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Curse of the Devilspawn!	By : acsoundwave Category: Transformers > G1 > Crossovers Views: 1033 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Transformers, Gobots, Spider-Man, X-Men, GI Joe, Iron Man, The Black Panther, The Fantastic Four, nor The Avengers. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 9
- 10
TRANSFORMERS: CYBERTRON SAGA
CURSE OF THE DEVILSPAWN! Special #10: BREAK THE COVENANT.
byline: Anubis C. Soundwave
Scene: 1
"I can't wait to see the kind of defense he has," says Leader One, grinning at Matt.
"The facts aren't in question: J. Jonah Jameson kidnapped Lt. John Jameson--his own son," says Matt, "held him at gunpoint, and forced Lt. Jameson to hijack UNECOM's starshuttle. Throw him in the federal pen."
"This should have been a military tribunal, not a civilian trial," says Turbo. "Why does Jameson get more taxpayer-sponsored publicity for the Bugle?"
"Because Senator MacKeane, the gentleman who secures UNECOM's funding to cut our checks, is Jameson's fraternity brother," says Major Newcastle wryly. "That means Jameson gets a free stage for his grandstanding."
"Not only that," adds General Newcastle, "but the media groups protect their own."
"Think of it this way," says General Abernathy, with a thin, resigned smile. "Jameson will win the trial, but the Bugle's legal department will soak him dry."
"How do you know that?" asks Turbo.
"Half of Jameson's legal department are my frat brothers," says Abernathy. "If he walks free, I'll personally make sure the bastard pays."
Scene: 2
"Disney World am fun!" says Slag, optics shining as he looks at a picture of himself with Goofy.
"Swoop like too," adds Swoop. "Dumbo ride no am aerodynamic, though."
"It's not supposed to be," says Ratchet, "so don't try to fix any of the rides."
Wheeljack laughs as Grimlock dances with "Cinderella", wearing a crown.
"Me Grimlock am king; better than prince!" he brags.
"Cinderella" laughs nervously.
A family approaches Ratchet and Wheeljack. A little girl steps forward, studying the two Autobots and other four Dinobots.
"Just letting our boys enjoy Disney World," says Wheeljack. "We're really proud of them."
"I saw them on TV," says the father. "Which of you built them?" he asks.
"We did it together," says Ratchet.
"Which one of you is the mommy?" asks the little girl.
"Eh..." says Ratchet.
"Uh..." adds Wheeljack.
"Them am not sure," says Sludge.
"Time to go," adds Snarl. "Talk getting awkward."
The four Dinobots and the two Autobots leave the family to rescue "Cinderella" from Grimlock.
Scene: 3
"Jigsaw," says Barricade, "you've been grinning like an idiot for about ten minutes now."
"This is the best day of my life, Mr. Barricade!" Jigsaw gushes.
"No, it isn't," counters Barricade. "You've barely begun to live."
"You have to consider how my life started: I was getting shot at by Guardians," says Jigsaw. "This is a great day!"
Barricade smiles at the awkward Renegade tin pet.
"No law-breaking, no fighting Guardians, and no stupid brothers making fun of me," Jigsaw continues. "I got to go the museum, and meet Mr. Prowl in Oregon. What's not to love about today?"
"Live long enough, Jigsaw," says Barricade, "and you'll laugh at the idea of this being the best day of your life."
"But what guarantee do I have that I'll live that long?" asks Jigsaw. "Anything could happen tomorrow."
Barricade nods. "When you put it that way, it is better to enjoy each day like it's your last," he says. "It was nice to see Prowl not point his pellet gun at me."
"He wouldn't do that if you weren't a Decepticon," says Jigsaw.
"Why can't Prowl quit being an Autobot?" scoffs Barricade. "Why do I have to change factions?
"Megatron's trying to conquer the universe," says Jigsaw. "That's just a fact, buster."
"True. But another unpleasant fact," says Barricade, "is that love him or hate him, Megatron's the law in Cybertron, and the Autobots are subversive elements."
"Now you're sounding like a Guardian," says Jigsaw, scowling.
"And you're sounding like a Renegade," says Barricade with a grin. "I won't hold it against you."
Jigsaw sighs.
Barricade checks his chronometer. "Okay, buddy: Inspector Gadget's on in thirty minutes," he says.
"I never miss an episode," smiles Jigsaw, "because I'm always on duty."
Jigsaw enters his main body as Barricade transforms; both drive to the police station.
Scene: 4
"Elita? Here?" asks Optimus, his optics wide with shock.
Prowl nods; Optimus rushes out of the Ark, followed by Silverbolt.
Outside, Elita One stands with her arms folded, giving Optimus a stony glare.
Optimus approaches Elita. "Elita--*" he begins.
"Don't. Talk to me," she spits.
Optimus winces, then lowers his head. Elita transforms and drives away from Autobot Headquarters.
"Whoa--hang on. What just happened?" Silverbolt asks Optimus.
"She...learned the truth," says Optimus, head still lowered.
"About Nova?" asks Silverbolt.
"No. About her father," says Optimus, giving Silverbolt a meaningful look.
"I don't understand," says Silverbolt.
"You don't need to," says Optimus. "I am indeed to blame."
Silverbolt shakes his head. "We need to clear the air," he says. "Even if she does hate you forever," Silverbolt continues, "you two still have to work together for the good of the war effort. Our truce with the Decepticons won't last that long."
Silverbolt transforms and takes off after Elita.
Scene: 5
Nanatsuro observes A. J., the human woman inputting data into a console.
A. J. turns from her work to face Nanatsuro. "May I help you, Senator?" she asks.
"I'm thinking, Miss--no, Corporal Foster," says Nanatsuro.
A. J. laughs. "You've served your planet since long before Turbo was born--let alone my ancestors. You can call me what you want."
"It is an honor and privilege to serve Gobotron," says Nanatsuro. "Do you feel the same way for your world?"
"I'm fortunate in that I have the honor of serving my nation; I don't think I could possibly serve all of Earth," A. J. says.
"Ah, that's right--Earth has no unified government or culture," says Nanatsuro.
"Is that good or bad in your opinion?" A. J. asks.
Nanatsuro shakes his head, bemused. "So simplistic. There are benefits and drawbacks to both approaches--when your world is ready," he says.
A. J. smiles wryly at Nanatsuro. "Turbo is definitely your grandson."
"Indeed. I can't be in denial of such an obvious fact," says Nanatsuro.
"Is there a reason you two act like complete strangers?" A. J. asks.
Nanatsuro scowls. "So much of it is tied to planetary security that I can't say," he says, "but it involves his parents' deaths: my daughter and son-in-law."
"Turbo was involved?" asks A. J., hugging herself.
"Yes. He had no choice," states Nanatsuro calmly. "The simple fact is: Kaoru and Taiko violated Gobotron law, and had to be dealt with."
A. J. nods, understanding. "It was severe enough to warrant death," she says.
"My only objection was that those two were not made to account for their crimes before the people," says Nanatsuro. "I believe in justice and the law of the world I swore to defend and now uphold, come what may."
A. J. studies Nanatsuro.
"No one is above the law," Nanatsuro continues, "and we tread dangerous ground when we subvert it in the name of order."
"That's difficult to argue," says A. J., stroking her chin. "Except didn't you interfere in another planet's war to keep the peace?"
"If you're referring to Cybertron's Second War," says Nanatsuro, "please keep this in mind: the alternative to my unit's balanced interference with both sides in the conflict involved the genocide of the winners."
A. J.'s eyes widen in shock.
"The Guardians have had to play dirty throughout our history," continues Nanatsuro, "but we've always strived to stand for the principles of justice and freedom. The path we follow now...concerns me."
"For what it's worth, Senator," says A. J., "I believe in Turbo. I know that he wants to do what's right, for Gobotron and his own conscience."
Nanatsuro grins. "As do I, Corporal. Good day," he says, leaving.
A. J. shakes her head. "Those two are so alike it's infuriating."
Scene: 6
"Do you understand now, Silverbolt?" asks Elita. "After all we've endured together, he betrayed me!"
"With all due respect, ma'am," counters Silverbolt, "I think you've completely misunderstood Optimus' intent."
"Why would he keep something as important as my father's identity a secret from me?" Elita demands. "How would you feel if something you needed to know was kept from you?"
"Angry, hurt, and disappointed. I'd wonder what's wrong with me, why the person I care for doesn't trust me," says Silverbolt. "Believe it or not, I have a similar issue with someone I love."
Elita stares at Silverbolt.
"Unfortunately, I'm in the same damned unit with my beloved idiot," continues Silverbolt, "so I can't shut him out of my life."
"Optimus could have told me," says Elita. "The mech I admired--saw as a father--turned out to be my father."
"Maybe Optimus wanted to protect you," says Silverbolt. "How does it feel knowing that the genocidal maniac we had for a Prime was your late brother?"
"I don't know," says Elita, smiling thinly. "About the same as finding out my stupid bondmate is related to me."
"Then yell at your stupid bondmate," says Silverbolt. "Punch him if you have to--that's a language Optimus is fluent in."
Elita snorts at Silverbolt's comment.
"But shutting Optimus out is not the answer. As field commanders," Silverbolt continues, "you and Optimus don't have the luxury of not speaking to each other because of personal matters. You hurt the rest of us."
Elita winces.
"In any case," Silverbolt finishes, touching Elita's shoulder, "the truth is out now, so the best thing for both of you is to talk to Optimus about it."
Elita chuckles. "It appears," she says, "that Optimus chose well. He always had that knack, at least."
Silverbolt studies Elita.
"However," Elita continues, "Optimus is in the wrong, so he will have to approach me with an apology to start. From Earth."
Silverbolt's optics widen.
"I won't forgive him easily--not this time," Elita continues. "Optimus has to quit thinking for me."
"I don't get it," says Silverbolt exasperated.
Elita grins at Silverbolt. "You will," she says, leaving for the spacebridge. "Until next time."
"Fuck them both," spits Silverbolt aloud to himself, "and fuck me for getting involved."
Scene: 7
Optimus, alone, broods; seated on the side of a road crossing the Oregon-California border.
I understand how Elita feels: betrayed, deceived--as though her whole life was a cruel lie, he says to himself.
Optimus throws a nearby rock across the road.
What can I do about it, he continues musing, when I feel the same way? What else has he kept from me?
"Yo, Optimus," says Slingshot as he transforms and lands behind Optimus. "Everybody at HQ is looking for you."
Optimus stands and whips around to face Slingshot, startled. "I...will return soon," he says, regaining his composure. "I need a few moments to think."
"No big deal," says Slingshot, shrugging. "It's mostly griping from the usual nutcases: Huffer and Red Alert. Red's worried about the truce ending, but you know me; I'm looking forward to it."
"You look forward to resuming this bitter war?" asks Optimus.
Slingshot scowls. "I look forward to fighting for its end, sir," he says, "for the day when the Decepticons are utterly defeated and have to come to their senses. What would make you think I enjoy this?"
"I'm not sure," says Optimus sardonically, glaring at Slingshot. "Maybe it's your tendency to overwork yourself, or neglect your personal maintenance--which you require more than the other Aerialbots owing to the toll on your systems caused by your maneuvering."
"Sir, I'm a soldier with proper field maintenance training," says Slingshot. "With all due respect, I don't need a medic nursing every little frayed wire in my body, no matter what Silverbolt or Ratchet has told--what the hell is that?" Slingshot steps back, staring at Optimus as the latter shows Slingshot a picture of a mech's heavily-damaged internals.
"One of your most disturbing post-combat pictures," says Optimus. "You had hit cascade failure about four times before Ratchet and First Aid were able to fix you." Optimus subspaces the picture. "So, if Silverbolt is riding your aft and Ratchet is enlisting the Dinobots as orderlies to keep you in shape," he continues, "that's why."
"But I'm a grunt, sir. There are mechs of far higher priority than me when it comes to repairs," says Slingshot.
"You're right about one thing, Slingshot," counters Optimus. "You are a grunt--that is to say, a valued soldier. That means you don't get to dictate what you're worth," he continues, "because you loathe yourself too much to recognize your own worth."
Slingshot frowns.
"However, since you do value Autobot resources so highly, consider this," says Optimus. "Following your routine maintenance schedule--which I expect of all Autobots--expends less of our med bay team's time and resources, as they're not devoting the bulk of them to keeping you from turning gray."
Slingshot shakes his head.
Optimus places a hand on Slingshot's shoulder. "I don't expect much of what I've just said to stick now, to be blunt. You're an exasperating mess of stubbornness and insecurity--with a noble and dedicated core worthy of respect, whether you realize it or not."
Slingshot tenses his fists. "The thing is, Optimus: you don't really...eh, forget it, sir."
"It doesn't matter. Everything will make sense in time," says Optimus, "when you learn to let others in, and see yourself with new optics."
Slingshot emits a half-hearted snicker.
"Surely you of all mechs know that you're not the only Autobot in this outfit with character flaws," continues Optimus.
"It'd be conceited of me to think so, sir," says Slingshot.
"You are, however, as conceited as they come," says Optimus.
"Look, sir," says Slingshot, "I just came here to locate you, let the rest of the brass know you're okay, and give you the results of the Jameson trial."
"Jameson's legal department at the Bugle stacked the entire court in Jameson's favor," scoffs Optimus. "We'll be seeing a lengthy editorial about the obligations of a free press the day after Jameson is free."
Slingshot snorts. "So much for justice."
"I think they'd have been harder on Jameson if he'd actually caused any harm," Optimus observes.
"I guess so," says Slingshot. "Jameson ain't exactly Berger or Chumley," he continues, "and old Flat-top did make us all look good to Earth's public."
"He'll make us pay for it, I'm sure," says Optimus. "Let's return to Headquarters."
Slingshot transforms. "Sure," he says as he takes off. "It's the only way you're authorized to kiss and make up to Elita One for...whatever you did to torque her."
"Authorized?" balks Optimus as he transforms and follows Slingshot back into Oregon.
Scene: 8
Wait a minute...that sounds like "World 1-2" playing from Dewey's room, muses Turbo.
Turbo enters the boy's room at UNECOM, confirming that Dewey navigates Mario through the platforming puzzles of "World 4-2". "Got that far, huh?" he grins.
"Finally," says Dewey, pouting at Turbo.
"Aren't you grounded?" notes Turbo. "For two months?"
"And I'll resume my punishment and tack on an extra two months when Mama gets back from the hospital."
"Your dad didn't tell me what hospital she's checked in," says Turbo.
"It's on another planet," says Dewey. "They have doctors who might be able to fix Mama."
Another planet with medical research and medicines that could reverse the effects of the Deathwater, muses Turbo silently. That would definitely be useful. "Hey, Dewey," he says aloud. "Can I play?"
"No! You'll bogard the Nintendo again," says Dewey. "Besides, you're a grown-up. You need to act your age."
"I hate being my age, Dewey," Turbo scowls.
"What are you talking about?" says Dewey as pauses his game. "Grown-ups can do whatever they want as long as they don't break the law. Their parents can't tell them what to wear," he continues, "they can eat Pringles and honey buns whenever they want, and they don't have to go to school."
Turbo laughs.
"Why are you laughing at me?" demands Dewey.
"Two reasons," says Turbo.
Dewey stares at him.
"One," continues Turbo, "because your analogy is wrong. Right now, Dewey, all you have to carry around is your book bag. But when you become a grown-up, you get to set down that book bag--only to be told that you have to carry boulders for the rest of your life."
Dewey's eyes widen, then he laughs.
"Oh, I'm not done," says Turbo, grinning. "All the free food, clothes, toys and games you get now: you won't get that anymore.""I know that much; I'll have to get a job when I grow up, Turbo," says Dewey. "Dad says that all the time: 'You need a job, boy'."
"And you want to be in the Air Force like your dad, right?" asks Turbo.
Dewey nods.
"Then you'll have a whole ton of people--who aren't even your parents--telling you what to wear, what to eat, and sometimes even when you can go to the bathroom. If you want to use us Guardians as an example," Turbo continues, "we can't even date each other if we want to."
"Small Foot and Road Ranger's parents were Guardians," counters Dewey.
"Yes; they were Guardians," says Turbo, "but now they're retired."
"Weren't your mama and daddy Guardians?" asks Dewey.
Turbo shrugs. "Yeah, but now they're dead," he says.
"Oh," says Dewey, sympathetic. "I'm sorry."
Turbo rolls his eyes. "Ah, that's okay."
"Don't you miss your parents?" wonders Dewey.
"Nope," says Turbo.
"Why not?" asks Dewey, shocked.
Turbo scowls, uncomfortable with the question. "I don't want to tell you," he says, "because it's scary. You can't even imagine it--and you should thank your god every day and night that it never will."
"What do you mean?" asks Dewey.
"Your parents love you. They want to protect you," continues Turbo, "and they'd never do anything to hurt you. No matter how they feel about themselves inside, your mom and dad would never take their anger or pain out on you. They want you to be safe to play video games, eat Pringles, and be a kid--which, to me, is the most awesome thing I've ever seen."
"Turbo, you act like you've never been a kid before," says Dewey.
"I have never been a kid," smiles Turbo sadly.
Dewey stares at Turbo.
Turbo continues. "I've always had to follow adult rules, take on adult responsibilities, and do adult...things," he says.
"Your parents made you do all of that?" asks Dewey.
Turbo nods.
"Why?" asks Dewey as he studies Turbo. "Why would your parents hurt you?"
"I don't know," says Turbo quietly. "I guess they were sick. Their brains were broken in ways that no medic could ever fix."
Dewey trembles, rubbing his arms.
"I told you it was scary," says Turbo. "Take care, Dewey." He leaves Dewey's room.
Dewey touches his chin, lost in thought. "Turbo never told me the other reason," he muses aloud to himself.
Scene: 9
Small Foot enters a private cemetery, looking at different memorials.
She notes two memorials, for Shichigorou Kaoru and Shichigorou Taiko.
Taiko's has a fading holoimage from her childhood, Small Foot muses, and one of her in Academy dress chroma-keys. Turbo probably does take a bit after her.
Kaoru's memorial has no personal effects left near it at all. Could Turbo's father really have been such a terrible person, wonders Small Foot, that no one has any fond memories of him?
Small Foot gives a small prayer to Kaoru and Taiko's graves. "May my fallen and disgraced Guardian brother and sister find peace," she says.
Small Foot walks away from the memorials, heading toward her actual destination in the cemetery. She sees Pumper at the destination: Kawashima Juuichirou's grave.
Pumper mirthlessly blows through a festive noisemaker. "A selfish part of me will always celebrate his death, Keiko," he says.
"And I'll always love him," says Small Foot.
"I know. That's why the bastard reincarnated himself as Skywarp," says Pumper.
"Reincarnation doesn't have a time-travel component," Small Foot scoffs.
"Skywarp's people built the chronosphere. I don't put anything past the Decepticons," counters Pumper.
"Skywarp was alive when Juuichiro was born, and when you were born," says Small Foot.
"He was on Cybertron fighting in his civil war when we were born," says Pumper.
"Age will not be an issue in our rivalry, Pumper," says Skywarp as he walks up to the two Guardians. "I will make no comments about your youth and inexperience."
"Spare me the Reagan quotes, you ancient frag-off," says Pumper.
"Why?" says Skywarp. "That fleshbag president has Deceptibase surrounded. My view through a window at my lovely undersea home: fish, sharks, orcas eating sharks, giant squid, nuclear fraggin' submarine. And don't let me forget the mines and depth charges."
"Your team subjugated Central City, New York City, and Washington, D. C., fuckwit," says Pumper. "I have no sympathy. Besides, Reagan's treated UNECOM--and thus, the Guardians--quite nicely."
"How much is that costing you?" asks Skywarp.
"We're not the Autobots, okay, pal?" Pumper grins. "We're trained to analyze alien planetary politics."
"Which I have no interest in discussing over Juuichirou's grave," says Small Foot.
Pumper looks down at the grave marker. "Sorry, Juuichi-kun," he says, bowing his head in prayer. "Rest now, my troubled brother."
"Doesn't he mean 'brother-in-arms'? Skywarp quietly asks Small Foot.
"That's not your business," says Small Foot, "and we have enough trouble from a black chroma-keyed jetwarrior actually named 'Snoop'."
Pumper leaves.
"What kind of person do you think I am, Trucksie?" asks Skywarp.
"A lot like Juuichirou," says Small Foot. "A terrible person. I just happen to love terrible people."
"With me, I'm just doing my duty," says Skywarp. "It ain't anything personal--except maybe against the fraggin' humans. Spike Witwicky's species can go straight to hell."
"You're trying to take over Spike's planet and steal the planet's natural resources, you jerk," says Small Foot.
"That's my job, madam Guardian," says Skywarp. "If you're so dead-set against the goals of the Decepticon Cause, then why don't you just rip up our non-aggression treaty--*"
"Which you don't honor," quips Small Foot.
"Only because of your back-handed deals with the Autobots," counters Skywarp.
"And how many times have you secretly aided the Renegades?" says Small Foot.
Skywarp shakes his head."'Oh, and by the way: have you stopped beating your bondmate, Skywarp?'" he counters with a roll of his optics.
"Your bondmate's a war casualty," scoffs Small Foot.
"Yeah? How'd he die?" asks Skywarp, pointing at the grave marker.
Small Foot gives Skywarp a bitter smile. "I killed him," she says.
Skywarp winces, then watches silently as Small Foot sets a few mementos at Juuichirou's grave, then prays.
Scene: 10
"Don't wallow in your grief, Clayton," says Jameson.
General Abernathy lays a rose at his mother's grave. "Shut up, Jonah," he spits. "You're in no position to talk about grief."
"Julia was one of the most important people in my life," counters Jameson.
"And you held the son she bore you at gunpoint," says Abernathy.
"I sired him," says Jameson, smug, "and my taxes pay his salary."
Abernathy rolls his eyes.
"Not to mention yours and your two bastards'," Jameson continues with a smirk.
"He does know that the 'two bastards' are standing behind him, right, Conrad?" Lieutenant Falcone asks Sergeant Hauser.
"Of course, Vinnie," says Hauser. "Let's leave the old men alone."
"Just let me...kiss Grandma goodbye one last time," says Falcone, willing away tears. He walks to the gravestone, kisses it, then leaves with Hauser.
Abernathy and Jameson study the gravestone in silence.
Abernathy breaks the silence. "I could never stand you, Jonah," he says. "You casually break the laws I've sworn to uphold and dedicated my life to defend, and you spent all of six months in a luxury prison suite," he adds bitterly.
"Don't go there, Clayton," counters Jameson. "Your entire organization's existence violates several laws."
"No more than the Howling Commandos or SHIELD," says Abernathy, "and you're already on Nick's shit list."
"For what?" asks Jameson.
"He thinks your photograph layout skills stink," says Abernathy.
Jameson stares at Abernathy, confused.
Abernathy shrugs. "I don't know either," he says.
"If you feel I got off too easily," asks Jameson after another moment of silence, "then why didn't you have the Solicitor General push harder?"
"Because of your insane recklessness," says Abernathy, "I got to see it. I got to see the bastard who created the worms that killed my mother die. If I'm upset with you at all," he continues, "it's because you didn't let me in on it."
Jameson grins. "Falcone's definitely your son, then."
"How dare you! He and I are nothing alike!" counters Abernathy smilingly.
"Except for every aspect of his personality being a perfect reflection of you back in college," says Jameson, "he's not like you at all."
"All I know is that you'd better give that legal team of yours a damned raise," says Abernathy.
"But I spent six months in prison!" scoffs Jameson.
Abernathy grins. "Perry Mason couldn't have gotten your ass off, Jonah," he says, laughing.
"I tried to hire local with Murdock," says Jameson, "but he wouldn't take the case."
"He doesn't defend guilty clients," says Abernathy, "and even Murdock had seen your guilt a mile off."
The two men laugh.
"It was good to see you again, Clayton--you asshole," says Jameson.
"Likewise, Jonah--you maniac," says Abernathy.
Jameson and Abernathy shake hands, briefly hug, then leave the grave.
Scene: 11
Slingshot leaves med bay, meeting Silverbolt outside. "Hey, Bolt: this time Slag was my fraggin' keeper," he says, annoyed.
Silverbolt smiles at Slingshot. "What did he do to prevent you from skipping your exam?" he asks.
"He sat on me!" balks Slingshot. "I laid down on the berth, and Slag transformed and sat on me."
Silverbolt's optics brighten.
"That fragger is heavy!" Slingshot pouts.
Silverbolt puts an arm around Slingshot, drawing the Class Five to him in a friendly gesture. "That's okay," he says. "You can tell me all about it."
Slingshot squirms. "Sir," he says, blushing slightly, "Red Alert--*"
"Red specifically told me that he didn't need your help," says Silverbolt, "and he also ordered me not to let you help Huffer, Grapple, or Hoist. In fact, to save you time," Silverbolt continues, "Red told me not to let you out of my sight."
"You're joking," says Slingshot.
"Nope. That stunt you pulled in order to learn about Optimus' big mission?" says Silverbolt. "Red told me that it was a security risk he could not afford to leave unchecked."
"But I'm not a threat," says Slingshot, hurt.
"He knows that; Red realizes that you genuinely want to help," says Silverbolt, patting Slingshot's shoulder. "Red's just worried that Soundwave might hack your brain and force you to be an unwilling spy."
"Oh, now that's paranoid--even for Red!" spits Slingshot.
Silverbolt sighs. "It would be," he says, "except that it has happened before. Soundwave controlled Bumblebee, and Bombshell controlled Mirage. This is not counting the personality modifiers or the Negavator incident," continues Silverbolt.
"It's okay, Bolt," says Slingshot. "What you're saying--and what he's saying: it makes perfect sense." Slingshot looks down at the ground.
Silverbolt abruptly halts, scoops Slingshot into his arms, and carries Slingshot bridal-style into the Aerialbots common room.
"What the hell are you doing, Silverbolt?" Slingshot demands. "Put me down!"
"I will; just be patient," says Silverbolt calmly.
Air Raid notes the commotion. "When were you going to send us invitations?" he quips.
Fireflight nudges Air Raid. "I don't think we're invited to this phase," he says cannily.
"Skydive! Do something!" says Slingshot.
Skydive sets down his datapad. "Not a problem," he says.
Slingshot continues to struggle in Silverbolt's arms.
Skydive walks past the couple to Silverbolt's quarters, placing a sign on the door.
Silverbolt licks Slingshot's cheek. "Thanks, Skydive," he says.
Slingshot reads the sign. "'Do not disturb?' Skydive," he spits, "I needed you to help me!"
"You asked me to do something," says Skydive, "so I did. For the record," he continues, "I am helping you."
"How is letting my wing leader have his way with me going to help me?" asks Slingshot.
"I don't know," says Skydive, picking up his datapad. "You should let him have his way with you and tell me how it works out." Skydive winks at Slingshot, then resumes reading his datapad.
"You frag-offs are the worst wingmates ever!" spits Slingshot as Silverbolt carries him into the commander's personal quarters.
"Yeah, but we're the only ones you got!" says Air Raid.
"Deal with it!" adds Fireflight.
Scene: 12
Red Alert watches the live surveillance feed from Silverbolt's quarters inside Red Alert's own quarters, a rare expression of whimsy on his face.
"So you are a romantic," says Sparky, watching the feed with Red Alert.
"Romance will help me to maintain base security by redirecting Slingshot's passions to more appropriate channels," says Red Alert. "It's quite a valuable tool. Wouldn't you agree?" he asks, leveling a knowing smirk at Sparky.
"I don't follow," says Sparky.
"I think you do," counters Red Alert. "I think what started as a little act on your part," he continues, stroking Sparky's cheek, "became quite real during our activities in my office."
"We didn't do anything serious," counters Sparky, blushing.
"You definitely have to admit that my hands are warm," says Red Alert, "especially compared to the med students from Gobotron."
Sparky slaps Red Alert.
Red Alert rubs his cheek. "Do that again," he says, smiling.
Sparky glares at Red Alert, this time throwing a punch.
Red Alert grips Sparky's fist, then draws her into a heated kiss.
Scene: 13
Megatron enters the transmission room, where Soundwave is already seated.
"Incoming transmission, Megatron," reports Soundwave. "From Autobot Headquarters."
"Which Autobot wants to speak with me?" asks Megatron.
Soundwave pauses briefly. "Optimus Prime," he says.
Megatron strokes his chin. "Are there any other listeners on this comm frequency?" he asks.
"Affirmative: Autobot field commanders Ultra Magnus, Elita One, Liokaiser, Ginrai, and Pointblank; Guardian Governor-general Leader One. Conversation likely monitored by Autobot and Guardian intelligence arms."
"Then you will leave, and monitor this discussion with the standard methods," says Megatron.
"As you command." Soundwave opens the transmission and starts to leave.
Optimus Prime's face appears on the monitor. "Don't bother leaving, Soundwave," he says. "I want this on the record."
Soundwave turns to Megatron, who nods. Soundwave resumes his seat.
"Soundwave," orders Megatron, "patch this frequency through to Shockwave, and inform Starscream that I require his presence."
"Yes, Megatron," says Soundwave as he complies with Megatron's orders.
"Now, Prime," asks Megatron, "what is this about?"
"Something that would benefit us both at this point," says Optimus. "This truce that we have is a rare opportunity that I will not waste," he continues, "and I'm sure that even you can see its advantages."
"What is this mutually beneficial thing?" asks Megatron as Starscream enters the transmission room.
Optimus stares gravely at Megatron. "Peace," he says.
Scene: 14
Ironhide shakes his head, observing as Optimus' conversation with Megatron grows heated. "This ain't gonna work," he says.
"He wouldn't be Optimus if he didn't at least try," states Prowl.
"Yeah; didn't he try to reason with Prime Nova?" asks Jazz.
Ratchet nods.
At Teletraan, Optimus continues arguing. "My terms are reasonable," he says. "You can't expect to retain control of the planets you've conquered."
"I am not merely thinking of Cybertron's benefit, Prime," counters Megatron, "but of the planets I rule as well. Our active presence in our colonies maintains order. If we engage unilateral withdrawal from all of our territories," he continues, "there will be a power vacuum, and tons of chaos. How would you forestall such disaster?"
"If you had left those worlds in peace, there would never have been the danger of power vacuums," says Optimus.
"A steady flow of energon is vital to our people's survival, Prime," says Megatron.
"And that steady flow can occur through open and honest free trade," says Optimus, "which can start when we rebuild the major port city of Stardust Memory--a city you destroyed, by the way."
"Prime, if peace is what you truly seek, then these recriminations are pointless," says Megatron.
"This discussion is pointless," scoffs Ultra Magnus over the frequency.
"Magnus!" says Optimus.
"Forgive me, Optimus," says Ultra Magnus. "I was out of line."
"The only true--and long-standing--obstruction to peace on Cybertron is the Autobots, Prime," says Starscream. "That is the unpleasant reality you refuse to face."
"Because the Autobots categorically reject the false principle of 'peace through tyranny'. This," Optimus continues, showing the Decepticons the Daily Bugle video of Nova's disintegration, "is the end of all tyrannies."
"Optimus," says Megatron, grinning, "I could watch that all day. It's tempting to accept your offer of reconciliation," he continues, "but your price is too high."
"We will not sell ourselves or the innocents of the universe short," says Optimus.
Megatron glances at Soundwave, then faces Optimus through the monitor. "My terms stand: the Autobots' unconditional surrender in return for complete amnesty for your past crimes against the Cybertron state."
Optimus scowls.
"You have until Earthian date January 2nd to render your decision to me, Prime," Megatron continues. "Shall we have peace, or a resumption of hostilities? Megatron out." Megatron ends the transmission.
Pointblank appears on the screen. "You knew, beat for beat, how that conversation would turn out, Optimus," he says. "Why did you torture yourself?"
"We all need our bitter war to end," says Optimus. He leaves Teletraan, heading to his office.
Scene: 15
"Why'd you do all of this?" asks Slingshot, in Silverbolt's arms.
Silverbolt gently touches Slingshot's chin. "We need each other, Slingshot."
Slingshot snorts. "I need you and your fraggin' fear of heights like I need a hole in my head," he scoffs.
"If it weren't for me," says Silverbolt, "you'd already have several holes in your head."
"Funny," says Slingshot, "I seem to remember Motormaster pounding in my nosecone and Fireflight had to save me because you were trembling like a delicate leaf in the air."
"You just won't let me live that down, will you?" says Silverbolt, pouting.
"You won't let me live down being a fragging Starscream fanbot," says Slingshot ruefully.
"You won't let yourself live it down," says Silverbolt.
"That's right--because that was stupid of me," says Slingshot, "and it could have gotten us all killed."
"We all had stasis fog...look." Silverbolt stares into Slingshot's visor. "Why do you have so much guilt running through you?"
Slingshot tenses up.
"I can feel it, Slingshot; a heavy weight on your soul," Silverbolt continues.
Slingshot turns his head.
"Face me," orders Silverbolt. "What are you ashamed of?"
Slingshot obeys, scowling. "Fooling around with you, sir," he says.
Silverbolt smiles thinly, drawing Slingshot closer to him. "I left myself wide open for that," he says, "because your attitude no longer bothers me. It's just a symptom."
"Oh, so you're a medic now?" asks Slingshot.
"The many ad hoc emergency field repairs I've had to perform on you to save your cute aft pretty much qualifies me to take Ratchet's job," says Silverbolt, kissing Slingshot.
Slingshot pushes Silverbolt away. "Symptom of what, then?" he asks, blushing.
"The pain and self-loathing you keep to yourself," says Silverbolt. "You try to push us away with harsh words, throw up all kinds of emotional barriers and walls. Why?"
"I...ain't got nothin' to say, sir," says Slingshot, a stony expression on his face.
"Let me in, Slingshot," says Silverbolt. "Accept my love."
"I didn't ask for your fraggin' love!" spits Slingshot.
"You want it," counters Silverbolt, touching Slingshot's binary bond hatch, "and it's yours for the taking."
Slingshot trembles as the hatch opens, clutching his bond plug. "I...I can't!" he says as he tries to force the plug back into the hatch on his chest.
"Yes," says Silverbolt, his own bond hatch opening and revealing his bond plug. "Be my bondmate. Wouldn't that make you happy?"
Slingshot grips his own bond plug with one hand and punches Silverbolt with the other. "No," he says, seething. "It would ruin everything we have!"
Silverbolt stares at Slingshot, hurt. "Why?"
"It ain't your concern, sir," says Slingshot, stalking out of Silverbolt's quarters.
Silverbolt nudges his bond plug back into its hatch. "I won't relinquish you, Slingshot," he says. "I will never relinquish the love of my soul."
Scene: 16
Thruster One, escorted by several Guardian shuttles, lands on Gobotron.
Spoons exits Thruster One first, escorted by Staks.
Spoons scowls at Staks. "You're a real piece of work," she says.
"It's for the best," says Staks.
All of the other Bike Hero Renegades exit Thruster One...to a hero's welcome.
Cy-Kill's optics widen. "This...is astonishing!" he says.
"Flabbergasted enough, old friend?" asks Leader One in a bitter tone.
Cy-Kill responds with equal bitterness. "Quite so, Leader One," he says.
"The people," Leader One continues, "have decided to grant Bike Hero and your counterparts in Wing Zero conditional amnesty. We believe that in lending your assistance to us during the Devilspawn incident, you have demonstrated genuine concern for Gobotron's well being."
Cy-Kill strokes his chin.
"This has moved the people's hearts to spare your lives," says Leader One, "and you all have earned a second chance to be lawful citizens of Gobotron." Leader One disappears into the crowd of cheering Gobots.
I doubt that this will resolve matters between us, Leader One, muses Cy-Kill, studying a confused Crasher, not until you have found your name.
"Let me get this straight," Loco says to Crasher. "We're...free?"
Crasher sighs. "More or less," she says, "though I doubt it'll last long. Gobotron still has the same problems we're rebelling against."
"That's true," says Spoons, placing a hand on Crasher's shoulder, "but let's give peace a chance--just for a little while."
Crasher turns to Cy-Kill. "Do we accept their amnesty, Cy-Kill?" she asks.
"I'm considering it carefully," says Cy-Kill, "and I certainly want to make amends to my bondmate."
"Yukimaru Ikuko?" asks Crasher. "I thought she divorced you M-cycles ago."
"We are merely estranged," says Cy-Kill. "Pay a visit to our Governor-general, Crasher," he continues, "and learn the exact conditions of our amnesty. We don't want to sell ourselves at too low a price."
"I don't want to sell myself at all," says Crasher, smiling thinly. She takes to the sky, heading to the Governor's mansion.
The crowd disperses, leaving Cy-Kill alone with Fitor.
"Even now, you consider him a friend," says Fitor with an understanding smile.
"Yes. I owe Leader One that much, at least," says Cy-Kill, "and Crasher must have her reward for her dedication. I am also forever a friend to you, Daizaburo. Only my loyalty to Gobotron is greater."
Fitor grins.
"My loyalty to Gobotron...is absolute!" Cy-Kill declares with dramatic flourish.
Scene: 17
Megatron listens as Skywarp concludes his oral mission report.
"That's everything, Megatron," Skywarp says. "More details are logged in our respective after-action reports."
"You have not failed me, Skywarp," says Megatron. "Starscream's performance during this mission, however, was substandard."
Skywarp bows, while Starscream scowls.
Megatron turns to Soundwave. "Soundwave," he orders, "give your recommendation: based on all logged after-action reports, this mission report, and your analysis."
Soundwave nods, then pauses.
Starscream studies Soundwave. What is that transceiver plotting this time? he wonders silently.
"Soundwave," says Skywarp through internal radio, "just leave the fraggin' planet alone. It ain't worth our time."
"Explain. Recommendation contradicts planetary readings," states Soundwave.
"One, the Guardians have the organics tied up in one of their alliances, so our damn treaty with Gobotron's in the way. Two," Skywarp continues silently to Soundwave, "in about two hundred K-cycles, the planet goes 'boom' because of its sun's heat death."
"Possibility to harvest raw materials exists," counters Soundwave.
"With the Autobots in a nearby solar system--that is to say, this one? Come on, Soundwave," scoffs Skywarp, "you're the fraggin' genius in this outfit: do the math."
Soundwave considers Skywarp's suggestion. "Acknowledged," he states to Skywarp via radio.
Megatron drums his fingers on his throne's armrest, studying Soundwave. "I'm waiting," he says.
Soundwave begins. "Planet acquisition: not recommended," he says.
"On what basis?" asks Megatron.
"No gain for Decepticon objectives," says Soundwave.
Megatron rises from his throne, punches Soundwave to the ground, then plants a foot on Soundwave's head. "I can analyze reports as well, Soundwave," he says, "and, to be generous, I think you're mistaken."
Soundwave remains silent.
"You're a bit overworked, Soundwave," says Megatron jovially. "Rest!" With a kick to Soundwave's head, Megatron knocks Soundwave offline.
Starscream and Skywarp stare at Megatron in shock.
"Unlike the Guardians," Megatron continues with a glare at Skywarp, "we are not a charity organization. We have expended resources in eradicating Nova Prime as well as the Devilspawn--an understandable overreach of our initial mission objectives, but an overreach nonetheless."
Starscream smirks. "Soundwave merely stated that any further effort we expend to secure the planet for our purposes would be greater than any resources we'd gain," he says.
"I would like to judge that for myself, Starscream," counters Megatron, "rather than allow easily-swayed fools to think for me."
Skywarp scowls at the ground.
"When Soundwave wakes from his rest cycle," says Megatron, "we will pay a visit to the planet, and I will determine a way to recoup our losses that won't provoke Autobot or Guardian interference."
"Yes, Megatron," says Starscream, stepping over Soundwave as he exits the ready room.
"Skywarp," says Megatron, smiling thinly at the dark jetwarrior. "I trust that I've made my position clear."
"Crystalline, sir," says Skywarp, sullen.
"Good. You are dismissed until our time of departure."
Skywarp salutes Megatron, then departs the ready room.
Megatron silently alerts Rumble and Frenzy to retrieve Soundwave.
"This exercise of mine, Soundwave," Megatron says to Soundwave's inert body, "will not only maintain order within my ranks, but will help me curb your nasty over-thinking habits. I rule the Decepticons," he continues, "and no other shall rule me."
Megatron leaves the ready room as Rumble and Frenzy enter.
The two small mechs study Soundwave.
"What'd the Boss do to torque Megatron?" wonders Frenzy.
"I don't wanna find out," says Rumble. "Now how are we gonna lug Soundwave outta here?"
Scene: 18
Crasher stands outside the Governor-general's residence, a bit discomfited. Mommy just had to change my chroma-key, she says to herself. I haven't been in white and blue since high school.
The housekeeper opens the door to the mansion. "You may enter now, Mazaki-san," she says.
"Uh, thanks...," says Crasher as she nods to the housekeeper and enters the mansion.
Inside, Crasher walks into the kitchen, where Leader One is cooking and talking into a comm headset at the same time.
Crasher folds her arms. Such a fragging showoff, she quips silently, smiling. I can't believe I had a crush on this conceited idiot.
Leader One notes Crasher, a relieved smile on his face. I can't believe I'm actually relieved that Crasher's in my house, he notes wryly to himself, but Karakawa's even worse in her way.
"Don't you dare plot to blow me off again!" Karakawa yells into Leader One's headset. "I will come over there! I do know where you live!"
"As does every citizen of Gobotron, Karakawa-san," says Leader One, "and at this time, I'm in the middle of state business, so I can't come to my appointment with you."
"You lying sleaze," Crasher says to Leader One via radio.
"Shut up and let me get this other glitch off the comm line," says Leader One over Crasher's radio.
Crasher rolls her optics.
"You will have twenty-four hours of my time tomorrow, Karakawa-san. Good day." Leader One ends the transmission as he finishes his rust stir-fry.
"You make your own meals?" scoffs Crasher.
Leader One shrugs. "Why not?" he asks.
"Listen," says Crasher, "I don't want to intrude on your meal, so I'll keep this brief. I--*"
"Please," says Leader One, escorting Crasher to the dining nook, "stay for dinner."
"Why?" Crasher demands.
Leader One leans close to Crasher. "I'll pay you," he whispers. "There are a few of Senator Karakawa's bodyguards spying on the mansion," he continues, "doing so at his insufferable daughter's request."
"You're under court order to report to that poor girl," says Crasher quietly.
"Thanks for reminding me: it's your fault that I must report to the 'poor girl'," hisses Leader One.
"That," says Crasher aloud, blushing, "and other acts that Bike Hero and Wing Zero have committed are what I and other Renegades are receiving 'conditional amnesty' for. I came here at Yukimaru-san's request to learn of the state's exact conditions," she continues. "We don't want any misunderstandings."
"Understood," says Leader One aloud, placing a hand on Crasher's shoulder. "There's a bit of ground to cover," he continues, "and it would be easier for us to cover over dinner." He squeezes Crasher's shoulder.
Crasher pouts. "I hate stir-fry," she spits.
Leader One returns the pout. "It's all I can make on my own," he says. "I usually order takeout."
"What are our planetary taxes paying for?" scoffs Crasher, grinning. "Hire a chef!"
"Not unless you've tasted and hate my stir-fry," says Leader One, offering stir-fry laden chopsticks.
Crasher reluctantly tastes the stir-fry. "Hm. You might be able to cook if someone competent teaches you," she says.
"In other words, it's not terrible by your standards," says Leader One, "so I don't have to go through the long, bureaucratic process of hiring a chef for the Governor-general's residence."
Crasher nods.
"I also take it that you think you're a better cook than I am," Leader One continues.
"I know I am, Governor-general," says Crasher. "My mommy taught me how to cook, and I was formally trained as part of Feminine Studies."
"Ah. I take it your mother also dressed you for this engagement," says Leader One.
"You think?" asks Crasher, glaring at her white finish. "Mommy thinks this is a date," she continues, "and I don't like the fact that 'Yukimaru-san' sent me here instead of 'Choufunsha-san'."
"It does seem rather suspiciously like a date when you put it like that," says Leader One, setting a plate of stir-fry in front of Crasher.
"What? Because your pitiful cover story would have been more convincing if the blowhard had shown up for dinner?" asks Crasher.
"Yes. So, since Karakawa-san will give me the damned riot act in the morning," says Leader One, sitting down with his own plate of stir-fry, "please oblige me: let's share some stir-fry and a bad Earth movie or two."
"Fine," says Crasher. "Just make sure to answer my questions."
Scene: 19
"This is our last stop, right, Air Raid?" asks Skydive as he and Air Raid arrive at the prison asteroid Elba.
"Yeah," says Air Raid. "It ain't fair that the humans didn't get any kudos from the natives on that planet."
"Maybe they believe that kindness will be paid forward," says Skydive. "That's what Mrs. Newcastle told me before she left for that planet."
"And A. J. said: 'I was just doing my duty'. I really don't get humans at times," says Air Raid as he transforms and approaches two Guardian guards. Skydive follows behind Air Raid.
One guard, Street Heat, blocks the two Aerialbots. "Do you have authorization?" he asks.
"We do not require authorization," says Air Raid sedately, waving his hand in front of Street Heat's face.
"What?" Street Heat stares at Air Raid.
"We are not the droids you're looking for," Air Raid continues.
Skydive, scowling, punches Air Raid. "Ignore him, please," he says to Street Heat, handing the Guardian a datapad. "Here's our visitor's clearance from the Governor-general's office."
Street Heat scans the datapad, then hands it to the other guard, who also looks it over.
"Why'd you have to hit me?" asks Air Raid, pouting.
"We have enough Star Wars jokes from the last mission to last a lifetime," says Skydive wryly.
"At least you get to go on missions," sighs Street Heat. "I've always got security detail at this damn asteroid."
"Why would you want to visit Dr. Braxis?" asks the other Guardian.
Air Raid shrugs. "Braxis done some good," he says, "and we're here to give the devil his due."
"Be careful," says Street Heat. "That guy is almost as cagey as Cy-Kill."
"I still can't believe that the homefront has effectively issued a pardon to the fraggin' Renegades," says the other Guardian. "We didn't ask for their help."
Irritated, Air Raid starts to respond; Skydive places a hand on Air Raid's shoulder.
"What?" hisses Air Raid over the LAN. "I don't like it when fraggers bag on others."
"We have business," says Skydive to Air Raid, "and we don't need to antagonize our otherwise-gracious hosts."
The two jetwarriors enter the prison; they eventually arrive at Braxis' cell. Braxis, hearing footsteps, sets down his book.
"Hey, what's up, Doc?" says Air Raid.
"Of course you realize," answers Braxis in kind, "this means war."
"One Bugs Bunny quote deserves another," says Skydive.
"May I ask why the two of you have graced me with a visit?" asks Braxis.
"Yeah," says Air Raid, "but that doesn't mean we'll...."
Skydive raises his fist.
Air Raid scowls. "We're giving you an award," he says, "and Skydive's a killjoy."
"I just don't like having stupidity reach critical mass," says Skydive.
"Ah, a kindred spirit," says Braxis.
"Anyway," says Air Raid, "we didn't like that the natives of the planet we saved shafted all the humans that helped out of any honor, so we decided to make up for it with our own award." Air Raid presents Braxis a makeshift medal.
Braxis studies the medal. "Did you craft this yourself?" he asks.
"No; I bugged Slingy to make it. Sludge designed it, though," says Air Raid.
"Thank you," says Braxis. "I'm genuinely touched by the thought."
"We just wanted to do right by you and other people," says Air Raid.
"Your contributions and valor should be honored," adds Skydive, "great or small."
Braxis sighs. "Let me explain something: humanity, when it tries," he says, "can do marvelous things on a regular basis. We, being no different than our alien hosts," Braxis continues, "simply did what was expected of us."
Air Raid and Skydive studies Braxis.
"So, please," says Braxis, "don't take offense on our behalf, or believe that we were slighted. We really didn't do very much."
"I don't follow," says Air Raid.
"If you say so," adds Skydive. "In any event," he continues, "the award is still yours."
"Street Heat says our visiting time's up," says Air Raid, "so we'll see you when your sentence is finished, chief."
"Take care," says Skydive. Both Aerialbots leave Braxis alone in his cell.
"I'm in for life," says Braxis, studying his new medal. "If I weren't," he continues, "then I'd have to put this award in storage with all of the others I've won."
Scene: 20
The village headman shakes Swindle's finger. "That ought to seal the deal, then," he says.
"Yes, sir," says Swindle. "You've made a wise choice in dealing with us."
"Sir Swindle has issued the same litany to each leader on this world," notes the High Chieftess to Hot Spot and Megatron.
"The truth is a strong sales device for him," says Megatron, smiling.
"I hope you all know what you're doing," says Hot Spot to the High Chieftess.
"Come now; hasn't this been the Autobots' major complaint about us?" says Megatron. "We steal away other worlds' resources; we are 'ransackers of kingdoms'."
"That is what you do," Hot Spot asserts.
"Only to our enemies, and those who would irrationally oppose us," says Megatron. "As for our allies: people of reason and vision who have extended their hands to us in honest friendship," he continues, "we deal peaceably with them."
"That is to say, you Decepticons would shaft them hard if given half the chance," says Turbo with a hard grin to Megatron, "but the Guardians are a surety against any deceit."
Megatron glares briefly at Turbo.
Hot Spot turns his head. "I hate politics," he says.
The High Chieftess touches Hot Spot's hands. "We have entered this bargain with our eyes open," she says, "and we are all ready to begin anew."
A few hours later, the last of the planet's natives board Spay-C, headed to their new world.
T'Challa tenses his fist, looking at the now-abandoned village of Nzunda. "The peoples of this world were cheated," he says.
"It's their chance to settle on a new world, free of false gods and cruel, arbitrary punishments," counters Tony Stark.
"In order to avoid the struggle needed for them to thrive with their own strength," says T'Challa, "they made a deal with the devil."
"Worse, Your Majesty," quips Stark. "They made a deal with the Decepticons."
Nicholas Fury lights a cigar. "Gentlemen," he says, "it's up to us to make sure this shit deal doesn't bite our good Mama Earth in the ass."
T'Challa and Stark nod.
Scene: 21
In his flat, Pumper stirs; half-awake, he kisses a lover.
Small Foot and Futaba bring breakfast, only to drop it in shock as they watch Pumper...
...kiss Skywarp.
The kiss rouses Skywarp from his rest cycle.
Pumper breaks the kiss. "Good morning, Keiko," says Pumper to the amused Skywarp, still half-awake.
"Good morning, Jurogorou-san," smiles Small Foot, standing outside the bed.
Futaba stifles a giggle. "I believe you are mistaken, anata," she says.
"What...?" moans Pumper languidly as he raises his head; he notes that Small Foot and Futaba are outside the bed. "Who the hell did I kiss, then?" he asks.
"You ain't half-bad," says Skywarp with a wide grin. "Ohio to you, too."
Pumper whips his head toward Skywarp, refreshing his optics. "You bastard!" he spits. "You should have stopped me!"
"Why?" asks Skywarp, drawing Pumper into a hug. "It was just starting to get interesting."
Pumper shoves Skywarp away. "Get the fuck away from me!" he sputters.
Small Foot laughs, while Futaba giggles.
"And you two women!" says Pumper to the two femmes. "Get your lovely afts back in this berth so that I can reassert my manhood!"
"Please allow us to take Skywarp off your hands," says a new voice.
Skywarp scowls at the new speaker, Starscream. "Go away, Screamer," says Skywarp. "I'm busy."
Starscream grabs Skywarp and hurls him out of Pumper's berth, into a wall. "No! As I have resumed command," says Starscream, "you will answer to me!"
Skywarp snorts at Starscream. "It was great last night, ladies," he says to Small Foot and Futaba, bowing to them. "I'm always happy to--*"
Thundercracker drags Skywarp out of Pumper's bedroom. "Let's get moving, Truckhumper," he says.
"You both can frag off!" spits Skywarp as the three Seekers leave Pumper's flat.
Futaba, still giggling, rubs Pumper's back. "Daijoubu ka, anata?" she asks.
Pumper tries to clean his oral sensor array with a blanket as Small Foot continues laughing.
END SPECIAL TEN
AFTERWORD
The story started out as a simple TRANSFORMERS and GOBOTS fight eldritch wyrms that impregnate women bit, but it evolved, in part, to help me vent my frustration with religious social conservatism in my beloved country, the United States.
In any event, I thought it'd be a great way to bring an aged-yet-invincible Nova Prime into the story. (I introduce the evil Prime in his prime during the second part of THIRTEEN, which I will post at another time, after I've rested from this arc.) I made this work by thinking of Nova emulating the words and grandiosity of (an out-of-context distortion of) the KJV Old Testament depiction of God. (IOW, said God as perceived by Richard Dawkins.) By the time that the battle reaches its climax, it's clear what drives Nova: he feels rejected by his people for doing what he earnestly believed he was created to do...by Alpha Trion.
If you've read THIRTEEN (and if you haven't, here's a shameless plug: please read THIRTEEN), then you may recall how A-3's (the future Alpha Trion) hubris had caused trouble for the freedom fighters in that story. In this case, Alpha's prejudicial fear and intellectual hubris in placing the Matrix within an unworthy vessel led to great destruction, and widened the rift between the Autobots and (the group of flight-capable mechs who eventually became) the Decepticons.
Of course, if you're reading this, you've discovered that Nova's not so invincible. This was my chance to show what the Puzzler could truly do (with help). It's also a series of character studies for the major players involved, although everyone gets a moment to shine...and their moment in the darkness.
Finally, I've made it clear that one of the themes of the whole TFCS metaseries is this: "Bigotry will create monsters destroy us all".
In any event, I had fun writing this story arc, riffing the story arc while writing it, and I truly hope you enjoyed the story arc.
~ acsound
- 9
- 10
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Curse of the Devilspawn!