I'm back with another chapter, keeping the story moving along as we follow-up to the first battle of the story with this filler chapter, so don't expect a whole lot of action with this one, but there will be a lot of interaction between teams, hopefully you'll enjoy that.

Ch10: First Assessments

In the Nemesis medical bay, Starscream lay on a berth as Knockout looked him over. Starscream groaned in pain as the damage Optimus had afflicted him was cascading through his entire protoform. Then the medical bay door opened, and he was overwhelmed by horror at who was on the other side. Megatron marched over to his crippled Lieutenant with a clear look of fury and disappointment. The Decepticon leader soon stood over an utterly panicked Starscream.

"Mission report…Starscream…" Megatron seethed, already knowing what was coming.

"Gah!...Uhhh…Ummm…" Starscream stuttered, only for his master to growl at his hesitation, forcing him to comply, "I-I regret to inform, L-Lord Megatron, w-w-we failed…t-to eliminate the human base."

Megatron growled, "details…Starscream…"

"It was the Autobots!" Starscream quickly replied, "they protected those flesh dwellers! If that wasn't enough, Prime swept in and nearly terminated me as well!"

"Optimus was there?" Megatron raised an eye.

"Yes my lord!" Starscream answered again before continuing with anger, "he and two of his precious Autobots defended those worthless organics like they actually meant something! If that weren't bad enough, a group of animals like Malefor destroyed half my strike force!"

That struck Megatron's interest, that those of Malefor's species apparently had the strength able to defeat his Decepticon drones. Clearly what Malefor had earlier demonstrated was naturally spread amongst those of his own kind. It had been a while since they had encountered such a race, never mind the humans who were nothing but fodder.

Megatron had one last question about his destroyed battalion, "what of the other half? Were they wiped out as well?"

Starscream gulped, "...yes, my lord…by the Autobots."

Megatron huffed before addressing his medic, "what's the diagnosis Knockout?"

Knockout answered, "well my lord, fortunately, nothing internal is broken. However, Starscream's protoform has endured serious trauma, and will most likely be feeling sore for a while. Two or three cycles, four at the most."

"Place him on suspension then, until fully healed. We are in a new world now Knockout, inhabited by creatures that clearly have the strength to harm us, let alone destroy us. We can't afford to have any cripples, or weaklings on the battlefield," Megatron glared at his shaking lieutenant, saying that last part as a form of warning.

"Those who face Optimus Prime in battle are usually never heard from again. You should consider yourself lucky, Starscream, more so than usual," Megatron warned, "though if I were you, I wouldn't test that luck again until you're fully healed, am I clear?"

Starscream nodded and whimpered, "...very much, my lord."

"Good, now if you'll excuse me, I must go clean up your mess," Megatron fumed before stomping over toward the exit, leaving Starscream in his dismay.

Upon leaving the medical bay, Megatron saw Errol and Malefor awaiting him around the first bend.

Errol asked him, "how fares your Lieutenant?"

"He'll live," Megatron snorted as he walked up to stand in front of the organic villains.

"Is that a good thing, or a bad thing?" Errol quipped.

Megatron secretly smirked, finding the two-legged fleshling's wit somewhat amusing, "depends on his continuing performance."

Malefor on the other hand, was in no mood for banter and returned to the real issue, "That all aside, we should focus on the real matter at hand. Your enemies have now united together with ours, and as such, they have now become an even graver threat to us than they were before."

"Don't tell me the revered 'Dark Master' isn't up to the challenge?" Megatron threw at the dark dragon in an attempt to jab at his ego.

Malefor declined to take the bait and calmly replied, "on the contrary, I say let them come. But only a fool would ignore the threat these Autobots combined with the Union Alliance now poses to us. If any of us were to make even a single mistake against them, we could all end up in a state similar to Starscream, or worse…"

Megatron said, "Well luckily for you, I'm no stranger to facing strange threats unknown to me. Trust me my scaly compatriot, when the time comes and we do face them, we will be prepared."

Malefor and Megatron shared a silent glare before Errol interrupted, "Speaking of preparing, you're needed on the bridge right now. Shockwave informed me earlier that he has some new information for you."

On the bridge, Vehicon troops were stationed at all control units. Soundwave remained at the bridge helm with Barricade to his left and Shockwave on his right. The one-eyed Con was working on the right side of the helm control unit, triple checking some data to ensure his earlier findings were accurate. The bridge to the helm opened up, and every Vehicon turned to attention as Megatron re-entered, with Malefor and Errol following behind him.

Errol couldn't help but notice the stature of the Vehicons as they saluted their master. The dark eco zombie turned to his dragon counterpart and asked quietly, "Must they always act like suck-ups whenever their leader is around?"

Being experienced in leading a dark army, Malefor grinned back at his human colleague, "hehehehe, oh Errol, you're still quite new at leading an armada aren't you? There is much you have to learn about keeping your subordinates in line, including the fine art of intimidation."

An irritated Errol sneered at Malefor's response. The three Maleficence members finally reached the bridge helm where Megatron addressed his Lieutenant of Science Operations.

"Shockwave, what is your report?"

"Lord Megatron," Shockwave spoke in his rumbling yet emotionless tone, "I have deduced both the location and the source of the Decepticon beacon that led us here."

The eyes of the Maleficence all widened upon hearing that, and Megatron didn't hesitate to ask, "by all means, continue."

Shockwave pressed a button on the console, and on the main screen in front of them that hung over their bridge window, a picture appeared, one of a different Decepticon vessel.

Megatron recognized it at first glance and said with astonishment, "...it can't be, is it?"

"Behold, the lost Decepticon warship, the 'Harbinger'," said Shockwave.

Errol was curious, "so you Decepticons have had more vessels than the one we currently stand in?"

"Indeed we have," Megatron explained as he recalled the history of this lost ship, "though most of them were destroyed during and following the exodus from Cybertron. The Harbinger on the other hand, is a case long predating that. It was originally used as an incursion vessel for deep space, sent out to various planets across the galaxy, all for the intended purpose of spreading and strengthening our bases against the Autobots."

Megatron's tale took a turn, "Sadly, it was reported to have vanished during one of its journeys, beyond any form of detection. It was declared to be lost, leaving its fate a mystery…that is until now."

Shockwave started explaining while building off his master's prelude, "the Harbinger was outfitted with an experimental means of propulsion, allowing it to traverse deep reaches of space in a matter of kliks(minutes), rather than stellar cycles(years), as conventional transport would have allowed."

Malefor raised a brow, "and what is this 'experiment', exactly?"

Shockwave pressed another button, and the Harbinger picture was replaced with image schematics of a Cybertronian transportation device, "we Decepticons call it, a 'SpaceBridge', a means of transport leagues more powerful than any hyperdrive. It allows for instantaneous transport across lightyears of distance, in a mere klik."

Malefor was intrigued, but kept his emotions at bay, "fascinating."

Errol then realized something, "Wait a minute, didn't you use one of these 'bridges' to return Starscream?"

"That was a 'GroundBridge' actually," Megatron explained, "it's merely a scaled down version of the technology that was originally used to develop the SpaceBridge. In addition, the Nemesis teleporters are built off the very same principles, but with a much smaller range more fitted for transporting large battalions into battle. Our GroundBridge, on the other hand, allows for long distance transport from our ship to anywhere within a planet's perimeter."

Megatron got back on track, "in general, they are all built off the same technology that first created the SpaceBridge, a technology that has been lost to us for Megacycles…until now."

Shockwave unveiled his plan, "My liege, if we can retrieve the SpaceBridge equipment from the Harbinger, we can recreate it here on the Nemesis."

Megatron completed his explanation by declaring what they were all thinking, "...allowing us the means to transport legions of our scattered forces all over the universe, right here to us. Then, we will overwhelm the Autobots, and their precious Union Alliance…and destroy them all together!"

All mutually agreeing to this wicked plan, the Maleficence all shared a first conjoined vile grin.

Following the Decepticon attack, everyone collected themselves back at Union Alliance HQ. However, the shock for the native personnel continued as the Ark arrived at the Union Alliance base. The yellow arrow-shaped Autobot flagship had made a permanent homestead on the north side of the plateau outside the base perimeter.

Upon leaving the ship and reconvening with their leader and two fellow Autobots, the group of autonomous robotic organisms from space started acclimating among their new organic hosts. Several groups were currently split up within the base as they collaborated together based on their shared knowledge and skills. Currently at the main hub, one such group consisting of each team's most brilliant minds was already conversing…

"So we've pretty much been exploring the baaast…maaast…" Fixit smacked himself before concluding, "...Vast expanse of the galaxy following the departure from our home planet, and here we are!"

"Incredible…" Vinn said in awe, having now heard the whole story from the minicon, "...to think sentient talking robots have existed amongst the stars this whole time, and we never had a clue!"

"Excuse me…" Ratchet scoffed, getting the V.I.'s attention as he sat next to the hub computer, "...for your information, we are Autobots, not robots, any familiarity we have to those walking metal containers is nothing more than an unfortunate coincidence."

"Oh…okay, so sorry mister uhhh…what do I call you?" Vinn stuttered.

"Ratchet, Autobot Chief Medic," Ratchet introduced himself.

"A Doctor huh? Pleased to meet you Dr. Ratchet sir!" Vinn said back.

"No need for prefixes, just Ratchet is fine," Ratchet explained before introducing his little colleague, "...and this is my minicon assistant, our Chief Technical Officer, Fixit."

"That's me!" Fixit exclaimed.

"Great to meet you both, I am VINN, which is short for Virtual Interpersonal Neural Network, at your service!" Vinn said in his usual manner. Both Ratchet and Fixit were curious following the explanation.

"Virtual? So you're a computer program that thinks?" Ratchet asked, wondering if he was the Elorin equivalent to Teletrann.

"Not exactly, I'm human, or I was rather…until I digitized my mind into our planet Ontranet," Vinn explained, shocking the two Cybertronians.

"You digitized your mind?!" Fixit exasperated, "is that even possible for an organic lifeform?"

"It sure is! I'm living proof, more or less," Vinn answered.

Ratchet pondered this for a moment before asking his own question, "Interesting…though why would you digitize yourself in the first place? What happened to your real body?"

Vinn's virtual head flinched for a moment before uncomfortably answering, "it…uhhh…died."

Ratchet and Fixit both cringed, and actually felt sympathetic for the former human. Fixit said, "our deepest condolences, certainly makes the damage I've taken to my rani…dani…stani…SMACK…Cranial component seem miniscule."

"Appreciate the thought, but no need to worry about me. I've actually gotten used to this, so no complaints here," Vinn said before addressing Ratchet and what he was sitting next to, "...so, what are you working on there?"

Ratchet turned back to his work on the metal cube that was sitting adjacent to the hub computer and explained, "Just installing an upgrade that your leaders authorized. With this unit adapted into your base's tracking system, you'll not only be able to detect any other Cybertronian signatures, including Decepticons, but be able to detect them anywhere on the planet through your global information network."

"Sweet!" Vinn exclaimed in approval. "So these Decepticons…I'm guessing they're the ones that attacked us?"

"Correct," Ratchet surmised with a somber tone, "...and we've been at war with them long before we left our homeworld altogether, and they're the reason…we're without a home now."

"Oh dear…" Vinn droned, noting the saddened expressions on both Ratchet and Fixit's faces. The V.I. hoped what befell their planet wouldn't happen here as well, they've had too many close calls already!

On a lower level of the Alliance base, the group of battle specialists conversed together. From left to right, the group consisting of Sig, Torn, Terrador, and the three Autobots Ironhide, Jazz, and Sideswipe discussed what had occurred in the previous attack…

Torn addressed Sideswipe, "So that Screecher weapon they deployed, it's a sonic device meant for incapacitating organic lifeforms, and that's why it didn't affect you guys?"

"More or less," Sideswipe explained, "there was a time when it did affect us just like it did all of you...until Ratchet had all of us modified with an audio inhibitor to filter out any high frequency sound bursts, rendering it null. However, that doesn't stop the Decepticons from using it for other twisted purposes."

"Yeah, we noticed," Sig said, rubbing his head, as he continued digesting the earlier introductions of these alien sentient robots.

"Good thing Optimus destroyed it when he did," Ironhide took his cue, "...if it had continued longer, well…let's just say it wouldn't have been pretty."

Torn, Sig and Terrador all cringed at the grim statement until Jazz scolded the veteran Autobot, "Enough Ironhide…no need to freak them out with the gory details."

Terrador relaxed and commented, "So it was good judgment that Optimus decided to enter the fight when he did."

"I'll say it was," Torn agreed before addressing Sideswipe, "we're also grateful to you Wheels for your defense of our base, you and Bumblebee."

"Anytime, scrapping Cons is what I do," Sideswipe said shrugging, "though for the record, it's Sideswipe…not Wheels."

Jazz just laughed, "hahaha, well it wouldn't be the first time you were called that, right brother?"

The Alliance group's eyes lit up and Torn asked, "you're brothers?"

"Brothers-In-Arms, but close enough," Sideswipe explained, "Jazz and I have known each other since before the war for Cybertron started, all the way back to my academy training days."

Jazz placed a hand on Sideswipe's shoulder and followed up, "I met him and his twin brother Sunstreaker when they were just a bunch of hotshot cadets at Iacon Enforcement Academy. I was one of the instructors, and in seeing their potential, I took them under my wing."

"And here we are," Sideswipe concluded, which the two humans and dragon all nodded at. They were all too familiar with the bonds that were forged by camaraderie, it's what brought them to where they were now.

"I see…and what about your brother? Sun-Streaker? Is he here amongst your team?" Sig asked Sideswipe.

The faces of the three Autobots fell, though Sideswipe showed more pain than the other two. Sig immediately regretted his question upon seeing their expressions, and Torn fell silent. Terrador respectfully asked in a sympathetic tone, "I'm guessing he is no longer with you?"

Jazz sadly confirmed, "the war for Cybertron bred many casualties. Sunstreaker, unfortunately, was one of them."

Sideswipe hung his head low, until Sig immediately told the red cladded Autobot, "I'm so sorry…please, accept my condolences."

Sideswipe didn't reply verbally, but nodded to the Spargus King accepting it. Ironhide then said, "we've all lost friends and family in fighting for our home, and losing Cybertron itself, only made the pain worse."

Terrador said in response, "we understand…we've lost many allies and friends as well in fighting to protect our own worlds. Even my kind, in a history now long passed, knows the pain of losing an entire homeworld as well."

The three Autobots were shocked at hearing that as Sideswipe muttered, "for real?!"

"It's a long story, and one we are willing to share, for another time," Terrador explained to the stunned Autobots. Their expressions turned to acknowledgement, accepting the Dragon Guardian Leader's statement as a sense of understanding began to fall amongst the two teams.

While Ratchet was working at the main hub with Fixit and Vinn, across from them in the FL-Cat landing bay, Hunter had rejoined Spyro, Cynder, and the acolytes, along with Jak, Daxter, Keira and Tess. The original yellow robot was finally introduced by name to the cheetah warrior, along with his blue femme companion. Following that, Bumblebee and Arcee then explained everything to the Dragon Realm Ambassador, bringing him up to speed.

Hunter said, "So you're a race of sentient machines from a distant planet, and have been at war against your wicked counterparts from said planet?"

Bumblebee just beeped a confirming reply and Arcee verbally said, "That's the highly shortened version of it, yes…Except, we're called Autobots, not machines."

Cynder nodded and said to her feline friend, "She's right Hunter, despite the metallic resemblance, Arcee and her friends are nothing like the deathbots we once fought against. They think and feel just like we do."

"I see, apologies for the confusion Ms. Arcee, I meant no disrespect," Hunter said with a bow.

"None taken, it's not the first time," Arcee replied, grateful at least that these Alliance members were open minded enough to accept a simple truth.

Hunter then said, "...and those evil versions of your kind that we fended off, you call them something else?"

Bumblebee and Arcee nodded, "...Decepticons, or just Cons for short, whichever you prefer."

Hunter grumbled, "fitting name, considering what they just displayed."

Jak said, "Tell me about it, though from what I heard from Cal, that red leader was the worst of the group."

"Starscream…" Arcee got their attention saying the Decepticon Lieutenant's name with spite, "...believe me, it goes without saying that he is one of the worst. He's Megatron's second-in-command, and a complete back-stabbing fragger to boot."

Bumblebee scowled while the native group silently agreed with the two-wheeler, given the winged Con's threat prior to his escape. Though Daxter had to add in his two cents, "...not to mention, the guy's got a filthy mouth! Should give him some soap."

The two Autobots raised a bewildered look to the orange ottsel, whereas his realm allies and human friends including Jak threw him an exhausted look at his quip, "Really Dax?"

"What? Am I wrong?" Daxter asked him with dry sarcasm, to which Tess could only shake her head.

In surprise to them, Arcee actually chuckled at the furry rodent's wit, "you're actually not, Hairy. After all, the only thing that Starscream hates more than Autobots, are Organics." Bumblebee nodded in agreement, while others including Cynder and Vacu softly chuckled at Arcee's impromptu nickname for Daxter, which he silently fumed at.

Saphira huffed before voicing her own opinion of Starscream, "as if we cared what someone like him thinks. This whole attack on the base, it was nothing more than the act of a coward!"

Arcee nodded to the blue dragoness and added, "that's Starscream…the biggest coward ever spawned by Cybertron…and a manipulator of the worst kind."

Jak said in response, "then consider him now on our watch list."

Sephpyr, while agreeing with Jak, had to add something else, "...We should add all these Decepticons to that list, their leader most of all…what was it you called him? Megatron?"

Arcee and Bumblebee's expressions hardened before she said spitefully, "yes…and trust me, he's as vile as they come, at the top of the worst enemies list."

Jak and Spyro added in tandem with similar tones, "then he can share it with Errol…and Malefor…"

All of their expressions hardened at hearing the names of all their greatest enemies, the atmosphere feeling a little tense for some like Vacu, Zaxto, and Daxter as judged by the uneasy looks on their faces.

Zaxto cleared his throat, breaking the mood, "Ahem…well, maybe we can make better use of our time with preparation? Since your Megatron and his Decepticons have joined up with our enemies, perhaps a shared collaboration of information of our own is required?"

Arcee and Bumblebee looked at each other before she said, "Sounds good. We'll confirm with Optimus, and work from there."

Saphira couldn't resist ribbing the electric acolyte, "ever the study, aren't you Zaxto?" She asked with a wry expression.

"Hey, you know me Saphira," Zaxto shrugged.

Saphira just huffed while the others just chuckled at the banter. For Arcee and Bumblebee, it was refreshing to know they had encountered a diverse group of separate species interacting with one another like friends, even family. It was all too familiar to their own team.

Over by the elevator, separate from everybody else, Captain Striker was giving some stern discipline to his mentee for his reckless behavior in engaging Starscream alone. Calidan just stood and took it with a grain of salt, preferring to get the lecture from Striker rather than Torn. It was in fact the primary reason that the Alliance Captain, not the General, was speaking to him, since Torn knew Cal would best learn if it came from Striker.

"Of all the rookie mistakes…taking on an unknown adversary without any knowledge whatsoever of their capabilities was extremely foolish, Calidan. You've been trained better than that," Striker said sternly.

"Yes sir…" Calidan muttered in response with his hands behind his back, but remained upright so as to not slouch in front of his commanding officer.

"Sigh…lucky for you you're as good a flyboy as Jak says you are," Striker said, "...that slagging robot would have turned you into pulp otherwise, and that would have been on me."

Realizing the situation he nearly had inadvertently put his C.O. in made Calidan flinch, and was quick to respond, "...permission to speak, sir?"

Striker was silent for a moment before putting his arms behind his back and said, "...very well, granted."

"I assure you sir, I didn't engage the enemy for the thrill of it, those days are behind me," Calidan said with conviction, "I engaged, because it's what you trained me to do, to defend and protect this team, this base, and above all else this planet. I saw how we were outnumbered at the time and knew that my presence as a flyer could have made a difference, no matter how small. Was it a stupid choice? Maybe it was, but sir, I don't regret it one bit. If I'm to be disciplined for my actions then so be it, I accept whatever is coming…"

Striker maintained his silent visage for a moment as he listened to Calidan's entire monologue and contemplated. Looking at the situation from all angles, yes, Calidan's move was reckless and nearly fatal, but it did help save lives, and the last thing he deserved for that was to be punished. Striker turned to the young officer and addressed him…

"Stand straight Officer Calidan," he said, coercing Calidan to straighten his posture.

"Military mandates say that careless recklessness is consequential by suspension…" Striker said to Calidan who closed his eyes preparing for what was coming.

"...if deemed so by the Commanding Officer. From what I can judge, suspension is the last thing I would give you," Striker calmly said, "...while risky, your actions saved lives, and you knew that when you signed up and took the oath just like the rest of us in the Freedom League."

Cal's face lit up and he stuttered, "S-Sir? Does this mean?..."

"You're cleared for duty soldier, dismissed," Striker nodded to him, which Calidan saluted in response.

As Cal turned to leave, Striker halted him for a moment, "Son…you once told me that your Pap said that you honor those who've come before you by living your best. At the end of the day, hold onto that above all else, Cal."

Calidan gave his C.O. a nodding grin, before turning back to head over to the main hub as Striker watched him go. The former Underground member turned Freedom League soldier turned Union Alliance Captain couldn't help but see a younger reflection of himself in the former desert rogue. Having never had a family of his own, Striker had resolved to watch out for Cal as if he were his own son.

While three separate groups conversed all over the base at the same time, one final group consisting of team leaders and elders were having one of their own. Standing on the platform just outside the Alliance Arch, Optimus Prime stood amongst an audience consisting of Ashelin, Samos, Onin, Packer, and Seem, along with the dragon guardians Cyril, Volteer and Charvo. Onin, Packer, Seem and Charvo were given their first introduction to the Autobot leader by their allies, who in turn gave his own speech to the remainder of the Union Alliance.

"On behalf of the Autobots, I thank you all for your aid in fending off our Decepticon foes…and I humbly apologize for the conflict we have inadvertently brought to your planet," Optimus said to them.

"Don't beat yourself up Optimus," Ashelin said shaking her head, "our world was at war with intergalactic threats long before you guys ever showed up. Trust me, fighting aliens is hardly anything new for us."

"Governor Ashelin is correct," Cyril added, "this is just the first time we have encountered one with a faction that fights for the same cause as us, and I must say, it's a refreshing change."

"The Autobots have fought for the freedom of all sentient life since the war for Cybertron began…" Optimus replied, "...and that is something that will never change."

"Spoken like a true leader," Charvo said with a nod, "...and given your valiant performance earlier, you clearly have the actions to back up your words."

Seem then added, "while we may not be thrilled to have gotten involved in yet another otherworldly conflict…any and all assistance you and your team can offer us, is most welcome, Optimus Prime."

The precursor monk and Onin both bowed to the Prime showing their respect. Optimus gave a light smile and replied with sincerity, "we are grateful for your acceptance, Ambassadors."

Samos then said, "Now that we've gotten introductions out of the way, we best get down to business on what we're going to do next."

Volteer nodded, "I concur with Sage Samos, having been introduced to your own team in full, perhaps we can now share information regarding the enemies we are up against? From all parties?"

Optimus nodded, "Agreed, and that is something best done with everyone in attendance. Where can we all gather together?"

"That would be the Main hub," Ashelin said gesturing to the main platform above, "though most of your team might have to make due with standing on the landing bay for the time being."

Optimus accepted Ashelin's offer, and they called their various teams over to the Main hub. Eventually, everyone had gathered around close to Vinn's holograph station, human, dragon or bot. The Union Alliance members and allies circled around the holograph, while the Autobots stood across in the landing bay, as it was the only place where they could all fit standing together. The only Autobots near the hub standing behind the Alliance team were Optimus Prime, his First Lieutenant Jazz, Fixit, and Ratchet who stood near the main console.

To kick off their team collaboration, Jak started with giving the full Intel on his worst enemy, Errol. With assistance from Vinn, the Elorin pariah's appearance was displayed on the holograph, first in his original human shape, then followed by the disfigured cybernetic form he was last seen in. Torn and Ashelin also aided Jak with their own Intel on Errol, given how they had known him longer than anyone else. All of the Union Alliance, human and dragon, scowled at both the intel and the projections, while the Autobots were unsettled at the notion of organic and mechanical components being mixed together to create such a deformed body for a human that had been blown up not once, but twice.

As the humans finished with their presentation, Spyro stepped up to give his own. Vinn brought up on the holograph a full picture of the Dragon Realms most dangerous enemy, Malefor the Dark Master. The picture had been provided by Jak from BodyCam footage captured during their venture to the Dark Maker Ship. Spyro gave the full presentation on his archenemy, whereas the rest of his kind and his allies remained silent while glaring at the image of the vile dragon traitor, especially Cynder for reasons all too well known.

The Autobots were just as unsettled from the description of Malefor just as they were with Errol, though for different reasons. Optimus listened to Spyro's explanation with valid interest and bitter remembrance, for he couldn't help but see a great deal of similarities between the Dark Master and the Decepticon Leader. Both Malefor and Megatron were power-hungry, self-serving traitors to their own kind, deluded in their conquest for greater power, and had no remorse for anyone or anything that stood in their way, including innocent life. One big difference Optimus noted was that Malefor had been thwarted in his vile attempts to destroy his homeworld, most recently by Spyro. Whereas Megatron's lust for power had already claimed Cybertron as a casualty, something he sadly had been unable to prevent.

With the young purple dragon's explanation complete, Spyro gave the floor to the Autobots to provide their own Intel on the newest enemies to the Union Alliance. Using his eye projectors again, Optimus gave a full roster of the Decepticons currently under Megatron's command on the Nemesis. An image was displayed for each one as he listed them by name.

He started with the red-winged Con they were all familiar with from the previous attack…Starscream, Megatron's First Lieutenant and Aerial Commander, a brilliant tactician and one of the most cunning flyers in the Decepticon ranks. Though that was all he had going for him, as Jazz added to Arcee's earlier description, calling Starscream the shrewdest and most despicable coward the Autobots had ever known, with an arrogance rivaling his own master Megatron, if not exceeding it. The Union Alliance all scowled at the description, before moving onto the next…

The following image was of a Decepticon they remembered from Prime's original projection, one with a blank screen for a face, and subwoofer like protrusions embedded into his torso and shoulders…Soundwave, Megatron's Communications and Surveillance Chief, as well as a master spy and hacker, and without doubt the most loyal Decepticon in Megatron's inner circle. He was described as a Con of few words, only saying whatever was relevant at any particular time. If his hacking and surveillance skills weren't sharp enough, he was also listed as one of the deadliest warriors in the Decepticon ranks. He was like a gladiatorial computer on legs, a description that made several Alliance members cringe…

The next image was a red cladded Decepticon with a sports vehicle-like appearance, uncomfortably similar to Sideswipe…Knockout, the Decepticon Chief Medic, with experimental and surgical skill not quite on par with Ratchet's, as the Doc-bot proudly proclaimed, but enough to keep his master's ranks in top working order. In addition, he was also a speedster whose alternate mode could easily keep up with the likes of Bumblebee and Sideswipe. His sly and snobbish attitude was said to be a major headache for the Autobots at times, and even for his fellow Decepticons…

The image after that was one that Jak, Calidan, and Daxter were uncomfortably familiar with from their first contact, and one that Bumblebee gave a low angry HUMM toward…Barricade, The Decepticon Top Scout, practically Bumblebee's evil counterpart. His infiltration and spymaster abilities were on par with even Arcee's, and his speedster skills had matched the young yellow Autobot since before the war for Cybertron began. The Alliance members, especially Calidan, hardened their gazes, for they knew a bitter rivalry when they saw it.

Though the rivalries didn't end there, for the next one shown was one that Ironhide lowly grumbled at, and not just because he was the ugliest Decepticon yet…Brawl, The Decepticon Weapons Specialist, whose entire body looked like it was a literal walking tank with untold armaments. His claw-like hands also made some Alliance members squirm, especially when it was said that Brawl was known for dismembering Autobots prior to destroying them. He apparently assists Knockout whenever he can as the two of them are good friends, sharing an affinity for dis-assembly, which in Cybertronian terms meant 'death'.

Finishing up the list was the last one they recognized from the original projection, from the single glowing red eye to the left arm cannon…Shockwave, The Decepticon Lead Scientist whose brilliant and unhinged mind knew no bounds when it came to creating weapons of mass destruction. The 'Screecher' they were unwillingly subjected to was one of Shockwave's old 'toys' he had created during the early days of the War for Cybertron, and didn't even scratch the surface of what his twisted mad science was capable of. Like his counterpart Soundwave, he was also a Con of few words, only saying whatever he deemed 'logical'. In addition, his brutality and endurance also had him listed as one of Megatron's most deadly soldiers.

Optimus ended the projection as he allowed the Union Alliance a moment to take in everything they had just seen and learned…

Terrador was the first to speak, "...well, that's certainly a colorful group of deadly adversaries."

Vacu said, "I agree master…especially that cyclops-looking one, it gave me the creeps…shiver…"

Cynder then said, "they're all creepy in their own way, as far as I'm concerned." Spyro silently agreed as he stood next to her, digesting the list of new enemies with a stoic glare.

Calidan then said, "couldn't agree with you more Cynder. Though I think I can speak for everyone when I say we can add this whole roster to our target list now."

He finished speaking before bitterly thinking to himself, '...especially that Starscream guy.'

"Works for me," Jak said before turning to his commanding officer and friend, "what about you Torn?"

Torn nodded in agreement before turning to the Autobots behind him, "don't suppose you would consider giving our men a crash course on how to fight these metallic baddies?"

Ironhide stepped up and said, "I can gladly provide instruction. While I can't guarantee any certainties with my aid, I can at least help give your men a fighting chance against the Cons."

Torn nodded to the veteran Autobot before addressing the leader, "alright Optimus, since Megatron's your enemy and you no doubt know him better than we do, could you tell us what his objective is here?"

Optimus replied, "His next course of action is most likely confirming that which drew him to your planet in the first place. During our voyage through space, we detected an emergency beacon signal emanating from your very planet. From what we have been able to deduce, it belongs to a Decepticon vessel."

The eyes of the Union Alliance lit up, and Ashelin asked on behalf of their whole group, "are you telling me that there have been Decepticons hiding here on our planet for an unknown amount of time, without any of us detecting them let alone seeing them?!"

"Maintaining covertness and discretion is an inbred skill for any and all Cybertronians, whatever their faction," Optimus explained, "if Decepticons have in fact been hiding here on your planet unknown to anyone, they most likely have been doing so as robots-in-disguise."

"Disguise?...You mean your alternate vehicle forms?" Jak asked.

"That is correct," Optimus confirmed, "upon any world, we use our ability of transformation not just as a means of quick transport via ground or air, but also to hide within plain sight as a means of protection, and non-interference."

"Hmmm, very intriguing…yet ingenious!" Volteer muttered as he rubbed his chin again, with Zaxto mimicking him as they took in everything.

Jazz followed up on his leader's explanation, "most likely, old Megs is looking to find the source of this beacon, and take from it whatever he can get his slimy hands on, whether it be weapons, fuel, or even more troops for his ranks."

Ashelin frowned, "Any one of those outcomes could be bad news for us, never mind all of them together."

"I'm thinking then, we get there first, and secure whatever is there before it can be used against us," Torn suggested. Union Alliance members, dragon and human combined all nodded in agreement with the idea.

Ratchet also nodded before turning to his leader, "that would be the most prudent choice of action, Optimus."

"Agreed old friend," Optimus replied, "the signal data is currently saved in the Ark. We should be able to trace it to its position, and GroundBridge to the designated coordinates."

Looks of confusion plastered over the Union Alliance faces as Calidan and Keira asked in tandem, "GroundBridge?...What is that?"

The Autobots nonverbally responded with smiles as Fixit zipped over to the native group with a happy chuckle, "Ohh, are you all in for a treat! Tell me, are you familiar with the concept of…teleporting?"

Those like Samos, Spyro, and Hunter cringed in discomfort at that question, for reasons all their own.

The Autobots led the Union Alliance all the way back to the Ark, and into the elevator. This time however instead of going all the way up to the Teletrann bridge, they went halfway up to a door on a different level which opened up into an open bay near the stern of the ship. Inside was a plethora of Cybertronian equipment on various large tables and giant work cells with sophisticated equipment. At the very back of the bay, a large straightway extended about 100 yards back into a cavity in the wall, surrounded by a multitude of vertically supported rings made of metal and wiring.

Ratchet said aloud as he exited the elevator, "welcome to my laboratory, also known as the medical bay and transport hub."

The Autobots led by Optimus exited the elevator, and were soon followed by their native hosts. The humans including Calidan, Keira, and even Jak were amazed, as well as Tess who sat upon Keira's shoulder taking in the sight with a grin. Daxter on the other hand was hardly impressed with stuff he didn't understand, for to him if he had seen one lab of high-tech equipment then he had seen them all. Torn, Ashelin, Sig and Seem were smiling in awe of the lab filled with cutting edge Cybertronian tech, coercing Torn to mutter to his sweetheart…

"Vinn would have a field day in this place…" he said, and Ashelin grinned and nudged his arm as they walked ahead, with the dragons right behind them. Spyro and Cynder looked around with avid interest even if they couldn't fully understand what any of these pieces of technology could do. All the other guardians and acolytes behind them were just as amazed, though none more so than Volteer and Zaxto.

"Astonishing, riveting, splendid, spectacular, and stupendous!" Volteer rambled on as observed what appeared to be a large vertical glass container near the elevator.

Zaxto looked like he was about to burst with anticipation, saying in a mutter, "Master…if possible…could we ask Fixit, or possibly even Ratchet, more questions about this stuff?!"

"Could we? I'll be right there with you dear Zaxto. I wouldn't dream of missing an opportunity to learn about anything like this!" Volteer replied with high vigor. His colleagues heard and sweatdropped at him and his junior counterpart.

"We will never hear the end of this enthusiastic rambling, will we?" Cyril droned to Terrador.

Terrador replied bluntly, "I dare say…No."

The Union Alliance stood before the Autobots who stood in front of the straightway, while Ratchet worked on a console stationed next to them.

"Impressive institution..." Volteer called out to the Autobot medic, startling him, "...you have here Ratchet Sir!" His acolyte protege backed it up with a simple "ditto!"

The Union Alliance deadpanned at their commentary, but the Autobots were amused as they all let out a few chuckles, save for Prime who remained quiet.

Ratchet calmed down and replied, "Ohh…well thank you, I do my part to keep this place in order. After all, you never know what you may encounter traveling through deep space."

"On that, we can all agree," Keira said, with all of her human and dragon allies nodding in agreement.

Calidan then asked the question, "so, where's this GroundBridge you mentioned?"

"You're looking at it kid," Jazz said as he stepped aside and gestured to the straightway with the vertical circles.

"Fascinating," Volteer commented, before asking his go-to question, "so how does it work?"

"Think of it as an instant transport device, allowing you to warp yourself from anywhere it's stationed at any given time, to any other place on the planet," Jazz further explained.

"Huh…In other words, it's an Autobot-sized Warp Gate," Jak commented.

"Warp Gate?" Arcee asked in curiosity.

Keira stepped up and clarified, "Here on Elorin, we have devices called Warp Gates, they're powered by eco, and can allow for instant travel from one place to another, within a limited range."

Her explanation caught the Autobots interest, and Arcee asked her, "So humans actually have their own means of teleportation technology?"

"More or less, though some are more susceptible to it than others," Keira explained, "my dad for example, he's never been very fond of warp gates due to being extremely sensitive to their effects."

"He's not the only one," Hunter muttered, to which Cynder playfully nudged.

"Hmm, sounds like 'Jump Sickness'," Ironhide said, "haven't heard of anything like that since we rendered Orbital Jumps obsolete."

Jazz then continued his earlier explanation, "well like your Warp Gates, the GroundBridge allows for instant travel from here on the Ark to anywhere within a resident planet's perimeter. Also, in contrast to your eco fuel, it runs on energon, like us."

Keira was concerned and asked, "but, didn't you guys say you were low on energon?"

"We are indeed," Ratchet gravely added, "as such the GroundBridge is to only be used in absolute emergencies, which is why after this use, I'm rendering it offline until further notice."

"Understood old friend," Optimus said while everyone else was disheartened that this was a one-time use, but all understood why all the same.

Ratchet finished typing on the console and the screen came alive with a digital layout of Elorin and a pinpointed destination was set where the Decepticon emergency beacon was located. He pressed one last key to initiate the GroundBridge warm-up cycle, and everyone heard the HUM echo from the device.

Ratchet turned to his leader and said, "GroundBridge is warming up and coordinates are set Optimus."

"Very good," Optimus nodded before turning to the Union Alliance, "remember our objective, we must secure the vessel and its contents before the Decepticons do. For your safety Union Alliance, I strongly advise refraining from battle with any drones, unless absolutely necessary, and never without backup. Also, leave any and all engagements with any high ranking Decepticon officers to the Autobots…and leave Megatron, to me."

"Understood," Torn nodded on behalf of the humans.

"That goes for us too," Terrador said on behalf of his kind.

Optimus turned back to Ratchet and gave the order, "activate the GroundBridge."

Ratchet pulled the lever, and the Union Alliance saw the GroundBridge come to life for the first time. The machine hummed as it came to life and the circle rings lit up with a light glowing blue. A few seconds later, they were awestruck with the appearance of a blue and green vortex appearing within the machine, surrounding a glowing white light in the middle.

The stunning sight stirred some bad memories within Spyro who thought, 'Great…Another vortex.'

Jazz said to the Alliance group, "let Prime and us take the lead, then follow right behind us."

The native group all nodded and prepped themselves for their first ever GroundBridge jump. Ratchet and Fixit remained off to the side to stay behind as their return trip back. The Autobots stood ready to go, with their leader at the head.

With everyone ready, Optimus gave out his iconic order, "Autobots, Roll Out!"

Bumblebee, Jazz, Sideswipe, Ironhide, and Arcee transformed into their alternate modes, while the Alliance were awestruck in place behind them.

"Is it just me, or did everyone get goosebumps from hearing him say that?" Daxter muttered to Jak.

The four Autobot mechs opened their doors and Jazz called out to their whole team, "you heard the Prime everybody, let's roll!"

The humans took up the offer and each entered a different Autobot vehicle. Calidan and Captain Striker went with Bumblebee, Ashelin and Torn went with Jazz, Jak and Keira entered Sideswipe with Daxter and Tess, and the rest of the Alliance militia mounted inside or into the truck bed of Ironhide. Spyro and Cynder took flight with their fellow dragons right behind them.

Seeing they were ready, Optimus faced the vortex before running into it, transforming into his vehicle form in midrun. The Autobot leader entered the vortex, with the rest of the Autobots and their passengers right behind them, and the dragons bringing up the rear as they all disappeared within the vortex light. Ratchet and Fixit watched as the two teams vanished, and hoped in their sparks that this first Elorin mission would go off without a hitch.

In the Elorin skies, the Nemesis was set on course for the presumed destination of the Harbinger, following the beacon's trail on the bridge screen like a lighthouse signal. Soundwave was on the helm, while flanked by his fellow Decepticons Barricade on the left and Shockwave on the right. Behind them stood their master Megatron, and their new organic cohorts Malefor and Errol standing by him.

"How much further is it?" Errol asked.

"We are less than five kliks away, or minutes as you organics say," Megatron answered him, "just have patience dear Errol."

"Oh it's not a matter of patience, it's a matter of anticipation," Errol replied, "since the Union Alliance and the Autobots will no doubt be right behind us once we reach your lost ship, I propose taking my leave and preparing my troops for an impending attack?"

"You think your Dark Makers can match the Autobots?" Megatron questioned.

"I would think after your little test, you would know the answer to that already," Errol quickly replied, which Megatron grunted at.

"As you wish," The leader Con said.

"That reminds me," Malefor cut in, "I should go and start preparing my own little 'surprise' for the Alliance."

"What surprise?" Megatron raised an eye.

"You'll all see soon enough, for now I will take my own leave. I will contact you both once I am finished," Malefor said before turning around and heading for the exit. Knockout and Brawl watched him leave the bridge with scowled expressions, still not trusting him at all.

Megatron was unamused as he turned to Errol, "your compatriot is quick to keep secrets, it's rather…unnerving."

Errol dryly replied, "couldn't agree more. Still, I've only ever read about Malefor's exploits on his homeworld, and have yet to see them in action. I highly doubt he'll disappoint us once he's finished what he's preparing."

"Yes…that's what concerns me," Megatron growled as he and Errol looked out the bridge window, where a lone mountain cascading from the Brink stood in front of them. They had reached the location of the Harbinger.

The suspense is starting to build, what awaits them at the Harbinger besides the SpaceBridge? How will the Alliance react to their first meet with Megatron? What is this surprise that Malefor is planning?...I am doing my best to build the characterization as the story progresses, though if there are any character interactions you are hoping to see, I'm open to listen to suggestions.