You enter Command Center.

Command Center

          Replacing the largely ceremonial Throne Room, this area serves as a liaison point between officers and troops. This is where, in recent years, Shockwave makes the day-to-day decisions about Cybertron's governance. The decor of the Command Center is purely functional, designed to facilitate the easy transfer of information. The area is circular in shape, with a raised standing area around the edges to give speakers an edge of authority. Various relays and datafeeds are displayed on banks of reclined monitors, set around the walls in a semi-circle, along with computer banks, datagrids and inert coms monitors. Security cameras map out every aspect of Decepticon territory, as well as constantly showing different location shots of the Nightwarren. A huge hi-res screen curves above the main terminal, and the gleaming walls capture the flickering and jump of information as it scrolls past on the screens, viewers and terminals. A funnel-like elevator exists at the centre of the room leading upward to one of the few above-ground facilities of this structure - the Spacebridge Transmat Chamber. Because of its proximity to the spacebridge site, the energon storage hold is located nearby.

Ramjet [robot]

Intrigue wanders in rather hesitantly. While she's been here before, it's only been once or twice. Oddly enough, she doesn't see Shockwave here... She thought he never left the Command Center.

<LongRange> The big center screen in the Polyhex Command Center hisses to life as the static clears into an image of Soundwave. The distinctive voice speaks: "This is Soundwave calling from Earthbase. Cybertron, acknowledge."

Intrigue erks and looks around. Still no Shockwave. In fact, there's only a couple other people here, none of which look like they're going to respond to the transmission. She shrugs and drops into a seat in front of the communications array. May as well...

<LongRange> Thunderwing says, "Cybertron acknowledging. Greetings, Soundwave."

Intrigue tilts her head, listening. Ah, good.

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Greetings, Thunderwing. I am attempting to reach Shockwave at Polyhex, or a representative if he is not available."

<LongRange> Intrigue says, "Forgive my presumption in responding, Commanders. I am in Polyhex myself, but see no one else here authorized for these communications. I will relay, if you wish."

<LongRange> Thunderwing says, "By all means, Intrigue."

<LongRange> Soundwave matches the image and voice to his records, as well as the name provided by Thunderwing, and says, "We require the transport of a small but vital component to a machine that will make use of this planet's internal heat. I saw it during my last trip to the Polyhex repair bay. Intrigue, are you free to bring this item to Earth? The trip will not take much time out of your schedule."

<LongRange> Intrigue pauses... then continues, "Certainly, Commander. If you would give me the item number of the component in question, I will try to locate it."

Ramjet is on monitor duty ... in a power saving mode as he sits with his feet on the console.

<LongRange> Soundwave transmits an image of a cylindrical piece of machinery, along with its designation number - this is clearly not Techno's missing neutron splicer - which is small enough to be easily carried tucked under one arm during travel. He says, "You will find this heat exchanger in the third storage cabinet from the cryo-chamber door, on the second shelf, in the back corner. If you can retrieve this and take the space bridge, we will meet you on Earth."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "The settings are in place for your arrival on our side, you will simply have to activate the controls (another transmitted image of the control panel). Remember to keep close to the light beam that you will see, and you will have a safe journey."

Intrigue pauses again, caught between eagerness to try this weird means of transportation, and the common sense that tells her that new technology needs time to work out the bugs. Ah well, it's an adventure!

<LongRange> Intrigue says, "Yes, sir."

<LongRange> Soundwave nods to the image of Intrigue on the screen, and disconnects communication.

Intrigue turns away from the screen, giving the... power-saving Ramjet a delighted grin at this opportunity before she rushes off to find the whats-it.

You enter Administration Deck.

Administration Deck

          This deck is a constant thoroughfare, serving to link the information centres of Darkmount together. The grandest entrance is reserved for the ornate throne room, while the egress to the command chambers and has a more functional aspect to it. The corridor is brightly lit and the scarred alloy that plates the walls has hours of polish worked into it.

You enter Linking Shafts.

Linking Shafts

          Color-Coded shafts lead out from this central hub in all directions, including the gravshafts that lead downward even deeper below ground. While they are not marked with text, those who live here will be familiar with the color coding and be able to confidently find their way around in this subterranean cluster of decks and corridors.

You enter Science and Engineering Deck.

Science and Engineering Deck

          You can hear the distant whine of cleaning scrubbers as you walk through this deck: the S&E deck is kept clean to avoid foreign particles of matter confusing research projects such as energon sampling or mineral testing. A brief, sonic 'shower' is used to shake excess dust from those entering, if required. This deck is well-lit and open, suggesting its design to be of a newer construction than other access ways.

You enter Repair Bay.

Repair Bay

          The place Decepticons seek medical care, the repair bay makes every effort to put the patient at ease. The temperature and lighting are optimized for comfort, and the walls are a neutral grey. There are thirty beds along each wall, all with display panels. Equipment and tools are stored in the wall between beds and diagnostic scanners emerge from under the beds when in use. Off of the main room is a an emergency room to be used when conditions become too crowded. Overall the repair bay appears to visitors as somewhat antiquated but still functional. Most severe injuries can be treated here by a skilled medic.

Intrigue goes to the third storage cabinet from the nasty cryo chamber door. Now there's a place she doesn't want to visit again. Opening the door, she peers inside. "Second shelf, back corner... Ah, here it is." She compares the image Soundwave sent to the object in question and gets a perfect match. Nodding in satisfaction, she picks the unit up and heads out.

You enter Science and Engineering Deck.

You enter Linking Shafts.

You enter Administration Deck.

You enter Command Center.

Command Center

          Replacing the largely ceremonial Throne Room, this area serves as a liaison point between officers and troops. This is where, in recent years, Shockwave makes the day-to-day decisions about Cybertron's governance. The decor of the Command Center is purely functional, designed to facilitate the easy transfer of information. The area is circular in shape, with a raised standing area around the edges to give speakers an edge of authority. Various relays and datafeeds are displayed on banks of reclined monitors, set around the walls in a semi-circle, along with computer banks, datagrids and inert coms monitors. Security cameras map out every aspect of Decepticon territory, as well as constantly showing different location shots of the Nightwarren. A huge hi-res screen curves above the main terminal, and the gleaming walls capture the flickering and jump of information as it scrolls past on the screens, viewers and terminals. A funnel-like elevator exists at the centre of the room leading upward to one of the few above-ground facilities of this structure - the Spacebridge Transmat Chamber. Because of its proximity to the spacebridge site, the energon storage hold is located nearby.

Ramjet [robot]

Ramjet hears someone come in and powers up with a start.

Ramjet tries to pretend he was paying attention all the time, "...yeah...nothing going on out there."

Intrigue returns triumphantly with her prize, the wonderful gadget that Soundwave showed her. Remarkable memory, that mech. Does he know where every part in the Repair Bay is without even checking a computer inventory? As Ramjet has awakened, she gives him a smile and a bow, pretending not to notice anything... off.

Diktat arrives from Administration Deck.

CatsCradle arrives from Administration Deck.

Diktat enters the command centre at a steady pace, a smile on his lips. His regal stance is perhaps enhanced by CatsCradle, who he's walking in a melodramatic stroll, arm in arm.

Ramjet wonders why he's being smiled at and nods back, "How's it going?"

CatsCradle smiles and gives a little half-bow. "Good evening Intrigue, Ramjet."

Ramjet takes his feet of the console and sits up straighter in the chair.

Intrigue is carrying a gadget under one arm as she examines the spacebridge controls. Yes, this is what Soundwave showed her, but neither is this something she wants to make a mistake with... As the others enter, she straightens up and turns to see who it is, giving them a bow. "Greetings, Diktat and CatsCradle. I'm going to Earth with..." She brandishes the whats-it. "... this!"

Diktat smiles, "A heavenly device of the Empire's technological bounty. I'm jealous, honoured sister. I would exchange much of my circuitry for permission to make such a trip."

CatsCradle pats Diktat's arm consolingly. "There will be other occasions, I believe." She tilts her head, looking at the device in Intrigue's hand. "What is it?"

Diktat separates himself from CatsCradle's arm, pulling a chair free and offering it to CatsCradle to sit upon, "What is it? Clearly, CatsCradle, it's a technical gizmo."

Ramjet looks up at the dohicky, "What it is? Doesn't look important."

Intrigue shrugs, still smiling. "I'm sure you'll have your opportunity, as CatsCradle said. As for what this is, please ask Soundwave, because I certainly don't know. Except that it was in the third cabinet from the stasis chamber, second shelf, back corner. How's that for a memory?"

Diktat smiles widely, hands still resting on the back of the chair, "Massively impressive, Intrigue. I'll put aside my lessons of recall in exchange for pistol training when you return."

CatsCradle sits in the offered chair and grins at Diktat. "I see your tech-speak is along the lines of mine."

Diktat smiles, moving slightly to the right to lean against a console, "I'm an artist, not a technician."

CatsCradle shrugs. "I would have called it a techno-thingie, so obviously I'm not much better. How long will you be staying on Earth, Intrigue?"

Intrigue thinks back and notes, "Soundwave said it was a... heat exchanger for a machine on Earth to use the planet's internal heat. I probably won't be long, though it would be nice to have a look around."

Diktat smiles in utter agreement. He's a being who's entirely used to strolling on alien worlds, "Enjoy yourself, Intrigue. We will await you return, but take your time."

Intrigue nods and waves, turning back to the controls and punching in the proper sequence as Soundwave showed her.

You enter Spacebridge Transmat Chamber.

Spacebridge Transmat Chamber

          You are standing in a silver-gleaming room shaped like the inside of a funnel. Above is the transmat signal converter, translating your dissociated quarks that stream across hyperspace back into physical matter. A faint nimbus of light plays around the forked relay tips, like glowing coals. A sensor relay near the door scans and confirms the validity of your signal. A camera rig tracks all movements within this delicate area.

You are sucked up through a glowing wormhole to arrive at Space Bridge <Earth>.

Space Bridge <Earth>

          This enclosed ring of metal at the end of a long runway shields off a circular area of ground, marking the precise coordinates of an intergalactic transport system. The high, smooth walls block most of the view of the surrounding desert valley, and a sliding set of double doors is obvious at the point where the runway enters. When inactive, this structure is merely a featureless ring, but when it starts to power up, lights begin to circle around the upper rim, eventually culminating in spears of illumination converging upward and pointing the way through unimaginable distances of space. This structure is theory come to life, truly a technological wonder.

You enter Dry Riverbed.

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.

Ruse [Robot]
Buzzsaw [Condor]
Tempest [Robot]
Soundwave [Robot]

Tempest pauses, considering Soundwave's words, and then nods slowly. "Perhaps. Sometimes. It depends on the individual. I will place more faith in solid steel..." She looks up as Intrigue arrives.

Soundwave turns his attention from the conversation to the space bridge as the light effects converge and deliver their passenger from the wormhole.

Ruse sighs and murmurs something which to Soundwave translates to, "Primus help those souls then." She then looks up and dims her optics as the spacebridge lights up...

Intrigue materializes along with the fancy effects that come with spacebridge transport, clearly thrilled with the adventure. Though tempted to give them all a jaunty wave, she remembers her upbringing and sweeps them all a formal bow. "Greetings, Commander, sir, and ma'ams. I have the heat exchanger, as requested."

Soundwave steps forward. "Greetings, Intrigue, and welcome to Earth. My thanks. This was the last item we needed to complete the device."

Tempest examines Intrigue, sizing her up.

Buzzsaw is high up in the sky, scanning slowly and being a bored birdy

Soundwave accepts the cylindrical device, and looks Intrigue over himself, as though curious over what little he's heard of her.

Ruse bows back to Intrigue, "Greetings... I am Ruse." She raises, introducing herself and then Tempest, "The tall one is Tempest." She motions to Soundwave, "You know Soundwave." She points upward, "... and that's Buzzsaw."

Tempest kind of snickers to be called "the tall one".

Intrigue briefly glances around, but planets like this are nothing new to her. The people are much more interesting. She gives Ruse a smile and offers courteous nods as the others are introduced. "Thank you. I am Intrigue, if you don't know already."

Buzzsaw is a leeetle dot in the sky.

Soundwave says, "I will not keep you from your duties long, but how is Cybertron? I recently spent a few hours there, but enclosed in repair bay, unfortunately."

Tempest looks Intrigue up and down with a bit of a curl to her lip. The two couldn't possibly look more different...the elegant black Cybertronian femme, and the battered yellow Seeker from the Spaceways.

Intrigue frowns, her good mood suddenly spoiled by the reminder. Tempest's body language is rather unsubtle, too... Her tone becomes more guarded, but she simply says, "There are problems, as there always are."

Tempest doesn't really know what to say, what to do, so she just stands there, watching Buzzsaw circle, listening to Intrigue and Soundwave talk. Social graces are not her strong point...

Buzzsaw circles high and wide around the area.

Soundwave's attention focuses further. "Problems?" he inquires.

Ruse nods to Intrigue and grins, hearing Tempest snicker. The grin fades as the mention of problems on Cybertron hits her audios. She asks somewhat hopefully, "Hopefully nothing beyond the normal?" oO(Energy shortage can be solved, and Autobots kept in check. A new problem with Cybertron in the state as it is now, might throw everything into pure chaos though.)

Intrigue suddenly wonders at her scatterbrainedness in coming here. There's the temptation to report to the Emperor about it, but... this is *not* how she planned it. Shockwave was the person she'd intended to talk to, but he wasn't there, and the request for the part came through... Gathering her wits again, she looks gravely at Ruse and answers quietly, "Depends on what's normal, I would think. I don't know if I'm much of a judge of that."

Soundwave watches Intrigue carefully. "Is there something Megatron should be aware of?" he asks.

Intrigue sighs. "Probably, but I'd intended to speak with Commander Shockwave first, as he's the Guardian of Cybertron." She glances around again, not so sure this place is exactly secure...

Soundwave sends a silent communication to Buzzsaw to instruct him to keep watch for unwelcome visitors.

Buzzsaw sends a message back that he is doing so.

Tempest wanders away a piece, trying to pretend that she's not really interested, but if you catch a glimpse of her optics you can see the sliding gleaming light as she listens...

Intrigue says, "Is the Emperor available? I know that he is extremely busy, but it shouldn't take too much of his time."

Tempest mouths to Ruse, "Megatron? /THE EMPEROR???/"

Soundwave steps away from the Space Bridge a little, toward an overhang of rock that gives at least the illusion of a more protected space. He seems to know who Intrigue means despite the fact that his old friend would disdain such an ostentatious title, and says, "Megatron is on-location at the site of our next energy harvest. I can convey any message to him, however, and then you can travel back to speak with Shockwave."

Buzzsaw continues to circle alertly, scanning the ground efficiently.

Ruse blinks her optics and smiles, wandering over to Tempest. She whispers, "Emperor, leader of the Decepticons, the Autobot slagmaker... take your pick."

Tempest kind of smirks a little. "If Megatron asked me to stop calling him "Sir," I can only imagine his response to being addressed as "The Emperor."

Intrigue's time in Valckasta wasn't wasted. She at least knows the highest commanders in the Empire, and Soundwave is right up there with them. Taking the hint, she steps after the tall commander, towards the overhang. "I should be grateful for your help, Commander. This is a troubling matter."

Soundwave regards Intrigue with some concern. Perhaps this young Decepticon is blowing everyday events out of proportion, but perhaps she's picked up on something the high command should be aware of.

Ravage leaps out of Soundwave's tape compartment.

Intrigue has no reason to distrust the others, but she doesn't know them, and this isn't a matter for public knowledge. Lowering her voice, she says quietly, "I was the recipient of some unpleasant information regarding the Straxus/Thunderwing affair..."

Soundwave inclines his head toward Intrigue as she speaks, to listen. In an equally quiet tone he asks, "We are aware that there have been some tensions. What have you discovered?"

Intrigue thinks about this, liking it less and less. "I was approached by a self-confessed hacker who claimed he had broken into Polyhex's systems and altered the orders given by Commander Shockwave regarding Lord Thunderwing's executive officer, Spinister. He had also confessed this to Thunderwing, which may be why the Lord removed his XO from Polyhex to Valckasta."

Ravage finds a spot to sit down and listens quietly... this would never happen if he was put in charge of Polyhex's internal security.

Soundwave for those who can read his expressions at all, looks a little dubious. "It is not so easy to break into Polyhex's computer systems," he observes.

Ruse chuckles, talking to Tempest as the others speak to the side, "Oh I doubt Megatron would get upset, he just isn't into titles like past leaders. Kinda nice when you can just call him commander or Megatron and not Mighty Lord soandso, exalted leader of the Decepticons." ;)

Tempest nods slowly. "It is .... less demeaning for those who must follow." She glances over at Intrigue and Soundwave.

Intrigue shrugs. "This is what he said to me. He seemed rather unstable, too. If it were not for the bick... the discussions on the public information systems, I would have dismissed his tale. He was apparently concerned that security measures were not stringent enough, and so took matters into his own hands, with rather unpleasant results, not only for himself but for the Empire.

Soundwave says, "And what became of this individual? He was apprehended?"

Ruse glances aside as well, then shrugs and looks to Ravage, nodding to him as she finally takes note of the sometimes easily overlooked silent cat.

Intrigue frowns again, shaking her head slightly. "I was rather harsh with him over what he'd done. He left after that, and I've not seen him since. This was the reason I was in Polyhex, to speak with Commander Shockwave on the matter."

Ravage is pretty much looking off into space as he thinks about Polyhex and its computer system.

Soundwave nods thoughtfully. "I will see that Megatron gets the message, and Shockwave will surely be available shortly again. Spinister remains in Valckasta?"

Intrigue says, "As far as I know, but I haven't seen him myself, just read the notification about his transfer."

Tempest murmurs to Ruse, "Does this happen often? Difficulties with renegades, I mean."

Soundwave says, "This matter of breaking into the computer system - this may be a serious concern. There are safeguards, but it depends upon the skill of the hacker. And it may point out deficiencies in the security system."

Ruse shrugs and whispers back to Tempest, "Honestly I haven't heard of it happening much..."

Tempest seems pleased with Ruse's answer. She says, "What do they do, to renegades?"

Intrigue nods. "That puzzles me, as I wouldn't have thought him so capable. I have a certain amount of skill in that area myself, but I wouldn't even attempt such a thing. And even if I had, I would take days, if not weeks to work my way into so important a system."

Soundwave nods in agreement. "I will take the matter under consideration. Be assured that both Megatron and Shockwave will be informed at the earliest opportunity, if by chance you should not encounter Shockwave when you return."

Ruse shakes her head, "Deactivation, imprisonment, many different things I would assume, depending on exactly what happened."

Soundwave says, "Is there anything further you can tell me?"

Tempest nods to Ruse...with a slight reflexive twitching in one optic ... and glances over at Soundwave and Intrigue.

Intrigue shakes her head. "No, sir. My information is limited to what I heard from my informant, hardly a reliable source. For the most correct answers, it would be best to go to him directly. He's rather eager to tell people about what he's done. And in his defense, though what he did was criminal, I believe that he meant well. His judgment is at fault, not his loyalties."

Ravage thinks, .oO0(Meant well? by altering Megatron's orders?)

Soundwave says, "I will attempt to find out more from the perpetrator himself. What is this individual's name?"

Intrigue says, "Slipstream."

Tempest perks up. "Slipstream," she says to Ruse. "That's the one we went to Cybertron to fix!" She snorts. "Some gratitude he's shown."

Ravage thinks, .oO0(Maybe Soundwave missed connecting a vacuum tube...)

Soundwave's optic band flickers very slightly as he recognizes the name. After a silent moment he says, "Somehow I should not be surprised."

Buzzsaw is still circling.

Ravage starts to look at the space bridge and ponders a thought.

Soundwave shakes his head slightly and says to Intrigue, "But, you must return. I thank you for delivering the heat exchanger and bringing this information. Do not trouble yourself further, we will deal with it."

Ruse glances to Tempest and sighs, looking down.

Intrigue nods. "I'm sorry to bring such poor news, Commander, and hope that it is indeed a mistake. Quite frankly, I would fear for the Empire if Polyhex's computer systems were so easily breached. Thank you for your time, sir."

Tempest notes Ruse's expression. "What is it?"

Soundwave nods to Intrigue. "I appreciate your attention to your duties. Megatron will be told of your contribution." He gestures toward the ring of the space bridge with one hand, keeping the heat exchanger in the other. "I will send you home."

Ruse murmurs, "Nothing Tempest... nothing." She looks up and glances to the Spacebridge.

Tempest eyes Ruse, certain there's more to it ... formulating a guess, but another glance at Ruse's expression makes her disinclined to ask and she keeps her suspicion to herself.

Intrigue glances at the wonderful spacebridge herself, regaining a bit of her buoyant mood. Now *that's* an interesting ride. Turning back to Soundwave, she bows gracefully. "Thank you again, sir." Now back to Cybertron...

Intrigue gives nods to the others, even the high-flying Buzzsaw who probably can't even see it, then enters the spacebridge.

You enter Space Bridge <Earth>.

Space Bridge <Earth>

This enclosed ring of metal at the end of a long runway shields off a circular area of ground, marking the precise coordinates of an intergalactic transport system. The high, smooth walls block most of the view of the surrounding desert valley, and a sliding set of double doors is obvious at the point where the runway enters. When inactive, this structure is merely a featureless ring, but when it starts to power up, lights begin to circle around the upper rim, eventually culminating in spears of illumination converging upward and pointing the way through unimaginable distances of space. This structure is theory come to life, truly a technological wonder.

<LongRange> Over a burst of static, Soundwave's voice comes in on the screen in the Polyhex command center. "Polyhex, please acknowledge. Did you receive a traveler on the spacebridge?"

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, this is CatsCradle at Polyhex. We have not received anyone over the spacebridge. Intrigue was sent out, but no one has returned."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "She was sent 300 astro-seconds ago, she should have arrived by now. Is there any indication on your control panel that something is coming through?"

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, we do not see an incoming signal."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "There was a power surge recorded by our control panel. Am returning to headquarters to trace the possible reason, atmospheric interference or otherwise."

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, is there anything we can do now? From this end?"

<Cybertron> Diktat says, "Any tech specialists on Cybertron - we have an emergency at the Space Bridge."

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "Indeed we do!"

<Cybertron> Ramjet says, "I'm looking already. This place is empty. They must all be on an energon break or something."

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "What is the nature of the emergency?"

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Scan for interference in space between our coordinates and yours. Any unusual energy readings, any indication that the beam may have been thrown off course and directed elsewhere."

<Cybertron> Diktat says, "A spacebridge malfunction. Intrigue left earth and didn't appear here."

<Cybertron> Ramjet says, "Has that bridge thing even been tested after Shockwave realigned it? Maybe it just missed and she's appeared somewhere else?"

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "It -was- tested, I believe. Did the bridge in Polyhex receive the signal at all, or has there been nothing?"

<LongRange> Reflector says, "Perhaps the Autobots had a way of interfering with the beam, or sending it to another location?"

<Cybertron> Diktat says, "As far as I make it, no. But *I am not a technician*."

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "Neither am I, Diktat. But my guess would be that if no signal was received, then it was most likely redirected ... and Intrigue with it."

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "An unacceptable answer at best."

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "Perhaps, but it is somewhere to begin."

<Cybertron> Diktat says, "Clearly, Thunderwing. But that doesn't answer the question what we're (He stops mid-sentence)."

<LongRange> An image coalesces, showing Thunderwing in the Valckasta command center, "Soundwave, what are the readings showing from the bridge on Earth?"

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, the only person here who has technical knowledge is Slipstream, who is currently confined to the brig. Is Lord Megatron available to give permission to release Slipstream long enough to look at this problem from our end?"

<Cybertron> Diktat says, "Thunderwing: We can't get the one tech available out of his cell. Have you anyone who may save the life of an innocent?"

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "Something you apparently know nothing about, unfortunately!"

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Cybertron, I am searching for possible interference from here. Weather patterns over the space bridge itself were clear, but am checking upper atmosphere and solar storms."

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "Alas, no, Diktat. The space bridge is new and untested technology as of yet. Shockwave's crews are the only ones properly trained as of yet."

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "And they are conveniently absent."

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "Oh, and Thunderwing?"

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "Yes?"

<Cybertron> Diktat says, "Which might suggest that they program it rather than a young femme. (Diktat cuts out the signal sharply)"

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "Keep Spinister in your sight at all times... I'm keeping tabs on the both of you.... if you so much as slip an inch, I will be there to watch you fall."

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "Bring personal issues to my private frequency, Straxus."

<Cybertron> Straxus says, "Personal? This is a security matter. Keep your eye on that... soldier of yours."

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, Diktat is attempting to search for any interferences. It doesn't appear to be anything orbital. However, we have no trained techs on site. Can you talk us through anything else?"

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "How goes the search, Diktat?"

<LongRange> Soundwave fortunately isn't tuned in to the bickering among the warlords as he keeps trying to trace any clue from Earth. Calling into Polyhex command center he says, "Search for any unusual energy bursts near Cybertron - and yet I suspect the problem was closer to Earth than to Cybertron, as the beam cut out shortly after its initiation.

<Cybertron> CatsCradle says, "Lord Thunderwing, this is CatsCradle. Diktat is still searching and it is taking his concentration right now. We have not found anything as of yet."

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, can you suggest frequencies for us to search for? Wavelengths, energy, anything?"

<Cybertron> Thunderwing says, "Understood."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Reflector reports interference at the outer range of our Earth control's scanning range. Am following up from here. Reading ... faint ion traces, indicating a potential ion storm directly in the path of the beam. (sending a burst of coordinates that come up on the Polyhex screen) Can you confirm?"

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Confirmation on those co-ordinates. We're sending the readings to you now."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Cybertron, these readings ... are not encouraging."

<LongRange> Thunderwing says, "Rather like that singularly ominous statement, Soundwave. Elaborate."

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "Soundwave, should we continue to search for readings from here?"

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "If I were to speculate on the information I have, I would say that the space bridge transport beam encountered an ion storm along the way, which..." he pauses, and while no image is coming in over the channel since all the spare computing power is being used in the scanners, one might imagine that he's almost reluctant to say what comes next- "which indicates the beam was intercepted and scattered. And with it, the molecules of the individual who was being conveyed."

<LongRange> Thunderwing says, "I see. And how could this be confirmed?"

<LongRange> Soundwave sends another burst of data back, which could be interpreted by someone who's familiar with the physics of energy beams and the space bridge concept. Graphically it shows the image of the beam being scattered into deep space. Soundwave's voice comes in over the image after it dissolves back into static, "That is the simulation generated by the data I have fed into the machine."

<LongRange> Thunderwing says, "You certainly state your case well, Soundwave."

Diktat turns to Catscradle, emotion blocks complete. He looks like an untouched surface of a virgin planet, blankly calm, "It is alright," he turns to Straxus, "My Liege - if she still lives, she will not be on Cybertron. The scattering took place near earth, not near here. This means that it diverged from the route earlier... hence could be anywhere in existence. Assuming, of course, the signal converged into coherent matter again." He bows deeply, "I must retire to my quarters to await Judgement, Sir. Thank you for your assistance. I will see you in the future, either with my release or my execution." He awaits to be dismissed, poise perfect.

Diktat bows sharply to all three, and glides out, smooth like a missile. He speaks, "CatsCradle: Inform Lord Thunderwing that I consider Soundwave's analysis correct. Intrigue is more likely disrupted into her component molecules over the galaxy. All hail progress." With this, he leaves.

<LongRange> Soundwave's reverberating voice seems to lack some of its usual harmonics as he replies, "The space bridge is still experimental technology. We may still learn more as we work with it. But my professional opinion is that there is nothing further to be gained by continuing the search. The signal has dissipated."

<LongRange> Thunderwing says, "What say the people in Polyhex?"

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Polyhex, do you concur?"

<LongRange> CatsCradle says, "We do not wish to agree... but we fear we have no choice."

<LongRange> Soundwave says, "Understood, Polyhex. Earthbase out. (The transmission cuts out abruptly)"