Transformers War for Cybertron: An Old War

by bigvic150

In this prequel to A New Adventure, we explore how Starscream, Silverbolt, and a big majority of the canon Aerialbots and Seekers came to be Autobots along with exploring the story of the War, with lots of additional Autobots and Decepticons, including combiners and briefly Mercenaries before their final fate. That's all I have to say. (ON TEMPORARY HIATUS)

23. To The Core

Transformers War for Cybertron: An Old War.

Chapter 23: To The Core.

Having truly embraced his destiny as leader of the Autobots, Optimus Prime leads a slightly big band of Autobots to save the Core of Cybertron itself from the clutches of Megatron. But in order to do so, they must first rescue the mightiest Autobot Guardian ever created who happens to be the only one who can truly open the gateway to the core – Omega Supreme.

On a road leading to the inside of a building with access to the Omega Gate, Optimus Prime, Zeeva Prime, Adon Prime, Helius Prime, Milita Prime, Gemstone Prime, Headswimmer, Dustspout, Dimgloom, Smashstrike, Wheelflyer, Manhandler, Scatterbuster, Hound, Skyreaper, Stampout, Saberspear, Safeshield, Frontguard, Champshelter Chargeward, Silverwhite Plunderupper, Strikeslap Sunspark, Archsymbol Boldmacho, Dazzling Comet, Horseknight, Cavernous Ultramarine, Intercosmic Tramper, Constellation Shimmer, Constellation Cavalier, Steelbugger, Nimrod Asteroid, Wraith Supernova, Clairpath Spokespiece, Telemystic Hicatch, Bastwork Smashknock, Speedmissile Crestquill, Hammerbat, Neuraltactile Bushi, Orbsun Squasher, Crystalmist Globehiker, Squallditty, Downgale Swirlwheel, Bangcrash, Maroon Bounceblow, Ragespleen Blastboom, Armored Vanguard, Blackgold Raider, Warwheel Star, Guardgate Star, Lord Fearless, Fire Meteor, Flycop Combatter, Big Azure, Galaxy Horseman, Ironarrow, Flyiron, Wing Arrow, Milkway Hunter, Huntway, Super Vanguard, Ironfort, Angerfist, Fistfort, Blazefire, Ironhammer, Heavyhammer, Hammerguard, Soundknight, Stararm, Battlesong, Stormbattle, Galewheel, Joygale, Ridewheel, Swiftclap, Thunderswift, Suncloud Straggler, Crowdawn Jiffer, Friendly Psyche, Menaceful Ego, Benevolentwing, Trusswing, Coldflame, Starflame, Flamestar, Heattrap, Frostsharp Rouge Specter, Typhoon Hoofer, Crackdoom Rallymass, Downwings, Heaven Phantom, Redflame Phantom, Disasterwing, Frantic Spirit, Angel Bond, Blink Sprinter, Dark Walker, Brave Terror, Terror General, General Gentlecheer, Chaotic Fiend, Shilly-Shally, Drifting Lightning, Flyshaft, Willy-Willy Trapper, Highware, Slowopen, Tranquility Underdog, Hypocog, Steel Tooth, Iron Beast, Soft Barb, Staredge, Lightcover, Eyeglassburn, Metalwing, Timber Roar, Electric Murmur, Vapor Yanker, Clearkey Thrifter, Dark Dancer, Day Dancer, Day Hoofer, Bright Chorus, High Warrior, Tough Rear, High Pressure, High Front, Tough Pressure, Duress Prow, Split Carrier, Breach Porter, Shade Enforcer, Light Dropper, Heavy Destroyer, Armored Destroyer, Heavy Armor, Blockcannon, Reliefarm, Destructive Vortex, Fix-Unwind, Deep Star, Space Star, Deep Scar, Cosmo Pit, Star Spiral, Fall Dabbler, Dark Star, Dark Whirlpool, Star Whirlpool, Astral System, Flame Stream, Supernova Stream, Mass Blazer, Clearpraise Nobleman, Bear General, Valiant Giant, Giant Bear, Valiant General, Plough Wain, Dark Variable, Stable Sun, Black Pulse, Pulse Hole, Valid Cadence, Wing War, Rotor War, Wind Edge, Anger War, Ceasefire Shank, Truce Chopper, Gust Peace, Fallboom, Lawgear, Fistwind, Hexkick, Clawspark, Scatterturbo, Steelshock, Frostwave, Lunarlift, Jetwreck, Sunhowler, Tigasalvo, Icicletwitch, Hammerlight, Hydrauboom, Twinblast, Savageshift, Fangburns, Hydrastrike, Jetburst, Barrageheap, Starrush, Phaseriot, Aquascream, Acewhip, Seablaster, Flutterbang, Night Haul, Black Haul, Jetdead, Strikegrave, Strikeboom, Stormgrave, Knock Saber, Knockcross, Cross Saber, Shotgrim, Waveshot, Darkscope, Lazerblades, Aurora Beacon, Rhiscream, Landflight, Windray, Fury Talon, Hydrausight, Scrapstrong, Goldwing, Oilthing, Weasel Aries, Mercy Riot, Leostream, Bodyglitch, Vigor Barbarian, Wildframe, Rollflow, Duneside, Virtue Growl, Twinkle Gadget, Rumbledash, Overdealer, Highlane, Quickdealer, Paradox Slide, Grease Ditch, Dynamite Pummel, Seafist, Lunartrap, Joltclutch, Gleam Whistle, Enigma Critter, Ultrastrike, Vectorburst, Electrobreaker, Mechawarp, Ultrafire, Laserbolt, Battlefrost, Cyberblade, Vectorbolt, Turbofrost, Hydrospark, Turbostorm, Hydrogear, Cyberburner, Battlecharger, Aquasaber, Ultraspark, Blazergrim, Razordread, Dreadknock, Hotsmack, Stalkerstriker, Swipedown, Boomdown, Grimswipe, Screamsmack, Smack Shadow, Crossstrike, Blastcross, Blastsonic, Patharmor, Armorpath, Blastblaze, Saberblazer, Hideblast, Blazerhide, Wavehide, Blasthide, Swipebuster, Razornight, Stalkerbeat, Beatscream, Stalkerscream, Knockstrike, Downwild, Beatwild, Windsonic, Sonicsaber, Windsaber, Blazernight, Clawblazer, Shadowrider, Riderblade, Stalkersonic, Sonicstorm, Downsharp, Sharpnight, Blazerdown, Beatdread, Downdread, Dreadboom, Swiperide, Riderider, Armorsharp, Sharpwar, Sharpstorm, Sharparmor, Boneblazer, Strikeblazer, Fallbone, Blazerfall, Grimarmor, Sonicbeat, Sonicgrim, Sonicarmor, Cloudblast, Pathrush, Blastpath, Riderhorn, Hornwave, Riderwave, Blazergrim, Screamblazer, Saberblazer, Saberscream, Winddread, Haulgrim, Dread Haul, Grim Haul, Terrordriver, Blightwinder, Bladecore, Stampedeburst, Ragebeast, Shadetron, Rumblefist, Roughflight, Racerfreak, Rodentmaniac, Flightload, Brushvortex, Depthcircuit, Meanray, Rabidblade, Elementclaw, Cinderkrieg, Botanitblitz, Windsiren, Bulkburner, Gloomclaw, Sirenrage, Augment Zodiac, Seahitch, Enigmawave, Astrowise, Roughwar, Shadowsweep, Diveblade, Shadow Twinkle, Ricochet Blade, Flame Shadow, Aftercloud, Cannonwing, Bluecharge, Lunarfist, Wheeltwitch, Smiteburst, Meltguard, Rotorwheels, Autoraker, Bulklift, Prodigy Fungus, Freebeast, Botanihammer, Freezetrap, Divespot, Turbineburst, Sunblaster, Starbarrage, Whistleshift, Mechablitz, Ratfury, Breakvortex, Botanihammer, Ember Harness, Flinch Freak, Speedjaw, Tigerfight, Trailcrusher, Shiftrazor, Bluesnarl, Rhiscraps, Dynamo Hammer, Hangspin, Frostdash, Havoc Scrap, Armorglide, Lightdrift, Scratch High, Quakefire, Trailblitz, Twincharge, Freeclash, Powerblast, Pursuit Whiz, Widestream, Apeline, Divesiren, Freeburner, Cross Melody, Grindblight, Lunarbeast, Grease Growl, Rush Hitch, Wolfback, Flux Slide, Strikecase, Fierystrike, Grandcharge, Shamble Zephyr, Astrobeam, Shadowsiren, Burncore, Zephyrblast, Holeback, Cliffblank, Takeclaw, Cutstuff, Grimsaur, Knock Raid, Skullblank, Nosestreak, Wild Spot, Sparkmaster, Wheelspeed, Wildgrabber, Hypercruncher, Slugflight, Deadpit, Tiplight, Chromecap, Warraker, Downbuster, Ramback, Diveblock, Slapfight, Birdwarp, Iceblock, Silverthroat, Seashaker, Cloudsaur, Speedrunner, Groundbearer, Needlehandler, Goldplay, Free Magnus, Redbeat, Wildthroat, Free Maximus, Headtrack, Slingcase, Warstreak, Overblank, Mega Leo, Galva Leo, Noseplay, Moonpipe, Deadstreet, Smokeshaft, Sunsaur, Dragmix, Hardthroat, Bristlejack, Crankmaster, Drop Hauler, Airshell, Flyline, Strangledown, Firstfest, Rippercomber, Bumbletrain, Blowcharger, Widepick, Astrojack, Twin Saber, Cliffgrin, Light Aid, Iceblades, Broadout, Fist Shot, Highbug, Denfentrain, Gunjack, Hotside, Snapwind, Splashcomber, Landplex, Skullline, Quickbat, Goldtooth, Searchrider, Beastdragon, Wind Aid, Cloudwarp, Gun Hauler, Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, Heatvoice, Saber Pax, Shadesmasher, Darksnapper, Gloombreaker, Duskcracker, Umbrafragmenter, Dimsplitter, Grayrender, Hazesplinter, Screenbuster, Veilshiver, Nightgrazer, Twilightpiercer, Blackcutter, Brownshatter, Cloudsmasher, Lightcracker, Brightsnapper, Glowfragmenter, Glarefracturer, Flamesplinter, Shimmersplitter, Flashtearer, Shinebuster, Firedivider, Sparklerupturer, Blazerender, Gleammender, Whitepiercer, Silvercutter, Moongrazer, Sunspacer, Starhole, Blizzardshatter, Cyclonesmasher, Downpourbreaker, Galecracker, Gustsnapper, Hurricanefracturer, Squallfragmenter, Tempesttearer, Tornadoburst, Twistersplitter, Blastsplinter, Blowrender, Precipsever, Barragerupture, Bombdivider, Burstbuster, Hailshiver, Blitzmender, Blusterpiecer, Bustlecutter, Clamorgrazer, Ripcrasher, Roardasher, Stalkbeater, Tearpounder, Assaillasher, Besetbatter, Chargeslitter, Droprifter, Howlchink, Calmhole, Lidspacer, Firmamentgap, Welkinsplitter, Empyreancrusher, Azuresmasher, Vaultsever, Earthsnapper, Airshatter, Atmospheredamager, Breathbuster, Breezetrasher, Draftparter, Heavenfixer, Ozoneconnecter, Puffmender, Waftfastener, Whiffbolter, Zephyrbreaker, Landfade, Dryjumper, Floorrunner, Soilskipper, Loamslip, Clayjammer, Siltbasher, Sodbeater, Clodbreaker, Turfclobber, Terraincrippler, Dirtlasher, Gravelshatter, Mudsmasher, Dustthrasher, Sandwrecker, Mirebanger, Muckbat, Dreckclub, Beachhammer, Creamhitter, Tanknocker, Rivermasher, Seapounder, Waterpuncher, Lakerammer, Brimslapper, Necrobust, Heatdreamer, Swiftwheels, Soundrider, Roadwire, Motorcoder, Cometeater, Tidesmasher, Starride, Deathgaze, Thundervoice, Cometwing, Groundbreak, Seagear, Worldflyer, Brown Caracara, Flarestreak, Orange Peregrine, Red Magpie, Bright Harrier, Jet Corbeau, Screech Harrier, Carrion Jackdaw, Rail Harrier, Flint Cloud, Dragcap, Skybust, Galaxyflash, Duskclaw, Stellarflyer, Surevoid, Nightdive, Hangbite, Swiftside, Dirtlift, Haillift, Speedshift, Hydrauspot, Skypunch, Bulkguard, Corvowing Prime, Vulturewave Prime, Owlfeather Prime, Ravenimus Prime, Hawkthruster Prime, Strigtimus Prime, Cuervoflight Prime, Chouettesplicer Prime, Redsight, Blowjaw, Beastriot, Kickbeast, Strikemine, Joltviper, Fire Magnus, Weirdsweeper, Crankflash, Aciddash, Iondash, Novadash, Vulturicus Prime, Redway, Silver Off, Chaincruncher, Jawtrack, Scrapfist, Quicksnarl, Striketop, Acidblitz, Ionblitz, Novablitz, Skycrusher, Halfmaster, Blackflight, Bumblebat, Flashcrack, Retrocast, Gunbolt, Slapgunner, Bumbleglide, Ripperflight, Thunderworks, Bonecharge, Bulletflight, Leofight, Slugscream, Flat Magnus, Cinderbolt, Solarflow, Freeflight, Coilflight, Flyhead, Ironraider, Longflight, Greaseshaft, Chrome Supreme, Flydance, Hyperspan, Gunrazor, Bigbeat, Airtooth, Squawkspan, Diveblank, Flintway, Grindrazor, Leadcase, Swiftheap, Steelstalker, Growllane, Blitzlane, Cloudspin, Lockbuster, Nightsling, Growlraid, Heliflight, Hammerhide, Soundsor, Longfeather, Steelblast, Autoslinger, Broadbeast, Greaseblast, Treadflight, Astroshamble, Aviancrusher, Doomwrangle, Firstbee, Joymarauder, Silverstuff, Blowbom, Astroflinch, Stardome, Lightfire, Tipshift, Scrapcloud, Flatglide, Piperunner, Victoryjumper, Dropcap, Bristlebomb, Slingstreet, Mainmine, Topbreaker, Roughsight, Splash Slam, Splashtrain, Triggerjump, Mindbolt, Redcharger, Crankjack, Bigrider, Dragjump, Longdrive, Streetout, Hosestreak, Sidearm, Megashot, Galvashot, Powersaur, Stonehammer, Chainbot, Pipelight, Beasthammer, Searchload, Stakecomber, Strikesnapper, Bumble Hauler, Stranglestuff, Overmix, Rageraider, Fastpipe, Cranklift, Dirtbeast, Victorypit, Downcrunch, Main Maximus, Fisthide, Aftertop, Pyrotwitch, Dropmine, Twinwire, Topway, Mudtooth, Surebite, Freetrap, Snappit, Roadpath, Quickraker, Sandspin, Motorfungus, Clifffire, Junkstop, Oiltrail, Triggerspin, Octomaster, Bigplay, Gutwheels, Halfcircuit, Roadlane, Hyper Hauler, Junkkill, Icecircuit, Meanlight, Deepcharge, Crackdash, Hardmine, Shiftstorm, Powerface, Bird Haul, Roughasor, Steel Raid, Dropstreak, Stormsiren, Fangbrawl, Dreadside, Razorkill, Deadslinger, Slugstrong, Wilddown, Ironhide, Flamedriver, Crashcrusher, Cometbolt, Hydrovoice, Heatmaster, Rapidheart, Warpath, Worldclaw, Starroar, Acidstealer, Ionstealer, Novastealer, and Motorblast drive in ground and air vehicle mode – cars, jets, helicopters, motorcycles, buses, trucks, and tanks – until they reach a Decepticon checkpoint.

Warpath drives up a ramp and flies towards the two Decepticon Brute Guards while firing off two shots powerful enough to take them offline, even as he exclaims, "Bam! Pow!"

As Warpath accelerates, he accidentally bumps into Ironhide, making him skid a bit before he regains control as he exclaims, "Warpath, slow down!"

Warpath turns around and drives in reverse to tauntingly ask, "What's wrong, Ironhide? Too rusty to keep up?"

Warpath turns around again and drives forward once more, only to trip a Decepticon motion sensor in the road.

Ironhide angrily exclaims before asking Optimus, "Great! The Decepticons are locking down! Why'd you bring this kid, Optimus?"

Optimus answers, "You're about to find out."

Warpath fires four simultaneous shots at the door to make an entrance big enough for all eight hundred and seventy Autobots to jump through while driving as he exclaims, "Ka-blam!"

Warpath stops first and transforms to robot mode, and the other Autobots do the same in unison.

Warpath turns around to look at the door and remarks, "Heh YEAH! Now that's an entrance!"

Ironhide states, "Dial it down a notch, kid."

Warpath remarks, "I've only got one setting, old timer! Ka-blam!"

Zeeva says, "We have to work together if we want to succeed, Warpath."

Optimus says, "Zeeva is right, Warpath. Let's focus on finding and rescuing Omega Supreme."

Starroar notices that the exit door is locked down, so, he smashes the locks and the door opens.

The eight hundred and seventy Autobots happen upon a viewing platform that gives them a good view of Omega Supreme, restrained thoroughly and being force fed Dark Energon to prevent him from repairing himself.

Optimus states in horror, "Omega Supreme! What have they done to you?"

Ironhide says, "Look at them; they're torturing the poor fella."

Gemstone adds, "By force feeding him Dark Energon to prevent him from repairing himself."

Optimus then says into his commlink, "Ratchet, this is Optimus. We've located Omega Supreme. Can you access the terminal here remotely and find a way to deactivate his restraints?"

Ratchet answers over the commlink, "Negative, Optimus. The system is too well-protected to hack into it, but if you can find a way to weaken their power grid, it'll prove sufficient enough to grant me access."

The observation window screen then locks down.

Steelstalker then destroys the three locks locking down the exit door.

The door opens and the eight hundred and seventy Autobots enter the power cell room.

Upon seeing the power cells, Milita Prime states, "There – destroy the power cells!"

Warpath remarks, "I get to shoot more stuff? SCORE!"

Everyone shoots the power cores with their cannons hard enough to destroy the power cells.

Ratchet then says, "That did it, I have access. Hmm, the whole facility is in lockdown mode. Guess they know you're there, huh?"

Corvowing says, "Warpath tripped an alarm through a floor panel that housed a motion sensor."

Warpath gawks behind his battle mask.

Ratchet says before continuing, "Well, that would explain it. I'll send a holo-map. There we go. First things first, you need to hack the Main Security Console. That'll override the lockdown protocols."

Suddenly, Shadesmasher says, "Autobots, we got company!"

The doors open and Ironhide says, "Hey, Warpath, watch how I deal with Decepticons!"

Warpath watches as Ironhide takes out Decepticon Soldiers, Shotgunners, and Protectors with his tough armor, super strength, battle axe, EMP Shotgun, and Frag Grenade Launcher while he and the other Autobots deal with the Decepticons.

After knocking them all out, Corvowing Prime takes out Firefest and Backmix before reprogramming several of the KO'd Decepticons into Autobots and then multiplying them.

After doing his job, Corvowing leads the others through the exit door to a hallway leading to a Decepticon checkpoint.

Corvowing reprograms and multiplies the Decepticon to Autobot troops after doing the first thing reprogramming them.

Warpath remarks, "Bam! Reprogramming Decepticons is more fun than blasting them!"

Ironhide cautions, "Try not to trip over your undefeated streak, Corvowing."

Corvowing replies, "In case you didn't know, Ironhide, I managed to partially delete my feelings of self pride to prevent becoming arrogant and reckless."

Optimus asks, "Don't you realize how dangerous that is?"

Corvowing answers, "Yes, I do. But I'd rather have specific emotions partially deleted rather than wait to pridefully catch a bullet with no regrets."

Optimus ex-vents before leading the way to a checkpoint with Overshields.

Warpath remarks, "Sweet! Overshields!"

Corvowing holds back Warpath and says, "Hold on there, kid; those are actually EMP grenades set up by Decepticon Cloakers."

The illusion dissipates and Corvowing puts up a shield to protect against the EMP burst from all the grenades going off.

Optimus then says, "Beware of the Cloakers!"

Corvowing and his sibling unit engage the Cloakers.

After reprogramming the last Cloaker, the Autobots progress towards a door with three locks.

Tailpunch destroys the locks.

After reprogramming the Decepticon Protectors and multiplying them post reprogramming, Optimus says, "There. Unlock the security console just ahead."

Saber Rex goes to do so.

Warpath looks it over and asks, "Wow. Look at all of this hardware in here. It takes all of this just to keep Omega Supreme locked up?"

Ironhide answers, "He's one of the toughest Autobots who ever lived because of his height, powers, and firepower, kid. You bet it takes all of that to restrain him."

After reprogramming the Decepticons on the left Omega Restraint hallway, Atmospheredamager activates the console for the restraint, and Omega Supreme's left servo is released, upon which he starts opening fire on his Decepticon captors even as a Decepticon P.A. says, "Alert! Omega Restraint is offline."

Ironhammer then says, "Let's get the second one!"

Soundwave then says over the P.A., "Autobots! Surrender immediately, or be destroyed!"

After reprogramming more and more Decepticons and then multiplying them as Autobots, Optimus deactivates Omega Supreme's Omega Restraint Two.

Omega Supreme then unleashes his full firepower even as Warpath exclaims, "Time to get LOUD!"

The Decepticon P.A. then says, "Alert! Alert! Omega Restraint Two is now offline. Prisoner designate: Omega Supreme is unsecured."

Omega Supreme then says, "Status: LIBERATED."

Optimus then says, "That did it! Let's get ourselves in there and help him out!"

After Corvowing reprograms the Decepticons sent to intercept him and his friends, they all get in there as Omega Supreme says, "Systems: Powering up."

Corvowing then unleashes part of Firefest's full firepower on the remaining Decepticons.

Omega Supreme then says, "New Autobot leader identified: Optimus Prime confirmed. Omega Supreme: grateful."

Corvowing then says, "He's not the only one leading the Autobots as a united front, pal."

Omega Supreme then says, "New Autobot co-leaders Corvowing Prime, Zeeva Prime, Adon Prime, Helius Prime, Milita Prime, Gemstone Prime, Vulturewave Prime, Owlfeather Prime, Ravenimus Prime, Hawkthruster Prime, Strigtimus Prime, Cuervoflight Prime, Chouettesplicer Prime, and Vulturicus Prime: also identified. Omega Supreme: more grateful."

Optimus then says, "We're glad you're now free, Omega Supreme, but we need you to open the Omega Gate immediately."

Omega Supreme replies, "Systems: weak. Repairs: required."

As Corvowing deploys several dozen Energon Repair Sentries, several dozen Energon Healing Robots, and deploys two Energon Repair Rays on his shoulders, Omega's first repairs start even as Optimus says to Ratchet over the commlink, "Ratchet, do you copy? I need you here, double time!"

Ratchet replies, "I'm on my way, Optimus, but it'll take me a few cycles to reach you!"

Omega Supreme then says, "Alert: Inbound Decepticon reinforcements. Defensive perimeter: Advisable."

Vulturewave gets to work as Ironhide remarks, "Good! I'm itching to blast somebody!"

Warpath remarks back, "Now you're speaking my language, Ironhide!"

Ironhide deadpans, "I'm thrilled."

As Corvowing's siblings activate the defenses, Optimus then says before saying as he notices the Energon Repair Turrets, "You heard him, Autobots! Get these defenses online! Energon! We can restore ourselves here!"

Suddenly, the reinforcement alarm blares.

Vulturewave uses Firefest to reprogram some Decepticons while the other Autobots take out the rest.

Ratchet then says over the commlink, "I'm here, Optimus!"

Ratchet speeds onto the scene before switching to robot mode and deploying his Energon Repair Ray as he says, "Keep those Decepticons off of us while we patch him up, would you?"

Omega Supreme then connects his hands to the power terminals for the Omega Gate.

Omega Supreme then says, "Omega Gate sequence: initiating."

Vulturewave continues to use Firefest while also using Backmix while the other Autobots protect Corvowing and Ratchet.

After dealing with the last Decepticon Soldier while preserving the Energon Repair Turrets, Aftercloud activates the next series of Energon Repair Turrets even as Omega Supreme announces, "Omega Gate sequence: twenty-five percent complete."

Warpath remarks, "Is that it? We won?"

Corvowing calls out, "Nope! Megatron has thousands of more Decepticons all over this place all the way to Cybertron's core to prevent us from removing the Dark Energon."

Optimus replies, "Agreed, Corvowing; they won't give up that easily. Reload and power up before they come back."

As Aftercloud finishes up, Omega Supreme announces, "Omega Gate sequence: fifty percent complete."

Ratchet then announces, "All right, we've repaired Omega's vitals and his primary capacitors, but we still need more time, and he needs more work before he can finish opening the Omega Gate."

Suddenly, an army of Decepticon Snipers show up, but because there were only dozens, the Autobots managed to win.

Then, the Decepticons came with Soldiers, Shotgunners, and Protectors, but they lost too.

Then the Decepticons deployed Rocket Soldiers, but they also lost.

Then a few Heavy Soldiers came, but they fell either due to sufficient firepower or due to the power of Corvowing Prime's Mini-Cons.

Optimus then says, "That's another wave down, but gear up again. There'll be potentially hundreds more coming."

Flamesplinter and Frostdash activate the next defenses.

Optimus then says, "Ratchet, Corvowing, we can't keep this up forever, even with our superior numbers. What's your status?"

Ratchet answers, "We got Omega's chestplate and other shattered armor pieces repaired, but we still need more time to work!"

Corvowing adds, "He's right; keep at it!"

Optimus replies, "Same with the two of you; but be aware, it looks like the next wave is coming from the sky!"

Suddenly, several hundred Decepticon Seekers turn up, but they either get shot out of the sky or reprogrammed into Aerialbots and multiplied alongside all of the others that used to be Decepticons.

Suddenly, hundreds of Decepticon Soldiers, Shotgunners, Protectors, Snipers, Brutes, Seekers, and Heavy Soldiers appear, and Vulturewave, with his compatibility to Firefest and Backmix because of his connection to Corvowing Prime by being related to him, unleashes the two Mini-Cons' full firepower, reprogramming numerous Decepticons into Autobots and then multiplying them greatly.

Omega Supreme then says as his repairs finish, "Omega Gate sequence: complete. Core entrance: available."

The Omega Gate opens, and an army of six Decepticon Destroyers turn up, only to become reprogrammed into Autobots and then greatly multiplied.

Ratchet then says, "Optimus, I'll need to complete Omega's repairs at headquarters."

Corvowing says, "Way ahead of you, Ratchet."

Several thousand Energon Repair Sentries, Robots, Drones, and so forth appear as well as the other Guardian Robots and Omega Sentinels.

Corvowing then says, "New orders: take Omega Supreme to Autobot Headquarters for more repairs."

Alpha Supreme replies, "Yes sir!"

Optimus then says, "We'll continue to the core without you, Ratchet."

The eight hundred and seventy Autobots transform to vehicle mode and they drive and fly past the Omega Gate even as Optimus says, "Keep your optics sharp, Autobots. The High Council told me about the corruptive properties of Dark Energon. The closer we get to Cybertron's core, the more dangerous and unstable Cybertron may appear."

After getting to a drop in the floor, Optimus says, "The Core resides at the very center of Cybertron. We'll have to jump this to continue onwards."

Corvowing remarks, "Doesn't look like we got much of a choice."

The Autobots jump into the hole, with the eight hundred and seventy of them managing to land safely but hard as evidenced by the sounds of their pedes pounding the ground from the fall.

Ironhide remarks, "Felt that one."

Corvowing replies, "Same here."

Everyone sees Dark Energon crystals sprout to their sides on the far left and far right.

Warpath says, "Look at that!"

Optimus states, "The corruption is spreading faster than I thought."

Ironhide points out, "Optimus, this growth is really unstable! Watch those spikes! They look like they'd hurt A LOT."

After coming down the projected path provided by Corvowing, the eight hundred and seventy Autobots bear witness to a space slug destroying the Dark Energon.

Warpath asks fearfully, "What are those things?!"

Ironhide asks in response, "What's the matter, kid? You've never seen a space slug before?"

Corvowing answers for Warpath, "Um, I'm absolutely sure Warpath definitely hasn't seen a space slug until now."

Optimus explains, "They're a part of Cybertron's natural defenses. They'll eat away at the Dark Energon's corruption."

Warpath points out, "The corruption sealed us in! We're stuck!"

Optimus replies, "Let ME give it a try."

The elder Prime charges up his axe and cuts through the tentacle-based Dark Energon corruption.

While making it through the path to the next room, Ironhide muses to Optimus, "Something's not right."

Optimus asks his old friend, "What is it, Ironhide?"

Ironhide replies, "I don't know yet, but be ready. Something's coming."

Upon making it to the next room, the eight hundred and seventy Autobots are ambushed by a collection of Grounder Decepticon Soldiers, Snipers, Protectors, Shotgunners, and Rocket Troopers.

Of course, Corvowing Prime and Firefest just casually fired multiple harpoons at the Decepticon soldiers, reprogramming them into Autobots.

Warpath bemoans, "Now we're stuck AND stuck! That stuff is tough!"

Optimus points out, "My axe can't cut through this much corruption. We will need to find another way."

Corvowing walked up to the corruption, brought out his twin swords, charged them with pure Energon, and slashed through the corruption using his Blade Dash ability combined with his super speed.

Corvowing steps back as a space slug approaches deals with two Decepticon stragglers.

Ironhide clears his vocalizer and says, "Bah-weep-Graaaagnah wheep ni ni bong."

The space slug starts moving past as Warpath asks, "What was THAT?"

Ironhide replies, "That's the universal greeting."

Warpath states fretfully, "I don't think it worked!"

Optimus replies, "We have nothing to fear, Autobots. The slugs will count us as friends."

After jumping down another shaft, Warpath exclaims, "Huh? It's a dead end!"

Soon, the eight hundred and seventy Autobots hear some space slugs growling, even though they don't know that the space slugs are making the noises.

Ironhide asks, "You hear that sound? What is that?"

The eight hundred and seventy space slugs burst through the Dark Energon crystals, and Ironhide exclaims, "Whoa!"

Warpath remarks, "Those look like turrets on their backs!"

Optimus observes the space slugs' behavior and he theorizes, "I think they WANT us to ride them. They can sense that we're here to help."

As Optimus Prime, Ironhide, Warpath, and the other Autobots ride the slugs and mount the turrets, Corvowing's holo clones arrive holding holographic Firefest clones that work exactly like the real one.

Warpath exclaims, "YEEEE-HAW!"

Ironhide remarks, "My sentiments exactly."

After bursting through another set of Dark Energon crystals, the one thousand, two hundred and sixty-four Autobots are ambushed by a LARGE assortment of Decepticon Soldiers, Shotgunners, Brutes, Destroyers, Seekers, Rocket Troopers, Protectors, and Heavy Soldiers, amounting to five hundred and fifty thousand each.

Corvowing Prime and Firefest casually reprogram them with Firefest's harpoon cannon mode firing at the same rate of fire as the Death Machine Gun wielded by the Cybertron Megatron/Galvatron.

Warpath remarks, "This place is crawling with Decepticons! Megatron has an entire army down here!"

Optimus replies, "It makes sense for Megatron to have Cybertron's core so heavily protected. It's his most valuable asset."

Corvowing adds, "Yeah, and even if Megatron finally realizes the consequences of infecting the Core with Dark Energon, he'll still be deadset on his initial goals of winning the war and ruling Cybertron with an iron fist."

After bursting through another set of Dark Energon crystals, the Autobots bear witness to a corrupted worm bashing his way across the wall to another section.

Warpath asks, "Did you see that?!"

Ironhide retorts, "How could I NOT see it?"

Almost immediately, the Autobots are besieged by an army of Decepticon Seekers, only for them to be reprogrammed.

All the while, Corvowing used his various clones to transport the reprogrammed Decepticons turned Autobots to Autobot Headquarters.

Then, all of a sudden, the corrupted worm turns up to challenge the five Autobots to a fight.

After a few rounds of shooting homing rockets and deploying Decepticon Seekers, only for the Seekers to be reprogrammed, the corrupted worm gives up for the time being.

The space slugs continue on their way, and they enter the next large room.

After spotting a Decepticon Destroyer on the overhead bridge, Optimus calls out, "Destroyer! On the bridge!"

Corvowing and Firefest reprogram the Destroyer.

After entering the next room, the worm appears again.

Warpath asks, "What is this thing? It won't leave us alone!"

Corvowing calls out, "It's a corrupted worm, and it's standing between us and saving Cybertron!"

The two Primes call out in unison, "Autobots, ATTACK!" "Autobots, ATTACK!"

As the slugs charge forward, the worm gives up again.

After bursting through even more Dark Energon crystals, the Decepticon soldiers among the ground try to shoot at the slugs, only to be either shot down or mowed down by the slugs.

Suddenly, the worm appears yet again and burrows into the floor behind the slugs so hard the floor crumbles.

Ironhide calls out, "Optimus! The floor's collapsi-i-ing!"

The now eight hundred and seventy Autobots fall onto the ground in separate locations.

In the process, Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice are separated from the others and finds themselves being teleported to the core by... a Cybertronic angel that closely looks like the Generation 1 Nova Prime.

The angelic Cybertronian says, "Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, Heatvoice, I have brought the seven of you here to help remove the Dark Energon from the Core of Cybertron. You must use these Energon Purifiers to do so."

The angelic Cybertronian hands them the Energon Purifiers, which are a combination of the Spark Extractor and the Primeverse Energon Harvester.

Saber Rex asks, "Who are you?"

The angelic Cybertronian replies, "I am Astrodive. I may not be an Autobot just yet, but I will do my part to assist you and your allies."

Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice start using the Energon Purifiers while pointing it in the direction of the Core.

Meanwhile, Optimus wakes up and moans, "Hrrgh. Autobots, report your positions. Where are you?"

Warpath replies from his end, "I'm, uh, hmm, I have no clue where I am."

Ironhide adds from his end, "I don't see either of you, or the slug I was riding."

Corvowing adds as well, "I don't see you guys either. But I think Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice might be here somewhere."

Optimus states, "We need to regroup. Move forward and stay in contact."

After moving forward, Optimus Prime contacts Ironhide and says, "Ironhide, I can see you from my platform."

Ironhide replies, "Optimus, there's a release gate blocking the way."

Optimus replies back, "Hold on. I see a switch that might help."

Optimus activates the switch.

The release gate is deactivated and Ironhide remarks, "It worked!"

As Warpath manages to get past a ceiling masher while contending with spider-bots, Optimus states, "Ironhide, I've encountered another flood gate. Do you see a control panel nearby?"

Ironhide activates the control panel and remarks, "There you go."

Optimus states, "Now, let's find Warpath, Corvowing, Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice."

Corvowing finds his way out of a Dark Energon facility while avoiding any alien lifeforms, spider-bots, enemy detection barriers and early Decepticon Guardians.

Along the way, Corvowing is able to recharge his ability to teleport and he manages to teleport to where Optimus and Ironhide are.

Corvowing remarks cheekily, "You found me."

Warpath manages to find his way while avoiding another ceiling masher.

Warpath comes across a platform overlooking a squadron of Decepticons.

Warpath contacts Optimus and says, "Optimus! I've got the drop on a squad of Decepticons. I'm gonna take them out!"

Warpath starts shooting at the Decepticon soldiers as Ironhide shouts, "Wait! No!" Ironhide bemoans, "Why does he always do that? Next time, wait for us!"

After Warpath takes out the last Decepticon Soldier, Optimus states, "We see you, Warpath, but we can't reach you. We'll try to find a way around."

Upon finding a river of Dark Energon, Optimus gets Warpath's attention as he says, "Warpath, we're at the shore of an Energon river, but we have no way of getting across it."

Warpath replies, "Hang on, I think I'm at the control station for that area."

Warpath activates the console for the platform necessary to cross the Energon river.

As the pipes in Warpath's way clear out, Optimus remarks, "That did it. Keep them coming."

Ironhide adds, "Yeah, and thanks for not shooting the control panels first!"

As Warpath activates the next console, he replies, "Ironhide, I'm starting to think that you're jealous of my fine aim."

As the first Dark Energon spouts burst and stop flowing, Ironhide retorts, "I can't be jealous of something you don't have."

Soon, all of the Dark Energon spouts burst and they stop working.

Optimus calls out, "Good work, Warpath. We're across now."

Soon enough, Warpath gets to another part of the platform, where there is a turret at one end of it.

And the rest of the Autobots manage to find their ways as well.

Suddenly, the same corrupted worm appears and disappears by burrowing while leaving behind a trail of Dark Energon.

Ironhide calls out, "Look! There it went!"

Optimus replies, "It's leaving a trail of corruption wherever it goes."

Warpath mounts the turret and calls out, "Decepticons inbound!"

Corvowing and Firefest reprogram all of the Decepticons while smashing the spider-bots to pieces.

Corvowing's clones manage to teleport the new Autobots to Autobot Headquarters.

After Warpath dismounts the turret, Optimus calls out, "Let's get the last of those flood gates open."

Corvowing activates the switch and Warpath jumps down while saying, "Hi, guys! Welcome back!"

Upon entering the next room, the eight hundred and sixty-five Autobots find themselves encountering a Decepticon Destroyer about to destroy the same space slugs.

Corvowing shoots down the stalactite and the stalactite crushes the Destroyer.

After following the rest of the path, the eight hundred and sixty-five Autobots enter the lift.

As they ride to the lower level leading to Cybertron's core, Ironhide notices Optimus looking glum.

Ironhide asks, "Are you all right, Optimus?"

Optimus replies, "These are sacred grounds, Ironhide. The Core provides massive quantities of Energon and spark-granting life to all of Cybertron's inhabitants, including it's somewhat dangerous wildlife. It pains me to see it defiled this way."

Corvowing adds, "Yeah, and since you all know about my true nature, I just have to say that even though I lived on Cybertron for only a few Earth weeks, I'm gonna miss living on the planetary form of Primus himself."

Ever since Optimus learned about Corvowing's true nature, Corvowing told Optimus everything he knew about the Transformers in general, no matter the universal cluster. That happens to be the main reason why Optimus, Ironhide and Warpath didn't show any reactions to what Corvowing said about Cybertron being the planetary alternate mode of Primus, the Creator-God of the Transformers.

Once the lift comes to a stop at ground level, the eight hundred and sixty-five Autobots transform to vehicle mode, Corvowing in particular using his ground vehicle mode so as to not bump into anything just in case he used his jet mode and he bumped into Dark Energon crystals.

Ironhide points out, "Optimus, this whole area is unstable. We need to move carefully – especially YOU, Warpath."

Warpath replies, "What? I can be careful!"

Corvowing interrupts, "That's enough! Warpath, I know you can be careful, which is why I'm going to say I have faith in you, and it's been an honor fighting alongside an Autobot Defender."

Warpath replies, "Oh, you're gonna make me blush."

Ironhide mentally grumbled, but he knew Corvowing Prime had a point: arguing with Warpath about being careful was not gonna help solve anything.

Upon making it to the path leading to a Dark Energon river, Optimus points out as he and his companions switch to robot mode, "The entrance to the Core lies just ahead."

Everyone gets a good look at the Core entrance just ahead of them.

Ironhide asks, "Okay, now what? I don't see any way across this Dark Energon river."

Warpath points out, "What about that stalactite up there? Bet we could blast that thing and bring it down so we can use it to get across."

Optimus replies teasingly at the end, "Good idea, Warpath. Let's see how fine your aim really is."

Warpath shoots down the stalactite with his tank cannon, bringing the stalactite down without damaging anything else.

The eight hundred and sixty-four Autobots jump onto the stalactite six at a time and use it to jump across the river.

Optimus points out, "There's no telling what we'll find in there. Gear up for anything, Autobots."

Ironhide states, "By the way, Optimus, it's nice to see you step up and be the leader I always knew you could be. What took so long?"

Optimus replies meekly, "That... is a story for another day, Ironhide."

After making it across the river to the Core entrance, Optimus activates the console to open the door.

Upon entering the Core's chamber, several floor tiles converge on top of the chasm leading to an Energon river to enable the eight hundred and sixty-five Autobots to get across.

Upon getting closer, Warpath remarks, "I can feel the raw energy from here!"

Ironhide growls, "Ugh. Dark Energon is everywhere."

Corvowing asks, "Wait. Is that Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice over there?"

Optimus, Ironhide and Warpath look ahead to see Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice extracting Dark Energon from the Core.

But the excessive amount of Dark Energon is weakening septet and their Energon Purifiers.

Saber Rex stumbles his way to Corvowing and falls into his arms.

And the same happens with Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice in the arms of Corvowing's siblings.

Corvowing asks, "Saber, what happened?"

Saber Rex replies weakly, "We've... been using... six Energon Purifiers... to extract... the Dark Energon... from Cybertron's Core... under the orders... of an... angelic Cybertronian... by the name... of... Astrodive."

Optimus' optics widened in shock. He knew who Astrodive was: a former member of the High Council before Sentinel Zeta Prime took office as the Prime ruling Cybertron.

Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice immediately went into shutdown mode.

Optimus says, "We must not waste anymore time. We need to destroy the corruption and ensure that—"

Suddenly, the corrupted worm appears in front of them from the Dark Energon river, letting out a bellowing roar.

Ironhide shouts, "LOOK OUT! It's that corrupted worm that's been following us!"

The worm attaches its back legs to the Core and starts draining its Dark Energon.

Optimus calls out, "It's feeding off the Core's Dark Energon! Autobots, take it out!"

The fight commences, with the worm's claws detonating Dark Energon near Saber Rex, completely weakening him while waking him up.

The eight hundred and sixty-five Autobots commence fire on the worm, but their shots bounce off its armor.

As the worm scratches the ground to spread Dark Energon, Warpath calls out, "Stay away from those spikes! Blast your way through!"

As the Autobots continue firing, Warpath asks incredulously, "What the-? My shots are just bouncing off him! How is THAT possible?"

Ironhide calls out, "This isn't working! We need to find a weak spot!"

Saber Rex calls out, "It's armor is thick, but it's mouth is vulnerable! If you wait until it starts charging, you can shoot it!"

Optimus observes the worm's mouth charging and shouts, "Autobots, fire at the worm's mouth!"

Corvowing Prime calls out, "No need! I have this under control!"

Corvowing Prime uses his Lightning Storm ability to summon lightning from the Core and the massive lightning bolt destroys the corrupted worm, especially since part of it went into the worm's mouth and obliterated it.

The worm falls into the Dark Energon rivers, completely deactivated.

As Saber Rex gets up, much to the bewilderment of his four comrades, he uses the last of his strength to energize the Energon Purifiers to remove approximately 70% of the Dark Energon from Cybertron's Core.

As Saber Rex goes offline, Optimus approaches the Core via a walkway.

The Core says, "My children, I thank you for your efforts."

Optimus asks, "Primus? Is that you?"

The now revealed Creator-God of the Transformers replies, "Indeed. Optimus Prime, you and Saber Rex have delivered me from the foul influence of Dark Energon. But I'm afraid my spark is corrupted already."

Optimus asks in response, "We're too late?"

Primus reveals, "Even though Saber Rex's Energon Purifier has removed 70% of the Dark Energon, I'm afraid I have to repair myself through the only means available. I must shut down my systems completely for one million years. During that time, I will be unable to produce any more Energon, and Cybertron will be left cold and barren."

Optimus Prime declares, "Then we must leave our home, if we are to survive."

Corvowing smiles sadly at Saber Rex's corpse.

Primus continues, "The line of Primes has failed, yet hope still remains. I offer you and I offer Corvowing Prime, Vulturewave Prime, Owlfeather Prime, Ravenimus Prime, Hawkthruster Prime, Strigtimus Prime, Cuervoflight Prime, Chouettesplicer Prime, Vulturicus Prime, Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Flashtide, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice seventeen portions of my spark to take with you to the stars. For as long as they survive, so shall I. Will Corvowing Prime, Vulturewave Prime, Owlfeather Prime, Ravenimus Prime, Hawkthruster Prime, Strigtimus Prime, Cuervoflight Prime, Chouettesplicer Prime, Vulturicus Prime, Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, Heatvoice, and you accept these responsibilities with all that you are, Optimus Prime?"

The ten Primes plus the about to be six hosts of the Allspark reply in unison, "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will." "We will."

Primus reveals the Matrix of Leadership, the Origin Matrix, the Creation Matrix, the Matrix of Power, the Matrix of Light, the Chrono Matrix, the Energon Matrix, the Matrix of Purification, the Reconfiguration Matrix, the Allspark Matrix, and the Allspark.

Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Ripflasher, and Heatvoice's bodies float towards the Allspark and their bodies are reformatted to better suit the seventh pieces of the Allspark while Saber Rex is split into separate organisms as Primus explains that Saber Rex's secondary body will now be known as Flashtide.

Primus bestows the Matrix of Leadership, the Origin Matrix, the Creation Matrix, the Matrix of Power, the Matrix of Light, the Chrono Matrix, the Energon Matrix, the Matrix of Purification, the Reconfiguration Matrix, and the Allspark Matrix to Optimus, Vulturewave, Owlfeather, Ravenimus, Hawkthruster, Strigtimus, Cuervoflight, Chouettesplicer, Vulturicus, and Corvowing.

Primus finishes, "Behold, Matrix of Leadership, the Origin Matrix, the Creation Matrix, the Matrix of Power, the Matrix of Light, the Chrono Matrix, the Energon Matrix, the Matrix of Purification, the Reconfiguration Matrix, and the Allspark Matrix. Cybertron recognizes and welcomes Optimus Prime, Vulturewave Prime, Owlfeather Prime, Ravenimus Prime, Hawkthruster Prime, Strigtimus Prime, Cuervoflight Prime, Chouettesplicer Prime, Vulturicus Prime, and Corvowing Prime, keepers of the Matrices. Leaders of the free Autobots!"

Optimus, Vulturewave, Owlfeather, Ravenimus, Hawkthruster, Strigtimus, Cuervoflight, Chouettesplicer, Vulturicus, and Corvowing's chestplates open to welcome the Matrices.

At the same time, Saber Rex, Tailpunch, Worldfist, Tideripper, Flashtide, Ripflasher, Heatvoice, and Flashtide is revitalized and cured of Dark Energon poisoning.

Corvowing says to his comrades, "Autobots, to the surface! It's time to evacuate Cybertron! And someone contact Silverbolt and Starscream; tell them to initiate Operation: Extinct Cyber Dinosaur."

Ironhide replies, "On it."

To be continued...

(Author's notes: See you all in chapter 24: Aerial Assault.)