use Heat Wave, and you use Hydro Pump, Oshawott." Ash followed.
"Diggerby, attack with Mud Shot." Clemont ordered.
All the attacks became one with the tornado, aggravating the situation more for the Cons: at this point they couldn't trying to keep balance anymore, because the attacks' effects made them to end spin around the tornado out of control. The gang could even heard some of them scream asking for help, which made them laugh.
"What in the name of the Allspark is going on?!" Starscream demanded.
"This definitely...defies...all...logic!" Shockblast simply said.
"This is the last thing I expected at entering a cave!" Nightbird shouted.
"Perhaps it is the right time for calling an emergency ground bridge!"
"Not the most suitable situation for that, Dropkick!" Stinger corrected.
"Please, I wanna get off the ride! I'm getting dizzy!" Host begged.
"Somebody help us! If anyone get us out of this madness, I will serve him forever!" Roadkill announced.
The Decepticons' screams reached even the entrance, where the Predacons were waiting.
"Do you hear that?" Skylynx wondered.
"Hahaha, looks like they are the ones having all the fun." Darksteel joked.
"More like they seem to have trouble. Let's figure out of what kind." Ser-Ket decided.
Back to the cave, the tornado continued doing its thing while the group observed it.
"And for the last part, a little shocking addition." Tracey announced.
"That's your cue, buddy. Thunderbolt, let's go." Ash said.
"You too Sparky, use Thunder Shock." Ritchie followed.
"Dedenne, your turn. Use Thunder Shock." Bonnie authorized.
"Use Discharge now, Emolga." Iris instructed.
"Pachirisu, proceed with Spark." Dawn commanded.
The addition of electric attacks was the final blow for the Decepticons, whose screams intensified for a while. After not knowing what happened to them, the gang's pokémon stopped their attacks, making the tornado dissipate. Once it cleared, they saw their enemies in a very pitiful state: some covered showing heat marks, other of cold, but almost everyone presented sparks besides having their bodies covered in dust, dents and cuts somewhere on their bodies. They lied in the floor groaning in pain, unable to get up.
"I gotta admit it Serena, you had a nice idea." May congratulated.
"Now that was some amazing performance for a pokémon contest." Dawn added.
"No. Nononononono, NNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOO! What have you done?! Look at my finish, it's a disaster! Do you have any idea of how long it will take me to fix?!"
"Oh please Knock Out, this is bad comedy." Ritchie mocked.
"This...this is so humiliating." Stinger lamented.
"How?" Starscream moaned. "How could such insignificant beings beat us?"
"Because we are smarter than you." Iris answered proud.
Suddenly, they heard shrieks and sounds coming from the entrance.
Xiaxus smiled, knowing what it was. "Perhaps, but will you been able to beat these too?"
The sounds reached to the chamber where the Autobots were getting ready to transport back to New Iacon the now completed skeletons, now placed on some magnetic trolleys similar to the ones used for energon.
"Those sounds, it must be them." Hot Rod recognized.
"Them? Who?" Predaking asked curious.
"Three Predacons which seems to be with the Cons. We met them with the kids time ago." Sideswipe answered.
"Three, alive?"
"The kids may be in danger." Optimus deduced.
"Autobots, finish transporting those actives back to base. We will recover the kids and head back at once. Make sure to have them all before we arrive." Elita instructed.
"No. Those kids have decided to confront the enemy because of me. I will deal with my brethren myself." Predaking offered.
"Do what you want with them, Predaking. But please, bring our friends back." Optimus begged.
Predaking made a run for where the gang was. Speaking of them, they saw the three Predacons enter the cave in their alt forms, roaring at them as they advanced. The gang's pokémon reacted with their attacks, but the Predacons were too tough to be affected, or they approached too fast to give them enough time to react. They even manage to counter the attacks of the ones which succeed with their flamethrowers. The Decepticons only observed how their beasts managed to submit the pokémon, from the largest to the smallest, with their claws' slashes, tail swings, onrushes and fire shots. At the end the pokémon were not rivals for them, and the gang ended cornered by the beasts. But before they could finish them off…
"Halt!"
The Predacons turned at who ordered them to stop: Predaking, who appeared just in time. The Predacons reacted by changing form.
"So, you are the one who supposedly was the first of us of being created." Ser-Ket observed.
"Indeed, Ser-Ket, Darksteel, Skylynx. That's the Predacon who decided to rebel against his masters and go on his own." Starscream accused.
"Why are you doing this? Why are you fighting for the Decepticons? Do you realize you are not forced to follow their bidding? You can be free to choose your own path, just the way I did."
Darksteel laughed. "Oh really? Well, we got news for you, first one. We already decided our way of life."
"They give us life, and a purpose to live. We don't need any reason to be free." Skylynx added.
"You are not seeing the reality existing out there. The Decepticons believe we cannot live in peace with other beings, but that's not true. I have bared witness of how the inhabitants of this planet live together. And not just them: I also experienced the sensation of being welcomed by kind strangers, which don't require anything in return. We four are proof that our mighty race can once again flourish, but that doesn't mean we need to impose ourselves on others. The Autobots managed to get along with this world' lifeforms, we can do it too." Predaking pronounced.
The gang got touched by Predaking's words, but a following laugh ruined the moment.
It was Ser-Ket. "You were welcomed by this world's beings, without need of showing dominance? That proves the fact Starscream told about you being weak. One who prefers to coexist with weaker, unworthy beings doesn't merits being called a Predacon."
"So that's how it is, right? If you wish to choose a life of submission and servitude, that's your problem. But if you threat these little ones, who were willing to welcome me gratefully at their home and help our race, that I cannot tolerate it. And if protects them makes me follow the same path of the Autobots, so be it!" Predaking declared standing between the gang and the Predacon trio.
Ser-Ket and the others took that as a challenge. "Who do you think you are to defy us?"
"Yeah, who made you boss?" Darksteel added a little irritated.
"I am not your boss. I am your king!" Predaking corrected, glaring at them preparing his claws.
Predaking roared as he charged at them. Skylynx and Ser-Ket managed to jump aside and dodge, while Darksteel tried to push him back, but Predaking smashed both hands on him before pushing him back. Darksteel was thrown to the ground, but he smirked seeing Skylynx flying at Predaking from behind.
"Look out!" Iris warned.
Skylynx managed to grab and smash Predaking against the floor until they approached to a rock. Once there, Skylynx left Predaking to smash to the rock, and next he grabbed his arms as Ser-Ket approached to him in dragon form. But Predaking managed to push Skylynx and slamming him into both Ser-Ket and Darksteel, sending them flying a few meters. Predaking took the chance and changed to dragon form advancing toward them, they got up but Predaking already rammed into them. Skylynx and Ser-Ket managed to jump on top of him as Predaking grabbed Darksteel with his jaws and threw him away, next he grabbed Skylynx's tail and threw him down before he pressed his back against the wall, crushing Ser-Ket. Both Darksteel and Skylynx charged at him, but Predaking pushed them against the ground and roared at them with fire ready to launch from his mouth. As result, both Predacons returned to robot form.
"No way." Skylynx said in defeat.
"You...you managed to...beat us all, on your own?" Ser-Ket asked, back in robot form.
"That's why he's king." Iris proclaimed smiling.
"Kids, if you can hear us we're almost done. Get back here so we can return back to base." Arcee communicated.
"That's our signal." Ash nodded as everyone returned their pokémon.
"Predaking, time to go!" Bonnie called.
Immediately, Predaking released the two Predacons before going with the gang, allowed them to climb on his back before he started to run to the tunnel where they came from.
"Don't let them escape. Chase them!" Xiaxus ordered the Predacons.
As Predaking sprinted back to the lab's cavern, the group saw the other Predacons after them.
"Guys, the three mad dragons are following us close!" Max yelled.
"Then let them try it." Ash answered as Pikachu prepared to defend.
"Let's show them it's a bad idea." Ritchie supported while Sparky jumped next Pikachu.
After Dedenne joined them, the three pokémon used their electric attacks to try slow down the Predacons, with more or less effect depending of who received it. In one part of the way, Fraxure met them and Predaking allowed him to ride on him with the group.
"You will regret not following the path your king chose. Fraxure, Dragon Rage!" Iris instructed.
The Autobots were moving the last skeleton when they heard them approaching.
"Autobots, return to base." Optimus ordered, making everyone to help with the last one. "Wheeljack, is the package ready?"
"Lock and loaded, boss."
"Then let's make sure we say goodbye the enemy with a proper surprise. Wrecker style." Ultra Magnus said.
"Have you accepted Wrecker style, sir? I never thought I would see it."
"Here they come!" Warpath pointed.
Predaking stampeded so fast that they were forced to step aside to allow him to enter the ground bridge first. They followed before the Decepticons reached the chamber.
"What? What are you Autobots…?" Starscream started.
"Hasta la vista, Decepticreeps. Enjoy your goodbye present." Wheeljack saluted before he pressed a detonator, entering the portal before it closed.
The Decepticons heard a beeping sound coming from the center of the chamber and spotted something which made Starscream gasp in horror: it was a bomb, made by the accumulation of grenades and other explosives, and the counter was almost zero.
"Scrap! Out, out, everyone out!" Starscream ordered in a hurry before he transformed.
The others did as him, changing to vehicle form and speed up as much as they could before the bomb detonated, making a huge wave of fire which was following them closely. They managed to get out the cave in the last moment. Meanwhile, the gang returned to base with Team Prime and Predaking.
"Whohoo! That was amazing!" Bonnie exclaimed.
"You said it. Not all days anyone has the chance to ride a Predacon." Iris supported.
"Did you achieve it?"
"Yes Ash, all surviving remains had been brought safe and sound." Hot Rod confirmed pointing them.
"So now what?" Max wondered.
"How exactly are we going to restore those bones?" Clemont asked.
"That's the hard part: Shockblast was the only one who ventured himself on that field. In order to replicate his work I'll need access to a terminal used by him which records the whole process." Ratchet explained.
"A matter for another time, old friend. Right now we've managed to secure the future of the Predacon race from preventing it to fall under Decepticon ownership." Elita recalled.
"So Predaking's future family will not have to worry about anyone bossing them around." Serena said.
As he listened them, Predaking stood looking the skeletons of fellow Predacons.
"I can't believe it. They actually kept their word." Predaking expressed.
"That's what is so special about our friends." Optimus agreed looking at them. "You got your brethren back, Predaking. Whatever concerts their future it's up to you now."
"I wish their bones to remain unseen until they are ready to live once again."
"I think I know the perfect place."
Optimus took Predaking to the special room he knew better than anyone.
"Predaking, welcome to the Hall of Primes."
"Who?"
"The very first cybertronians in history, engendered by Primus himself." Optimus showed as he and Predaking checked the room. "This room is not just a memorial for our greatest ancestors, it's also the custody place of Cybertron's most precious treasure."
Optimus showed Predaking a secret compartment in the room which lighted up.
"That is the Allspark, the hope for the future of all life on Cybertron." Optimus showed.
"What? Then what it's doing here?"
"Primus requested for it to remain here well protected until times turn peaceful. Simply put: when all this conflict is finally over."
Predaking nodded understanding it before he looked at one of the statues curious. "This one...looks like a Predacon."
"That's Onyx Prime, the Lord of the Beasts. It was said he was the most spiritual of them all, attuned for both creatures of the natural world and the intangible realm of spirits. Despite his fierce appearance, Onyx was a kind-sparked and friendly individual, a trait that made him one of the most liked members of the Thirteen."
"Is he like...the ancestor of all Predacons?"
"No one knows for sure. But it is true that in contrast of his siblings, Onyx could transform into a beast form. One which may resembled a Predacon. Anyway, here's the safest place we know of for your siblings to stay safe until we figure out how to make them return."
"Actually, I prefer they remain here until times got better. Like when all this is over."
Optimus nodded at Predaking's answer. As they walked to the exit, Predaking reflected about what he learned: if one of Optimus's predecessors was the ancestor of his race, then maybe that was a sign that his kind and the Autobots could life peacefully. A sign of the path he's supposed to walk. And so he made his choice. Moments later…
"So, what's the verdict?" Seaspray asked.
"Predaking has decided to leave the safety of his brethren in our care." Optimus communicated.
"If you allow me, Prime, I wish to say some words." Predaking requested, earning a nod from Optimus. "I know the first time we met wasn't the proper one, and that the encounters we experienced made us interact the wrong way. But my short stay here has showed me a lot. Now that I managed to see this conflict from both points of view it has become clear for me why you fight. And the feeling I sensed at the moment I arrived was one I never felt since I was born: the feeling of belonging to a place, where you are welcome."
Team Prime was surprised by what Predaking was expressing.
"What I want to say is, if is okay with you, I'll like to pass by from time to time. And in exchange I will support you in your fight."
"If you want to stay, this is your home." Bonnie started approaching Predaking.
"We will not bother. Instead, we will like to." Misty added.
"You don't need to keep wondering in the wild alone." Ritchie said.
"There's a place for every human, pokémon and cybertronian. Even for a Predacon." Ash revealed.
"You already proved it when you decided to help one of us in distress." Moonracer joined.
"Seeing you closer, you don't look like the Cons." Warpath added.
"And the cool things you said in front of the kids and the other Predacons, that's worthy even of a Prime." Sideswipe pointed.
"Not to forget your assistance against Unicron back home." Bee recalled.
"Besides, we could use your help now that we know there are three like you supporting the Cons. Specially since our friends saw you acting well against them." Hot Rod added.
"No hard feelings, big guy. We will like to have a few extra muscles like yours around here." Wheeljack accepted.
"I think I speak for everyone when I say that we are most pleased than accepting you in the team." Ultra Magnus announced.
"Like Bonnie says, the more the better." Fixit said.
Predaking couldn't believe what he was hearing: he thought the Autobots may still be holding a grudge on him, but they acted like nothing happened and offered him their home a his.
"That...that's it? After everything that happened, like that?"
"They have been aware of your true nature, Predaking. Iris told me about your encounter in the swamp, and what she saw in you since the beginning." Optimus reminded from time ago when Iris wanted to talk about something with him. "With all said Predaking, welcome to New Iacon. And to Team Prime."
"Welcome to the family." Iris added, and got surprised when she seemed to see him dropping a tear from his eyes. "Are you...crying?"
"I...didn't expect this reception. I swear I will never betray your trust. Many thanks." Predaking appreciated as he took her with his hand and allowed her to hug his face.
"At least you will feel better accompanied than with the ones who created you."
"You mean…? No, the Decepticons weren't the ones who created me?"
"What?"
"Say again?" Blaster added.
"The only thing I remember during my first moments of life was been inside my birthplace, with a huge and sinister shadow standing in front of me. And two sinister red eyes looking at mine." Predaking revealed.
"So, are you saying you weren't cloned by Shockblast?" Ratchet questioned.
"He found me time later, when I appeared in his lab, somehow. Moments before I was introduced to Galvatron."
"Then who was the one who brought you to life?" May wondered.
"Maybe we will never know." Seaspray said.
Taking aside those revealing details, the group was pleased that Predaking was now part of the group, gathering around him in order to talk or interact with him. On the other hand, at the Decepticon warship…
"RARG!" Xiaxus shouted in rage. "We were so close! So close to turn the tides back in our favor, and now the Autobots may have gained their own beast to fight us."
"Maybe not. He's still a Predacon and he may prefer to wander freely without loyalty than side with them." Shatter theorized.
"I disagree. Seeing how he battled to protect those insects, it's clear that Predaking has chosen his place." Ser-Ket corrected.
"No matter. They only have one while we have three." Kickback pointed.
Darksteel laughed. "You said it." And he gave him a friendly hit on the back, but so strong that he ended on the floor.
"But he managed to beat you all by his own. With that advantage on their side, the Autobots will not have to worry about our Predacons anymore." Nightbird recalled.
"Let's face reality: there's no way we can surpass them now with Predaking on their side." Knock Out added. "If only we have a few more Predacons…"
"It's obvious the Autobots were registering the remains of my lab, the reason why the humans distracted us in such well-organized way. Without any surviving strains of cybermatter or removed by the Autobots, there's no alternative means to continue Project Predacon." Shockblast summarized.
Starscream didn't say anything, he was busy swallowing all the bad experience of the humiliation because of the humans and the unexpected intervention of the Autobots, not to mention the lack of materials for the only plan which could give them what they needed to finally conquer Earth. But then he remembered something, something which not only made him smirk, but also laugh maniacally.
"Hey, is the general laughing?" Roadkill noticed.
"For what?" Dropkick added.
Starscream continued laughing. "What a fool I am. How come I did not think of that before?"
"Is he loosing his mind?" Host asked, making Stinger shrug his shoulders.
"Em, Starscream, may you bother to share with us what's making you so happy?" Knock Out asked.
"The Autobots may have finished with Project Predacon, but they cannot prevent us from using the most powerful beasts to make our desires."
"What are you talking about?" Xiaxus asked.
"The Predacons may be fierce and strong, but there are beings even stronger which can be tamed. And we have the proof thanks to the humans."
"Hold on, are you referring to the native creatures of this world?" Host recalled.
"They are called pokémon, as I heard it well." Dropkick noticed.
"Exactly. And not all pokémon are the same, and I'm not saying it because of their types or biology. There are some ones more peculiar, known because of their incredible strength and power, even said to be the responsible ones of even forging this very planet." Starscream explained.
"Are you referring to the so called legendary pokémon, don't you?" Xiaxus deduced.
"Starscream, not intention of lowering morale but, we are Decepticons, not humans. We barely know anything about pokémon."
Starscream chuckled. "Not a problem, Knock Out."
In that same moment, a squad of Vehicons were scavenging the ruins of a castle somewhere in the Kanto region, but the castle presented details of have sheltered technology sometime ago, specially the remains of a hidden lab inside. The Cons connected a cable, similar to Soundblaster and Blaster's tentacles, to a surviving terminal of the laboratory. Immediately, lots of data was being downloaded into the Decepticon database. At the same moment in the Autobot base…
"Huh? What in the world?"
"Blaster, what's wrong?" Ritchie noticed.
"The security system has detected an unauthorized download of data. From...professor Oak's terminal?"
"What? How is that possible?"
"That's the weird thing, Tracey. The system says the data comes from it, but the sensors have not registered any weird activity around Pallet Town."
"Can you trace it to its source?" Ultra Magnus requested.
"On it, sir."
Fixit assisted him as well. "How weird. According to this the source seems to come from a specific terminal. One which seems to belong to a human called Doctor Yung."
"The Mirage Master?" Some of the kids asked in disbelief.
"Who?" Moonracer asked.
"You know him?" Smokey added.
"Indeed, and not in the good way." May started.
"He was a scientist who used to research about a technology which allowed him to recreate pokémon in a very realistic way." Misty told.
"But he wanted to use that to impose himself above everyone. He even captured the professor." Ash added.
"But Officer Jenny said he went missing. How he managed to return?" Max recalled.
"No idea, but his terminal seems to be still operational." Fixit reported.
"And it seems he extracted data from the personal networks of other pokémon researchers, it possess lots of collective data." Blaster showed on screen.
"You think the mad doctor wants his work back?" Wheeljack deduced.
"Should we warn the pokémon rangers so they deal with him?" Sideswipe suggested.
"I don't think that would be the right course of action, because the data is flowing to a non-human network." Blaster said before analyzing it. Once he did, he got surprised. "It's the Decepticons' database."
"What?!" Everyone exclaimed.
"But why would the Cons want data about pokémon?" Dawn wondered.
"Maybe they're trying to use it in order to find their greatest weakness to exploit."
"It is possible, Serena. But we cannot be sure yet." Elita said.
"But we may be able to know why."
"How Blaster?" Hot Rod asked.
"Since I can track the flow of data from a human terminal to the one of the Decepticons, I can introduce a virus to hack into their mainframe. Once it's done, I will try to manipulate the audio system so we can listen what they're up to."
Once Blaster performed it, the computer started displaying voices.
"Hey, that's Knock Out." Sideswipe recognized.
"Blaster, you did it." Max congratulated.
"You are indeed a genius." Clemont added.
"Oh please, it's because Soundblaster's absence prevents them to develop proper countermeasures for my tricks."
"Well performed, Blaster. Now let's listen their conversation." Optimus declared.
"Do you remember when I had my own pokémon squadron under my command? My Genesect were not only very strong pokémon, but also considered as legendary." Starscream's voice was reproduced on the speaker.
"You managed to tame a few creatures of this world to follow your bidding? That's quite an accomplishment, Starscream." Xiaxus congratulated.
"Yes yes, but we haven't known anything about them since the Autobots assaulted the Nemesis and terminated lord Galvatron. For as long as I'm concerned, the humans may have already made them forget their time with us." Knock Out objected.
"Perhaps, I admit I miss them. But the point is that proofs they can be tamed by us as well." Starscream continued.
"Are you suggesting we should replace Project Predacon for the use of these mighty native beasts?" Stinger realized.
"Oh please, no other being, as mighty as it may be, would be able to replace us."
"Are you forgetting, Darksteel, that it was one of these beings which managed to fight you at your same level and was able to destroy the time bridge?"
"Many thanks Hardshell for the detail. See? If one of these special pokémon was capable to stand against even Predacons…"
"They are the perfect war beasts." Xiaxus ended. "I see your point, Starscream."
"The replacement of Predacons for alternative powerful creatures for military use is most logical." Shockblast supported.
"Except for the detail that is almost impossible. The humans like Team Alien and similar ones had already try it, and they all failed." Knock Out recalled.
"Because they didn't possess the proper technology and strength to perform it. We are more advanced than them, so our chances for success are higher." Starscream said.
"And we are not so weak like them." Host added.
"But how exactly are we gonna tame them?" Nightbird asked.
"Not to mention the trouble of locating them first. These pokémon are supposed to be related with legends, folklore and ancient stories, and most of them are supposed to be wandering ones. Even with these clues they are harder to track. Including the humans, which have been existing with them since who knows how long."
"You like to demoralize us, don't you, Knock Out?" Dropkick said.
"You are correct, our retailer physician. But you also said they have been present in those legends for a long time. And those myths, the same as those from Cybertron, possesses some scientific basis which can be used as reference. And comparing them with the cumulative sightings by the pass of time, it can serve to provide proper locations." Shockblast said typing in a terminal.
Shockblast displayed a window in the screen showing texts about some pokémon legends next to another of a map of Earth.
"Ah, according to these comparisons there are a few locations confirmed to be the home of some legendary pokémon. Three seem to live on three separated islands in middle of the ocean. Another is located on a town near the shore of Johto. A third one is located in a valley of the Hoenn region and the last one points to an isolated area in Kanto." Starscream numbered.
"There is also a scientific report which indicates another set of places in the Sinnoh region possible frequent by some of these pokémon as well." Roadkill signaled to a certain file of a window.
"Besides the rumor related with a legend of a temple submerged in the deeps of the planet's water mass. Said mobile structure is supposed to be the home of another of these peculiar pokémon, one which little is known." Shockblast added.
"There is your answer, doctor." Skylynx said.
"Whoa, hold on. You are not implying that we search these places to look for these pokémon and capture them in order to be used later?" Knock Out suspected, making everyone to look at him like if he said something weird. "Oh, is that."
"I like that plan." Stinger volunteered.
"Yeah, let's make some hunting." Kickback said cheered.
"Alright then. If we desire to capture the largest amount of legendary pokémon as possible we will need to divide our resources. Host, you and your Insecticons go for the islands. Find the peculiar pokémon living there." Starscream started.
"Consider it done."
"Shatter, you, Roadkill and Nightbird head for the town in the sea of Johto."
"We will move as stealthy as I used to on Cybertron." Shatter nodded.
"Stinger, you and Knock Out will lead a search party for the one located in Hoenn."
"You can count on me, sir. Knock Out, well...we'll see."
Knock Out sighed in defeat. "Fine. As long as we don't need perform an excavation."
"Ser-Ket, you Predacons depart for the isolated area in the Kanto region." Starscream continued.
"You have chosen the right hunters for the task, sir."
"If you allow me Starscream, I wish to remain here in order to locate that aquatic emplacement. My hypothesis prompts that by analyzing the aspects of the oceanic currents, I will be able to determine its actual location. Once I have it, I will ground bridge directly into it for proper search." Shockblast informed.
"Then that leaves you and me, Dropkick. We will inspect the location marked by that report to see what we find." Starscream followed.
"It will be my pleasure, sir." Dropkick answered crushing his fists.
"I will remain here on the warship in order to keep things here in check and in case someone requires some support." Xiaxus added.
"Then everything is settled. Make sure to perform the best of yourselves out there. And remember: you have permission to employ force in case the targets offer resistance, but we need them alive. As the humans would say, gotta catch 'em all." Starscream ended.
After hearing everything their enemies debated and planned…
"I can't believe it." Clemont started.
"Are they serious?!" Max exclaimed.
"This is nuts! First the Decepticons want to continue Project Predacon and now they want to follow Team Rocket and the other bad guys' steps and go for the legendary pokémon?!" Ash recalled.
"Why they can't just leave our planet alone?" Iris complained.
"I hoped this day would never come." Optimus lamented.
"The day when the Decepticons would realize the importance of the forces which rules our world." Serena said.
"These...legendary pokémon, are they as important as they speculated?"
"Indeed, Predaking. Most of legendary pokémon had been chased by evil humans for abuse of their power, because some of them are said to be the ones who created important aspects of the world." Tracey explained.
"Like the ones which destroyed the time bridge and the seismic-shock warhead?" Sideswipe reminded.
"Exactly." Misty nodded.
"If we had enough trouble dealing with the ones Starscream trained, imagine what could happen if the Cons sent others to fight us." Ritchie said.
"But let's not forget the detail that those obeyed Starscream because he probably created them, as you told us about them before. For this time to happen, first they must find a way to control them." Ratchet recalled.
"I doubt they will choose to go for shopping poke-balls." Warpath deduced.
"That doesn't matter. We have to make sure they don't succeed."
"And we will, Hot Rod. The good news is that the Decepticons are not aware of our awareness of this plan. So the element of surprise is in our favor." Elita pointed.
"Just like we did at the time multiple relics of Iacon were at both sides' reach, we must divide our efforts. Ash, you and your friends know these places better, right?"
"Yes Optimus, many of us have been on those places the Decepticons described."
"And so we know which pokémon they may be after." May added.
"The three islands they were referring to first must be the Ice Island, Lightning Island and Fire Island, where Articuno, Zapdos and Moltres live." Tracey remembered.
"The place of Johto must be Alto Mare, a city in middle of the sea." Misty supposed.
"And the pokémon from that valley on Hoenn must be Jirachi." Max identified alarmed.
"And the isolated place of Kanto?" Arcee wondered.
"The coordinates point at this area. Which appears to be some kind of rock formation." Fixit showed on screen.
"Hey, that's not a mountain, it's the Tree of Beginning. That place is where Mew lives." Ash recognized.
"Who?" Wheeljack asked.
"One of the most mysterious pokémon of the world. One which is supposed to bear the genome of all other pokémon." Clemont revealed.
"Not to mention the Regirock, Regice and Registeel which protects the place." Max added.
"And what was that about a place underwater?" Bonnie continued.
"That's the Sea Temple. It is the home of a singular water pokémon we came across one time. A pirate wanted him to find the temple's treasure." May told.
"And this report talks about the Flower Paradise, an area full of flowers which is the gathering place for a little cute but powerful pokémon named Shaymin." Dawn added.
"Since you know these pokémon very well, your intervention will be crucial." Optimus started.
"I think I will be of most help guiding you through the streets of Alto Mare. I used to compete in a race there." Ash proposed.
"I will go with you. You may need extra support." Serena joined.
"Then Arcee and Moonracer will accompany you, since they are the most suitable to move through thin routes." Elita organized.
"I wish to ensure my friend is safe and sound."
"But Max, he's fine sleeping under the ground. You will be the one exposed to danger there."
"Fear nothing May, I will keep an eye on Max while I assist in the mission."
"Really? Thanks so much, Clemont."
"Make us two." Tracey added.
"And we will accompany them to make sure nothing bad happens." Bumblebee offered, standing with Hot Rod.
"Not without me. If the Decepticons wish to access that pokémon's resting place they will need appropriate machinery. You will require technical backup." Ratchet offered, making Clemont and Max smile.
"Dawn, think you can keep those little walking flowers out of danger while the kid and I deal with the Cons?" Wheeljack asked as he meant Sideswipe and himself.
"Sure thing Jackie. We know how to handle Shaymin, right Piplup?"
"Piplup." He nodded.
"We will help too." Ritchie offered.
"Pikachu." Sparky added saluting in military way.
"I'm afraid ground bridging to that temple will be a problem without knowing its coordinates. I will have to do as the Decepticons and triangulate it by checking the underwater currents."
"Then once you have them, Blaster, send me there." May requested.
"And I will go with you. I'm curious how that Sea Temple looks like." Misty said.
"Not forget about us." Seaspray added.
"You are not going to get rid of us." Warpath followed.
"I wish no other beings to live what I passed through. I wish to help you in your quest."
"With pleasure, Predaking. You can come with us to that tree." Iris said pointing at her, Fraxure and Smokescreen.
"Then it's decided. Fixit, you will offer assistance on communication and transport from base." Optimus instructed.
"Aye aye, sir."
"Ultra Magnus, Blaster, Elita, we will embark for the islands."
"Understood, sir." Ultra Magnus nodded, knowing what Optimus was meaning with his look. He pressed a button on the wall, opening a secret compartment with a few object storage. "Kids, take these with you. You may need them out there in the field."
"Hey, those are our weapons." Ritchie recognized as he, Ash, Clemont and Tracey picked up one of the cybertronian weapons they found on Lockdown's ship.
"Team Prime, we must not allow the Decepticons to achieve a single capture. Because on this day not only the fate of Earth may be at risk, but also some of the magnificent beings which lives on it." Optimus proclaimed.