Command Center

          This circular room was formerly the bridge when the base was a viable spaceship. Now used as the Command Center, it is dominated by the large central viewing screen. The screen is linked to the main computer system, and can display anything from energon production reports to tactical updates to topside weather information. The various other bridge control stations have been converted to monitor and control the various mechanisms and activities of the base. They curve around the room from the door to the central viewscreen.

Ravage [Jaguar]
Megatron [Robot]
Obvious exits:
<S> South leads to Access Corridor.

Megatron is very pleased with the actual state of the new base. All systems work properly.

Megatron says, "The Autobots think they have defeated us..."

Soundwave is at his usual communications station, though he's in the process of typing up a report, when he detects the entry of others. He turns from his station and nods to Megatron in greeting, then to Ravage.

Megatron grins. "...and yet we survive."

Ravage doesn't really nod.. he just hops up onto a chair and gives Soundwave a glance before he sinks down onto his hunches.

Soundwave stands and acknowledges Megatron's words with a slight flickering of his optics. "We survive," he agrees, "and all geothermal stations are operating at satisfactory capacity."

Buzzsaw arrives from Access Corridor.

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "What's going on?"

You paged Ravage with '(tel) I expect Megatron to give orders for our continued activity on this world. I would be surprised if we were to remain hidden much longer.'.

You say, "Commander, you asked about our new arrival. I have just now filed the report, but I can inform you in person. Ravage may have input as well."

Ravage remains silent... he has nothing new.. and the fact that he already finds Chasm annoying is evident.

Megatron turns to Soundwave. "Chasm? Yes, please report. I want to know EVERYTHING!"

Megatron says, "Ruse already told me a few things. And some of them I really didn't like to hear..."

Megatron's expression darkens a bit.

Soundwave folds his arms and considers, his gaze travelling thoughtfully to his two creations present, then back to his leader. "It is a most unusual situation," he says. "Two nights ago as I was monitoring this planet's radio transmissions, I received a contact - a telepathic contact, the barest trace."

Megatron impatiently. "Continue!"

Buzzsaw soars in, hesitating as he sees the two talking. he floats carefully down and lands beside Ravage quietly.

Ravage looks to Buzzsaw and nods giving his brother a little head nudge.

Megatron fold his arms in front of his chest. "Chasm, I suppose."

Soundwave nods to Megatron. "Indeed. Chasm. He came with a truly strange tale, once we could get him to unfold and speak to us, either physically or telepathically."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Megatron. Planet Cybertron to Megatron. Are you there Megatron?"

Megatron jerks around, staring at the monitor. "Shockwave... We have contact again!"

Buzzsaw peers at Ravage, then looks between Shocks and Megs inquiringly.

Ravage looks up at the screen to once more behold Shockwave's ugly mug... millions of light years and they couldn't have added a holographic image enhancer to ease our shock..

Soundwave turns quickly to the communications controls, relegating the subject of Chasm to a later time. He makes a few adjustments, allowing Shockwave's somewhat wavery image to come up on screen.

Soundwave steps aside from the screen, giving Megatron the central space before it.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "I am. Greetings, Shockwave, Guardian of Cybertron!"

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Greetings Megatron, leader of the Decepticons."

Ravage heaves a silent sigh... waiting for the militaristic greetings to end and for business to start...

Soundwave steps back and watches with interest, as this is the first time communications have been established clearly from Cybertron, as opposed to the previous staticky and transient efforts.

Buzzsaw rolls his optics at the greetings, agreeing with Ravage on the subject of such formalities. He remains quiet, of course.

Soundwave makes another minor adjustment to the controls, tuning in the picture more clearly, compensating for a burst of static.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Report Status of Cybertron, Shockwave."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Our supply of energon cubes is dangerously low. But our new intergalactic transport system is almost complete."

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Excellent! We shall begin processing energon cubes immediately."

<LongRange> Megatron says, " We'll suck this planet dry..."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Thank you Megatron. We shall need to coordinate to finish the plans for the space bridge."

Soundwave looks to Megatron questioningly at the mention of an intergalactic transport system, but does not voice his question aloud.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Shockwave, the Computer is ready to receive the data files about the transport system. Code 7-65."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "I shall transmit the specifications immediately. We would benefit greatly from your input."

<LongRange> Megatron says, "I'm awaiting your transmission. Megatron out."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Power to the Decepticons. Cybertron out."

Soundwave takes his place at his station again as Shockwave's image disappears from the screen and text and code starts scrolling across it, along with blueprints flashing on for a second and then going on into storage in the computer's memory banks.

Ruse arrives from Access Corridor.

Ruse wanders in, stretching after a nice long recharge...

Soundwave watches intently as the data scrolls past, seemingly absorbing it even as the text flies by.

Megatron watches the incoming data as well.

Buzzsaw watches from the floor, easily recording it all and storing it away himself. Gotta love those wonderful camera eyes.

As the transmission ends, Soundwave quickly brings up a key screenful of data that shows blueprints and formulas, and freezes it onscreen. "I was not aware Shockwave was putting this theory into practice," he muses to himself.

Ruse walks over behind the two large mecha and watches the screen silently...

Megatron rubs his chin. "Brilliant idea... He creates a Space... BRIDGE by building a wormhole between Cybertron and Earth..."

You say, However, it has never been proven to be possible, Commander."

Ravage rises up and hops down from his chair venturing over to Soundwave... this... space bridge sounds most interesting indeed.

Soundwave puts one hand lightly on Ravage's neck as he studies the screen. Yes, all the theory is there, but can it *work*?

Ruse speaks up, "Well if someone doesn't try it, we will never know."

Ravage looks at the scrolling data and just quietly murrs *Starscream can test it...*

Megatron says, "I know... The problem was to "hit the target" for establishing a stable connection... The planetary movement made it necessary to recalculate the coordinates by the astrosecond..."

Megatron starts pacing up and down in front of the screen. It's obvious his mind is working feverishly.

Soundwave nods, bringing up an insert screen with some additional data.

You say, "All the pieces seem to fit, and yet - something is apparently missing. Or else Shockwave would not have requested your assistance."

Megatron says, "A little mistake in the calculation and you miss your target by lightyears... That is too unsecure..."

Soundwave looks to Ruse. "You are correct about one thing, Ruse, if it is not tested we will never know. But the consequences of a mistake would be fatal for the traveler."

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "Who will test it ?"

Soundwave brings up another subscreen. "You see, Commander - the containment field that forms the walls of the wormhole. The slightest contact with it, and any physical object will be vaporized to its atomic state."

Skywarp has arrived.

Megatron says, "That is our second problem. But the main problem is to get the end of the wormhole to Earth..."

Ruse hmmms and murmurs towards Ravage, "As much as I would love to have Starscream go over the bridge, Ravage, I really doubt that ego would fit even into a wormhole." She looks to Soundwave, "Wouldn't a drone work?"

You paged Ravage with '(tel) Reviewing this data, I would not consider it safe to ask anyone to test the bridge at this time.'.

You say, A drone, perhaps - if we could establish a stable connection to begin with."

Skywarp steps into the Command Centre from the access corridor and stops a few steps behind Megatron. He leans against a console and tries to figure out what the fun is for this evening.

The main viewscreen is cluttered with blueprints and formulae and text.

Megatron says, "Not a drone, Soundwave. We will direct it to Earth by a homing signal! This way we avoid dependence on calculations."

Soundwave considers. "A homing signal. Interesting."

Megatron says, "We have to build a counterpiece which is in constant contact to Shockwave's part of the bridge on Cybertron." Soundwave nods thoughtfully. "An option that has not been proposed before." Skywarp does the tennis crowd posing as he looks back and forth between the speakers. Megatron nods. "Until now the Spacebridge was only made up at one end, but a bridge needs two solid ends. Megatron starts typing data into the computer. Ruse idly considers something, "Soundwave, you have kept an audio on the bots, right? ... our element of surprise hasn't been breached by, actions, have they?" o O(In other words my blunder didn't tip them off right?) Soundwave reacts to a silent signal from Ravage and lets him into his tape compartment, then watches with interest as Megatron types. Scientist by training he may be, but he has long since realized that Megatron has the capability for quantum leaps of brilliance that he has seldom seen elsewhere. Soundwave replies to Ruse while still watching Megatron's activities, "I have not detected any evidence from the Autobot transmissions that they are aware of our survival." After a while, the image of a ring-like construction appears on the screen.

Skywarp leans forward to get a better look at the creation "So, this...this counterpiece ... where will you put it, Megatron?"

Ruse nods to Soundwave, "Shew... I mean that's good." She looks to the ring that appears on screen and peers at it thoughtfully.

Soundwave flickers a glance at Ruse as though wondering if she's been up to something she shouldn't again, but quickly returns his attention to the image on screen.

Megatron murmurs: "If we use... no... we have to filter the statics... atmospheric interferences..." He talks more to himself, seeming to forget not to be alone in the room as he eagerly works on the Earthian end of the Spacebridge.

Chasm arrives from Access Corridor.

Chasm flaps in and takes up a position at the back.

Buzzsaw swivels his head around as Chasm enters. The bird tape regards the dragon curiously.

Ruse notices the glance from Soundwave, out of the corner of her optics and glances down. No she hasn't done anything wrong but she does feel bad about jeopardizing the element of surprise. She hears the flop and looks back to Chasm, "Greetings..."

Soundwave recognizes the sound of Chasm's arrival and turns to give him an appraising look. "Good," he concludes. "Perhaps accompanying us will help you adjust to your presence here."

Chasm snorts derisively, "I'm merely hoping to stretch my wings, Soundwave. That accursed panther-mech has been watching my every movement and giving me the terrible jitters, you know."

You say, Consider him an escort to assure you do not endanger yourself."

Soundwave turns back to observe Megatron's work.

Buzzsaw watches bemusedly, then turns back to the screen.

Megatron suddenly stops typing. With a content grin, he looks at the monitor. "Yes, that should work!"

Chasm sighs dramatically, "Me? Endanger /myself/? Hardly. He's more like my parole officer."

Soundwave peers closely at the results. "Interesting," is his observation. "That is a most unusual solution, Commander."

Chasm flaps up and takes a perch opposite Buzzsaw, glaring at the mechanised condor and pretending not to notice him.

Megatron suddenly realizes the new arrival. Slowly he turns to face Chasm. "All new ideas are unusual solutions, Soundwave", he answers, not turning his optics away from Chasm.

Chasm smirks politely in the face of Megatron's regard.

Soundwave nods, then explains, "This is Chasm, the new arrival of whom you have been told. Chasm, this is your leader, Megatron."

Megatron watches Chasm with a strange, nearly cold expression on his face. "So, you are the one, insisting on coming from the future..."

Chasm hikes his wings back defensively, "It is simply that my memories and that of the reality around me simply do not concur. I recall a life after 1996 in this timeline, but Soundwave absolutely /insists/ that it's 1984. Very peculiar."

Soundwave re-releases Ravage as though to have him keep Chasm company again.

Ravage has arrived.

Chasm tries to inch back from Ravage...

Buzzsaw watches Chasm still.

You say, "I believe Chasm has received damage to his memory components. However, I detected no evidence that he is a security risk, that is, that he may have been sent by our enemies."

Ravage spots Chasm and follows him intently.

Chasm snorts, "Damage? Once I get my memory units functioning properly, I'll know exactly how I came to be in this bizarre situation." He grips his paws together. "I'll be a whole robot once more," he says, wistfully and over dramatically.

Megatron says, "Well, I'll trust your judgement about Chasm, Soundwave. However, you are responsible for him now."

You say, "As you command."

Chasm stares rather nervously at Ravage again and sighs, giving a hopeful glance towards the exit.

Skywarp smirks slightly, but remains otherwise the strong silent type.

Ruse looks to Ravage, and Chasm backing away. She walks over to Ravage and tries to distract him from tormenting Chasm by stroking his back, "So, when does construction begin on the bridge?" o O(Not that I will be a part of it but I might as well keep up with what's going on.)

Megatron says, "Now open a radio channel to Cybertron."

Ravage nudges Ruse's hand and leaves Chasm be for now... but he keeps an optic on the smaller Con.

Soundwave turns back to the controls and quickly re-opens the channel to Shockwave.

Chasm bristles and coils his tail around his body defensively. "Gah, this situation is becoming utterly unbearable," he mutters.

Megatron says, "As soon as we have things coordinated with Shockwave."

Skywarp raises an eyeridge at Chasm "It could be worse. You could switch places with me and be watched by Starscream instead"

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Megatron calling planet Cybertron, come in Shockwave."

Soundwave then steps aside to give Megatron access the main screen, pulling up some data on one of the side screens. He notes quietly to those nearby, so as not to distract Megatron, "Here are some nearby possibilities for a quick recovery of energon which we could send to Cybertron, once the bridge is functional. Chasm, if we are ordered on a strike, you will accompany me along with the other cassettes."

Chasm nod sympathetically to Skywarp, "Terrible, isn't it?" He turns to Soundwave, "But Soundwave, seeing that I'm such an /unknown/ factor, a security risk, it would make more sense if I stayed here, out of harm's way..."

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Megatron calling Cybertron, Shockwave acknowledge!"

Ruse nods to Megatron and moves back towards the screen, watching things play out. o O(Hey did Soundwave say 'other cassettes' or are my audios playing tricks on me?) She perks up somewhat hopefully now.

Chasm smiles pleasantly at Soundwave.

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Planet Cybertron to Megatron. Proceed."

Skywarp chuckles to himself at Chasms obvious attempts.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "We have a solution for the Spacebridge problem. I'm transmitting the plans now."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Awaiting transmission."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Transmission received."

<LongRange> Megatron says, "(while transmitting the files) We are going to built a counterpart to your end of the bridge which works as a homing signal to establish a stable connection between the two planets."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Acknowledged Megatron. We shall begin recalibrating our equipment here."

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Excellent. We are going to stay in contact. Megatron out."

Megatron browses through the list of possible energy targets Soundwave offered.

You say, "Do we wish to reveal our presence on this world then, Commander?"

Megatron says, "We are fully operational now. No reason to hide anymore."

Chasm reclines back on his wings, "Well, I'd offer to disagree, but I can sense when my advice is really required..."

You say, "You wished to get out of the base and explore, Chasm, as I recall?"

Ravage eyes Chasm again and thinks he would be a perfect test subject for the space bridge.. if not... eh.. who would miss him?

Megatron says, "As soon as the space bridge is in construction we are going to attack. Cybertron urgently needs Energon and they shall have it."

Skywarp's optics flicker at his commanders words "Good, it'll be good to stretch our wings again."

Megatron says, "As far as I can see, the Solar power plant is an excellent target - only barely secured."

Chasm coughs politely, "I could do some excellent scouting on my own, you know. You wouldn't even know I was gone."

Soundwave touches a control and an aerial map to the power plant complete with planetary coordinates comes up on screen.

Chasm leans back, "Anyway, I'm an artist, a technician - I'm not really one for field work."

Soundwave stands. "Then we will consider you an observer, Chasm."

Ravage sits down quietly and murrs *A Coward...*

Megatron rubs his chin. "Have there been any signs that the Autobots are still around?

Ravage leans against Soundwave's leg and rubs a little..

You say, "Affirmative. They have been in contact with this planet's civilization, if it can be called such. They remain in their base, but we can expect interference. I recommend a rapid strike."

Megatron says, "I'll take that into my calculation."

Chasm glares at Ravage again. He sighs and coils up again, still fidgeting with his claws.

Soundwave regards Ruse and asks of Megatron, "Is Ruse cleared to accompany us, Commander?"

Ravage extends his claws and taps them on the floor and he gives Chasm a look and licks his fangs suggestively.

Megatron looks at Ruse for a while, hesitating.

Megatron slowly: "Yes, we may need every... warrior we have."

Chasm lowers his head, "Eeep," he mutters, staring at Ravage. "I cannot work under these intolerable conditions, you know."

Skywarp scowls suddenly at the small dragon "Hey, remember who you're talking to. Megatron can make your conditions much worse."

Soundwave opens his tape compartment and says, "Ravage, Buzzsaw, Ruse, enter." He looks to Chasm, aware that his alt mode would fit inside as well, and adds, "Chasm, accompany them."

Ruse grins and silently without a word transforms leaping into Soundwave! o O(YES!)

Chasm squirms backwards, "In /there/? Really? Do I have to?"

With the sound of metal shifting Ruse shifts, folding in on herself as plates along her arms and back extend to some extent while she shrinks. The transformation takes only a few seconds and afterwards all this is left of Ruse is a small cassette.

Ravage leaps into the air with a mechanical feline rumble and starts to spin. His legs fold in and his body turns as it Transforms to a Midnight black Metallic tape.

Buzzsaw transforms into his Gold Cassette mode.
Buzzsaw has left.

Ravage has left.

Ruse has left.

Megatron says, "We are going to have the first strike from inside, Soundwave. You and your cassettes will infiltrate the station."

Soundwave repeats inflectionlessly to Chasm, "Enter. We have a mission."

Chasm uncomfortably flattens himself back against the far wall.

Chasm says, "Do I get any monetary incentive? About 5 energon shots should do it."

Skywarp looks to Megatron "Can I give him a -shot-?"

Megatron glares dangerously at Chasm. "Transform!"

Ruse links up with Soundwave happily if he allows, and readies for the mission.

Chasm stares warily at Megatron's fusion cannon and decides not to push his luck to far, "If I must," he grumbles.

Chasm brings his wings forward and crunches down into his cassette form.
Chasm has left.

Ravage thinks we need to set up a pool table in here and oil tub.

Chasm withdraws from all links.

Soundwave shuts his tape compartment after the last tape, and looks to Skywarp. "Can you transport us to the site of infiltration, Skywarp?"

Soundwave transforms into his Tape Recorder mode.

Megatron whispers to Soundwave. "Have an eye on Ruse... please."

Buzzsaw hooks up to Sounders as well, not wanting to miss the action.

Soundwave makes no verbal reply to Megatron, but a tape reel moves in his tape compartment as though to acknowledge the order.

Skywarp looks to Megatron for some sort of decision, lest he actually have to make one.

Ruse catches the whisper linked up to Soundwave but remains silent... though inwardly she smiles a bit. o O(Keep an eye on me... oh well at least I know now, leader of all the Decepticons with responsibilities to all or not, his feelings will still always be there.)

Ravage firmly plants himself next to Ruse's tape and interfaces with Soundwave's systems so he may have sensory input still.

Megatron orders Skywarp and Starscream to join the attack force.

Megatron says, "We will wait outside the plant until Soundwave has made things clear."

Megatron says, "Skywarp you will carry me as well."

Starscream enters the command centre and eyes Megatron. He folds his arms over his cockpit and with a frown hmphs "I see you wish to travel second class, Megatron."

Megatron says, "I have my reasons, Starscream."

Skywarp scowls immediately and spins on his white twin "Better than flying coach."

Starscream smirks as he passes Skywarp "Tsk, jealousy will never get you anywhere."

Skywarp eyes the ceiling "As you so often show us."

Starscream stops in his tracks, a sneer on his face. "Why you..."

Skywarp hmphs and nods to Megatron "As you wish, Commander. To the tower?"

Megatron says, "Enough discussion! Yes, to the conning tower, we're leaving."

Megatron enters Access Corridor <<S> South>.
Megatron has left.

Starscream slits his optics at Skywarp in one of those "Don't even think of going out before me, inferior one" as he follows Megatron out.

Skywarp sticks his nose in the air and follows Starscream, mimicking his walk.

Skywarp enters Access Corridor <<S> South>.
Skywarp has left.

You enter Access Corridor.

Access Corridor

          A long narrow hallway with four doors leading to different parts of the base. Each door has a security panel beside it to monitor access in and out of the base locations. The lighting here is muted and the room has no other features, giving it a sparse utilitarian feel.

Skywarp [Robot]
Obvious exits:
<N> North leads to Command Center.
<E> East leads to Energon Storage.
<W> West leads to Repair Bay.
<S> South leads to Armory.

Skywarp:
          Sleekly built, this mech stands 35' tall with upswept aerodynamic wings appearing at his back. Mainly black, his torso is uncoloured titanium, while his guns, lower legs, forearms and wingstripes are in Decepticon purple. Bright red optics stare out from a pale grey face. Surrounding it, a helmet of black to match the rest of his form.

Chasm plays the 'Winter' version of the Four Seasons to idle away the time.

Conning Tower

          The main exit from the base, the conning tower extends upward past the surface of ocean. After dropping off or picking up passengers, it then retracts again and opens inside the base. The interior of the tower is large enough to accommodate all but the very largest Transformers or cargo. A control panel and viewing screen are to the right of the door on the inside.

Obvious exits:
<O> Out leads to Engine Room.
<U> Up leads to Atlantic Ocean <Central>.

Atlantic Ocean <Central>

Skywarp would shake his head at Starscream, but he's transformed.

Skywarp instead takes off to the sky.

On the platform, Starscream watches the elegant flight of the black jet with waning disdain. The air does miraculous things to planes.

Starscream transforms below, and with a powerful burst of his engines, he too rises to the sky to join Skywarp. "Where are we going?"

Megatron says, "To the powerplant!"

Skywarp emits "Where ever Megatron tells us to. Directions, Lord Megatron?"

Starscream tsks, the sound barely crossing the airflow. "You're pathetic, Skywarp."

[travel spam]

Solar Power Station

          A large tower rises into the sky from a building complex. Surrounding the building is a ring of large solar panels, collecting the heat of the sun's rays. The heat energy is then used to heat water which turns the turbines located in the main building.

Obvious exits:
<In> In leads to Main Building.
<N> North leads to Rocky Mountains <North America>.

Skywarp says, "Approaching target, Lord Megatron."

Starscream emits "Hmph, the creation of flesh creatures."

Soundwave prepares for Skywarp to drop him while he makes his first pass over the power station.

Skywarp flies in low, and like the good seeker he is, drops Soundwave off.

Ruse within the datalink jokes about something she heard over a human data transmission, "Are we there yet?"

As though in coordination with Ruse's question, the tape recorder hits the ground with a jarring bounce and rolls to a stop on its side near the entrance of the power station.

Skywarp lands out of direct view, and carefully lifts Megatron out of his cockpit. "Commander."

Megatron has arrived.
Skywarp drops Megatron.

Megatron transforms into his Robot mode.

A short time passes ... then one of the station workers predictably wanders back inside after a cigarette break, and comes across the seemingly abandoned little blue tape player lying there. He picks it up, examines it, and takes it inside.

Starscream lands softly, behind the other two Decepticons. "What next, oh mighty leader?"

Megatron says, "As soon as Soundwave gives us the signal, we move in."

Main Building

          Inside this very large building are multitudes of turbines, all humming as they generate vast amounts of electrical power. The high ceilings nicely accommodate tall robots.

Obvious exits:
<Out> Out leads to Solar Power Station.

Ruse feels the impact within the link and falls silent. She senses Soundwave get taken though the link. o O(Humans are like turbopackrats. Can't help hoarding anything they find.)

Soundwave is set on a shelf and observes for a while, then at an opportune moment gives the silent command and ejects his tapes.

Ravage has arrived.
Ravage flies into sight...

Ruse has arrived.

Chasm has arrived.

The jade-green cassette sudden unfolds itself and expands into the small form of a hovering dragon-like figure.

With the sound of metal shifting the black and gold datacartridge folds out into Ruse, her weapons appearing from subspace.

Ravage follows protectively... of Soundwave or Ruse?.... you don't know.

Soundwave transforms into his Robot mode. Soundwave transforms as well, sending the power plant workers scurrying away in alarm. He directs the cassettes to fan out and secure the area. Ruse flies out of Soundwave since he was inside when he ejected us supposedly, transforming and landing with a light thud. She opens up fire on the startled humans, hoping to herd them away with several a stray plasmashot. She speaks up, "Fleshcreatures, this base is now under our control! You WILL obey and file into the corner or be obliterated..." Chasm flaps up in the air and circles over the base, seemingly rather busy. Soundwave draws his weapon and sends a radio message to Megatron.

Ravage hops out in front and looks intimidating.

You paged Megatron with '(radio) Generators are under our control, Megatron.'.

Megatron pages: (radio) Excellent.

The power plant workers show no inclination to resist, and hurry off into the corner where they're being directed.

Megatron has arrived.

Skywarp has arrived.

Ravage snaps at one of the workers and gets them to move a little faster.. minus the rear of their pants.

Starscream struts in, Skywarp behind him. "As you wish, oh MIGHTY leader."

Megatron walks through the loading entrance. "Well done Soundwave."

Chasm continues to circle, not really participating in the harassment of the humans.

Megatron says, "Begin production of energon cubes!""

Ravage isn't harassing.. he is herding.

Soundwave begins to generate empty energon cubes, and assists in the filling along with the jets.

Skywarp smirks to the cassettes "I hear the Maharajah is holding an open house."

Starscream shakes his head at Skywarp "You're such a void."

Skywarp eyes the ceiling as he picks up an empty energon cube "See Chasm...things could be worse for you."

Megatron says, "Prepare to process generator output into cubes."

Chasm circles warily, "At least his breath isn't as bad as Ravage's..."

Ravage turns and glances at Chasm...

Ruse grins... keeping her weapon drawn on the fleshlings though. No reason to give the pests a chance to call the Autobots. She blinks at Skywarp, looking rather puzzled by that remark. She ignores it though and keeps a look out while letting the others fill cubes...

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "For someone in fear he has a big vocalizer."

As the work begins in filling the energon cubes, a rumble of engines can be heard outside, and suddenly a resounding crash comes from up above as several Autobots burst in.

Skywarp says, "That's debatable."

Starscream slits his optics at Skywarp "Silence, idiot. Collect the energon!"

-Mindlink- Soundwave says, "I believe he is shielding his own insecurities, Ravage. Simply keep watch on him."

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "Very well."

Skywarp of course, is doing just that. "Put your energon where your mouth is, Starscream. You collect energon."

Chasm calls out, "Er, Autobots!"

Chasm vanishes under his holographic cloaking shield.

Megatron says, "Protect the cubes!"

Soundwave whirls on the attackers, startled by their sudden appearance despite his expectation that they'd have trouble.

Cliffjumper comes charging in ahead of the rest and runs right up to Megatron, starting to punch ineffectually at his legs. "Don't worry about the rest of them, Megatron - I'll take care of them right after I've taken care of *you*!"

Starscream slips behind a pillar and prepares for the onslaught "Decepticons, prepare to attack!"

Ravage 's optics darken at the word Autobots... he whirls around and growls, slipping outside. He has a personal score to settle with them.

Ruse gahs turning, "Blasted scrapheaps!" She opens fire with plasmabullets rather then wait for them to fire first... edging back a bit all the while towards the cubes.

Megatron casually hits Cliffjumper, throwing him against the wall. "Who will take care of me?"

Skywarp slides the filled energon cubes into his cockpit and then quickly takes a place behind one of the turbine engines "Why do they always have to come and ruin our party?"

Optimus Prime comes roaring in and transforms. "*I* will, Megatron!" he challenges, rushing toward the Decepticon leader.

Starscream's optics flicker "Optimus Prime!"

Megatron spins around.

*Cut Screenshot*
Ravage Raarrs and pounces a terrified Bumblebee and struggles with him on the ground.
*End Cut Screenshot.*

Megatron faces Prime and the other one's rifle. "That's more like it, Prime," he mentions, grinning. He pulls up his cannon, shooting Prime's gun out of the Autobot leader's hand.

Optimus Prime loses his gun, but instead draws back his fist and tries to hit Megatron with a resounding punch.

Bumblebee flops on the ground, "Hey Hound, I've got Ravage!"

"That's okay, little buddy," Hound says easily, and fires a shot at Ravage, while Bumblebee attempts to roll to one side.

Megatron shoots at Prime again.

Prime dodges the blast and barrels forward, throwing his whole weight into Megatron as he shoulders him into a bank of electronic equipment.

Oh yes... Bumblebee has Ravage.... but then Ravage sinks his fangs into the yellow arm holding him and growls, pressing his claws into the Autobot's chest.

Bluestreak sidles around, "I've got Skywarp lined up in my sights," he thinks to himself. "As long as he doesn't move in the next three seconds..." One...two...

Skywarp fires off a volley towards the Autobot force. He turns to Starscream "The energon...if it gets hit this whole place is gonna blow!"

Bumblebee flops his arm to one side, "Hound!" he calls out, "He's still on me!"

Starscream eyes the movement of the Autobot and pegs a shot at Bluestreak "Watch your back, Skywarp!"

Soundwave meanwhile is trying to gather up the energon cubes while dodging shots. He pauses and reaches for his eject button to add someone to the fray, announcing, "Laserbeak, eject!" To which the nearby Ironhide calls out, "Oh no you don't!" and launches himself toward Soundwave.

Ruse focuses on what's important, the energon cubes. She stays near them, opening fire on any bot who dares come close to them while Soundwave gathers them up. Cliffjumper rushes her, taking a few bullets but still keeps coming and slugs Ruse sideways, "Out of the way, comin through!" Ruse skids back, dazed... but not out.

Bluestreak's shot narrowly darts past Skywarp, "Darn it! I've missed!" he says and drops back.

Skywarp spins and jumps to his left. "We gotta get away from the energon!"

A short cry of pain escapes Megatron's lips as he was slammed against the electronical equipment.

Hound steps over Bumblebee and Ravage, "Ravage, you get away from my friends! Capeche?" He aims a hefty kick at Ravage, attempting to boot the jaguar away from Bumblebee.

A blaze of electric sparks showers up all around Megatron as the equipment shorts out, illuminating Megatron in a momentary halo of brilliant light.

Soundwave manages to knock Ironhide's attack aside, though the Autobot comes right back at him, trying to slam the end of his weapon across Soundwave's face.

Megatron smiles, facing Prime. "Thanks for the power boost, Prime!" He easily flings Prime away now.

Ruse slowly stands and recovers, "Megatron?" She looks to him, her optics narrowing as she sees the fight going a bit seemingly downhill, o O(That's it!) She switches to plasmabeam and opens up fire, catching Cliffjumper in the leg right before he's about to leap at Soundwave! She then turns and fires at Ironhide, attempting to help her friend out... aiming for the bot's back, "Back off, scrapheaps!"

Bluestreak drops back, "Let's go for the energon!" he shouts. "That's not your fuel, Decepticons! You didn't work for it, you didn't /earn/ it, unlike the humans!"

Rumble punches a fist into his hand and says, "Time to kick some Autobot skid plate!!" he transforms his arms into pile drivers and leaps on Jazz, pounding his hammers into the sides of his head.... Jazz staggers and yells "heyyyy you!!.. get off me you Decepticon pile of trash!"

Rumble snickers, "What's wrong... You got.. a splittin headache?"

Starscream fires at Bluestreak "On the contrary, Autobot...it is our fuel. We're taking it fair and square."

Megatron transforms, laughing.
Megatron transforms into his Walther P-38 mode.

Ruse's attack on Ironhide isn't enough to damage the Autobot's tough armor, but it does distract him long enough for Soundwave to evade his next attack.

Soundwave dodges Ironhide and reaches up to catch the transformed Megatron, spinning around to aim at Optimus Prime.

Megatron says, "Prime is target, Soundwave, fire!"

Soundwave fires off a brilliant burst of power from the barrel of the transformed Megatron, which streaks toward him, lighting up the whole dimness of the building - an instant before Ironhide leaps into the way of the blast in order to shield Prime.

Megatron retransforms into robot mode.

Starscream watches the altercation with some interest. "So what now, oh magnificent one?" he smirks, and then reaches to grab another load of energon.

Ravage leaps off Bumblebee and races back in to help the others.. he skids inside and around the corner just in time to see Ruse fire on Ironhide doing little damage... to help out a little he leaps into the air and rolls sideways.... almost in slow motion as his optics fire a few short bursts of laser fire.. he then comes to a sideways landing, skidding to a stop... all this time in the background Stayin alive plays... (Hey.. it's a 60's hitman thing.)

Soundwave hurriedly gathers up the energon cubes that fell out of his hands during the altercation.

Megatron heads for the loading doors of the plant. "We have what we came for - let's go!"

Starscream raises an arm. "Decepticons, prepare to take flight!"

Skywarp transforms, already filled with energon. "We heard it the first time, Starscream."

Soundwave follows Megatron with his share of the cubes, calling silently to his tapes to follow.

Megatron gestures to his troops to collect the cubes and to fly off, while ducking the Autobots' blasts.

Starscream transforms, immediately jetting to the sky in the lead. "Return to base!"

Ravage looks to Ruse.. making sure she starts to head out with Soundwave first before he will go.

Megatron nervously looks around, searching for Ruse.

Ruse rushes after Megatron and the others, taking off after grabbing three cubes and flying out! She arcs upwards, nodding towards Ravage...

Buzzsaw has arrived.
Buzzsaw transforms into his Condor mode.

Ravage follows after Ruse...

Skywarp has left.

Megatron sees her leaving with the others and takes off as well.

Solar Power Station

          A large tower rises into the sky from a building complex. Surrounding the building is a ring of large solar panels, collecting the heat of the sun's rays. The heat energy is then used to heat water which turns the turbines located in the main building.

Skywarp [Black F-15]
Obvious exits:
<In> In leads to Main Building.
<N> North leads to Rocky Mountains <North
America>.

Buzzsaw has arrived.

Ruse has arrived.

Ravage has arrived.

Megatron has arrived.

Ravage leaps into the air with a mechanical feline rumble and starts to spin. His legs fold in and his body turns as it Transforms to a Midnight black Metallic tape.

Ravage has left.

Soundwave takes to the air with the others, dodging a few last laser blasts from below, though the Autobots are making no attempt to follow - perhaps because they're attending to the injured Ironhide.

Skywarp says, "See ya round, autoscum!"

[Travel Spam]

Dry Riverbed

          This deep gash in the landscape is all that remains of a mighty river that once cut through the terrain. Now, a deep gully can be found in the desert, not too far from the highway. The bleached skulls of cattle gleam amid the yellowish dust, and the crumbly sides of the river bed look as though they will collapse inward at any moment.

Buzzsaw [Condor]
Ruse [Robot]
Megatron [Robot]
Obvious exits:
<W> West leads to Desert Road.

During the attack on the power plant, other Decepticons have been busy here, building the Earth side of the space bridge. A ring of unpainted steel at the end of a smooth runway greets the arriving warriors. A small empty vehicle sits at the end of the runway.

Reflector and Thundercracker approach Megatron and report, "Everything's ready, Megatron. All we need is the energon for the test run."

Ruse flies down into the dry riverbed with the others, and sets the cubes down and rubs the side of her face where Cliffjumper hit her. Her eyes shine red as she mumbles something, "I am going to rip that bot apart next time I see him if this even leaves a scratch!" This anger fades though and she says nothing more, not wanting Megatron to know about it. Instead she lets her hands fall to her sides and looks the bridge over...

Soundwave lands next to Megatron with his pile of energon cubes. "I will establish contact with Shockwave for the test run."

Ravage has arrived.
Ravage flies into sight...
The black tape flips up into the air and spins as legs, paws, a head and body form out of it. With a rumble Ravage lands on all fours in perfect grace. Claws digging into the ground on impact.

Ravage scratches at the dry ground and looks around.

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "(faint static) Cybertron, are you receiving? Shockwave, please acknowledge."

Megatron nods to Thundercracker and Reflector. "Splendid. We have enough energon with us to test the bridge."

Starscream flies in and softly lands with the others.

Skywarp follows behind. "Well, I think Megatron's plan was brilliant!"

Starscream slits his optics at Skywarp "Well, I think the attack on the solar power plant was a waste of energy!!"

Skywarp snarls back "You waste more energy with your mouth!"

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Shockwave, acknowledge!"

Ravage sits down beside Skywarp and Soundwave and watches them...

Thundercracker lands behind the two and looks to the sky with a "why me" look.

Soundwave ignores the squabbling seekers and starts packing energon cubes into the test vehicle.

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Shockwave reporting. Proceed Megatron."

Starscream starts "Why you..." and then reaches out to take a jab at Skywarp.

Skywarp returns the jab quite readily.

Thundercracker pushes between his two brothers with a shake of his head and drops his energon with the other pile.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "We are ready to test the space bridge now."

Soundwave secures the canopy and steps back from the vehicle, positioned as it is to speed toward the metal ring of the space bridge.

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "What are you sending through the void?"

Ruse smiles feeling kinda proud, o O(Soon Cybertron will have energy again...)

Starscream takes the push off as an opportunity to snarl at Skywarp again, before he too releases a pile of energon into the space bridge cargo.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "The test vehicle contains several energon cubes."

Megatron says, "Don't load all into it, this is a test run!"

Skywarp smiles sweetly at Starscream, having gotten him to shut up. He then places his pile of energon separate, beside Megatron.

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "I say lets shove Chasm in there and see if it works.. why waste energon cubes."

Starscream laughs sharply "Don't trust your own creation, Megatron? That doesn't lend confidence in your abilities."

You paged Ravage with '(tel) Be civil, Ravage.'.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Are the test coordinates prepared?"

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "I am Civil... *Innocent tone*"

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Acknowledged Megatron. The bridge will be open for a maximum of eleven minutes."

Megatron murmurs: "Now we will see if it works."

Ruse picks her energon up and places it in the pile with Skywarp's... then looks to Starscream, ponders telling him what she think but then thinks better of it and doesn't. o O(Gotta respect his rank... and skill.)

Up ahead, the metal ring of the space bridge starts to light up with an alternating pattern of illumination. <LongRange> Megatron says, "Prepare for test run, Shockwave. We have five seconds to opening of the bridge." <LongRange> Shockwave says, "We are prepared to receive." The test vehicle starts to move toward the ring, sliding smoothly along its track with ever-increasing speed. An opening in the ring slides apart and lets the vehicle through, whereupon the light around the ring intensifies. Megatron watches the Bridge open the wormhole.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Spacebridge established!"

Starscream watches from a few feet away, rather dubiously.

Beams of light lance upward and converge on a point above the bank of the dry riverbed. Dust and rocks and debris are torn upward toward that point in the sky, the test vehicle a small spec amidst the clutter, which then disappears - presumably on its way to Cybertron.

Ruse quietly watches...

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Shockwave, report!"

Ravage thinks, . o O 0 ( There goes a perfectly good cube of Energon... )

Megatron clenching his jaw plates. His mind working eagerly on the solution of the problem.

Skywarp says, "When will we know if it worked, Megatron? How long should it take to transport the energon?"

You say, "Test vehicle should have arrived on Cybertron by now."

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Test aborted. No sign of vehicle."

Starscream eyes Megatron "Your bridge is defective, oh great leader."

Megatron says, "Maybe your central processor is, Starscream. The vehicle needs guidance through the spacebridge."

Soundwave while examining the controls suddenly detects a faint sound.

Starscream laughs "So why don't you guide it then."

Soundwave looks up toward the top of the riverbed from where he sensed the noise, noting a flicker of movement. Those who are alert near him may realize he noticed something.

Rumble says to Starscream, "Why don't you pilot it, afterburner butt."

Megatron looks around. "I need a volunteer!"

Starscream points to Rumble. "There's a volunteer."

Ruse looks to Starscream and then to the bridge, "Starscream, why don't you carry the energon across as you're the best seeker and pilot we have... riiiiiighhhht?" o O(And if he goes up no big loss.)

Rumble crosses his arms, "Starscream is higher rank.. he should have the honor of being the first Decepticon to go through."

Megatron says, "Very well... I shall select a volunteer."

Up on the edge of the riverbed, a small yellow car skids precariously on the edge of the cliff, but loses his balance and slides down the slope in a cloud of dust and a rain of gravel.

Starscream hmphs "I, Starscream, Pride of the Decepticon War Academy, brought down to cargo transport? I don't think so."

Megatron looks toward the source of the noise. "What..?"

As the little vehicle lands at the bottom of the slope, he's recognizable as the Autobot Bumblebee. The Autobots' human ally Spike is inside.

Buzzsaw just sits on his rock, wings folded. He snaps his head up and swivels at the noise.

Ravage rumbles, *Autobots*

Soundwave draws his weapon as Bumblebee ejects Spike and transforms, backing up against the cliffside.

Ruse looks to the sound, blinking, and draws her plasmarifle as well... looking up the cliffside for any more watchers. o O(Are we under attack?)

Megatron looks at the intruders, getting an idea.

Buzzsaw lifts off, pivoting in midair. He hovers there a moment, looking inquiringly at Soundwave.

Soundwave readies to simply blow the two intruders away so they can't go back to Autobot base and report.

Megatron says, "Do not harm them..."

Soundwave looks faintly surprised, but lowers his weapon as ordered.

Starscream pauses. "Getting soft, Megatron?"

Megatron grins. "They have just volunteered for the next trip through the spacebridge."

Megatron laughs.

Bumblebee makes a break for it, transforming again and trying to burst through the line of Decepticons. "Get in, Spike, hurry!" he shouts.

Spike leaps toward Bumblebee's open door.

You say, "Ravage, intercept them!"

Buzzsaw bolts away, like a racehorse leaving the starting gate. He aims his mortars carefully for Bumblebee's wheels as he flies low.

Ruse looks to the two attempting to escape and just smiles, knowing well Ravage will herd them back. She holsters her weapon and laughs slightly, "They are never going to make it..."

Ravage picks up on the command and takes off silently on the hunt... Finally!!... he gets to hunt something.

Bumblebee darts back and forth as he drives, avoiding the laser blasts but at the same time making it impossible for Spike to catch the open door. Spike falls to the ground as he reaches for Bumblebee and misses.

Bumblebee calls out "Spike!" at the same time as the human shouts back, "Don't worry about me, Bumblebee, just get out of here! Get help!"

Ravage takes the opportunity and pounces on Spike, grabbing him by the leg.

Buzzsaw dives, seeing Spike being taken down, he heads for Bumblebee /He won't get away./ he projects to the others capable of hearing him.

Spike lets out a scream, while Bumblebee puts on an additional burst of speed and disappears into a cave in the side of the cliff.

Ravage proudly drags Spike back by the seat of his pants... Buzzsaw pauses outside the cave, ultrasensitive sensors looking for any trace of the Autobot. Soundwave steps over to Ravage and Spike, his weapon leveled on the strange small creature. Aware that Bumblebee has escaped, he knows now they will have to act fast to activate the space bridge. Ravage drags Spike before Soundwave and gives him a shove onto the ground. Soundwave reaches down to snatch up the squirming human and presents him to Megatron. "He should be free to go," he says with a hint of a smile with the brightening of his optics, a shared moment of amusement with Megatron. "Free to go to Cybertron."

Megatron nods. "Put him into the transport vehicle."

Buzzsaw remains outside the cave entrance, watching for Bumblebee.

Ruse watches Ravage come padding back and hms at Spike. He's just an earth kid... but he's a fool for siding with Autobots so feels no pity towards what's about to happen to him. She wonders though if a human can even operate a craft like the transport vehicle.

Bumblebee has disappeared off somewhere into the cliffside.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Shockwave, report. Is the spacebridge ready for a new trial?"

Soundwave opens the canopy on the second test vehicle, which Reflector has already helpfully filled with energon cubes, and straps Spike in despite his struggling and protests. Soundwave sets the vehicle at the end of its runway, aimed toward the gleaming metal ring of the bridge.

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Affirmative Megatron. We stand ready for another attempt."

Buzzsaw is patient. Buzzsaw can wait.

Ravage has slipped off a bit again and sits cleaning his paws.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "How long will the spacebridge be open?"

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Five minutes Megatron."

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Five minutes will be sufficient."

Within the test vehicle, Spike struggles futilely against his bonds. "The Autobots will stop you!" he shouts at Megatron.

Ruse idly taps her left foot waiting for the bridge to start up and open.

Megatron addresses Spike, ignoring his puny attempts to intimidate: "You will be riding on what seems to be a beam of energy, concentrate on the beam... focus on it... and you will arrive safely on Cybertron.

Megatron says, "If not, you could be de-molecularized and cease to exist!"

The space bridge up ahead begins to light up with that same pattern again, as the test vehicle begins its course down the runway ... slowly, slowly at first, then gaining speed down the smooth surface.

Suddenly at the top of the cliffside, a row of dark figures appears, silhouetted against the sun. Their squared-off forms and brandished weapons mark them clearly as Autobots. Apparently they were closer by than expected, and Bumblebee was able to reach them and lead them here. A hail of bright laser fire begins to shower down on the Decepticons near the bridge.

<LongRange> Megatron says, "Energon cubes ready to traverse bridge, Shockwave."

Starscream's optics widen as he looks above. "AUTOBOTS!"

Megatron says, "Autobots?! Take cover before they..."

Soundwave fires upward at the figures on the cliffside, trying to protect the space bridge controls.

<LongRange> Shockwave says, "Ready to receive, Megatron."

Buzzsaw looks up and his optics narrow. Tipping upwards, he fires at the cliff at the feet of the Autobots.

Ruse gahs as a laser bolt lands right next to her feet! She draws her weapon and ducks down low, seeing no other cover, and begins firing up at them!

The largest of the Autobots on the cliff, his silhouette distinguishing him as Prime, adjusts his rifle and fires the canopy right off the speeding test vehicle. At the same time. Bumblebee comes speeding out of that hole in the cliff that he disappeared into earlier, racing up alongside the vehicle.

Optimus Prime takes another shot, slicing the restraints off of Spike's shoulders, incredibly without burning a hole right through him.

Bumblebee keeping pace alongside calls out, "Spike, jump!"

Ravage stands ready and narrows his eyes again... he digs in a bit with his claws and growls as he lets lose for the first time two of his Proton bomb rockets... they scream off towards the cliff, corkscrewing in the air around each other and their trail of smoke.

Ruse watches Prime shoot and narrows her optics, "Oh so you want to play sniper?" She cranks her rifle up from bullets to beam and starts to aim... but stops as Ravage lets loose. o O(Uh oh!) She gets up and runs as there's going to be a very large blast and rocks flying everywhere in a moment.

Megatron shoots at the Autobots, trying to get them away from the test vehicle.

Soundwave keeps firing on the Autobots up on the cliff.

Buzzsaw keeps firing away at the cliff itself, hoping to collapse it under the Autobots' feet.

Spike takes a flying leap and lands on Bumblebee's roof as the little yellow car speeds away and the test vehicle veers off course, scattering the energon cubes all around the opening of the space bridge as the light begins to circulate more intensively.

Great chunks of rock come loose from the cliffside under the Decepticons' counterassault.

Megatron , as he realizes the load is falling off the vehicle, runs over to the bridge. "I must get those cubes into the bridge before it closes! "

Soundwave notices something out of the corner of his optic as a moment of alarm shoots through him. Megatron surely isn't planning to-?

Skywarp spins as a rock narrowly misses him "Megatron..."

Ruse looks to the bridge and Megatron, "What... " She skids to a stop in her dodging of bolts and debris and stares for a moment. o O(What's he doing? He isn't...)

A stray shot from the cliffside ignites the cubes Megatron is holding, unleashing a blast that knocks him right into the center of the bridge a moment before the entrance closes.

Megatron finds himself suddenly inside the bridge. <LongRange> Megatron says, "Shockwave... deactivate the...!" The lightbeams lance upward from the bridge, tearing stone and gravel and dust - and Megatron! - upward to a point in the sky into which he disappears. Starscream watches, his optics flashing in pure elation as the great Megatron disappears into the spinning lights of the space bridge. He laughs in exultation. Raising his fist to the air, he lifts to the skies. "Megatron is dead, I'm the leader now. Decepticons, follow me!" <LongRange> Shockwave says, "Say again Megatron!"

The Autobots, seemingly content with their recovery of Spike, withdraw into the distance.

Ruse watches the bridge slam shut, "NO!" She sprints towards the bridge, but a stray laserbolt clips her leg and sends her tumbling. She slowly stands... and looks towards the bridge in shock.

Skywarp stares blankly at the space bridge, wishing that Megatron's form would reappear. "Megatron..."

Soundwave barely seems to hear Starscream as he watches the bridge. His reverberating voice echoes Skywarp: "Megatron."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "****bzzzt**** Shockwave, have you **** Megatron? ****bzzzt****"

Ruse slams a fist into the ground, optics shimmering in rage and sadness. She slowly stands and looks towards Starscream, her optics gazing at him as if to burn a hole through his plating through force of hate alone. Megatron is dead and ALL he thinks about is... She limps toward him looking ready to do something stupid.

Soundwave tries to establish contact with Shockwave, even while mentally gathering his cassettes to him in response to Starscream's directive, as that seems to be the best course at the moment, to get them all out of danger if the Autobots are still nearby.

Ravage accidentally gets in Ruse's way.

Buzzsaw flies back to Soundwave slowly, looking down at Ruse.

Skywarp turns away from the space bridge, still lost in shock at the disappearance of his decision making boss, and follows the only command that has of yet, been directed his way. He lifts up, transforms, and hovers with Starscream.

<LongRange> Static from the radio, no signal from Cybertron

-Mindlink- Ravage says, "Premature assumption... not till signal from Cybertron confirms Megatron's death."

Ruse watches Starscream lift off as Ravage gets in the way. She turns and limps back towards Soundwave slowly, and leaps forward transforming before she exposes a weakness of oiltears. Megatron wouldn't have wanted that... she thinks to herself... but can't help but want to just rip someone apart for this.

With the sound of metal shifting Ruse shifts, folding in on herself as plates along her arms and back extend to some extent while she shrinks. The transformation takes only a few seconds and afterwards all this is left of Ruse is a small cassette.

Soundwave opens his tape compartment to receive the cassettes.

Ruse has left.

You paged Ravage with '(tel) We have lost communication. Perhaps the space bridge generated interference. Until I know what has happened, we cannot assume anything.'.

Ravage sits down again and he blankly looks up at Starscream.... he better hope Megatron is dead.. or he is gonna get a mega beating.

You say, "Ravage, Buzzsaw, enter."

Ravage leaps into the air with a mechanical feline rumble and starts to spin. His legs fold in and his body turns as it Transforms to a Midnight black Metallic tape.
Ravage has left.

Buzzsaw follows last.
Buzzsaw transforms into his Gold Cassette mode.
Buzzsaw has left.

Soundwave rises upward to follow Starscream back to base.

Skywarp enters Desert Road <<W> West>.
Skywarp has left.

You enter Desert Road.

Ruse is silent all through the trip, though for those in the mindlink you can swear you almost hear her screaming for revenge but it's as if far away... not through the datalink though.

-Mindlink- Ravage murrs quietly, "Megatron is surely not dead.... he's too stubborn to go out in that way."

-Mindlink- Buzzsaw says, "Agreed. He may have reached the other end of the Spacebridge."