At the Harbinger's location, all the Autobots gathered in Metroplex since the Harbinger doesn't have that much room for a meeting gathering as Elita spoke up. "Okay, Autobots, listen up." She said as they all turned to her. "Even with so many of us, we remain vastly outnumbered and even with our munitions, we still don't have enough fire power to compromise the Decepticon citadel."
"Uncle Sam's military does." Fowler replied. "I just can't let 'em make a move as long as Megatron's ray guns are pointed at Washington."
"Then our first objective will be to infiltrate Darkmount and disable the fusion cannons so that the human air force will be able to strike." Elita suggested.
"Unfortunately, it seems the fortress is heavily shielded against unauthorized Ground Bridges, even those originating from Decepticon technology." Ratchet admitted as he showed a schematic of Darkmount on the terminal.
"Even Space Bridge can't breach through something like that." Fixit added while looking at his tablet.
"I have the plan!" Grimlock declared, grabbing Drift, "My buddy and I will catapult onto Darkmount, distract the Cons for you guys to walk in, and we all start punching!" He said, giving Drift a punch on the shoulder.
"One problem with that Grimlock." Elita started.
"I am not your 'buddy'." Drift said with a look.
"The second reason, they still have the Predacon." Elita added, "So as powerful as you and Drift are together, as powerful as we all are together, we are no match for hundreds of Decepticon troops, an entire Insecticon hive and a Predacon in a straight-up fight."
"So we just bring Metroplex along for backup," Sideswipe reasoned.
"Think about it Slick," Windblade told him, "The Fusion Cannons of Dark Mount are packed with power, one wrong blast from those could put the big guy permanently out of commission."
"Yeah, think about it," Strongarm teased.
"Good point." Sideswipe said with a sheepish look.
"Then I guess we'll just have to sneak by enemy lines, Wrecker style." Crosshairs declared, raising his pistol.
"I couldn't deal with Wrecker style back on Cybertron, and I refuse to deal with it here." Ultra Magnus declared firmly, much to Wheeljack and Crosshairs' disappointment.
"What we need to do is find a way to spread the Decepticon forces thin." Elita told them, "Fortunately they aren't aware that we have been reunited, and that is an advantage we must use if we have any hope of completing this mission…or surviving it." She said seriously, knowing that this mission would be far from easy, especially since they were three warriors short.
Back underground, Hot Rod and Smokescreen are still with Optimus with the Forge beside them while the two of them were still in shock at what he just said to Hot Rod. While Smokescreen sat next to Optimus, Hot Rod was pacing around anxiously.
"Optimus, I, I can't do this." Hot Rod said to Optimus as he turned to him. "I mean, sure, you told me I was gonna be a Prime, but I'm, not ready for that kind of responsibility yet. I still have much to learn." He said doubtfully, kneeling before him.
"Hot Rod…" Optimus weakly said to him, while turning to the young Autobot. "The choice is either yours or mine… to make…When it is time… the Matrix of Leadership… will present itself to only to one… whose spark is worthy."
"And, you really think that one is me?" Hot Rod asked solemnly. "Smokescreen has been mentored by Alpha Trion himself. Your mentor. He should be more worthy than me." He then felt Optimus place a servo on his shoulder.
"I have seen you…conquer trials and challenges…through courage and loyalty…Inspired your fellow Autobots…reclaimed relics from Megatron's grasp….You are a worthy Spark, Hot Rod." Optimus said as he gave a weak yet proud look, "Whenever I look upon you… you remind me of… myself before I became… a Prime…So young but Ambitious to better the world…there is no one…I would trust the safety of our family…than you…my boy."
Hot Rod looked at Optimus as he felt touched by his words while Smokescreen listened to the whole thing, feeling a bit moved when Optimus said that to Hot Rod as he gave a slight frown before Optimus turned to him. "Smokescreen… do not be… ashamed. You are… as worthy to… be a Prime as… as Hot Rod is." Optimus weakly said, which made Smokescreen turn to him. "But… you mustn't let… jealousy poison your Spark."
"What are you talking about, Optimus? I wouldn't be jealous of Hot Rod being the next Prime." Smokescreen said as he and Hot Rod looked at Optimus in confusion.
"You both remind me…so much of two Cybertronians…dreaming of a better Cybertron…until Destiny divided them," Optimus weakly said, which got the two attention as they realize he was talking about himself and Megatron when they both hoped to make Cybertron better, from different point of views, "Never…make the mistakes…that Orion Pax…and Megatronous made…Stand by each other…no matter the cost…"
Hot Rod and Smokescreen looked at each other, knowing the tale of Optimus and Megatron origins as they shared a frown before turning to Optimus with nods. "We won't fall down the same path, Optimus." Smokescreen said to him.
"We never will." Hot Rod added as Optimus gave a weak smile, feeling relieved that the two won't end up like how he and Megatron had.
At the abandoned gas station where Arcee and Bulkhead obtained the Polarity Gauntlet, Jack walked right next to the station and she took out his phone.
"Because it worked so well last time." Jack said to himself, sending a message on his phone.
At Darkmount, the Decepticons picked up Jack's signal after sending the message. "Looks like someone revealed himself again." Shadow Striker said with a smirk.
"I knew the humans couldn't resist using their telecommunications. That is all they seem to do." Starscream said with a smirk before he turned towards a squad of Vehicon flyers. "Seek and destroy."
The Vehicons nodded before they quickly left to head towards where the signal was found.
"I'm getting multiple Decepticon Signals heading directly for Jack's position," Fixit reported as he saw on their upgraded sensors multiple Decepticon symbols heading to where Jack was.
"Not anymore." Ratchet said with a serious look as he opened a Ground Bridge as Jack quickly jumped back in as he gave them a thumbs up, which he nodded in response. "Miko, your turn." He said in his comm.
In New York City, Miko was standing in an alleyway and pulled out her phone, "Hello, I need two large pies. Sicilian." Miko ordered to Pizza place. "You deliver, right?"
At Darkmount, Miko's call was picked up by the Cons as Starscream gave a chuckle.
"Humans," Starscream said before turning to the Vehicons, "Standby to groundbridge." He ordered before Soundwave placed a servo on his shoulder and pointed to the monitor, specifically the distance between Jack and Miko's positions.
"You might be onto something Soundwave," Shadow Striker said as she looked at the map, "After days of radio silence, we're only getting something now, on two different sides of this continent?" She noted suspiciously.
"Shadow Striker, Soundwave, why can't you two accept a little good fortune?" Starscream questioned. "Even at radio silence, the Autobots couldn't possibly stay hidden forever."
Back on Metroplex, another Ground Bridge portal opened up as Miko stepped out. "I really could've used that pizza." She complained.
"Now we just need to limit the Insecticon support," Elita said before turning to Perceptor, "Perceptor?" She asked.
"I've tapped into the Decepticon Communications Network," Perceptor confirmed, "Are you ready Jack?" He asked.
Jack cleared his throat. "Decepticon Command. Do you read me?" He said, imitating a Vehicon soldier while the Autobots gave silent looks.
"I remain unconvinced." Ultra Magnus said to them.
"I will enhance your performance with induced static," Perceptor said as he began working.
"Decepticon Command. Do you read? We are under Autobot attack!" Jack's voice said through the static as the Decepticons listened.
"It's one of our Energon mines." Shadow Striker said in surprise.
"The Autobots must be trying to raid it." Starscream summarized with a glare. "Insecticons, prepare for battle!"
Shadow Striker however looked suspicious and turned to Soundwave, "Soundwave, could you trace the origin of that call? Something doesn't feel right." She requested as Soundwave nodded and began to do just that.
"Good, the Decepticon forces should be thinned out enough for us to launch a proper assault," Elita said confidently as she turned to the Autobots, "We will attack from four fronts. The Wreckers, Rack'n'Ruin, Prowl and Grimlock will draw attention from the outside, Bumblebee, Arcee, Moonracer, Firestar, Jazz, Strongarm, Sideswipe, Mirage, Chromia, and Ironhide will infiltrate Darkmount from within, Windblade, Jetfire And Whirl will distract any air support while Ultra Magnus, Drift and I will disable the Fusion Cannon's power core." Elita instructed, "Remember, it's vital that we succeed, if we fall then Earth falls with us."
The Autobots felt inspired with her speech as they gave determined looks. "We're willing to trade our sparks for the Earth, Elita." Jetfire said to her.
"We're ready," Winblade declared.
"Then the time has come, Autobots, Gear up and Roll out!" Elita declared as the Autobots prepared their weapons as a Ground Bridge opened up behind them.
At the military base, Fowler and his air strike team were preparing their fighter jets for when they get the signal that it's safe for them to engage.
"Keep your engines warm, boys. We launch the moment Ultra Magnus, Elita and the kid give the all-clear." Fowler said.
At the Decepticon mine, the Miners heard the Insecticons screech as they landed down and looked to each other in surprise and confusion.
"There must be some mistake, Commander Starscream. The mine is not under attack." A Vehicon informed on the Darkmount communicator, much to Starscream's shock.
"What? How can that-" Starscream began to say in disbelief.
"Starscream!" Megatron called as he stood at the front of the deck with his other Decepticon followers behind him."Explain why my forces are scattering across this globe."
"Uh, renegade Autobot mischief, Lord Megatron." Starscream replied, a little nervous as he walked past the others. "I am in the process of deducing how they are infiltrating our communication systems without a base of operation. Even Metroplex doesn't have the equipment necessary to hack our frequen-"
"Starscream, Soundwave found something that might prove you wrong otherwise." Shadow Striker said while gesturing to Soundwave, which he showed the picture of the source as the Harbinger revealed.
"The Harbinger." Starscream gasped in realization.
"You left abandoned Decepticon technology fully operational and unsecured?!" Megatron asked with a furious glare.
"And with the Harbinger's still active tech, the Autobots and their pets have been able to divide our forces and leave us vulnerable to a surprise attack." Shatter proclaimed, frowning straight at Starscream.
"Nice work, Screamy." Dropkick mocked.
"Starscream, you fool!" Blitzwing shouted in his angry. "With our forces scattered, the Autobots could attack at any moment!"
"Uh, eh…allow me to correct my oversight immediately." Starscream said timidly.
The Nemesis' top hatch opened up and a whole army of Vehicon Seekers marched out and lined up with each other on the deck.
"Seeker Armada to the flight deck!" Starscream ordered on the communicator. "Your target is the Decepticon ship, the Harbinger. You are to obliterate it, at once!"
With his armada ready, Starscream turned his attention to Soundwave. "My armada is in position. Open a Ground Bridge to the Harbinger." Starscream ordered.
But before Soundwave could do that, the Decepticons heard some explosive noises and the area shook a bit before the main screen displayed parts of Darkmount sustaining damage.
"Such it would seem that Darkmount is presently under attack." Megatron said with a frown. "Kindly redirect all efforts toward ensuring that our invaders are eradicated!" He demanded.
"Yes, Lord Megatron!" All the Decepticons said quickly.
On the ground below Darkmount, the explosions were shown to have been caused by the Wreckers, Rack'n'Ruin, Prowl, and Grimlock.
"Fire in another hole!" Wheeljack stated as he tossed out one of his grenades, causing a massive explosion near Darkmount.
"Knock, Knock," Rack started.
"Anycon home?" Ruin finished a smirk.
"Let's get in closer." Prowl said to them.
"With pleasure." Crosshairs said with a smirk as the team rushed closer as the Vehicones above the Nemesis took to the skies and flew down to the attacks and started firing at them as Grimlock went into dinobot form and started to whack or smash any Vehicons at close range while the rest used their new weapons to fired or slash any cons in sight as they got closer to Darkmount.
"Whew! Yeah! Take that!" Hound cheered excitedly as he fired from his minigun, "That's what I'm talkin' about!"
"It's been a while, hasn't it, Hound?" Springer asked as he fired from his knuckles.
"It sure has! And I'm still a wicked warrior robot!" Hound called as he fired some missiles from his wrists.
As more Seekers arrived to join the fight, they were suddenly attacked by the three flying Autobots as they provided air support while also trying to avoid getting shot down, "Air support? I think not." Jetfire told the Seekers.
"You cons aren't the only ones who control the skies!" Windblade added as she and Jefire flew off to some Vehicons while Whirl was behind as his helicopter wasn't built for speed.
"Though, some of us aren't fast, but I still make up for in skills." Whirl said as he avoided some shots while firing at the Seekers.
On the ground the Wreckers continued to fire at the Vehicons before entering their vehicle modes, Springer as an amphibious ATV car and Hound as a Military carrier truck, and drove towards Darkmount with Grimlock running behind them.
On another peek, a Seeker scout was watching the battle before he felt a tap on him, "Excuse me?" Mirage was heard as the Seeker turned to see Mirage, Ironhide, Bumblebee, the Femmes, Jazz and Sideswipe standing behind him, "Say Cheese!" Mirage smirked before he punched the Seeker in the face.
The Warship shook from the explosions outside, "Scrap, the Autobots are back together!" Lockdown realized.
"And with Reinforcements it would seem," Sky-Byte noted.
"Does anyone have sights of Optimus Prime?" Megatron questioned.
"None yet my Lord, but he cannot be far," Blitzwing told him as the Nemesis shook again.
"I assure you master, we have everything under control," Starscream tried to assure as Megatron growled in frustration and turned to them.
"Really, the Autobots right at our doorstep say otherwise." Dropkick commented.
"We're gonna need a bigger gun." Deadend muttered.
"Deadend is correct. Lord Megatron, I accept that military considerations are outside of my domain, but perhaps it is once again time…to release the Predacon." Shockwave told his leader.
The Wreckers continued to take out the Vehicons before they saw them flying back up to the Nemesis, "Their, retreating?" Prowl said in confusion.
"No, just clearing the way," Kup said seriously.
"For what?" Wheeljack questioned before they heard a loud roar and looked up.
Coming out from the Nemesis was the Predacon, growling down at the Autobots, "Oh Scrap," Crosshair muttered.
"Is that, the Predacon?" Windblade said in slight dread.
"That's him!" Grimlock pointed as the Predacon took flight and dived towards them.
"Fire all guns!" Hound yelled as they fired their weapons at the Predacon, which did no damage at all. "I don't think I have a gun big enough for that thing." He said nervously.
Just then, a bigger shot was fired that knocked the Predacon down as Ultra Magnus's ship flew by while Ultra Magnus was piloting it with Drift and Elita aboard while the Predacon roared and flew after the ship.
"It is getting closer." Drift said as they saw the Predacon getting closer.
"Wait for it. Wait for it." Elita said as the Predacon was ready to blow fire, "Fixit, now!" She ordered.
"Open the Ground Bridge to the Antarctic!" Elita called through the comm of Metroplex as Ratchet, Perceptor, Fixit and the Children listened.
"Hoping, Roping," Fixit glitched before Miko hit him, "Opening the Ground Bridge now!" He said as he worked the controls.
Just when the Predacon was about to fire, a Ground Bridge opened up as the ship moved out of the way, but the Predacon couldn't stop or turn in time as it flew through the portal.
The other side of the Ground Bridge appeared in the Antarctic and the Predacon fell out from it, crashing down onto the icy surface. The Predacon let out a low screech as it tried to move, but the sub zero atmosphere instantly froze the Cybertronian dragon in its place.
On the Nemesis, the Decepticons saw the Groundbridge the Predacon flew through disappear, "Well, scrap," Deadend said bluntly.
"So much for the Ultimate Autobot Hunter," Dropkick commented.
"Oh well." Starscream said, shooting a smug smirk at Shockwave.
Shockwave didn't say anything and began to walk away.
"Yes, that's right. Go off and sulk, why don't you." Starscream mocked.
"Lockdown, Lugnut, Deadend, Shadows Striker, Dropkick, Clobber, I require your assistance." Shockwave said without looking. "Shatter, Sky-Byte, Blitzwing, you three and Astrotrain will deal with the Sky strikers."
"Uh, sure, Shockwave." Clobber said with a shrug.
"Then let us go and make those Autobots pay!" Blitzwing yelled while in his angry face.
"Today, the Autobots falls!" Lugnut declared as the assigned Decepticons rushed off.
Outside, Shatter,Skye-Byte, Blitzwing, and Astrotrain took to their air while Shockwave and the others started jumping down each pillar of Darkmount to the battlefield.
Underground, Hot Rod and Smokescreen kneeled before Optimus as the Prime started moaning, "Who…stands…before me?" He asked, looking upwards.
"What?" Smokescreen asked in confusion, "It's us Optimus. Smokescreen and Hot Rod."
"Yeah." Hot Rod nodded. "We never left you."
"Who… beckons…" Optimus moaned before he gave a sigh as his optics began to flicker.
Hot Rod then realized what was happening. "No, no. Optimus. Stay with us." He pleaded, but Optimus couldn't hear him.
Within his own vision, Optimus was shown to be waking through a dark void that led towards a light-blue shine.
"Come, Optimus." A wise voice said to the Autobot leader.
Optimus then stopped in front of the light and silently stared into it, recognising that voice he heard. "Is it truly you?" Optimus asked before he clearly saw a familiar elderly Cybertronian with a spiritual body. "Alpha Trion."
"I stand before you, my student. As such, it would seem that it is your time." Alpha Trion said, causing Optimus to silently lower his head and remain where he stood. "Why do you hesitate?"
"I do not fear joining with the Allspark, but for the fate of the Matrix of Leadership." Optimus admitted.
"You know as well as I a worthy candidate is near. One who will learn to be a Prime as you once did." Alpha Trion reassured his student. "I have seen great potential in this candidate since the moment you met each other. He is young but I am certain that his spark shall light the way to the future of Cybertron in the Darkest Hour."
While he wasn't entirely sure of it, Optimus had a feeling he knew just who Alpha Trion was talking about Hot Rod and remained silent about it.
On Ultra Magnus's ship, Elita held her chassis and moaned slightly, "Elita One? What is it?" Ultra Magnus asked, noticing her behavior.
"Optimus, he's fading fast," Elita said in dread.
"We are running out of time," Drift said grimly.
"Then we must accelerate our plans." Ultra Magnus declared as he went to the com channel. "Elita's Team to Stealth Team. Status report?" He asked.
"Having a little trouble reaching the objective." Acree spoke up.
Inside the Fortress, the Stealth team were pinned down by multiple Vehicons and Insecticons as they shielded and fired as best they could. "We're pinned down by Decepticon forces." Strongarm reported.
"Apparently Megatron had more of these little guys than we thought," Jazz said as he dodged a laser fire.
"Then we must disable the fusion cannons now," Drift said seriously.
"Stealth team, keep the enemies busy, we're going in." Elita said with a serious look. "Ultra Magnus, take us in."
"Understood." Ultra Magnus said as he brought the ship in closer and opened the hatch as the three jumped out and started attacking the Vehicons operating the area.
"Autobots!" A Vehicon yelled as they fired at the three, but Ultra Magnus and Elita used their hand held weapons and fired down a couple while Drift sliced the last one with his sword as the Vehicons in the room were now down.
"Now the Power core." Elita said as they took aim at the Core before their weapons were blasted out of their hands.
"Elita One. Ultra Magnus." The three turned and saw Megatron jump down, "And I see you have finally returned to your Master, Deadlock." Megatron said to Drift.
"That name no longer holds any meaning to me, Megatron. I am now Drift of the Autobots." Drift said as he ready his swords while in a ready position.
"Choosing the Autobots over your own brethren, a shame. You were my most honorable warrior." Megatron taunted Drift as the Samurai Autobot gave him a glare. "Allow me to venture, you three intend to disarm my fusion cannons by disabling their power core?" He guessed while gesturing to the power core.
"Indeed, Megatron," Ultra Magnus said as he and Elita brought out their blasters, "And you are in our way."
"So we'll just have to move you," Elita said with a glare.
"So it would seem, but first allow me to show Deadlock what happens to Traitors!" Megatron called as he aimed his cannon at Drift and blasted right out of the room.
"Drift!" Both Ultra Magnus and Elita yelled out as Drift was falling from Darkmount as he braced himself for impact, but Jetfire flew in and caught him.
"I got you, comrade." Jetfire said as Drift held onto his wings.
"Thank you Jetfire," Drift said before looking behind them, "Watch out!" He called as Sky-Byte charged at them.
Jetfire flew to avoid Sky-Byte while Winblade was being chased by Shatter and Whirl was being chased by Blitzwing.
Megatron chuckled as Elita and Ultra Magnus turned to him. "You'll pay for that, Megatron." Elita growled as she and Ultra Magnus gave battle cries as they fired at Megatron and charged at him.
Downbelow, Shockwave, Lockdown, Lugnut, Deadend, Shadows Striker, Dropkick, and Clobber landed on the ground as Shockwave's impacted caused some dust to form around them as they look at the battle the Wreckers, Grimlock, Rack'n'Ruin and Prowl are in while taking out more Vehicons.
"Shockwave, care to do the honors?" Shadow Striker said with a smirk.
"Gladly," Shockwave said as he transformed into his tank form and blasted at the Autobots, knocking them off their feet.
"Guys!" Windblade called in concern.
"I'm your opponent, City Speaker!" Shatter called as she fired at Winblade and shot her down, she then crashed into Whirl and they both went down.
"Hey! That Autobot was mine!" Blitzwing snapped.
"Sky-Byte, you finished yet?" Shatter asked as Sky-Byte continued to chase after Drift and Jetfire.
"Very nearly," Sky-Byte assured as he fired at the two, hitting Jetfire and forcing him into Robot form as he and Drift fell to the ground with Whirl and Windblade, and landed with the other Autobots.
The Decepticons then gathered and stood over the Autobots, "Your mission was most illogical." Shockwave mocked to the defeated invaders.
In the Fortress, the Stealth team was making its way through the hallway until they rounded a corner and saw many Vehicons and Insecticons blocking their path as more appeared behind them, boxing them in.
"Scrap." Arcee said, knowing they couldn't get out of this one.
Elita and Ultra Magnus fired at Megatron, before the Decepticon grabbed the latter's blaster but it left him open for Elita to kick him in the face while Ultra Magnus punched him, sending him back. Megatron fired from his cannon but Elita ducked, kicking him in the leg and flipping and kicking him in the jaw while Ultra Magnus blasted him back.
"Face it, Megatron! You may have gotten the best of me last time, but with Ultra Magnus, you've met your match!" Elita said as she ducked under a punch, which gave Ultra Magnus the opening to blast Megatron, punishing him back as Elita air-kicked him further back in the face.
"Surrender now, this battle belongs to the Autobots." Ultra Magnus ordered as he took aim at Megatron, who was holding his side.
"Never!" Megatron said definitely.
"Then this ends n-" Elita stopped herself when suddenly felt something pierce right through her spark as she gasped as she staggered back and clutched her chest.
"Elita One? What is it?" Ultra Magnus questioned as Megatron saw this as he arched a brow as Elita clutched her chest harder.
Elita soon felt something that made her eyes widened in horror and despair. "Orion…" She muttered while falling to her knees, "No…He can't be…"
Ultra Magnus's eyes widened, realizing what she was implying. "No." He muttered before Megatron gave a smirk as he saw his opening before he body slammed the two back to the wall and charged at them and gave a mighty punch to both their heads, knocking the two Autobot commanders down as they fell to the ground, unconscious.
"Ultra Magnus and Elita One, neither of you are Optimus Prime." Megatron growled with a smirk as he looked down at the fallen leaders.
At the military base, Fowler and his air forces were still waiting for the Autobots to give the all-clear.
"What in the name of Paul Revere's house is taking them so long?" Fowler asked impatiently.
Megatron soon dragged both Ultra Magnus and Elita to his throne room and dropped them down, "All invaders have been taken care of, master," Starscream reported, walking around the two commanders, "There was no sign of Optimus Prime."
"I believe there is a reason for that, Starscream, isn't that right, Elita?" Megatron questioned the femme commander before he kneeled down and grabbed her by the chin, "I want to hear the words I have long yearned for said from you, Optimus Prime has returned to the Allspark, correct?" He questioned with a smirk as Elita just looked at him with a firm yet solemn glare.
(Few minutes earlier)
In his life-ending vision, Optimus saw Alpha Trion reaching his hand out to him.
"Take my hand, Optimus, and join me." Alpha Trion said. "Join with the Allspark."
Optimus remained silent for a bit longer before he then walked up to his old mentor and reached out to him. However, Optimus paused again as he looked at Alpha Trion in the eyes, thinking of how heartbroken Elita and his fellow Autobots would be if he were to become one with the Allspark.
Smokescreen and Hot Rod noticed Optimus was slowly starting to fade.
"Optimus, no!" Smokescreen called.
"Stay with us, Prime!" Hot Rod pleaded, but Optimus's optics faded out as Smokescreen and Hot Rod saw his chest open up as they saw the Matrix of Leadership glowing brightly in front of them.
"No, nonono, not like this. This isn't supposed to happen!" Hot Rod said, trying to deny what he knew was happening.
"Buddy, the Matrix says otherwise." Smokescreen said with a solemn look as the Matrix glowed brightly in Hot Rod's direction.
"But I'm not ready! I can't be a leader, I can't stop Megatron, I," Hot Rod said, looking down sadly, "I'm not Optimus Prime."
"You're right, and Optimus wasn't Alpha Trion, Zeta Prime, Micronous, Prima, or any of the other Primes," Smokescreen said as Hot Rod turned to him, "Optimus never tried being like those before him when he became a Prime, and I don't think he expected you to be like him. I've seen what you can do Hot Rod, and I have no trouble saying this, you're a great leader. And right our friends need you, Earth needs you, I need you."
Hot Rod looked at Smokescreen in awe, before looking back to the Matrix still a little conflicted. But it faded after he closed his eyes, took a breath, and opened them with new determination. He kneeled before Optimus and slowly placed a servo on the Matrix as a bright light blinded him and Smokescreen.
When Hot Rod opened his eyes, he found himself floating towards the core of a giant Matrix Leadership. As he entered it, he found himself in nebula-like realm with the spirits of the previous Primes surrounding him, "Hot Rod, your courage and loyalty to others has proven you worthy, in the eyes of Primus. He entrusts in you, the future of Cybertron." Hot Rod then saw the spirit of Optimus looking at him and speaking to him among the other Primes. "And the Matrix of Leadership." He added as Hot Rod saw the matrix appear before him.
Hot Rod then opened up his chassis and the Matrix, shifting to fit inside, floated into him and glowed brightly. Energy flowed through Hot Rod as his body shifted and changed, gaining new armor, details, and size, as the fins on his back extended, resembling wings, he gained a golden headcrown, new flame pipes on his legs and fire details painted on his red armor.
"Arise! Rodimus Prime." Optimus announced as Hot Rod, now named Rodimus Prime, opened his optics, full of wisdom and courage as they glowed brightly as he was engulfed in a huge flash.
After the light faded, Smokescreen opened his optics to see Rodimus, now standing almost as tall as Optimus and with two golden wings on his back, in awe, "Whoa," Smokescreen breathed out as Rodimus turned to him, "Hot Rod?" He asked.
"Hot Rod, no longer." Rodimus said, with a tone similar to Optimus's, "I now see who I am, who I always meant to be." He announced, looking at his new body.
"So, what do we do now buddy?" Smokescreen asked.
Rodimus looked at Smokescreen for a moment before looking at the Forge on the ground before turning to Optimus, seeing that his spark was barely flickering. He walked up to the Forge and picked it up as it powered up to the new Prime. "We save our friend." He answered as he walked up to Optimus.
"But the Omegalock, Cybertron," Smokescreen tried to say.
"What good is trading one planet for another's life? Like the children or Earth?" Rodimus asked Smokescreen, reminding him of a similar situation that caused them to be in this mess and Optimus in this state. "Optimus deserves much more than this. He always encouraged us to make the hard choices for the greater good. And this, is the hardest decision I have ever made,"
Smokescreen looked at Rodimus before feeling inspired by his words as he gave a nod. "Do it." He said to him.
Rodimus nodded as he looked at Optimus, seeing his spark about to go out as he gave a determined look and raised the Forge up. "Forgive me, Optimus." He said before he gave a mighty yell and slammed the forge down on Optimus, which engulfed him and Smokescreen in a bright light as Optimus's body gave a flash.
At Darkmount, Megatron still held Elita, "I will not ask again? Is Optimus Prime no more?" Megatron questioned her again.
"Even if it were true, I would never give you that pleasure," Elita growled as Megatron dropped her.
"Very well." Megatron said with a smirk as he drew his blade. "Execute our prisoners. And fire each cannon at the nearest metropolis within its sights. It is time to show the known universe that this planet belongs to Megatron." He said as Starscream saw something.
"Master, something's coming." Starscream said as he saw a a ball of fire flying towards them from the sunlight.
On the ground, the captured Autobots are gathered around with Shockwave and the other Decepticon lackeys and Vehicons around them before Bumblebee sees something in the sky. "Hey, there's something up there!" Bumblebee exclaimed, pointing upwards.
Everyone else followed his gaze and saw the fireball headed straight for the throne platform on Darkmount. "What the scrap?" Dropkick questioned confusingly.
"What is that?" Shadow Striker questioned with her eyes squinted.
"A meteor?" Lockdown questioned with a brow.
"It's not falling," Shatter noted.
"The Predacon?" Megatron questioned.
"Hmm, not beasty enough." Starscream admitted as he stood back.
Ultra Magnus and Elita recovered from their injuries and looked at the incoming fiery flying object as Megatron stepped forward for a better look.
"That's unusual." Preceptor said as he saw the Autobot signal on the screen.
"What is it?" Jack questioned.
"An Autobot's signal, just appeared but it's, airborne?" Preceptor said in confusion before noticing something else, "And the signal, it's, it's almost similar to…"
"Optimus's." Ratchet finished with wide eyes.
"I know that color scheme," Starscream said as he squinted his eyes as he and Megatron looked closely before it got closer before Megatron's optics widened.
What was coming towards them was Rodimus Prime, with a determined look as he was inside the fireball and flew towards Darkmount.
"Hot Rod?" Elita gasped, recognizing the Autobot.
"Wait? He can't fly! Can he?" Starscream wondered before Rodimus flew in and gave a powerful drop kick to Megatron's chassis, sending him back before he landed in crouch.
As the dust cleared, Megatron, Starscream, Ultra Magnus, and Elita had their mouths opened and eyes wide at the sight of the Autobot's new form, "Hot Rod, you're…" Elita trailed off, realizing what had happened to the Thrill seeker.
"Impossible," Megatron said, realizing it too before frowning and stood up. "Optimus gave you the Matrix." He growled as he recognized the details and clenched a fist.
"We could've restored Cybertron and left Earth alone," Rodimus said, full of wisdom in his tone that caught Elita and Ultra Magnus's attention, seeing that Optimus did give him the Matrix.
"I'll turn Earth into a new Cybertron." Megatron scoffed, "After I take down everyone in my way! Starting with you, Prime!" He yelled as he charged at Rodimus, who took a stance with determination.
As Megatron swung his fist as he delivered a punch on Rodimus, who returned the punch before Megatron used his fusion cannon to fire on Rodimus, but he transformed into his vehicle mode, which is slightly bigger, and server around to knock Megatron down and drove at him while everyone watched in awe and shock as Rodimus tackled him down before he went into bot-mode and tried to deliver a punch to Megatron, but he caught his fist.
Megatron then extended his blade, but Rodimus quickly moved back to avoid it as he saw Megatron about to fire at him, but then he used his flame throwing on his wrists to blow him back, but Megatron fired his fusion cannon and hit Rodimus, sending him back before he gave a yell and tackled him down and kept throwing punches.
"Hot Rod!" Elita exclaimed in concern before Rodimus gave a mighty punch that send Megatron back as he fired his fusion cannon at the new prime, which Rodimus avoided as he grabbed the fusion cannon and twisted Megatron's arm, causing him to yell before he transformed into his jet form, which startled Rodimus before he was blasted back by him as he landed on the floor with a groan.
Megatron then transformed back, "You may be a Prime in body, but in your Spark, you are still merely an insignificant Autobot," He insulted, marching up to Rodimus and grabbed him by the throat, "If Optimus Prime couldn't defeat me, do you really think his successor can?"
Rodimus glared at Megatron before he gave a smirk. "You may be able to handle one Prime…" He grunted before he saw something flying towards them before he gave a smirk. "But, can you handle two Primes?" He said while pointing behind Megatron.
Megatron raised a brow before he turned and gave a horrified look at what he saw.
The flying object was indeed Optimus Prime, who was now looking bulkier, had an upgraded blue helmet piece and was flying straight at Darkmount with incredible speed from a large winged jetpack on his back.
"Optimus?" Elita gasped in shock as she gave a smile and turned to Rodimus, "Hot Rod!" She said as Rodimus gave a proud look.
"He can fly too?!" Starscream exclaimed in shock.
Optimus soon landed on the throne platform and instantly struck Megatron before he could react, freeing Rodimus before following it up with an uppercut and then a powerful punch that sent the Decepticon leader crashing into his throne. Three Vehicons fired their blasters at Optimus, who pulled out a Cybertronian mini gun from his jetpack and fired rapid laser shots that shot down the Vehicons instantly. Starscream nervously backed away, only to bump into a fully-recovered Ultra Magnus as he knocked the air commander back with a swift blow and Elita gave him a powerful kick. Optimus deactivated his battle mask and looked down at Rodimus.
"Allow me, Rodimus Prime," Optimus said as he offered his hand, which Rodimus accepted as Optimus helped him up.
"Thank you, Optimus Prime," Rodimus smiled before turning to Ultra Magnus and Elita, "Commanders." He greeted with a salute.
"Ultra Magnus?" Optimus asked in surprise at seeing his third-commander here as well.
"Sirs, you're both looking…robust." Ultra Magnus complimented, still surprised by Optimus's new appearance and Hot Rod being a Prime.
"But, you were gone. Extinguished," Elita said to her love, unable to comprehend how this was possible.
"You should thank Rodimus Prime for saving me." Optimus said while giving a proud smile to Rodimus, who smiled in return.
"We'll explain later. So, what's our objective?" Rodimus asked the two commanders.
The two commanders recollected themselves and gave a serious expression. "It is paramount that we disable the fusion cannons below." Ultra Magnus explained.
"And the rest of the Autobots could do with some help." Elita added.
"Understood." Optimus replied as he reactivated his battle mask.
"Optimus will handle the cannons, I'll aid the others," Rodimus instructed as he and Optimus took flight.
"Attention all Autobots, we have an important announcement." Elita informed on the com-links. "Optimus Prime has returned. And Rodimus Prime has arrived."
On the Metroplex, Preceptor, Ratchet, Fixit, and the children were shocked and filled with joy that Optimus had returned and had a good idea who Rodimus was. "Yes!" Jack cheered.
"Awesome!" Miko cheered.
"Thank the Allspark!" Ratchet cheered.
"Sweet!" Raf added.
"Sweet relief!" Fixit cheered.
"Excellent!" Preceptor declared with a smile.
"We repeat, the Primes are alive and quite well." Ultra Magnus announced as the air force was getting their jets ready for takeoff.
"Yes!" Fowler cheered.
Rodimus flew down to where the others were and used his flamethrowers to scatter the Decepticons away from the Autobots before he landed in front of them, "Hello, Autobots. Did I miss anything?" Rodimus asked with a smile.
The Autobots looked at Rodimus in shock and awed. "Hot Rod?" Acree muttered.
"Is that you?" Windblade asked as they looked at their friend, who was taller than any of them.
"I was once, but now, I am Rodimus Prime." Rodimus said with a smirk, opening his chest panel and showing them the Matrix, which they looked in awed.
"Optimus really did it." Sideswipe muttered.
"You're a Prime." Springer added.
"I knew you had it in ya, lad." Kup said with a proud smile.
Bumblebee rushed up to Rodimus, "Wow, you look awesome!" He cheered in amazement.
"Thank you my friend, but I'm afraid our work isn't done yet," Rodimus said as they turned to the Decepticons who regrouped.
"You think having a Prime makes any difference to us?" Shadow Striker snarled.
"You're still the same pathetic bot, just bigger!" Lugnut added with a glare.
Rodimus just frowned in response, "Then it is fortunate I have friends," He replied as the other Autobots drew their weapons. "Autobots, attack!" He called as he charged at the Decepticons with the rest of the Autobots following behind them with battlecries yells.
Back on the throne platform, Megatron bursted out of the remains of his throne and Starscream stood up while groaning before he saw Ultra Magnus and Elita jump down. The two Autobot commanders landed on Ultra Magnus' ship, which flew them away from Darkmount with the autopilot on. Megatron walked to the edge of the platform to see Optimus flying towards the fusion cannons core and he let out an angry yell before he leaped and transformed, flying after his old enemy. Optimus arrived at the firing end of one of the cannons and they aimed their mini gun at it.
"OPTIMUUUUUUSS!" Megatron roared in full fury, flying down to them and firing his vehicle mode blasters.
Optimus was shot back by Megatron, falling down a bit before he regained his composure and flew around Darkmount with Megatron shooting at him from behind. When a laser shot hit him on the back, Optimus turned around and fired his mini gun at Megatron, causing him to steer away out of range.
Starscream watched the air battle with a glare, "Commander a squadron of enemy signals." A Seeker reported.
"Humans," Starscream growled, "Activate the fusion cannons!" He ordered as the Vehicons got onto the controls of the cannons charged up at Fowler's fighter squad.
"Sky strikers, await my command," Fowler said.
In the sky Megatron while he kept chasing and firing at Optimus. The Prime went a bit faster, kicking his jetpack in overdrive, getting some distance from Megatron.
Megatron engaged the afterburners as well as he chased after Optimus, but then Optimus stuff and turned with his hands out as Megatron didn't have time to react before Optimus gave Megatron a mighty punch, which made Megatron flip up before the Prime grabbed him by the wings and spun around.
"Megatron… BEGONE!" Optimus yelled as he tossed Megatron towards Darkmount with all his strength.
Megatron ended up crashing into the fusion cannons' core room and made contact with the core itself, causing him to get electrocuted and the cannons to malfunction which caused a massive explosion that consumed Megatron and the Vehicons in the room as the fusion cannons powered down. Optimus looked back to see Fowler's air force was closing in and they flew away to give them a clear shot.
"They did it." Elita said with a smile, witnessing the entire thing from Ultra Magnus' ship.
"Rodimus, Fowler's men are in position. Clear the area!" Ultra Magnus called over the comms.
"Understood." Rodimus nodded as he kicked Lockdown and Shadow Striker away. "Autobots, Transform and Roll Out!" He called as he took flight.
"Heh, only been a Prime for less than a day and he's already ordering us around," Wheeljack joked.
"Well, might as well do what he says." Mirage said with a smirk.
"Agreed. Let's go!" Strongarm called as the Autobots transformed into their vehicle modes and took off knocked down the Decepticons in their way.
"See ya 'round!" Grimlock waved as he rushed after the other Autobots as the Decepticons glared at them as they tried to fire at them.
"Let's do this." Fowler said with a firm expression before he and his air force team fired a bunch of missiles at Darkmount, causing the entire fortress to explode and start falling apart.
The Decepticons saw this from below and knew they had lost.
"I can't believe they did it." Dropkick said with a hint of anger in his tone.
"I vote we cut and run," Lockdown suggested.
"Retreat would be the most logical route," Shockwave agreed. "Soundwave, we require a Ground Bridge." He said naturally as he calmly walked as the other Decepticons followed as a Ground Bridge opened up for them as Shockwave calmly entered through while the other Decepticons rushed in it before the rubble came crashing down.
Megatron was shown to have survived the explosion, but his body was covered in burn marks as Starscream walked in the fusion cannon core room and saw his leader's condition.
"Transport Lord Megatron to the Nemesis." Starscream ordered two Vehicons, who lifted their master up and began escorting him away.
"What are you doing? No!" Megatron said stubbornly. "We will not retreat!"
"This battle is lost, my liege." Starscream told him. "We must retreat if we are to have any hope of winning the war." He stated.
Meanwhile, Smokescreen was seen driving along the roadway of Jasper and he came to a screeching halt and transformed as he looked ahead to see Darkmount being destroyed in a multitude of explosions.
"Aw! I missed it!" Smokescreen complained as he watched Darkmount crumble to a pile of scrap while the Nemesis flew away.
A little while later, everyone regrouped at Metroplex and met in the hanger bay, "On behalf of the President and the joint chiefs, I thank you all for your selfless heroism in defense of this planet." Fowler announced to everyone. "I'm only sorry that the world can't yet know of your undying dedication. Because I, for one, owe you my life, my liberty and my future."
After finishing his grateful speech, Fowler gave the Autobots and their young friends a salute as Optimus and Rodimus nodded.
"Sirs, Elita and I are honored to relinquish command of the Autobots to you both." Ultra Magnus told the Autobot leader.
"You're much more suited for the position," Elita added with a smile.
"Ultra Magnus, Proceptor, Springer, Hound and Mirage, welcome to Earth," Optimus said to the five new bots, "And, to our team," He said gesturing to the others.
"Okay, someone's gotta say it," Miko said, rushing up to the two Primes, "Optimus 2.0 and Hot Rod Prime edition is rad! Imagine what the forge could do for your bod?" She suggested to the other Autobots.
Ratchet scoffed while Rodimus glanced down slightly as they moved towards the Forge of Solus Prime, completely depowered, "Is it true that the Forge has been drained of its power?" Ratchet asked as he looked at Rodimus and Smokescreen.
"Yes, the last of its energy was used to repair Optimus," Rodimus said, picking up the forge as it remained silent, "And now because of me, we truly have lost our last chance of restoring Cybertron," He said in shame.
"But, you saved Optimus's life," Firestar reminded him with a smile.
"You did the right thing," Whirl assured him.
"And your instincts and Smokescreen's have again proven to be quite sound." Ratchet added as the two looked at him as he gave a small proud smile.
"Now that we have two Primes, taking down Megatron will be easy-peasy," Crosshairs declared with a smirk.
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves just yet," Moonracer told him.
Elita approached Rodimus with a proud smile, "Optimus and I knew you would become a true Prime someday." She said to the new Prime.
"And you were right to judge me worthy of the Matrix of Leadership, speaking of which," Rodimus started before he opened up his chest panel and took the Matrix out, "Optimus, I think this belongs to you," He said, holding out the Matrix to the older Prime.
"You have earned your title of Prime, Rodimus. The Matrix is your right." Optimus said with a hand up.
"I know, but I feel like I still have much yet to learn, Optimus." Rodimus said as he offered the Matrix to Optimus again. "I wish to truly wield the Matrix only after I've learned All I need from one who already knows what it means to be a Prime."
Optimus looked at Rodimus for a moment before he gave a smile and carefully accepted the Matrix and opened up his chest and placed it back in him as he closed it. "You honor me, my friend." He said graciously.
"I hate to ruin this victory, but Megatron knows of Metroplex's location after that last battle," Perceptor said to them. "It would be wise to move him someplace where Megatron can't find him, even with the cloaking tech."
"But where are we supposed to go?" Hound questioned. "There's hardly any locations that can fit this big lug."
"Y'all can park your ship next to the military base where my office is." Fowler said to him, "We'll make sure no one ever notices the big guy."
"Thank you, Agent Fowler," Rodimus nodded.
"So, if you're not ready to be a Prime yet, what are we supposed to call you now?" Sideswipe questioned the new Prime.
"Either Rodimus Prime, or Rodimus will do, my friend." Rodimus said with a smile. "Besides, the original 13 Primes were all Primes, and do they all have the Matrix in them?"
"Good point," Sideswipe said while rubbing his head.
"Ironhide, Jazz, Windblade, prepare to move Metroplex to Fowler's military base." Optimus informed as the three Autobots nodded as they began to fly Metroplex while the others began to enjoy their recent victory.
A bit later at night time, the Autobots managed to move Metroplex to Fowler's military base, while the cloaking tech disguised him as one of the facilities to blend in well and out of human sightings and keep the Decepticons from finding them.
Optimus was at the top of Metroplex, looking among the stars after the intense battle they had and the near-death experience of almost being one with the Allspark if Rodimus and Smokescreen hadn't saved him in time as he was deep in thought.
"Optimus," Elita spoke up as Optimus turned and saw her approaching.
"Elita." Optimus said to her as Elita came up beside him. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine. I should be asking you that." Elita said while placing a servo to her chassis. "I felt your spark go out during the battle. And I… I thought you were…." She trailed off as she looked down, unable to finish her sentence. "It felt as if a part of me just ceased to exist."
Optimus held her chin and tilted her head up to him, "Forgive me, I did not mean to cause you such pain." He said with a soft tone.
"Optimus, you were in the Autobot Base when Megatron blew it up, weren't you?" Elita asked as Optimus stood quiet, which got her answer. "No bot, not even a Prime, could survive something like that."
"Perhaps for destroying Cybertron's only salvation, I earned such fate," Optimus claimed solemnly.
"Optimus, you did what you had to do to protect Earth." Elita said as she placed a servo on his chassis. "Megatron was the one who used the Omega Lock to cyberform Earth and destroy all organic life instead of restoring our homeworld. He forced your hand. And for the Children and their home, do you regret your choice?"
Optimus stood silent for a moment before he spoke. "No. I do not." He said.
"Then you made the right decision," Elita told him, caressing his face, "Don't worry, we will find a way to restore our home. All that matters is that we all are still alive and we're together again."
Optimus looked at Elita before he slowly held her hand on his face. "Yes, we are." He said as the two looked at each other with warm smiles before Elita jumped up onto Optimus and wrapped her arms around his neck and caught him in a kiss, which surprised him before he returned the gesture as he held Elita by the waste as the two stood that way while the moonlight shined at them.
They may have lost the only means to rebuild the Omega Lock and restore Cybertron, but they saved Earth and took down Megatron's fortress and now the Autobots have two Primes on their side and they are ready to face whatever that comes their way.
Ta-Da, the Darkmount Arc is complete.
The Autobots have at last been reunited, Optimus Prime is back and is better than ever and Hot Rod is now Rodimus Prime.
Since Rodimus is still pretty young he won't have exactly the same wise and controlled tone Optimus but will still retain some of his old personality.
Post in the Comments your thoughts on our New Prime.
Stay tuned, for when the Autobots are finally getting back on their feet they soon learn that Decepticons are looking for long buried secrets to build their army, in "Project Predacon".