Mixed Messages







= Message to Shockwave (posted by Jhiaxus) =
Lord Shockwave, in light of our recent expedition, I have reached several inescapable conclusions. Our efforts should have combined, for the benefit of all Decepticons. And your path will not bring about that end. Therefore, I find myself forced to forge the future alone. I find you incompetent, unenlightened, and utterly lacking vision. I will arrive at Darkmount in a day's time to meet you in combat for the leadership of the Decepticons. I invoke the ancient rules of the challenge for supremacy. One shall stand, one shall fall - and to the survivor goes the future of our species.
[One might notice that all communication after the foregoing message, seems to have been cut off from Hellpit, as though they're deliberately not answering. One might also notice (or perhaps not) that Jhiaxus' attitude seems to have changed quite a bit since the last time anyone talked to him....]


Mountain Fortress

Defense Platform

This is essentially the roof of the Fortress, and is open to the sky, but a high, thick wall of black stone rings the platform, where rows of cannons loom over the barriers and angle in all directions above and below. A full squadron of sentries, their grim optics ever scanning the distance for danger, is permanently stationed here. Spaced at regular intervals in the walls, narrow openings in the stone allow a view of the desolate landscape far below. These openings in times past - perhaps recent past, judging from the scorch-marks along the walls - served to allow smaller laser weapons to be fired from the protection of the Fort, to supplement the cannons. Even now there's an air of vigilance and mistrust here, as though this precariously-held shred of civilization could fall to an enemy at any moment. A heavily-armored trapdoor in the center of the platform leads to the interior of the stronghold.
Obvious exits:
    Down leads to Entrance Hall.
    Out leads to Hellpit Territory.

Rook reiterates. "Have you lost your mind?"

Jhiaxus turns from his place at the wall looking over his realm, and regards Rook questioningly. "Explain yourself."

Rook says, "You send a bogus message stating you want to fight Shockwave. And then send him another saying you just want to talk."

Rook says, "Whatever your TRUE intentions are, Commander, it's a waste of time."

Jhiaxus's optics flicker a bit brighter. "A waste of time? To make one final attempt to secure passage to the stars for us all?"

Rook says, "They made their intent known. Shockwave has, or will, punish those who tried to side with us..."

Jhiaxus says, "Or would you have me leave most of the population behind, as Megatron did?"

Rook lifts a finger to let him continue.

Rook says, "Shockwave has made clear on several occassions that /WE/ are idiots and deserve our fate in space..."

Rook says, "He has also made it clear that they will /survive/ whether or not we leave."

Rook says, "With or without them."

Jhiaxus's optics flicker yet brighter, but he keeps himself firmly under control. "So he thinks, Rook! And yet this world is dying out from under him, and he won't see it."

Rook says, "I think he sees that /WE/ took the planets energy for /OURSELVES/."

Jhiaxus growls, "Shockwave has no idea what we have. That's just my point. He thinks I've built a shuttle -- a shuttle!"

Rook says, "Just shows you how well our troops are trained to find and eliminate spies."

Jhiaxus says, "I'm willing to make one final effort. I'm willing to take the risk, to inform him that we have a ship capable of transporting thousands, that it stands ready for departure, fully fueled and stocked. And to offer it to him, to lead us all from Cybertron. And if he's not convinced by that -- then there truly is no hope for him."

Rook eyes his Comander.

Rook says, "I see."

Jhiaxus says, "I thought about this a great deal. I have even questioned myself, if I'm right to even make this attempt."

Rook says, "And if he decides to take the ship and kill us for it and the fuel we have?"

Jhiaxus's optics darken. "You're right. You're absolutely right, and don't think that possibility has ever been far from my mind."

Jhiaxus says, "And yet at some point we must reach beyond ourselves and take the chance, if all of us are to prosper. At some point we will have to trust that Megatron knew what he was doing, that Shockwave is reachable. I know of no other alternative, other than sneaking off into the night with the population of Hellpit, and leaving everyone else to rot."

Rook says, "Risk what you will. I hope not to get a call for assistance, Commander."

Rook turns sharply to head back down.

Jhiaxus calls after him, "And your alternative is what, Rook? Tell me that!"

Rook stops a moment. "My alternative? Die like a warrior. If not that, then I rather take my own life."

Rook lifts the heavy trapdoor and descends down the spiral staircase.
Rook has left.

Jhiaxus surveys his domain, wrapped in his own thoughts, as sentries fly in with supplies and disappear down into the fortress.

From the shadows, Something makes its way slowly and cautiously across the landing platform.

From the shadows, Something frowns.. and watches the timing of the sentries.. trying to gauge a good time to slip further in.

From the shadows, Something makes a move, darting between two sentries with boxes and matching paces.. She hopes for no sudden stops..

The sentries move steadily and efficiently.

Ghost lifts the heavy trapdoor and descends down the spiral staircase.
Ghost has left.



= Message a Fraud (posted by Shockwave) =
*Shockwave appears on the screen with a small camera seen behind him. His optic flashes with his speech, and it seems like this message is important.*
Decepticons, with Full Blast's assistance we were able to go over this message, from Jhiaxus. It is indeed a fraud, as it was not coming from the Hellpits or his equipment. This duel must be stopped before, the destruction of Jhiaxus or myself occures. Communications to the Hellpits are completely off- line. I offer a costly reward to the one who can bring me the living body of the one who made this claim, and mockery to one of our ancient rituals of supermacy. I shall inform you of more should anything else come up. Glory to the Empire, Shockwave.
*Shockwave, leans over and shuts the camera off. The screen fades to black.*


<Decepticon> Shockwave says, "All, Decepticons are to be on alert for any Autobots crossing into our boundaries. I am certain, this message was used to lower our guard, so they may ambush us at Darkmount and that they would defeat us on our own soil. I will not allow this to take place."

<Decepticon> Mono says, "sir, woudl you liek to lead a small scouting part to suvey the area for any Autobot Legions that may attack?"

<Decepticon> Deadeye says, "Oh yes, let's attack th' army again! That'll work."

<Decepticon> Deadeye drips with sarcasm.

You lift the heavy trapdoor and walk down a steep, dark spiral staircase.

Entrance Hall

Throne Room

Laboratory

Storage Room

You lift the heavy trapdoor with some difficulty and descend into another stone passage. An intense cold radiates from the walls and the stone beneath your feet, as you descend ever deeper into the heart of the mountain.

Shipyard

Another patchwork of light and shadow, this uneven cavern hollowed out deep within the mountain, is nearly filled by a gargantuan starship. Dwarfed by the lethally elegant sweep of the wings and tail, scores of workers clamber over the hull and move in and out of multiple entrance ramps, bringing the ship bit by bit closer to completion. Massive cannons are in the process of being attached to the undersides, and a clean-lined Decepticon symbol of a slightly changed design already adorns the forward hull. The grim, polished sentries that patrol the outskirts of the cavern indicate that some of these workers are not here by choice.
Contents:
    Ghost
    Starship Twilight
Obvious exits:
    East leads to Side Cavern.
    Up leads to Storage Room.

Jhiaxus comes down from above to check on progress.

From the shadows, Something is just standing to one side in stunned amazement...

The hellpit warriors step up their pace at the sight of their commander, who watches in silent satisfaction.

Jhiaxus murmurs, "A shuttle. He thought I had a mere shuttle. I shall be interested in his reaction when he finds out otherwise."

From the shadows, Something makes her way closer to the ship, in silent, stunned amazement.. She reaches out to touch the hull with one hand...

From the shadows, Something blinks as an internal reminder goes off. Silently cursing, she backs away from the ship, trying to see how much cloaking time she has left.

One of the sentries directing the others comes up to the Hellpit commander and reports, "Mining slaves have been rounded up, Lord Jhiaxus. Begin the second phase?"

Jhiaxus almost reluctantly tears his attention away from the ship and nods to the sentry. "Take them to the pit and melt them down. They are no longer useful. And we cannot leave them to break loose once we depart, should there be any Decepticons remaining here."

Jhiaxus returns his gaze to the ship. "However, I intend to see that no one is left behind. Shockwave will see reason, this time."

From the shadows, Something begins scooting back trying to get to the door out..

Rook has arrived.

Rook walks in. Looks around to see if all is well. He is surprised to see his Commander here.

Rook says, "Commander."

Jhiaxus catches sight of Rook, and almost smiles. "All goes according to plan, Rook. Supplies are almost loaded, and the mines have been shut down in preparation for our departure. Only one thing remains to be done."

[OOC] Ghost is still invis'd

From the shadows, Something starts to remind herself that this could be bad.. she eyes the trapdoor and counts the times when people are coming in *lots* and people are leaving* very few I take it?*.

Rook says, "Yes, that waste of our time even talking sense into Shockwave."

Jhiaxus says, "I know, you have your doubts. As do I. But I feel that Shockwave will see reason this time--" He pauses as a radio signal comes in. For a moment he stands totally frozen, then his optics blaze a murderous green."

Rook knows that look. "Bad news?"

[Rook would have picked up a signal that seems to come from Shockwave, saying he expects Jhiaxus to give up all of his plans and beg for forgiveness for his heresy when he gets to Darkmount at the appointed time.]

Rook taps at the side of his head.

Jhiaxus snarls, "How dare he? I attempt to reason with him, and he insults my honor as a warrior. I was wrong, it seems -- wrong about talking any sense into a closed mind like that."

Jhiaxus says, "I will have to beat the sense into him."

Rook sighs. "Whatever."

Jhiaxus storms out of the shipyard, suddenly beyond reason himself, fixated only on reaching Darkmount.

You climb the intensely cold stone passage until your way is blocked by a heavy trapdoor. With some difficulty, you push it upward and emerge.

Storage Room

Rook emerges from a small dark tunnel sloping in from below.
Rook has arrived.

Rook follows at a distance.

Jhiaxus stalks through the underground and heads upward, his optics flashing a fiery green. He seems barely aware of Rook following, though he'd expect it if he stopped to think about it.

You enter the Laboratory.

Rook arrives from the Storage Room.

You step into the narrow well of a staircase that rises almost immediately into near-complete darkness. The winding climb begins to seem endless, until you feel the smooth surface of a wall panel blocking your way.

Throne Room

Rook enters from the shadowy staircase.
Rook has arrived.

The heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan, letting you pass into the entrance hall.

Entrance Hall

Rook has arrived.

You climb the dark spiral staircase and push up on a heavy trapdoor at the top.

Defense Platform

Rook has arrived.

Jhiaxus whirls to face Rook fury written in every movement. "Did you hear that? Did you hear what he said to me? After I have made every attempt to be reasonable?"

Rook blinks, holding his hands up.

Jhiaxus says, "I'll not allow a creature like that to corrupt our destiny, Rook. I'm convinced of what has to be done."

Rook says, "/IF/ he is talking to you... I'm not hearing it."

Jhiaxus growls, "I don't know where your attention is these days, then. Come - we will fix the matter."

Rook frowns at this.

Jhiaxus hovers upward and transforms.

Jhiaxus transforms into Stratobomber.

You fly upward from the safety of the base and soar toward the jagged peaks and valleys of the landscape far below.

Hellpit Territory

Rook follows.. tho he sure don't want to.

Stratobomber soars out over the walls of the fortress, taking no notice of anything else that may be below, so single-mindedly focused on his task.

You enter the Sky above Hellpit Territory.

Rook has arrived.

You enter the Sky above Bismuth Mountains.

Rook arrives from the Sky above Hellpit Territory.

You enter the Sky Above Wastelands.

Rook arrives from the Sky above Bismuth Mountains.

Stratobomber pauses to hover over the Wastelands near the towering fortress of Darkmount.

Rook follows along in a slow hover.

Jhiaxus transmits 'Shockwave. I have come to the appointed meeting place. Unlike you, I value my honor. Come out and die like a warrior, instead of the useless coward you've turned out to be!' to Space Cannon.

Space Cannon transmits: 'Explain yourself Jhiaxus?'.

Interceptor arrives from the Sky above Bismuth Mountains.

Interceptor comes screaming in from the south, nothing wasted with any attempt to not be noticed.

Jhiaxus transmits 'Do not make a mockery of yourself further by feigning surprise.' to Space Cannon.

Rook shakes his head and sighs.

Space Cannon arrives from the Darkmount Launch Platform.

Deadeye arrives from the Darkmount Launch Platform. Deadeye enters the area, red optic glaring at everything.

Mono arrives from the Darkmount Launch Platform.

Cybercraft arrives from the Darkmount Launch Platform.

Cybercraft flys overhead.

Stratobomber hovers, his engines rumbling like some drumbeat of doom.

Deadeye enters the Wastelands.
Deadeye has left.

Space Cannon comes roaring up from the launch pad fully powered up. He spots Jhiaxus and intones, "Jhiaxus, this is not what you think it is. I did not issue any challenge to you. The Autobots are the ones responsible for this..."

Rook mutters something to himself.

Stratobomber swings to target Shockwave as soon as he flies up from the launch platform, beyond reason now, simply engulfed in fury. "Do not attempt to dishonor yourself or me any further with your lies. I see now that there is only one way of talking sense to you, and that is - this!"

Rook oh slags.

Stratobomber sends a missile streaking through the sky toward the hovering cannon.

Mono looks up "oh slag" he mummers

Space Cannon says, "Then I see you refuse to listen to reason. I thought it was you who issued this challenge Jhiaxus. It was you who wanted to remove me from command was it not?"

Cybercraft was far away from Shockwave to start with, but hovers even further up.

Stratobomber's aim is obviously off, he hasn't yet centered himself enough to concentrate on the details of combat, and the missile arrows harmlessly past his opponent.

Rook hovers out of harms way.

<Decepticon> Mono says, "Fello Decepticons. we msut be alert, if this battle does take place the Autobots will attempt to attack, no dout. We must be on our gaurd"

Cybercraft transmits a radio message.
Rook receives a radio message.

Rook shakes his head at Skyflight.

Stratobomber fires up his thrusters to follow up on the failed missile launch, heading directly toward the monstrous hovering gunbarrel.

Flame Tetrajet arrives from the Darkmount Launch Platform.
Flame Tetrajet has arrived.
Flame Tetrajet , with fiery flare, flies into the area.

Interceptor oh scevs!

<Decepticon> Deadeye says, "There's this thing rollin' aroun' th' wastelands."

<Decepticon> Deadeye says, "This thing in th' wastelands is askin' which way ta Darkmount."

<Decepticon> Mono says, "Deadeye, what kind of 'thing' is this?"

<Decepticon> Deadeye says, "Get over here an see fer yerself."

Space Cannon dodges barely ready for this as he moves around into position behind Jhiaxus as he intones, "I do not want to destroy you Jhiaxus, stand down. We are giving the Autobots what they want! Explain this challenge you made to me, you are the one who spoke of me being a incompetent commander. You issused the right of challenge not I." In order to defend himself he fires off a burst of crackling radition based electricity at his attacker, as he shouts, "Jhiaxus listen!"

Ghost shimmers then begins a series of acrobatic twistings to end up peering about suspiciously, taking careful note of the situation.

Space Cannon strikes Stratobomber with his electricity attack.

Rook FACEPALMS

Mono mutters at Deadeye and begins to desend

Mono enters the Wastelands.
Mono has left.

The electricity attack momentarily shorts out Jhiaxus' engine systems and he drops downwards, turning the spin into a dive from which he tries to recover by transforming and landing in robot mode.

Cybercraft flys over to where Rook is watching the battle and takes up position there.

You enter the Wastelands.

Wastelands

The Wastelands are a lesser version of the great abandoned zones that stretch over parts of Cybertron. Immediately, you notice how desolate and devoid of life this area seems. Looking back up the mountain range towards Darkmount, you can truly come to appreciate what a formidable fortress the Decepticon Headquarters is as you stare up at the 20,000' cliff.
When you finally tear your gaze away from the mountain to look at the uneven and broken surface of Cybertron that makes up the Wastelands, you can't help but wonder if anything can survive out here. The area is massive and seems to go on forever in darkness, so you are only able to see a small part of it at a time. An entire army could take refuge here in the broken landscape and you might never see them. Consequently, the area is also useful for more realistic training in the ways of war.
As you ponder the immensity of your devastated surroundings, you hear the little noises of unidentified creatures around you.
Contents:
    Mono
    Deadeye
    MultFunc Unit
Obvious exits:
    South leads to Rocky Flats.
    Up leads to Sky Above Wastelands.

Space Cannon arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.

Stratobomber transforms into Jhiaxus.

Rook arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.

Cybercraft arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.

Ghost arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.

Flame Tetrajet arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.

MultFunc Unit continues to spin in a large circle...

Ghost dives in from above, unhappy looking.

Mono walks over tho the Multi Unit

Nova transforms, with a smooth but flashy whirl into her stunning self.

MultFunc Unit stops and eyes Mono..

Deadeye walks away from Mono, and nods to everyone.

Jhiaxus lands heavily on the ground below the fortress of Darkmount, and turns to face Shockwave, his optics blazing bright green in fury.

Skyflight transforms into his Robot mode.

MultFunc Unit's optics change from blue to green ...

Rook hovers above, watching... muttering about the insanity of this.

Deadeye walks to Ghost, and mutters something to her.

Space Cannon follows Jhiaxus as he remains in his cannon form. His voice rumbles, "Jhiaxus, you must listen. I will defend myself against you if I must. But be aware the Autobots are getting what they want from us. I have screened the message you sent in a challenge directed towards me. Explain it, and you know that you do not know what I speak of...Mono or Deadeye play this message to Jhiaxus.."

Ghost glances at Rook, then looks down below before descending furhter calling out, "Jhiaxus this is madness!!"

Deadeye mutters to Ghost: "... ... ... ... ... ... ..."

Mono looks at the unit wondeirng if it can speak "who, or what are you?" he asks..he looks annoyed at all the violence aroudn him

Jhiaxus's response is to fire off another rocket....

Ghost slows and looks at Deadeye as he mutters to her.. She nods.

Skyflight transforms into his Cybercraft mode.

Ghost mutters to Deadeye: "Someone ... shockwave ... ... from Jhiaxus.. ... ... ... why he came ... ... ... ... was calm ... ... ... ago until his ... went ..."

Cybercraft hovers up near Rook, between him and the other Decepticons.

Jhiaxus strikes Space Cannon with his rocket attack.

MultFunc Unit says, "I am Twinge.. the latest modle mobile medical repair unit..who are you?""

Rook looks at Skyflight a moment. He shakes his head.

Deadeye facepalms...."This is NOT my week."

Ghost nods, summonung her rifle.

MultFunc Unit turns its head to see the action...

Deadeye raises his gun..."Mono..play Shockwave's whutever.....I don' got it."

Cybercraft moves himself further to shield Rook.

Jhiaxus's optics flash even brighter in a moment of triumph as his second rocket attack strikes. "You will not question my honor nor demand that I proclaim the folly of my plans before your entire army -- when mine is the only way we will all survive!"

Rook mutters to Cybercraft: "... don't ... ..."

Mono says, "I am Mono AGS co-cmmander..*he looks over* I am afraid I am going ot have to ask you to leave unless you are of the Decepticons, as you can see we are having slight difficulties"

Ghost mutters to Deadeye: "... ... ... the ... ..."

Jhiaxus snarls, "Come down out of the sky and meet your end like a Decepticon."

Deadeye lowers his gun, and nods to Ghost.

Cybercraft mutters to Rook: "There ... no ... it now. ... ... ... ... ... his life after ... ... defeated."

Deadeye mutters to Ghost: "Only fer you."

Rook nods to Skyflight.

Ghost mutters to Deadeye: "We have a ... plan."

Rook mutters to Cybercraft: "Assuming he is ... one that is ..."

MultFunc Unit rotates it large head around so Mono can see the 'Decepticon' insignia stamped on the back of his acess panel.

Space Cannon is hit by the rocket hard and is sent wheeling back as sharpnel lodges itself in his armor. His voice strains and he goes to target again and intones, "Ghost, you play this recording then. This is madness Jhiaxus, we have left our points abandoned so what? So we can destroy each other? Give the Autobots a victory when we are both destroyed?" He rumbles and he arms up an electrostatic build up, and he shouts out, "Your goal will not be met with your destruction Jhiaxus." He intones, "Jhiaxus, destroy me and my Decepticons, will finish what remains of you..." With his last words he fires trying to imobolize Jhiaxus long enough to get this message through to him..."

Deadeye nods again, face grim, and he just watches for now.

Space Cannon strikes Jhiaxus with his electrostatic attack.

Cybercraft keeps a sensor trained on Ghost and Deadeye.

Rook grimaces visably.

Ghost takes a step closer and switches her radio on, broadcasting a wideband message from a datatrack... Its a bit staticy due to this not being her function.

Mono nods to the Multfunc unit. He smiles a bit, as he casts a worried gaze aroudn the area. He sees the needless combat between the two comamnders and growsl a bit and thne casts a gaze off in the distance "Good,. may I ask were you came from, and if you saw any signs of an Autobot offencive there?

Ghost broadcasts, "*static* Lord Shockwave, in light of our recent expedition, I have reached several inescapable conclusions. Our efforts should have combined, for the benefit of all Decepticons. And your path will not bring about that end. Therefore, I find myself forced to forge the future alone. I find you incompetent, unenlightened, and utterly lacking vision. I will arrive at Darkmount in a day's time to meet you in combat for the leadership of the Decepticons. I invoke the ancient rules of the challenge for supremacy. One shall stand, one shall fall - and to the survivor goes the future of our species.

Jhiaxus is engulfed in a crackling field of electricity that knocks him back and almost off his feet ... his optics dim visibly as he struggles to regain control of his motor functions.

Nous arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.

MultFunc Unit turns to watch the confrontation between Shockwave and Jhiaxus... its optics chande to gold...

Ghost looks at the fight, watching, waiting, hands clentched...

Space Cannon drops down to the ground and transforms into his robot mode. His hand clenches and he drops down into a defensive move. He eyes Jhiaxus and intones, "Are you able to explain this non-sense?" He brings his arm-cannon online and levels it at his downed foe as a deep red bead forms over it...

The gun barrel splits in half. The handle comes apart and lengthens to becomes the legs. The back folds up as Shockwave appears in his robot mode

Nous slowly glides down to join her fellow Decepticons.

Rook is really hoping Jhiaxus will listen to reason... but he isn't counting on it

Cybercraft turns toward Nous and watches her closely.

Jhiaxus is unfortunately beyond hearing that transmission, as his senses momentarily waver and he puts all his concentration into remaining in the battle, bringing his gun arm up once more, swinging it toward Shockwave....

Deadeye is someplace fairly visible, rifle in hand as he watches.

Mono transmits a radio message.
Ghost receives a radio message.
Ghost transmits a radio message.
Mono receives a radio message.

Jhiaxus misses Shockwave with his laser attack.

Rook mutters to Cybercraft: "... must ... ... now!"

Mono transmits a radio message.
Ghost receives a radio message.

Ghost has ceased moving closer to the fight, rifle fully in view and she looks deadly serious..

Rook hovers down quickly, landing before Shockwave.

Jhiaxus snarls silently to himself as his attack misses, not yet back to full capacity after taking that electricity hit.

Ghost transmits a radio message.
Rook receives a radio message.

Rook says, "ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Cybercraft transforms in mid-air, dropping down beside Rook roughly.

Skyflight transforms into his Robot mode.

Rook's optics actually go from white to dark red.

Nous holds her particle rifle at the ready. Just in case.

Jhiaxus says, "Rook -- get out of the way! Or I'll go right through you!"

Mono mutters soemthing as he flies up

Ghost frowns and makes her way to Rook, glaring at Jhi, "Best to think again Jhiaxus.." she intones darkly.

Rook whirls on Jhiaxus. "THEN DO IT!" he yells in defiance.

Jhiaxus gathers himself to spring at Shockwave, wanting to tear into him with his bare hands.

Skyflight dives at Rook.

Deadeye frowns. He puts his finger on the firing stud, and growls, wanting very much to shoot something to peices.

Rook jumps clear of Skyflight.

Ghost mutters to Rook: "Can ... handle ... gun?"

Shockwave looks at Jhiaxus as his optic flares he sees the message was not enough. His optic flares and he rolls to the ground only to bring himself up into position to open up on Jhiaxus again and aims for one of his huge knees. His optic flares, "Jhiaxus, this is madness, I will kill you over this mindless battle. You are falling for an Autobot ploy, are you deaf Jhiaxus?" He turns around and fires off at Jhiaxus with a much more powerful surge of emp emissions trying to short out his knee servos..

Shockwave strikes Jhiaxus with his Em_Pulse attack.

Mono powers up his sword as he draws it. "THis combat is acomplishing nothing!!" he yells "we are only weakening oursleves so that we are open to a sneak attack!! It must halt!

Nous says, "Mono is right. This sort of Decepticon in-fighting can only weaken us"

Rook produces his em pulse rifle.

Rook turns to face Shockwave. "You will cease this NOW or I will attack you."

Jhiaxus curls his hands into fists, seething as he pauses to accuse those standing before Shockwave, "Are you all willing to sit on this used-up world and wait until stagnation claims you? Are you so brainwashed with foolish sentiment that you would give up your destinies as Decepticons?"

Skyflight runs back to Rook, trying to drag him away.

Nous says, "I would never leave Cybertron to the Autobots!"

Ghost gaahs as an em pulse streaks past her and rooks attempt at a block.

Deadeye transmits a radio message.
Ghost receives a radio message.

Jhiaxus is almost simultaneously thrown back by that part of Shockwave's attack that gets through between Rook and Ghost.

Mono swigns his sword and hits a button , and a red field of staic electricity formes between the fighters

Nous says, "A good idea, Mono"

Jhiaxus sinks to one knee, clutching his shoulder which is horribly blasted open with cracks radiating from the wound. He seems to react in fury rather than pain, forcing himself to his feet and rushing forward....

Deadeye looks confused, and raises his gun, not sure what to blast, or if he should shoot at all.

Mono loosk down "No, actualy it is an increadibly stupid idea, that will msot likly get me bakc in the repair bay, BUt Every secodn this combat goers on the weake we may become

Kimakaze arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands. Kimakaze takes a catious step into the area, looking about her person with great care....eyes scanning for those who would stop her mission....

Ghost looks at Rook then at the fight, Dear primus.. This has got to be stopped!"

Shockwave looks at Rook and intones. His optic flares as he intones, "I am attempting to stop this prattling, non-sense." His optic flashes and looks at the field infront of him, and doesn't seemed bothered by it. He looks at Mono and nods. His optic flares, "I grant you leave Jhiaxus, and I am not going to stop you from Cybertron. Take those who want to leave with you, and allow the rest the choice to stay. I know Megatron, will at one point in time return. I cannot abandon him..."

Nous's lip curls with disgust at Jhiaxus

Rook sighs.

Nous says, "Kimakaze...be careful!"

Kimakaze lands silently behind the regular Cons and is not really that visable.

Jhiaxus slams headlong into the forcefield, staggering back, momentarily dazed.

Nous says, "Let the traitor leave!"

Rook pushes at Skyflight. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!??!"

Mono hovers, falling bakc again as his sword sparks with the impact on the field. HE adjusts it with a smile that hodls apsolutly no humor at all

MultFunc Unit cocks his head to the side like a dog trying to understand a new command.. He stares at the warriors in the heat of thier battle with great interest.

Skyflight hits the ground roughly, and attempts to get clear before Jhiaxus breaks the field.

Rook gives Skyflight this venomous look.

Ghost looks at Shockwave in.. well. shock for a moment, then seems to seeth with restrained fury... still standing her ground. "JHIAXUS!!! CEASE THIS MADNESS!!!!!! FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE!"

Rook turns to Jhiaxus this time. "STOP! JUST STOP!"

Shockwave looks at Nous, "Jhiaxus, is not a traitor. The situation was controled by the Autobots.." His optic flashes as he looks back at Jhiaxus as he doesn't go open for another hit on the forcefield, "Jhiaxus, this is blinding you..." His voice becomes calm, "Jhiaxus, explain how your goal for expansion will be reached with you destroyed. This MUST STOP!"

Jhiaxus pulls back from the forcefield and shakes his head slightly, trying to re-focus himself. He whirls on the onlookers, having picked out certain words. "Traitor? I? There is your traitor -- " he gestures to Shockwave "--the one who keeps you all bound here. And all I wished to do was explain this to him. Instead, I get insults. I'm branded a traitor, my honor as a Decepticon questioned. I will not have it!"

Rook holds his gun up, aimed at his COMMANDER. "STOP THIS NOW! OR I WILL FIRE AND THE SLAG FURNACE BE DAMNED!"

Mono Yells "STOP THIS BEFORE WE ARE ALL DESTROYED!!!!!

Deadeye looks just plain pissed, no liking being left out of any battle.. He lurches into what seems to be a fight, and eyes Jhiaxus's soldiers, and shakes his head. "I dunno whut's goin' on. All I know is, sumbody better stop, 'fore I strt doin' sumthin' th' rest o' you'll regret.

Kimakaze watches, not particuarly feeling anything at all.

MultFunc Unit taps his claw-like fingers together rapeatedly.. and hisses in delight..

Nous takes a firmer grasp on her particle rifle. "I said traitor and I meant traitor, Jhiaxus! You plan to abandon your world and the rest of the Decepticons!"

Jhiaxus glares at all of the onlookers, then at Shockwave, slowly, very slowly, beginning to get himself under control again, though his optics still burn a dangerous green.

Ghost pitches her voice carefully, intoning, making sure the words are crisp and carrying a touch of authority, "Traitor? Traitor? TRAITOR? I think not.. There is no traitor here. We are all /fools/ Contemptable, decrepit fools to fall for a trick.." she pauses.

Jhiaxus snarls, "It was never my intention to abandon the Decepticons as Megatron did. I wanted the future for all of you. And Shockwave denies you!"

Skyflight says, "Be silent this instant Nous!!"

Shockwave powers down his arm-cannon in protest of this. He folds his arms against his chest, and shows no signs of any agression towards Jhiaxus, since he didn't want this battel in the first place. His optic flashes, "I am no traitor, Jhiaxus...there are no traitors here. Only fools..."

Rook trigger arm is shaking ever so slightly. "GET IT UNDER CONTROL.... get it under control..."

Mono still holds that forciefield up, attempign to stop any attacks, knowing full well he can't keep it up forever, considering the firepower both of the combatints have

Ghost grates, "Shockwave is gifting you with permission to take your followers..Without quarrel, JHiaxus.. Take this.. For I am rather certain that another would not feel quite the same.."

Nous's attention is divided between the madness in front of her and the mad one, Kimakaze, behind her.

Kimakaze is not mad...merely silent.

Ghost's optics flicker and she says softly, "Megatron. did..not.. abandon us.."

Deadeye eyes Ghost, arching a brow. "Don' blow a fuse." He shakes his head, "Look, people....I'm confused..an' when that happens, someone gets mauled. That ain't fun. I think we should all jus' GO HOME, an' simmer out fer a minute."

Kimakaze flexes a single fist.

Nous sneers at Skyflight. "Never!"

Mono says, "For once I think Deadeye has the right idea"

Deadeye rolls his optics...."Can we ALL jus' SHADDAP an' SIDDOWN for a minute?"

Jhiaxus seems to regain more control, though he's still furious, still ready to leap at Shockwave (or anyone who foolishly gets between them) at the slightest provocation.

Jhiaxus says, "Fools, all of you. To tie yourselves to this dead world, when I would offer you the universe!"

Shockwave looks at Deadeye his optic glows, "Deadeye, I think is the one who is being logical in his own twisted way.." He looks at Jhiaxus as he brings out a recorder and plays the message again to him...

Ghost peers at Jhiaxus, "Megatron left with is own dreams.. You wish to do the same. " She remains right where she is planted.. as best as between the two as she can manuver.. "Jhiaxus.. Calm.. down.. For your sake.."

Skyflight says, "Jhiaxus, your OWN ALLIES are asking you to talk this out. Please listen to those who's council you value most."

Mono hovers, energy ripplign aroudn him, as the forcefield still glimmers on, since it has not bee nattacked yet. HIs face has a mixture of anger and anxiousness on it

Deadeye folds his arms. "Looky here, Jhiaxus.....so we're bein' stupid stayin' on this tin plated rock.......we got an emotional attachment, or some load a garbage. So leave us already. Odds are, if'n ya did take us, we'd jus' piss ya off again by actin' like afts."

Kimakaze folds her arms and watches, her optics beginning to glow...

Rook lowers his gun a bit... watching his Commander carefully.

With the blind fury draining away, Jhiaxus wavers a bit where he stands ... he's taken some heavy damage. With determination he remains standing, glaring defiantly at all of them.

The recorder begins to play and it is loud enough for Jhiaxus to hear:
"Lord Shockwave, in light of our recent expedition, I have reached several inescapable conclusions. Our efforts should have combined, for the benefit of all Decepticons. And your path will not bring about that end. Therefore, I find myself forced to forge the future alone. I find you incompetent, unenlightened, and utterly lacking vision. I will arrive at Darkmount in a day's time to meet you in combat for the leadership of the Decepticons. I invoke the ancient rules of the challenge for supremacy. One shall stand, one shall fall - and to the survivor goes the future of our species."

Deadeye continues, "Now

Deadeye is cut short, "Whut he said."

Nous returns the glare, her optics blazing.

MultFunc Unit looks around at his fellow Decepticons... then fires up his plasma tourch..

Ghost's optics flicker at the message... and she watches Jhiaxus carefully...

Jhiaxus rumbles, "Far be it from me to fight for those who will not fight for themselves, for their destiny."

The recording finally gets through to Jhiaxus, and he turns to Shockwave, puzzled amazement evident on his face. "What is ... that?"

Ghost says softly, "You have fought for those who wish you to.. Leave us to what we believe..."

Rook calms himself down, his gun arm lowers until its to his side. However his trigger finger remains tense.

Deadeye nods, "Right. That's whut I said. I think. Now, ya gonna waste a lot o' energy on us, when ya might need it wherever yer headin' on blowin' us ta smithereens, or ta gonna jus' GO?"

Black Cyberjet arrives from the Sky Above Wastelands.
Black Cyberjet enters the area and maintains a watchful distance.

Skyflight address Jhiaxus. "That is the fake message Shockwave recieved. You got one also."

Jhiaxus says, "I never sent such a message!"

Skyflight says, "As I said, it is a fake."

Shockwave's optic flashes as he intones calmly, "The false message the Autobots sent to me..." His optic flickers as he looks up at the sky, "Darkmount, and the Hellpits are now open for a frontal assult." His optic flashes, "Your radios were also cut off....."

Ghost replies, "Its a message Shockwave got.. I think you recieved one not too long ago youtself.."

Nous blinks at Jhiaxus in confusion

Deadeye smacks his head...."I thought I'd never say this...an' especially not since I grew outta bein' a stupid kid......but...DUH!"

Jhiaxus takes a step toward Shockwave. "Then you didn't contact me demanding that I come here only to beg forgiveness for my foolish plans, and insult my honor as a warrior?"

Deadeye says, "Honestly. I'm s'posed ta be th' one jumpin' th' gun an' nukin' peopel on sight. Never saw two smart people actin' so damn stupid.""

Nous's optics fade as the news begins to dawn on her and her gaze, as it travels to the newly arrived Autobot, has venom in it

Ghost steps aside only slightly, optics still focused on Jhiaxus...

Shockwave's sensors go online for a second. His optic flashes as he turns his head away, "Sensors detect a possible Autobot heat signature.." His attention is returned to Jhiaxus, "Correct, and if I did, you would have been destroyed by now.."

MultFunc Unit'optics change to blue. He eyes Jhiaxus...then Shockwave..

Mono begisn to lower to the ground also, he still keeps the field up jsut in case, but he seems to think it might be over

Skyflight pulls his PDA and begins scanning.

Jhiaxus rumbles, "That is most debatable."

Ghost arches a brow and refrains from comment. SHe glances around for a moment, then says, "Lets not put this to a test, gentlemen..."

Mono says, "I belvie we should find the Autobots who did this, and put and end to their tampering"

Nous says, "Excellent idea, Mono"

Black Cyberjet receives a radio message.

Rook raises his hands. "Could I PLEASE have the Commanders attention? Both of you?"

MultFunc Unit chuckles to himself.. (evily)

Deadeye fehs, "-I- say we should pack our bags, go home, calm down, an' not fight on emotion. That never amounts ta anythin' but gettin' roasted. Have a breather. Get fixed."

Jhiaxus shakes his head. "And you still expend your energies on the Autobots. Leave them here to rot! I fail to see the attachments to this sucked-dry bit of metal!"

Black Cyberjet transmits a radio message.

Skyflight says, "Wait a moment, radio signals flying! Rook, can you triangulate?"

Rook says, "I will play the REAL MESSAGE my Commander sent. LISTEN!"

Rook broadcasts it for all to hear.
Rook's recording plays, the decoded message beneath the fake: "Lord Shockwave, in light of our recent expedition which has benefitted us both, I am making a final attempt to reach you. I do regret the fact that we seem to have become enemies, when truly our efforts should combine, for the benefit of all Decepticons and for the destruction of the pathetic rabble of the Autobots who stand against us. There is a matter of great importance, things you should know, that I wish to discuss with you - not in the presence of your warriors or mine, but in private. I do not trust a message of this significance to the so-called securities of radio transmission. I will arrive at Darkmount in two days' time to meet with you in person."

Ghost glances at Rook.. one brow raises.. Her hand slips to rest non-challantly on her hip above her pistol.

MultFunc Unit hmmss.......

Jhiaxus's optics darken at hearing his own words, reminded of his own intentions, and how they went so badly wrong.

Rook finishes the broadcast. He looks to Skyflight and nods.

Shockwave nods to Mono and looks back up at the jet, "This Autobot, can be shot down and questioned as to who did this." He looks at Jhiaxus as he intones, "I have my reasons to remain here, just as you have yours to leave Cybertron. It would be poor tactical planning to leave Cybertron..." He looks at Rook and listens..ignoring the Autobot and intones, "That should of not been played in the presance of an Autobot. Yet it matters not..."

Rook transforms into his com station form.

Com_Station starts to triangulate the radio message that the Bot in the area sent

Mono fianly drops the Forcefield and looks up into the air with a scowl

Ghost watches the f-shield get dropped.. then sets her gaze on Jhiaxus.. warily..

Skyflight taps a few buttons on his PDA and sends a saturation burst of infared.

Black Cyberjet breaks off from circling and goes into a steep climb

MultFunc Unit taps his fungers together and listens intently..

Nous lowers her weapon and her optics darken

Shockwave looks at Deadeye, "Bring him down to the ground, I want answers as to who did this..."

Suddenly Mono begisn to change. his legs shorten and his arms slide into secret compartments on his side. THen his chest flips up to cover his head ,which slides into his body, and part of his back slides over and connects to form a cockpit. Then wings slide up and now a space-jet of the newest design stands before you

Skyflight says, "As I thought. Night Raven spying on us."

Jhiaxus mutters to himself, "Tactical planning. I don't see any tactical advantage to this world. Those who wish to stay and die...." He staggers a bit from his injuries, but catches himself again on sheer determination.

Space-jet with out a word, trasnforms and shoots off into the sky to follow the Cyberjet"

Com_Station says, "I got a moving target climbing in the vector of 28 by 32"

Deadeye nods...."Okay...who eats particle_beams?"

Ghost remains on *guard* letting things move around her into the chaos before a chase.

Skyflight looking at his PDA, fires into the air toward Night Raven.

MultFunc Unit looks up "DO you require Medical Repairs Jhiaxus?...."

Nous stares at Jhiaxus. "And what benefits do you expect to find in space. There is only one Cybertron...only one homeworld"

Com station transforms into his robot form.

Deadeye lifts up into the sky, panning his weapon across the skyline at Night Raven.

Jhiaxus seems quite uninterested in the Autobot presence, trying to come to terms with the Decepticon situation. He wavers between disgust and disappointment and anger, and absolute, total incomprehension.

Rook puts his rifle into subspace, as its not needed. "If you all be quiet a moment he will explain himself."

Ghost watches Jhiaxus closely... Her expression void of anything to indicate her feelings on this matter.

Jhiaxus's darkened gaze finds the speaker, Nous. He rumbles, "'The homeworld' is a pretty abstraction. One we cannot afford to sacrifice ourselves for. Out there among the stars, at least, we would have a chance - rather than waiting for extinction to claim us here."

Skyflight says, "Our world has been in worse shape Jhiaxus, I have seen it. And helped rebuild it."

Nous frowns at Rook and her bearing suggests that Jhiaxus had better have a good explanation.

Shockwave looks at Deadeye, "Stun him not vaporize him. I want him to be able to answer my questions. His attention is drawn away from the Autobot and back towards Jhiaxus, "Megatron, did not abandon us. He left us here for a reason, Jhiaxus. To leave Cybertron, would allow the Autobots to take all that we have gained. That itself would be a victory to the Autobots, a victory Megatron nor myself can allow."

Deadeye begins to head in Night Raven's direction. "Get down here, or I make ya come down by punchin' holes th' size o' Omega supreme inta ya!"

Space-jet charges up his lasers and attempts ot get a lock on the Autobot's engines, hopign to take him down with as little damage as possible

Jhiaxus shakes his head. "A hollow victory, Shockwave! Let them have it, let them die with it! We could have so much more!

Rook takes position next to his Commander.

Jhiaxus says, "How many more good warriors will you send to their deaths over empty wastelands and scarred plains of metal?"

Nous shakes her head and rasps one foot on Cybertron's surface. "Cybertron is no abstraction, only your dreams of conquest on other worlds you haven't found...is a dream"

Black Cyberjet receives a radio message.

Ghost's optics flicker... and she voices no opinion.. Only watches and listens.

Shockwave looks over at the setting Alpha A and motions his arm-cannon at it. His optic flashes, "I am loyal to not only the Decepticons, but my homeworld as well. I want to see it rebuilt." His optic dims, "I will not leave until Iacon City is rubble..."

Jhiaxus finds it incomprehensible that his message just isn't getting through. The pain of his injuries seems to hit him full-force, and his optics darken further.

Black Cyberjet receives a radio message.

Ghost's optics grey slightly as she continues to watch Jhiaxus.. closely..

Rook seems to be ready to catch his Commander at any moment.

Shockwave looks back at Night Raven. He shakes his head and sends out a powerful jamming signal to stop the constant flow of radio waves.

Ghost transmits a radio message.
Rook receives a radio message.

Deadeye's hands flare, and he attempts to catch Raven in a magnetic lock.

MultFunc Unit wanders foward lighting up his plasma tourch ..his primary programming taking control .. repair...

Nous looks at the injured Jhiaxus and wonders if she should attempt to repair him. But her optics flare and she makes no move towards him.

Rook nods to Ghost.

Deadeye strikes Black Cyberjet with his Magnetic_induction attack.

Jhiaxus forces himself to stay standing yet again. "I wanted the stars for us all," he says quietly to Rook. "You see, what I get for my efforts."

Space-jet follows the jet into the air, still attemptign ot get a target lock on it

Ghost gives Rook a glance and nods to him, then returns to peering at Jhiaxus.. Full Attention on him.

Jhiaxus turns away from Shockwave, defeated and disgusted. "Come, Rook. Leave the rest of them to their fate."

Deadeye snags the Autobot, and forces the jet to the ground below, leading him to Shockwave with some effort..as hog tying a plane ain't easy!

Shockwave looks back at Jhiaxus as his optic flashes, "I have granted you your mission. The rest of us have the same loyalties to Cybertron as I do."

Rook says, "You gave it a try... you risked a chance he would listen. I warned you he wouldn't... its time we go home and get a medtech working on you."

Ghost sends her weaponry away and folds her arms over her chest... Watching....

Nous overhears Jhiaxus's comment. "You can't eat the stars. You are a dreamer, Jhiaxus"

Rook smiles a bit as his Commander tells him we are leaving when he says it.

Deadeye drags Raven in. "Look whut I brought in fer show an' tell, Shox."

Deadeye says, "Don' say I never gave ya anythin'."

Jhiaxus turns to glare one more time at Nous. "And you may stagnate here for all I care. That is the fate you deserve."

MultFunc Unit backs up as Jhiaxus shoos him away....

Rook physically forces his Commander to leave.

[OOC] Skyflight says, "Rook then makes pigs fly.."

Kimakaze watches all this.

Jhiaxus hovers upwards and transforms, the gears grinding painfully as he does so, and slowly rises into the sky.

Nous sneers at Jhiaxus. "Go starve in the stars, you're not welcome here"

Jhiaxus transforms into Stratobomber.

Ghost continues to seem to be on guard.. watching Jhiaxus leave....

Rook says, "Shut up wench."

Shockwave looks at Nous and holds his arm-cannon out to silence her. His optic flashes and he looks at Jhiaxus and gives him a traditional salute on his shattered chest plate. His optic flares, "I grant you a safe voyage on your mission. Once, mine is completed prehaps I will accompany you." He turns to look at Night Raven and intones, "Night Raven, you will speak...who sent these messages..."

Rook hovers after his commander.

Deadeye grins at Nous. "Nice one, kiddo."

MultFunc Unit leans his head down watching Jhiaxus ....

Stratobomber takes no further notice of the others, including Shockwave.

Nous twitches at the sound of "wench" and her hands automatically raise her particle rifle to Rook

You enter the Rocky Flats.

Rocky Flats

The Flats aren't really foothills per se, but almost resemble the true foothills to the southwest of you. Here, iron metallic chunks of the asteroid that makes up the planet's core still protrude through a long ago smoothed over surface. Some how, in ancient times, vast quantities of molten alloys were poured over the area in an crude attempt to create a more navigable path to the mountains. The result of the experiment is a rather odd looking leveled off plateau that is occasionally interrupted by pieces of the original asteroid peeking through the surface.
The alloy of the plateau has an odd crimson tint to it, for, as the poured metal cooled over the natural asteroid, native iron seeped out and gave color to the then alien molten liquid. Gradually, towards the east, the plateau gives way to growing deposits of silicon. Towards the south, however, the planet's surface seems to become more pitted and brittle in contrast to the fluidity of the silicon plains.
Obvious exits:
    East leads to Desert.
    South leads to Black Forest.
    West leads to Bismuth Mountains.
    Up leads to Sky above the Forest and Flats.
    North leads to Wastelands.

You enter the Black Forest.

Black Forest

Although not readily apparent, this area is also a by-product of the efforts used to construct the Rocky Flats. The metal in this sector of Cybertron collapsed and melted under the run-off that cascaded over it from the Flats. The result was an eerie type of forest which lays sunken into the surface as the various twisted and grotesque prongs of unevenly melted titanium alloy reach towards the crimson sky.
Several pathways have been cut or beaten down into the floor of the ghostly forest to allow passage through the area as well as above it. Odds are, though, that you won't see much around you anyway for the spires of metal are plentiful and don't allow much extended visibility. If you descend into the depths of the forest, you immediately become lost in the darkness the canopy creates, and think you might want to bring a light with you the next time you're here.
Contents:
    Cat's domian
Obvious exits:
    Up leads to Sky above the Forest and Flats.
    North leads to Rocky Flats.
    Southwest leads to Hellpit Territory.
    West leads to Foothills.

MultFunc Unit arrives from the Rocky Flats.
MultFunc Unit Twinge rolls in on a set of large tank tracks.

Rook has arrived.

MultFunc Unit hums in behind slowly on his tank tracks..

Rook hovers in looking for his Commander.

Stratobomber's engines finally give out over the "forest" section and he hovers slowly toward the ground.

Rook spots his Commander and assists his landing.

MultFunc Unit looks up..."Problems?.."

Stratobomber comes to a rest on the uneven surface, rivulets of fuel and steam coming off his wings and plating.

Rook nods to the odd fellow."Indeed."

Stratobomber transforms - again that painful grinding sound - and pulls away impatiently from Rook as he finds a place to sit down and lean against a 'tree'.

Stratobomber transforms into Jhiaxus.

Jhiaxus growls, "I will only need a moment's rest, then we continue."

Rook frowns at his Commander, who seems not to like being touched at this time.

MultFunc Unit fires up the claws and micr tools..."How may I be of service?"

Rook says, "Fix him."

Jhiaxus shakes his head. "Fools, all of them. To throw away the chance I gave them. I would have offered Shockwave everything we had."

MultFunc Unit nods..."You (jhiaxus) should have accepted my help eairler.."

Jhiaxus's sense of betrayal slips once more over the line into anger. "Let them die here, then!" He glares at the Unit as though noticing it for the first time. "Who are you?"

Steel Sabre transmits: '.... am I getting through?...'.

MultFunc Unit transforms

Jhiaxus's optics flicker as some other transmission reaches him, another unwelcome intrusion.

The multifunction robot rocks back on its tank tracks and opens up from the torso. Its head divides into two large arms and the tracks combine with the lower body to form robot legs.. A large head raises out and Twinge's optics glow bright blue as he mumbles.. "... all is within my grasp!"

Rook sighs at his Commander. "A med tech I believe, Commander."

Jhiaxus transmits 'Come near me, Autobot, and you will find I can still crush the life out of you if I must.' to Steel Sabre.

Twinge comes to attention.."I am Twinge .. the latest modle Medical Repair Unit.. We met briefly in the tunnel maze.."

Jhiaxus demands of Rook, "And, what does he want?"

Steel Sabre transmits: 'Interesting, who said anything about fighting?'.

Jhiaxus's injuries and disappointment make him rather surly company at the moment.

Rook says, "To fix you. Sit still eh?"

Jhiaxus makes no reply, which seems to give the go- ahead for Twinge to be allowed to approach.

Rook says, "Want me to radio jam that annoying Autobot?"

Twinge transforms

Jhiaxus transmits 'In that case, I have no use for you whatsoever. Cease annoying me.' to Steel Sabre.

Jhiaxus nods to Rook.

MultFunc Unit fires up hs plasma tourch..

Rook transforms into his com station form.

MultFunc Unit repairs some of Jhiaxus's damaged components.

Com_Station sends out a jamming signal.

Com_Station says, "It is done."

MultFunc Unit works silently ...

Jhiaxus sits quietly and without flinching the MultFunc Unit works.

Cybercraft arrives from the Hellpit Territory.
Cybercraft comes flying in, low to the ground.

Skyflight transforms into his Robot mode.

Sparks fly as the multi Function Unit welds a patch on Jhiaxus' arm..

Jhiaxus goes back on his guard as Skyflight arrives to join them, nearly pulling away from Twinge in the process and disrupting the repairs.

MultFunc Unit says, "Ahhh hey.. where are you going?""

Skyflight says, "There is no need for apprehension."

Jhiaxus settles back down, but glowers at Skyflight silently, waiting for him to explain his presence.

Com_Station nods to Skyflight, not worried.

Skyflight for his part says nothing, watching silently.

[OOC] Com_Station says, "okay i dont nod. hehe"

MultFunc Unit shuts his torch down and automaticly raises his welders shield from his optics..

Com_Station is still jamming away.

Jhiaxus finally asks in exasperation, "What do you want, Skyflight? To get in a last "I told you so?" To gloat?"

MultFunc Unit blinks his blue optics..

Skyflight says, "I was concered for your welfare. And I wished to apologize to Rook for attempting to interceed, such was not my place."

Com_Station says, "Apology accepted. That will be your last intercession."

MultFunc Unit looks from Jhiaxus to Skyfligh and back again..

Jhiaxus mutters sarcastically, "Concerned for my welfare, naturally. If only you were so concerned about the future of your species. If only Shockwave were."

Com station transforms into his robot form.

Rook thinks the Bot won't bug us for the moment

Skyflight says, "Just because we do not agree with you Lord Jhiaxus does not mean we do not care."

Jhiaxus leans back against the "tree" to rest, some of the tension draining from him. He shakes his head and muses, "There is the key issue, isn't it? To what extent does power give one the responsibility to care? I thought I would offer the Decepticons their empire, the one they could never have here. And they threw it back in my face."

Rook wonders if Twinge is done working on his Commander as Skyflight talks to him.

MultFunc Unit fires up his plasma tourch .. takes it up to full blast (which might melt Cybertronian metals..."Shall I remove him from your presance Jhiaxus? It seems as he disrupts my work..."

Jhiaxus murmurs, "No. I don't really care if he goes or stays."

MultFunc Unit repairs some of Jhiaxus's damaged components.

Skyflight shakes his head. "They simply.. We simply, do not agree."

MultFunc Unit goes back to work ..(sparks flying, smoke riseing)

Jhiaxus remains impassive under the ministrations of the hot plasma torch. "And you know where your path will lead you, don't you, Skyflight? To a dead end. To a point from which you can no longer progress."

Jhiaxus says, "And the sheer idiocy of the reasoning baffles me still. 'Because Cybertron is the homeworld.' When something outlives its usefulness, one discards it and moves on. Is that not the way of the universe?"

Skyflight smiles. "I have been there before Jhiaxus, as I have said. It is not permenant."

Jhiaxus says, "How many times can you be lucky, how much more energy will you pour into this bottomless pit? Rather than building a network of inexhastible fuel sources and supplies?"

Jhiaxus shifts impatiently, eager to get on his way back to Hellpit now. He shoots Twinge a look that seems to say "Hurry it up."

MultFunc Unit drops his head and works faster...

Skyflight says, "Jhiaxus, I have no wish to argue with you. It is clear we have both made up our minds. I would happy to discuss this at length, but you are injured."

Rook seems more and more relieved as the medtech works on his commander.

MultFunc Unit repairs some of Jhiaxus's damaged components.

MultFunc Unit closes a crack in Jhiaxus' shoulder..

Jhiaxus growls at Skyflight, "I'm not so injured that I can't withstand your prattle one last time."

Rook waits for the repairs to be done...

MultFunc Unit loks up and smiles at his work as it is almost done..

MultFunc Unit repairs some of Jhiaxus's damaged components.

Skyflight watches Rook fly back to check with the sentries.

MultFunc Unit tightens the neck joints..

[OOC] Skyflight says, "Better not leave a piece out. this AIN'T Kup. :)"

Jhiaxus glances aside at Twinge, his internal diagnostics telling him that the rest is surface damage. Normally he'd let it go at that, but there's a long journey ahead very soon, so he remains still a while longer.

MultFunc Unit says, "Tell me more about worlds beyond our own Jhiaxus..(Twinge says as he works..simmilar to what the dentist does to you while his fingers are jammed in your mouth)""

Jhiaxus's optics flash bright for an instant, then he says, "The fact of the matter is that Cybertron is dying. And there are many other worlds that have the resources we need. Worlds like Monacus, for instance, where they have so much that they can squander it freely. And it made me angry to see that, when my own troops are barely surviving on the rations alloted to them. Certainly we have all had to make sacrifices to prepare for this journey, but if Shockwave thought I was living it up at Hellpit, he had absolutely no idea. And still has no idea."

MultFunc Unit repairs some of Jhiaxus's damaged components.
MultFunc Unit buffs the finish a bit..

MultFunc Unit hmmmmms..."Hows that?"

Jhiaxus shrugs off Twinge's polishing motions. "That will do."

Jhiaxus pushes himself to his feet, still a little stiffly, but his joints no longer make that grating, grinding sound. He nods very fractionally to Twinge by way of expressing thanks.

MultFunc Unit nods.

MultFunc Unit transforms...
The multifunction robot rocks back on its tank tracks and open s up from the torso. Its head divides into two large arms and the tracks combine with the lower body to form robot legs.. A large head raises out and twinge's optics glow bright blue as he mumbles.. "... all is within my grasp!"

Twinge steps back a bit.. "May I follow you Jhiaxus...?"

Jhiaxus gathers his thoughts quietly for a moment, his optics going dark ... then he re-centers himself in the present and looks toward Hellpit, the old determination still evident in him. "If the two of you will excuse me now, I have ... preparations to make."

Jhiaxus looks at Twinge. "Follow me to Hellpit? Whatever for?"

Twinge says, "My new methods of repair are still experamental.. They might not hold.. but I am on-call all cycle.. ""

Jhiaxus grumbles, "Wonderful. Second-hand repair." He pauses to consider, and then says, "You may as well follow along. My med-techs are busy salvaging what they can for the journey, and we might use an additional repaireon at this time."

Twinge nods...

Twinge rolls in behind Jhiaxus ..

Jhiaxus says, "As for you..." he turns to Skyflight and then hesitates, suddenly uncertain of what to say from here. "I must ... thank you for your assistance to me. I can only hope ... that you meet your end like a warrior before Cybertron's slow extinction.""

Skyflight says, "I have lived too long to think I can be killed so easily Lord Jhiaxus. I am sure we will meet again."

Twinge figits .. his claws clatter...

Jhiaxus regards Skyflight intently for a moment, then smiles very slightly. "It's a big universe out there. Anything is possible."

Jhiaxus activates his thrusters to rise up above the ground, then transforms.

Jhiaxus transforms into Stratobomber.

Skyflight says, "Take care of Rook. And good luck."

The massive Stratobomber swings slowly around in the direction of Hellpit, then starts to move off low to the ground.

You enter the Hellpit Territory.

Hellpit Territory

This small but strategically located territory is positioned just south of Cybertron's equator in the easternmost fringes of the Bismuth Mountains -- which rise all around like broken silvery shards into the eternal night sky. This wild, remote country is inhospitable and difficult to traverse, seemingly harsh and barren, but its true riches lie below ground: vast stores of quadrilithium crystals, the best known power conductors for weaponry. The Hellpit mines have long served as a repository for Autobot prisoners and the occasional Decepticon dissident. The Decepticon warlords of the region have squabbled over this choice piece of territory since time immemorial, and its borders and rulers have changed hands so often that record keepers in Polyhex no longer even bother to keep track.
Contents:
    Mountain Fortress
Obvious exits:
    Up leads to Sky above Hellpit Territory.
    Northeast leads to Black Forest.
    North leads to Foothills.
    Shaft leads to Mine Entrance.

Mountain Fortress
Defense Platform

This is essentially the roof of the Fortress, and is open to the sky, but a high, thick wall of black stone rings the platform, where rows of cannons loom over the barriers and angle in all directions above and below. A full squadron of sentries, their grim optics ever scanning the distance for danger, is permanently stationed here. Spaced at regular intervals in the walls, narrow openings in the stone allow a view of the desolate landscape far below. These openings in times past - perhaps recent past, judging from the scorch-marks along the walls - served to allow smaller laser weapons to be fired from the protection of the Fort, to supplement the cannons. Even now there's an air of vigilance and mistrust here, as though this precariously-held shred of civilization could fall to an enemy at any moment. A heavily-armored trapdoor in the center of the platform leads to the interior of the stronghold.
Obvious exits:
    Down leads to Entrance Hall.
    Out leads to Hellpit Territory.

Stratobomber transforms into Jhiaxus.

Twinge has arrived.
Twinge moves quietly into the room keeping to the shadows.

Jhiaxus watches as Twinge hovers in over the walls of the fortress. The defense platform is unusually clear of sentries, with only a scattered few guards keeping watch. Everyone else seems to be elsewhere.

Twinge rolls in , his tank tracks scrapeing and clattering aginst the floor...

Jhiaxus says, "I will point you to the repair bay. You can occupy yourself there, help the med techs pack. Or help eliminate the remaining mining slaves, take your pick. Make yourself useful, in any case."

Twinge walks in scanning around. His blue optics glowing faintly....

Jhiaxus pulls up the trapdoor in the floor of the platform and heads downward.

You lift the heavy trapdoor and walk down a steep, dark spiral staircase.

Entrance Hall

The massive gray stonework of the walls and the high arched ceiling make this room seem armored somehow, yet empty; a chilling cold creeps up out of the mountainside, into the stone floor, and into the joints of anyone who passes through. Numerous corridors are swallowed up by the shadows to the east and west, leading presumably to troop barracks or other necessary cubicles. Rows of motionless, highly- polished sentries stand guard to both sides of the two sealed doorways, one leading to the slave mines, the other to the ruler's throne room. In a tradition that dates back millennia, each guard carries a heavy, spiked warclub over one shoulder, never flinching, never budging under its weight. The only splash of color in the stark cold gray of this chamber is the obligatory Decepticon emblem, a purple banner that trails nearly from the ceiling to the floor along one wall, and is emblazoned with a silver Decepticon symbol.
Obvious exits:
    Corridor1 <c1> leads to Repair Bay.
    Corridor2 <c2> leads to Barracks.
    Corridor3 <c3> leads to Warlord's Quarters.
    SP leads to Stone Passage.
    North leads to Throne Room.
    Up leads to Defense Platform.

Twinge follows...

Twinge reaches the Entrance hall...

Twinge stops to lok around... then continues..

Twinge says, "What are you plans ..Jhiaxus...?...""

Jhiaxus's heavy footfalls echo from the bare walls of the entrance hall as he crosses the huge open space. He glances back at Twinge. "I thought all of Cybertron was aware of my plans, by now?"

Twinge dusts himself off, trying to stay clean.

Twinge blinks his optics and thier color changes to green.."Sorry .. I just recently came on-line.. haven't been updated with who-all and why yet.."

Jhiaxus turns and confronts Twinge midway in the room, his optics flickering a bit brighter. "I intend to provide an empire worthy of our kind, to those who would follow the path leading there. And that path does not lie on Cybertron."

Jhiaxus says, "Come along, then, and I will show you."

Jhiaxus turns away abruptly again and stalks toward the throne room door.

Twinge rubs the back of his neck with his left hand.. a distrot look crosses his face.. ".eh...ok.."

The heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan, letting you pass into the throne room.

Throne Room

An ever-shifting pattern of deep shadow and red light makes the size of this room indeterminate. Illumination is provided by rows of flickering, smoking torches that line the outside walls. Below these stand more silent, polished sentries, heavily armed and motionless while the firelight plays over their armor. A great circular pit takes up much of the floorspace, its smooth walls ending far below in a bubbling pool of white-hot molten metal. Bits and pieces of robotic limbs and armor can still be seen floating in the mixture, which gives off enough heat to warm the entire room. Rising on a pillar of darkness above the smelting pit, a steep staircase leads up to a platform dominated by a massive throne. To each side is a smaller seat for a guest or advisor. A retractable walkway stretches across the smelting pit; those who would approach the ruler of Hellpit Territory, must cross above the scalding pit of death in order to stand in his presence.
Obvious exits:
    Out leads to Entrance Hall.

Twinge Twinge moves quietly into the room keeping to the shadows.
Twinge follows.. unfortunatly he is small and a bit slow..

Groups of sentries mill about in the shadows, each carrying at least two battered mining slaves who scream and struggle as they're carried inexorably toward the smelting pit.

Twinge smirks..

Twinge peers around.

Jhiaxus pauses for a moment and watches the procession, nodding in satisfaction. "One thing I will miss," he murmurs quietly, then gestures around his throne room and toward the red-hot light of the smelting pit.

Twinge says, "hmmmmm....(then chuckles) ""

Twinge's optics lock on the smelting pit and xoom in to get a closer look-see.

A series of terrible screams rise up from the depths of the pit as the sentries shove their victims into the molten metal below, and Jhiaxus almost smiles. "Many hours I have presided over this pit. I've done a great deal of thinking here, I find the effect ... soothing."

Twinge returns his vision to normal.. "how ironic.. pondering extinction over a pit which there lies in .. (chuckles)"

Twinge says, "It is here that you sough to avoid it and take Cybertonians away from thier fate..interesting..""

Jhiaxus rumbles, "Indeed. Death comes to us all, and one can either be a pathetic victim, like these slaves" (more are thrown in as he says the words), "or one can sieze one's own destiny. Tell me, Twinge, which would you rather be? A slave, or a warrior?"

Jhiaxus says, "Would you rather die on your feet, if circumstances so dictate -- or would you rather be shoved to your death to whimper away your last moments like a beaten beast?"

Twinge looks up at Jhiaxus.."I'm not much for begging and whimpering... to this point nobody has ever given me anything... I would chose to fight than flee if the situation arose..."

Twinge says, "I do not (he looks to the pit) want my life terminated so soon after my creation..""

Twinge's mind begins rumbling through vague thoughts...

Jhiaxus says, "You do realize that a Decepticon's natural lifespan, if one should be so lucky as to survive the odd encounter with the Autobots, would far exceed what's left for this world?"

Jhiaxus says, "And with you being newly created. A shame, really."

Twinge looks supprised...his optics change to yello.."Really .. hmmmm.. that is interesting.. (Twinge now facinated by Jhiaxus' intelegence).. I find that distressing. .."

Twinge says, "No one should outlive thier own planet... hmm to be an orphan .. without a home.. VERY dipressing...""

Jhiaxus rumbles, "All of this talk of 'home.' Look around you. This is what I said outside, when something outlives its function it must be discarded. Like these slaves."

Twinge nods.

Jhiaxus says, "They will no longer be needed. And I'm eliminating them for one very good reason ... because when I leave, the surrounding warlords and the Autobots will tear each other to bits over this piece of ground, over the mines and their riches."

Twinge says, "leaving the slaves to suffer for it...""

Jhiaxus waves a hand dismissively. "I am hardly interested in the welfare of mere slaves. They are Autobots, traitors, troublemakers, insurgents."

Jhiaxus says, "But imagine if they got loose. My sentries will be gone, there would be no one to keep them in check. They would either go back to the Autobots and swell their ranks, or strike out on their own -- and that would create new enemies for those Decepticons who so foolishly choose to remain."

Jhiaxus says, "You see, Shockwave is wrong - I do not wish to deprive him of what little time he has left, if that is truly his choice. I will do what I can before departure, one final gesture. But I will not deny myself and my followers our rightful place in the universe either."

Twinge says, "I see your point .. ""

A fresh wave of sentries comes in from the entrance hall, dragging yet more struggling, screaming mining slaves.

Twinge glances back to observe the new comers...

Twinge says, "So tell me .. where will your ventures lead you? How far are you willing to go?""

Jhiaxus touches a control on his wrist, and a walkway slides out across the smelting pit leading from the open center of the room to the pillar leading up to the throne.

Jhiaxus says, "As far as is necessary."

Twinge bites his lower lip and nods .. getting the answer he expected...

The next group of mining slaves begin to be tossed screaming into the firey pit below, to both sides of the walkway. One manages to catch the edge and dangles there, kicking frantically...

Jhiaxus says, "Come, I will show you."

Twinge follows...

Jhiaxus heads out across the walkway toward the dark pillar of the throne, casually scraping loose the clinging fingers of the slave with the edge of his foot as he passes.

Jhiaxus moves around the base of the throne and disappears behind it.

Twinge chuckles and looks down as he passes over.. he waves down at teh screaming slave befor he vanishes into ash.. Twinge quickly regains his composure befor Jhiaxus sees him...

Twinge moves quicker to catch up..

There's a panel in the wall behind the throne, left open since there has been a lot of coming and going through it recently. Jhiaxus steps through, expecting Twinge to follow.

You step into the near-complete darkness of a narrow passage that slopes sharply downward, eventually forming itself into rough-hewn stairs beneath your feet. Just when the winding descent threatens to become endless, you detect a faint light up ahead.

Laboratory

Tables, lab benches, and shelves stand cluttered with outdated and archaic equipment, much of it covered in a thick layer of dust. Here and there a cleared spot on a lab bench boasts a set-up of bubbling flasks and coiled tubing, or obsolete electronic devices that buzz and spark intermittently to themselves. More shelves along the walls are crammed with ancient text cartridges, some of them neatly ordered in untouched rows, others in a jumble of disarray. The uneven stone walls indicate that this level is deep within the mountainside, making for a decidedly closed-in feeling - as though something from long ago is brooding in the corners and crevices of this room, and just needs to be uncovered.
Obvious exits:
    South leads to Storage Room.
    Up leads to Throne Room.

Twinge steps carefully out of the open wall panel.
Twinge has arrived.

Twinge follows Jhiaxus ..looking very intrigued...

Twinge increases the light sensitivity of his optics to see better...

Jhiaxus moves through the narrowly-spaced tables, seeming almost too big for this room. He heads for the door at the opposite end.

Twinge follows.. "What is this place?"

Jhiaxus says, "Most of this is outdated junk. We won't be taking it. The history files, now those.... " he pauses a moment and considers, stepping up to one of the shelves and dusting off a few choice text cartridges. "A few will remain useful."

Jhiaxus slips a few selected cartridges into his storage compartment, and then heads for that opposite door.

The hinges creak and groan as the heavy door swings out, letting you pass.

Storage Room

In contrast to the chaotic disorder of the laboratory, this room is divided into precisely regimented storage space. Huge stacks of sheet metal, armor plate, thick cabling, crates of circuitry each neatly labeled, and other refined materials, are piled in orderly arrangements. Additionally there are racks of weapons ranging from old-style spiked battle clubs to components for perimeter-defense cannons. To the uninitiated it would look like simply the prudent storage of materials needed to keep a defended fortress operational; to those who look more closely, however, it becomes obvious that there's far more here than necessary.
Obvious exits:
    South leads to Vault.
    North leads to Laboratory.

Twinge wanders in trying to keep close behind Jhiaxus..

A hidden trapdoor in the floor comes open as two polished sentries climb out, take an armfull of supplies, and head downward again.

Twinge raises an eyebrow.. hmmm "Now theres somthing you don't see everyday.."

Jhiaxus says, "The rest of this will be loaded up within the next hours."

Twinge says, "Execelent..efficiancy is good....yes..'"

Jhiaxus glances toward the door to the Vault, though he makes no move to open it. "We will have fuel supplies to last us through our first conquests."

Jhiaxus says, "I do not make thoughtless plans."

Twinge grins.. Thinking to himself the many referances Jhiaxus may be making by that comment...

Jhiaxus steps over to the trapdoor and pulls it up, climbing downward.

You lift the heavy trapdoor with some difficulty and descend into another stone passage. An intense cold radiates from the walls and the stone beneath your feet, as you descend ever deeper into the heart of the mountain.

Shipyard

Another patchwork of light and shadow, this uneven cavern hollowed out deep within the mountain, is nearly filled by a gargantuan starship. Dwarfed by the lethally elegant sweep of the wings and tail, scores of workers clamber over the hull and move in and out of multiple entrance ramps, bringing the ship bit by bit closer to completion. Massive cannons are in the process of being attached to the undersides, and a clean-lined Decepticon symbol of a slightly changed design already adorns the forward hull. The grim, polished sentries that patrol the outskirts of the cavern indicate that some of these workers are not here by choice.
Contents:
    Starship Twilight
Obvious exits:
    East leads to Side Cavern.
    Up leads to Storage Room.

Twinge has arrived.

Jhiaxus stands aside and lets Twinge get a full view of the massive ship, complete now, and being steadily loaded with supplies and stacks of glowing energon cubes.

Twinge's mough drops open..."By god.......its huge!"

Jhiaxus folds his arms and regards the ship with pride and satisfaction. "And Shockwave thought I had a mere shuttle. Do you see now, what I mean to achieve?"

Twinge says, "You certinly do not mean to disappoint.. (still in awwe).."

Jhiaxus says, "Do you see, that every step of the way has been thought out, everything planned for, every consideration taken into account?"

Twinge nods.... "So you are leaving then and putting the Decepticons behind you to meet thier fate head on..?..."

Jhiaxus says, "I can't very well force those to join me, who are too dense to see the truth, can I? And I will not stand and fight for those who will not fight for themselves. Nevertheless" his words grow a little quieter, "I regret having to leave any behind. That was not my intention.""

Jhiaxus points toward the ship. "This could still be your future."

Twinge says, "looks over to Jhiaxus.."Tis better to save some if not all ..Its the thought that counts " (hidden smirk)"

Jhiaxus's optics darken. "Better to save some, of course. Perhaps it's this same irrational attachment to Cybertron that Megatron ran into. No wonder he only took his closest companions."

Twinge skakes his head.. "I'm sold .. sign me up twice. I see how 'thinking' has brought a great leader from the ranks.. I will follow thoes that think first always..."

Twinge sences some remorse or illregret in Jhiaxus' words..

Jhiaxus turns abruptly away from the gleaming ship, leaving his sentries to continue their task. "You are welcome to join us in the journey," he says without looking back, as he heads back toward the upward passage.

You climb the intensely cold stone passage until your way is blocked by a heavy trapdoor. With some difficulty, you push it upward and emerge.

Storage Room

Twinge emerges from a small dark tunnel sloping in from above.

Twinge scrambles in after standing there paused for amoment thinking ...

Twinge says, "What will you have me do then Jhiaxus?""

Jhiaxus glances back. "You are a medic -- as I said, the supplies of our repair bay are being salvaged and packed as we speak. You may assist there. Then speak to Rook about your next assignment. Everything must be secured and in place by this time tomorrow. I do not wish to remain on this world longer than necessary. No time left for second thoughts."

A turbo-rat scurries in, sees the two large forms that now stand in its path and scurries away..

You enter the Laboratory.

Twinge arrives from the Storage Room.

Jhiaxus says, "You will find the repair bay on the level above."

You step into the narrow well of a staircase that rises almost immediately into near-complete darkness. The winding climb begins to seem endless, until you feel the smooth surface of a wall panel blocking your way.

Throne Room

Twinge has arrived.

Twinge looks around.. "Then I shall perform an inspection after the supplies have been loaded and report to Rook asap.."

Jhiaxus motions aside one of the throne room guards and speaks to him quietly, then looks back at Twinge. "This warrior will assist you." Obviously, Twinge has been assigned an escort ... Jhiaxus, by force of long habit, isn't yet willing to trust just anyone who shows up here, so close to the hour of departure.

Jhiaxus leaves the still-active smelting pit behind with barely a downward glance.


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