Transformers: The Movie - "What If Hot Rod Had Not Gotten In The Way?" By Lewis M. Brooks, III ------------------------------------------------------------------ Author's Introduction I have made a couple of attempts at writing Transformers Fanfic's, but they never seemed to come out very good, so I never posted them. (I did write a 30,000 word Star Trek The Next Generation Novel [unpublished of course], but that's another story.) I am very happy with how this Fanfic turned out. I would like to say at the beginning, that I did kind of make up a fact or two. For example, the computer ship that Starscream has in the story. There is no proof that he did *not* have it. There is no proof he did either. For you Marvel Comic readers, this is based on the "Marvel What If..." series. I have just recently gotten into comics, and I really like this series, so I thought I would apply the theme of it to the Transformers. However, it is not based on the Transformers comic. It is based on the Cartoon and Movie. Any feedback would be appreciated. If I get enough positive response, then I will write the next chapter, Five Faces of Darkness. Legal Crap: Pretty much everything is owned by Hasbro, or Marvel. In any case, I do not own it. The title of Part II was taken from a Star Trek Deep Space Nine Episode. Enough of that. The story is posted in four parts. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter I - "Fall of Evil...Rise of Chaos" "I am Uatu, Most humans call me The Watcher. For countless ages I have lived on earth's moon. And I have watched over Earth. I have looked in on other realities on occasion. For their are an infinite number of possible outcome's to everything. All are explored. Today, I will look upon a reality in which Earth's mighty heroes do not exist. No Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Avengers, X-Men or Spiderman, just to name a few. Thankfully their greatest enemies, Dr. Doom, Magneto, The Mandarin, and Galactus, just to name a few, also do not exist here. In this reality, just over four million years ago, a space ship from the planet Cybertron crashed into Mount Saint Hillary's in Oregon, and well....you know the story. At least you know the story of this reality to a point. For, in this reality, an important event never happened. In this reality, we will learn what will happen if Hot Rod had not gotten in the way, and of course, no one can see or hear me except for you." "I've got to help Prime", said Hot Rod. "Stay away Lad. That's Prime's fight", responded Kup. Hot Rod stops and turns toward Kup. "But he needs help." "Maybe. Maybe not. Either way it's not our fight. Come on. We've got some Decepticons to smash", said Kup, raising his gun and turning toward the battle. Hot Rod followed Kup into the battle. "Now, events unfold differently, as we look in on Optimus Prime's fight with Megatron", said Uatu. Optimus Prime walked slowly toward Megatron. "Grant me mercy, I beg of you", said Megatron. "You, who are without mercy, now plead for it? I thought you were made of sterner stuff", responded Optimus Prime. He could not believe that Megatron would beg. He knew that he had something planned. Megatron grabs the gun in front of him, but before he can aim it, Prime shoots his laser rifle, and it blows through Megatron's chest, sending him flying over the ledge. He lands on the ground. Starscream and Soundwave gather around him. "Now, Optimus Prime has defeated Megatron, and future events will be changed from those we know", said Uatu. "Well. So ends the reign of Megatron", said Starscream, as he kicked Megatron's lifeless body. "Astrotrain, transform and get us out of here." "Look out below!" "Huh?", said Starscream as he looked up, in time to see Optimus Prime jumping toward him from the ledge above. Optimus Prime landed right in front of him, and blasted him point blank in the chest. He fell back on the ground in agony. Soundwave fired at Prime, but Optimus was too quick, and he dodged the shot. Prime lunged at Soundwave landing a punch to his face. Soundwave fired his weapon at Prime as he fell, hitting him in the arm, and throwing him off balance. As Prime fell, he fired at Soundwave, tearing open his shoulder. Prime began to get up. Starscream was crawling towards Astrotrain. Soundwave grabbed him, and helped him into the shuttle. "Astrotrain, take off", said Soundwave. Soundwave collapsed against the wall within Astrotrain. His wound was more serious than he had first realized. He lost consciousness. Astrotrain took off into space. Optimus Prime lay on the examination table, as Percepter repaired him. "With Megatron dead, we can finally take back Cybertron", said Hot Rod. "I hope so", said Ultra Magnus. "Prime, you were magnificent", said Kup. "Thanks", said Prime grimly. He did not feel very magnificent. "Prime, what's wrong", said Arcee. "You've won a tremendous victory for us. We would have been lost if you had not shown up." "It's just....I don't know. It's nothing", said Prime. He knew it was something, but he tried to ignore it for now. "Ultra Magnus, see that the city is repaired." "I'll see to it. Springer is assessing the damage as we speak." "Optimus, I hate to ask this, but I will need you to remove the Matrix so I can finish these repairs", said Percepter. "Of course", said Prime. He opened his chest compartment, and removed the Autobot Matrix of Leadership. The others all stood back, as Prime held the matrix in one hand. It's blue glow filled the room. "It's beautiful", said Arcee. "Prime, what's the Matrix for", asked Daniel. "It is said, that one day an Autobot will rise from our ranks, and use the power of the Matrix to light our darkest hour", said Prime. When would that day come he wondered. Who would it be. It was just ambiguous enough that he did not have a clue. "Will it be you", asked Daniel? "I do not know. It may, or it may be another. Only the Matrix knows for sure", said Prime. "Kup, do you have...the list." "Yes. Here it is", said Kup, as he handed Optimus a data pad. Prime read the names on the list. Prowl, Ratchet, Ironhide, Brawn, Windcharger, Wheeljack. There were more, but he couldn't read any more. Prime handed the pad back to Kup. "I'll finish reading it later." "Now, if you would all leave, I could finish repairing Optimus", said Percepter. Ultra Magnus, Kup, Blurr, Arcee, Hot Rod, and Daniel left the room. Astrotrain flew unsteadily through space. "Jettison some weight, or I'll never make it back to Cybertron." "Fellow Decepticons. Astrotrain has requested that we lighten the load", said Blitzwing. "In that case I say it is survival of the fittest", said Hook. "Do I hear a second", said Blitzwing. "Aye!" "And against?" "Nay." "The aye's have it", said Blitzwing. The unconscious forms of Starscream, Dirge, Thrust, Skywarp, and Thundercracker were rolled out of the shuttle door. Blitzwing went to push Soundwave out. "No", said Rumble and Frenzy. "Soundwave stays." Laserbeak, Buzzsaw, Ravage, and Ratbat were all there as well. Blitzwing pointed his gun at Rumble's head. "If you wish, you can join him." "Umm, that's okay", said Rumble. Rumble and Frenzy pushed Soundwave out, and closed the door. "Now, to business", began Blitzwing, "I am now leader of the Decepticons." "Fat chance", said Scrapper. "We Constructicons form Devestator. Leadership is ours!" A brawl broke out among the Decepticons. "As I am sure you have noticed", began Uatu, "The Insecticons were not among those tossed out of the shuttle, and that Thrust and Dirge were, as well as Soundwave and Starscream. One change to history as you know it, and many, many things change." Starscream and the other discarded Decepticons floated through the cold of space, until they come upon a huge form, as Starscream regained consciousness. "Greetings Starscream", said the huge sphere. "Who are you", demanded Starscream. "I am Unicron", he replied. "Where are you?" "I have summoned you here for a purpose." "I am Starscream. No one summons me." "Then it pleases me to be the first." "What is it you want with me." "The Autobot Matrix of Leadership. Destroy it for me. It is the one thing. The only thing, that stands in my way." "What's in it for me." "Your bargaining posture is highly dubious, but very well. I will provide you with a new body, and new troops to command", offered Unicron. Starscream thought a moment. "Agreed, on one condition." "And that is", asked Unicron. "I will provide you with the designs for my body, and those of my troops", said Starscream. "Agreed." Starscream removed a small computer chip from his storage compartment, and held it up to Unicron. It always paid to be prepared for everything, and these designs he had created would do nicely. Unicron projected a beam out to the chip, and then Starscream found himself engulfed in a brilliant light. His body was repaired and altered. "Behold, Skyquake. And these shall be your minions, the Predators." Thundercracker was engulfed by the light. "Talon", and then came Skywarp, "Sky Dive". Then it was Thrust, "Snare", and then Dirge, "Falcon". Soundwave was engulfed last. "Stalker the warrior." And this shall be your ship. Unicron opened a hatch, and launched a space cruiser. "Now go." "I will destroy Optimus Prime and the Matrix", said Skyquake. "To Cybertron." Optimus Prime and Percepter walked into the dimly lit room. "Lights", said Prime. The lights came on, and the morgue was now clearly visible. Along the far wall was a cabinet of large draws. Many of them had names on them. Ironhide, Ratchet, Brawn, Prowl, and more. Prime could not look at them. There was only one that interested him at that moment. The name on that cabinet read `MEGATRON'. "Open it, Percepter", said Prime. "Optimus, I already examined him. He is dead", said Percepter. "Humor me", replied Prime. "As you wish." Percepter pulled open the draw revealing a figure covered by a sheet. Percepter transformed into a microscope, and began to examine Megatron. "Power reading is zero. Laser core extinguished. Massive internal damage to all systems. No brain functions. Memory core erased. Fuel pump inactive. All readings indicate no function at all. Absolutely no sign of life. My original diagnosis stands. He's as the humans say dead as a door nail." Percepter transformed, and tapped Megatron's forehead with his knuckle. "See, no one's home." If Prime had a mouth, he would have smiled. "Thank you Percepter. You can go now", said Prime. Percepter began to close the draw. "No, leave it", said Prime. Percepter nodded, and left the room. Prime reached down, and pulled the sheet away from Megatron's face. He looked down at his old enemy. His eyes were dark. No sign of life. No movement. He remembered each and every battle they had ever fought. Each and every dirty trick Megatron had pulled, and each friend who had died at the hands of Megatron or his troops. Of course, Prime never would forget, that it was often his orders that put those friends in jeopardy. Prime knew those deaths were not his fault. He did what he had to do. He knew it, but he had a hard time accepting it. "So this is how it ends Megatron. After nine million years, it comes to an end. And with your death, comes a new hope to our struggle to regain our home. It should be a time of celebration, even after the loss of so many friends on this day." Prime glanced towards the draw that read IRONHIDE. Then looked back at Megatron. "They would not feel that their sacrifice was in vain. Now, perhaps peace may come." Prime paused. "And yet even in death, you worry me Megatron. You have survived too many times that you should have died. It does not seem over between us. I know you too well Megatron. After nine million years, I know you all too well", said Prime. Just a hint of anger was in his voice. "Something is not right. I wish I knew what it was. Maybe I'm just being paranoid. I hope that is all it is. I hope....I pray I'm wrong. I have a feeling you're no more dead than I." Prime covered Megatron's face, closed the draw, and left the room. In the hall, Prime touched a communicator panel on the wall. "Optimus Prime to Blaster." "Blaster here." "Blaster, I want guards posted around the morgue 24 hours a day." "Why Prime", asked Blaster? "Just do it", said Prime. Back on Cybertron, Blitzwing was being crowned the new leader of the Decepticons. The Constructicons sounded the horns. Then they blew the horns again. "Knock it off!", ordered Blitzwing. Astrotrain crowned Blitzwing. "My fellow Decepticons, as your new leader I..." At that moment, a thunderous sound could be heard, as a huge jet followed by four smaller jets landed in the middle of the hall. The large jet's cockpit opened and a robot jumped out, then all of the jets transformed. "Who disrupts this ceremony", demanded Blitzwing. "Surely you can't believe that you are the new leader of the Decepticons", said Skyquake. "I know that voice", said Blitzwing. "Starscream." "Why Blitzwing, you're smarter than I thought", said Skyquake. He raised his weapon, and fired a missile at Blitzwing. It exploded on impact, spreading small bits of Blitzwing all over the room. Well, would anyone else like to lead the Decepticons? I didn't think so. All hail me, Skyquake!" ----------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter II - "Apocalypse Rising" In the cold of space, Unicron moved toward Moon Base One, where Jazz and Cliffjumper are keeping a watch on things. Jazz looks at the monitor, and sees the enormous form of Unicron coming right at them. "Where did that come from", said Jazz. "Who cares. I'm more worried about where it's going", said Cliffjumper in his usual wise cracking tone. Jazz pressed a button on the console, and spoke into the microphone. "Talk to me earth. We got a situation out here." On Earth, the Autobots begin the daunting task of repairing Autobot City, left ravaged by the Decepticon attack. "Roger me, Wilco me, anything hello hello earth", came Jazz's voice over Blaster's communication channel. "I'm picking up a faint signal", said Blaster, as he transformed into a tape deck. Optimus Prime, Hot Rod, Kup, Blurr, Arcee, Ultra Magnus, Percepter, Springer, and the Dinobots gather around to hear it. "This is Jazz. A ginormous weird looking planet just showed up in the suburbs of Cybertron." "And", continued Cliffjumper", it's attacking Moon Base One." "Jazz, Cliffjumper", called Optimus Prime. There was nothing he could do for them. On Moon Base One, Jazz and Cliffjumper made a desperate run for the shuttle. "Got to blast free if we can", said Jazz, as he prepared the shuttle for launch. "Ignition and", said Cliffjumper. "Hit it", finished Jazz. The shuttle roared into space, only to be halted by Unicron, as he pulled them in. "Jazz, we're not getting away", said Cliffjumper. The shuttle was pulled into Unicron and destroyed. On Moon Base two, Spike and Bumblebee contacted earth. "This is Spike and Bumblebee up here on Moon Base Two", said Spike. "This thing. This monster planet just ripped the first moon to shreds", said Bumblebee. "And it's headed this way", said Spike. "We'll try and slow it down", said Bumblebee. "But you'd better get here fast, or we're not gonna...." And on earth, the Autobots watched in horror, as the communications were cut off. "Dad", called Daniel. "Bumblebee, activate the explosives." Spike waited while Bumblebee armed the explosives. "If this doesn't stop it nothing will." "Explosives are activated, let's get out of here", said Bumblebee. Spike and Bumblebee ran for the shuttle. "Hurry it's gonna blow", said Bumblebee, as they boarded the shuttle. The shuttle took off into space, as Unicron grabbed onto the moon, and pulled it in. Spike and Bumblebee saw it explode, and cheered. "Look", said Bumblebee not believing what his eyes were telling him. "Oh Shit! It isn't even dented", said Spike. "What are we gonna do now!" "We're being sucked into it!", shouted Bumblebee, as they were pulled inside, and the shuttle crushed. "Unicron, what do you think you are doing", screamed Skyquake. "Cybertron and it's moons are mine!" Skyquake felt intense pain. "But remember, we belong to him", said Stalker. "I belong to nobody. I am the mighty Skyq...", mumbled Skyquake, as he tumbled down the steps in front of him. "I will obey Unicron." Skyquake stood up. "For now", he added under his breath. "Decepticons, to Earth!" On Earth, the Autobots were still gathered around the view screen, after Spike and Bumblebee's transmission had been cut off. Optimus Prime contemplated the next move. There was something out there with the power to destroy a moon like it was nothing. It was headed right for Cybertron, and to who knows where next. Maybe to Earth. "Board the shuttles. This new menace is greater than any we have ever faced. We must stop it before Cybertron is destroyed." "But what about my Dad. He's on the moon between that monster planet and Cybertron", said Daniel. "Daniel, we'll do everything we can for Spike", said Prime. "And what are we gonna do when we get there. That thing crunches moons, it'll make short work of us", said Springer. "Perhaps the matrix can stop it", said Prime. "Look", shouted Springer looking towards the sky. The Decepticons were flying towards them. "Get to the shuttles", ordered Prime. Skyquake made a run straight at Optimus Prime. "I'm going to fry you Prime." "Not likely Starscream", said Optimus Prime as he jumped out of the way of the laser blasts. It was Starscream's voice, he recognized, but in an obviously new body. Prime pointed his laser rifle, and started firing. "It's Skyquake now, you old has been.", he called, as he took evasive action to avoid Prime's shots. "Talon, Falcon, destroy Prime", ordered Skyquake. The two Predators swooped down towards Optimus, but veered off, as they could not get past his laser fire. "Incompetent fools!", screamed Starscream. Elsewhere, Arcee and Daniel were fleeing, as Snare rained laser blasts down around them. Arcee grabbed Daniel, just before he fell into a hole where the ground had exploded in front of him. "Stay close to me Daniel", said Arcee. Hot Rod came up behind them. "And you'd better stay close to me", he said to Arcee. Arcee grabbed Hot Rod and puled him against the wall, just as Snare's laser blasts sailed by him. "No, you'd better stay close to me", said Arcee. As Skyquake flew above the battle, he decided he needed some reinforcements. "This is Skyquake to second unit, attack!" "Understood", came Hook's voice over Skyquake's radio. Optimus Prime ducked behind a wall to avoid some laser fire, and found Ultra Magnus and Percepter there. "Prime", began Ultra Magnus, "Percepter has some news." "What is Percepter", said Prime. "I have detected another force moving to attack us", said Percepter. "How many", said Prime. "I'm detecting sixteen new attackers", said Percepter. "Any idea who?", asked Prime. "I'm afraid if my readings are correct it's the Constructicons, Stunticons, and Combaticons", said Percepter. "Oh no. Devestator, Menasor, and Bruticus will make short work of this place. Ultra Magnus find Blaster. We need to even the odds a bit. Call in reinforcements from the Ark. I want Omega Supreme, the Aerialbots, and the Protectobots. That ought to even things up a bit", ordered Prime. "Whatever you say Optimus. But that won't leave us much of a force protecting the Ark", said Ultra Magnus. "I know, but we have no choice." With that Prime leapt out from behind the wall, and started firing. Skyquake flew toward where his reinforcements were preparing to attack. "Constructicons, Combaticons, and Stunticons, merge, and destroy Autobot City." "With pleasure", responded Onslaught. "Combaticons unite!". The five Combaticons merged into the awesome form of Bruticus. "Stunticons unite!", commanded Motormaster. "Well, if you insist", said Dead End", but it's pointless. The Stunticons merged and Menasor roared with anger. The Constructicons followed suit, and the three monstrosities flew toward the city. "Victory will be mine!", laughed Skyquake, as he transformed and flew back toward the battle. The three mighty robots flew toward the battle. "Menasor, attack the left flank", ordered Skyquake, "Bruticus take the right flank, and Devestator attack from the front." All of a sudden, Skyquake was hit from behind. "What the ahhhhhh..." Devestator turned around, and received a shot to the chest for it. "Devestator, you will not escape Omega Supreme this time", bellowed the huge form of Omega Supreme, as he attacked Devestator. Bruticus and Menasor turned around to help Devestator, but found themselves face to face with Superion and Defensor. Meanwhile, Blurr was trying in vain to get the Dinobots into a shuttle. "Nice Dino, good Dino, sweet Dino, wouldn't you step in the nice spaceship for Blurr? Pretty please? Pretty pretty pretty please? Nice Dino, good Dino, with a cherry and sugar and whipped cream on top? Nice Dino, good Dino, sweet Dino?", said Blurr, as he tried to pull Grimlock into the shuttle. "Me Grimlock not nice Dino. Me bash brains!" Grimlock and the Dinobots breathed fire at Falcon as he flew over head. "Hey watch that breath, you Dino fools", said Falcon as he flew by. Optimus Prime came running up to the shuttle, with most of the Autobots behind him. "Ultra Magnus, you will stay here, and defend the base. Springer, Blaster and Blurr will remain with you. Hot Rod, Kup, Arcee, Percepter get the Dinobots aboard the shuttle, and let's get out of here. "I want to go too Prime", said Daniel. "It's too dangerous", said Prime. "But my Dad", said Daniel with tears in his eyes. Prime knew that Daniel should stay. If Spike were dead, he would never forgive himself. But how could he not let Daniel go. "All right Daniel. Stay close to Arcee. Hot Rod started to pull Grimlock into the shuttle. "Come on you big bozo", said Hot Rod as he pulled Grimlock into the shuttle. "Me Grimlock not bozo, me king." "The Autobots boarded the shuttle. Inside the shuttle the Autobots prepared for takeoff. "This reminds me of the battle on Alpha nine. The Petro- Rabbits were...Grimlock, get your noodle out of my face.", said Kup, as he pushed Grimlock away. "Me Grimlock love Kup's war stories. "You're living one now." Kup turned to Hot Rod. "Engage the boosters, for Cybertron's sake." "Tell Grimlock about Petro-Rabbits again." "I'll give you Petro-Rabbits. Contact." "Grimlock, leave Kup alone, he's trying to pilot the ship", ordered Optimus Prime. The Autobot shuttle rocketed into space. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter III - "As Darkness Falls" Out in space, the Autobot shuttle flew toward Cybertron. "Looks like we lost them", said Optimus Prime. "I hope Ultra Magnus and the others can keep Autobot City in one piece." "Yep, I remember the dust was so thick off Beta 4, you had to use windshield wipers on your optic sensors.", said Kup to Grimlock and the Dinobots. "Me Grimlock know all about wipers, want to hear good part of story." "Good part, Kup. Tell Swoop good part." "Okay, okay. Well, the dust was really thick. And then this gigantic Ichyac came tromping and stomping down the mountain, flames spewing out of its nostrils. And I thought for sure..." "Hey, Kup, don't you think we have better things to do now than tell old stories", finished Hot Rod as he continued to fight the practice robot. "Like what", said Kup. "Like try to figure out how we're going to rescue our friends, and then save Cybertron", said Hot Rod. "In good time", said Optimus Prime. There isn't anything we can do until we get there. "Tell story", howled Grimlock. "Ssssh. Quiet. We want to hear story. Tell story, tell story", said the other Dinobots. "Kup, tell them, so they'll keep quiet", said Prime. "Sure thing Prime." Hot Rod shrugs, and is struck from behind by the robot he is practicing with. Hot Rod grabbed the robot by the throat, and it buzzed and said "Time out, time out, time out!" Meanwhile, aboard the Decepticons ship, Skyquake was getting a report from the battle on earth. "What do you mean you were defeated", demanded Skyquake. "Omega Supreme, Defensor, and Superion were too much for us", said Onslaught. "Incompetent fools!" Skyquake smashed his fist down on the console, and the screen went dark. "Autobot shuttle ahead", said Sky Dive. "All right", began Skyquake, "Stalker, you take command here, and prepare to attack. I'm going after them myself." Skyquake got up, and left the bridge. "They're closing on us", said Hot Rod. "Yup, like the shrikebats of Dromedon", said Kup. "How'd you beat them", asked Hot Rod. "I'm trying to remember. There were an awful lot of casualties that day¬" "Kup, take evasive action", ordered Prime. Behind them, Skyquake leapt from an air lock, and transformed. "Prime, Skyquake's incoming", said Hot Rod. Prime thought a moment. They needed to get away from the Decepticons, and deal with the monster planet. "Prime, the Decepticons will stop at nothing. We've got to do something", said Kup. "Prepare for emergency separation", ordered Prime. "That's too dangerous", said Percepter. "Do you have a better option", asked Prime. "I guess not", replied Percepter. Skyquake closed in on the shuttle, and prepared to fire his missiles. Kup prepared the shuttle to separate. Out in space, Skyquake closed in on his victims. "Take this", he said, as he launched his missiles at the Autobot shuttle. The missiles hit the ship, and it explodes into nothing. Unseen to Skyquake and the Decepticons, the front portion of the shuttle escaped into space. "The Autobots have been terminated", said Stalker on the Bridge of the Decepticon ship. "Excellent. And the Matrix is no more", said Skyquake. Just then, Skyquake was hit with a sharp pain. Aaaah! No! Unicron! What are you doing?" Skyquake transformed. "Stalker, pick me up, and take me to Unicron." "Did you have to let them detonate three-quarters of the ship", asked Arcee. "Would you have preferred they detonate the ship with us in it", asked Optimus Prime. "I suppose not. But now how are we going to get there in this wreck", asked Arcee. "I'm open to suggestions", said Prime. "Let me see if I can find a place to land for repairs", said Percepter. "Gamma rays in this sector of space create marginal navigation probabilities. However... ahem, yes. I believe I can. The planet of junk is in this vicinity." "Kup, Hot Rod, set course for the planet of junk", ordered Optimus Prime. The Autobot Shuttle approached the planet of junk. "Hold on everyone, this could get bumpy", said Prime. The shuttle crashed into the planet, skidding along the ground. "Oooh, my aching head", said Prime as he pushed a piece of ceiling off of his head. "Is everyone all right." "We're okay", said Arcee, and she pulled Daniel up off of the floor. "You okay lad", said Kup to Hot Rod, as they got up. "I think so", said Hot Rod. "Wonderful landing", said Percepter. "Grimlock", began Prime", are you okay. "Me Grimlock fine. Dinobots all fine. Take more than little accident to stop us." "Let's see if the ship is salvageable.", said Prime. "Can I help too", asked Daniel. "It's dangerous Daniel", said Prime. "I think Daniel can make himself useful with this. It was Spike's Exo-Suit", said Arcee. "Dad's Exo-Suit! He told me all about it." "Here, try it on", said Arcee. She put Daniel in the Exo-Suit. "Now try to walk. Come on, you can do it." "Think about what you want to do", said Percepter. "Then do it." Daniel tried to walk, and nearly fell over. "It's kind of tricky." "Keep on practicing. You'll get the hang of it", said Arcee. "Come on everybody, we've got work to do", said Prime. Outside, the Autobots look at the landscape before them. "This must be the junk capitol of the universe", said Daniel. A short distance away, the Junkions emerge from the garbage. "Stop, thief! No welcome-wagon hello stranger with that good coffee flavor for you", said Wrek-Gar. "Yeah, yeah. Or your money back", said another Junkion. "Offer expires while you wait. Operators are standing by", finished Wrek-gar. Out in space, the Decepticons ship approached the massive form of the evil Unicron. Skyquake flew out of his ship in jet mode, and transformed in front of Unicron. "What do you think you were doing!! You had no reason to torture me." "You have failed", said Unicron. "What are you talking about. The Autobot shuttle Prime was on was destroyed. He is dead, and the Matrix died with him you overgrown beach ball." "The Matrix has not been destroyed, and Optimus Prime lives on the planet of junk. Stalk him. Tear him apart, and destroy the Matrix", said Unicron. Back on the junk planet, the Autobots begin the task of repairing the damage to the shuttle. "Be sure the fittings are securely welded", said Percepter. "No problem", said Kup. They'll be perfect." "Woah, this Exo-Suit's fantastic. I think I'm starting to get the hang of it", said Daniel. Looking on, Wrek-Gar says, "Forward, avanti, and like, go for the gusto. Hold on." Off in the sky, the Autobots saw the Decepticons heading right for them. It was Skyquake, and the four Predator jets. They were followed by another group of Decepticons. "Quick, every one head this way, we'll try to draw their fire, and double back later." "There is no escape Autobots", said Skyquake, as he and the Predators began firing missiles at the Autobots. The missiles missed the shuttle completely, as the Autobots run away from it." "What about the shuttle", said Hot Rod. "We'll worry about that later", said Prime. "Transform and roll out of here. Dinobots, follow us." "Dinobots no run, we fight", said Grimlock. "And if we lose you here, what will we do when we get to the monster planet." "Me Grimlock had not thought of that." The fleeing Autobots transform. "What do I do", said Daniel. "Daniel, Transform", said Hot Rod. "Concentrate, I know you can do it." "Transform", says Daniel, as Snare transforms and lands in front of him, flanked by Scavenger and Shrapnel. "You are mine human pest", said Snare. "Transform", said Daniel. All of a sudden his Exo-Suit transformed into car mode, and he sped right by Snare. Optimus Prime did not know what to do. Could this be their darkest hour? They had to get to the monster planet, and try to save Cybertron. He decided to try the Matrix. "Everyone, take cover. I'll try and unleash the power of the Matrix." The Autobots all got under cover, and Optimus Prime fired above their heads, brings a wall of junk down in front of them. "Till all are one!", they said, as the junk fell in front of them. "Till all are one", said Optimus Prime. He removed the matrix from his chest, and tried to open it. "Open. For Primus sake open. Damn it. But the Matrix is supposed to light our darkest hour. How can it get any darker than this." Prime did not want to think about that. Skyquake and the Predators landed in front of Prime, Transforming just before they landed. "Prime, give me the Matrix", ordered Skyquake, as Prime continued to try to open the Matrix. "That will be the day", said Prime. "Then I'll take it", said Skyquake. Skyquake fired a missile at almost point blank range. It tore through Optimus's right shoulder severing his arm from his shoulder, and he fell to the ground. He could not hold onto the matrix, and it bounced away. Skyquake picked it up. "Unicron...now it's my turn. To do the torturing. The Decepticons flew off into space. A short time later, the Autobots dug their way out. They run to Optimus's side. "Are you okay Prime", asked Kup. "Except for the lack of a right arm, I think I'm okay. "The Matrix", asked Hot Rod. Prime looked down at the ground. "I lost it. After nine million years, I lost it. How could I have lost it." "It's not your fault Optimus", said Hot Rod. Prime could not help feeling that Hot Rod was wrong. But, he did not have time to worry about his failure now. He had to go on. Cybertron was still in danger. Perhaps more so now than ever. "Percepter, is my arm re-attachable?" Percepter picked up Prime's arm, and examined it. "I'm afraid not. The internal structure was completely shattered. I'll have to make a new one, but I will need my workshop to do it. I can at least east the pain though." Percepter took a tool, and did something to Prime's shoulder. "Pain's gone. Thanks Percepter. I guess I'll be one arm short for the time being. Prime had just began to contemplate their next move, when Daniel screamed." "Look", cried Daniel, when he saw the Junkions jump from the ground. "Autobots, stay together, don't move", said Prime. "Me Grimlock say we smash them." "Shut up Grimlock", said Kup. "In case you forgot, they are the least of our problems. The Autobots and Dinobots formed a circle, and they could see the Junkions coming from all sides. Wrek-Gar, riding one of the other transformed Junkions headed straight for the group. "Don't look behind door number two, Monty. It's time to play End of the Line, My Valentine. Geroni- geron-ron-ronimo! "Anyone have any suggestions", asked Prime. "You could try the universal greeting", said Kup. "The what", asked Hot Rod. "Bah weep granah weep nini bong", said Prime. "Did I say that right", he whispered to Kup. "Perfect, but it works best if you offer energeon too", replied Kup. "As if we weren't low enough on energeon as it is." Prime took a small piece of energeon, and held it out to Wrek-Gar. As Wrek-Gar approached. Wrek-Gar slowed down, and dismounted the motorcycle, who Transformed behind him. He took the energeon, and said "Bah weep granah weep nini bong!" The Junkions began to play music, and started to dance around, obviously in friendship. Some of the Autobots joined in. However, Prime did not. One of the Junkions kissed Grimlock on the nose. "Ugh! Me Grimlock not kisser. Me king." "Have a nice day and...so say the Junkions", said Wrek-Gar. "Where'd you learn to talk like that", asked Hot Rod. "TV. We talk TV. You talk some TV", asked Wrek-Gar. "I talk some TV, and now the news, don't touch that dial", said Kup. "Bah weep granah weep nini bong", chanted the Junkions. Optimus Prime just looked at the scene. The Autobots were having fun with the Junkions. They deserved some fun. But now was not the time for it. "Autobots, Dinobots, we haven't time for this. We must find Skyquake, and retrieve the Matrix. "Where is Skyquake", asked Grimlock. "And the answer is, Unicron", said Wrek-Gar. "Unicron, who's Unicron", asked Hot Rod. "Unicron's the big cheese, the man, the law in these parts", said Wrek-Gar. "So that's the monster's name. We must destroy Unicron before he can destroy Cybertron", said Optimus Prime. "Yes, friends, act now; destroy Unicron. Kill the Grand Poobah. Eliminate even the toughest stains. Hurry, hurry, hurry, sale must end. Rush right on down and test-drive latest model with no obligation", said Wrek-Gar, as he activated a switch, and ship rose from beneath the junk. "New improved Junkion planet this sleek, sexy import with turbo handling." "Percepter, how long to repair the shuttle." "No need to worry, warranty not expired", said Wrek-Gar. The Autobots looked toward the shuttle. It had been repaired by the Junkions. They work really fast, thought Prime. "Let's go." The Junkions began to board their ship. All were yelling, "Yeah! Destroy Unicron! Kill the Grand Poobah! Eliminate even the toughest stains! Yeah! Destroy Unicron! Kill the Grand Poobah! Eliminate even the toughest stains! Yeah! Destroy Unicron! Kill the Grand Poobah! Eliminate even the toughest stains!" Both ships were boarded, and they took off into space. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter IV - "A Dawn of Destiny and A Light of Hope, Yet Evil Looms Again" Near Cybertron, Unicron waits for Skyquake's return. "Unicron! Unicron! Answer me damn you", said Skyquake. "I have the Matrix. Now I'm in charge." He had the Matrix hanging from a chain around his neck. "Noooooo!", yelled Unicron. "You'll do my bidding, or taste my wrath, you fool", said Skyquake as arrogantly as he possibly could. "You underestimate me, Skyquake." Unicron Transformed into an immense robot. Skyquake, and his assembled Predators were too scared even to move. "For a time, I had considered sparing your wretched little planet, Cybertron. But now you shall witness its dismemberment." "Noooooo!", screamed Skyquake, as he tried desperately to open the Matrix. Unicron began to attack Cybertron. Down on the planet, Shockwave gives orders to the Decepticons. "Decepticons, we're under attack. Scramble!" Skyquake and the five other Predators start firing at Unicron. Unicron scooped them all up, and swallowed them. The Junkion ship, and Autobot shuttle arrive. "I don't believe it", said Optimus Prime. "Me neither", said Kup. Doesn't this remind you of anything, Kup", asked Hot Rod. "Nope. Never seen anything like it before", answered Kup. "What happened to Moon Base Two? Where's my dad", asked Daniel. "That's what we're going to find out.", said Optimus Prime. "Dinobots", Transform, and attack", ordered Optimus Prime. "Me Grimlock attack." The Dinobots jumped out of the airlock. Unicron breathed fire on the Junkion ship. "... and enamel. Resists fire, rain and corrosion for up to five years. Satisfaction guaranteed", said Wrek-gar. "Or your money back", said the Junkions. Unicron breathed fire on the Autobot ship, which careened out of control through Unicron's eye. The Autobots all abandoned the shuttle. Percepter, Kup, Arcee, and Daniel came down all together. Optimus Prime and Hot Rod are no where to be seen. "Where's Optimus Prime and Hot Rod", asked Daniel. "I don't know, but I hope they didn't get him", said Kup, as he pointed to the robotic tentacles coming out of the walls. "Quick, this way", said Arcee. Optimus Prime found himself in a dark corridor. He got up, and walked part way down the corridor. He saw a blue glow. In the shadows. "The Matrix", said Optimus. "It will do you no good, Prime. It can not be opened", said Skyquake. "Not by you anyway", Prime replied. "Like it or not, we are allies now against Unicron." A sharp pain struck Skyquake. "Ahhhhh!!" "Destroy him Skyquake, now, or you yourself shall be obliterated." "Of course Unicron. Attack", ordered Skyquake. All of a sudden Prime was surrounded by Snare, Sky Dive, Talon, Falcon, and Stalker. They all attacked at once. Meanwhile, Hot Rod, had been wandering around looking for the others, when he saw Prime being attacked by the Decepticons. He saw Skyquake with the Matrix. He ran toward Optimus Prime, and started firing at the Decepticons. He hit Snare and Talon, and they went down. Falcon and Skydive each shot back, but were too late, and were each hit. Hot Rod went to tackle Stalker, but Stalker grabbed him, and threw him right at Skyquake's feet. "Puny Autobot", I will destroy you. Skyquake jumped down on top of him, and wrapped his hands around Hot Rod's throat. "I'm going to enjoy this." Stalker continued to pummel Optimus Prime. Prime was barely conscious, and could hardly retaliate. The few blows he did manage to land were nothing more than an annoyance to Stalker. The other four Predators had given him quite a beating. From the corner of his eye, he could see Skyquake and Hot Rod. But Prime could not help him. He could not even help himself at that moment. Outside, the battle raged. "Me Grimlock kick butt." The Dinobots attacked Unicron, but it was futile. "Me Grimlock need new strategy." It was only a matter of time before Unicron destroyed Cybertron. Back inside Unicron, Arcee, Percepter, Kup, and Daniel ran down a hallway trying to escape the robotic tentacles. Daniel fell down, and was grabbed by a tentacle. "Help! Help", called Daniel. "Daniel", called Arcee, as she turned around and started shooting at the tentacles. One shot misses, and she hits the wall, and it explodes sending a deluge of water down on top of them. "Arcee! Kup", called Daniel, as he was swept down a different tunnel than the rest of them. Daniel floats helplessly for a while, but manages to wash ashore. Daniel climbs out of the water, and walks toward a giant vat of acid. He looks up to see robots being dropped into the vat. He sees his father hanging from an arm that is moving towards the vat. Bumblebee, Jazz, and Cliffjumper were right behind him. "Dad!" "Daniel!" "Dad, what can I do", asked Daniel frantically. "Knock down the acid cover", he replied. "How?" "Blast it, son!" "But I don't have a gun." "Use your Exo-Suit. Hurry!" Daniel fired at the cover, knocking it closed, just as Spike and the other Autobots were dropped. Daniel looks away, fearing he did not act soon enough. "Daniel! You did it", called his father from the top of the vat." "Yeah, I did it", said Daniel. "You're done for now", said Skyquake, as he squeezed Hot Rod's neck tighter, and tighter. Hot Rod grabbed Matrix. Suddenly Skyquake was repelled by some force, and was knocked off of Hot Rod. Hot Rod stood up, and tried to open the Matrix. As hard as he tried, it would not open. Hot Rod looked up in time to see Stalker coming at him. He moved, but the Matrix was knocked from his hands, and rolled over to where Optimus Prime was barely conscious of the floor. Prime saw the Matrix. It's glow seemed to call for him. It would not open before, and Hot Rod could not open it now. What could that mean. It did not make sense. Cybertron was on the brink of destruction, yet they could not open the Matrix. Prime reached for the Matrix. The intense pain made it difficult, but he ignored it as much as he could. When he grabbed it, the pain disappeared. He was about to try and open it. The he realized he could not. With only one arm, he could not open the Matrix. He placed the Matrix on the ground, and ran toward Stalker. Skyquake had just joined the attack on Hot Rod. Prime smashed into them, sending Stalker and Skyquake tumbling. "Quickly Hot Rod. I need your help to open the Matrix", said Prime. Hot Rod picked up the Matrix, and offered it to Optimus Prime. "You open it", said Prime. "But I tried, and I could not", said Hot Rod. Prime did not know what to say. If it was his place to open the Matrix, how could he with one arm. Then he realized what he must do. "Hot Rod, grab one side of the Matrix. Give me the other." Hot Rod did as he was told, and it all became clear to both of them. "Optimus Prime", said a voice. "Alpha Trion", said Prime. "Nine million years ago, I created you to lead the Autobots. And lead them you have, and lead them you will. For how long no one knows. You have done well", said Alpha Trion's voice. "On this day, Hot Rod fulfills his destiny. Arise Rodimus Prime." Hot Rod began to be transformed into Rodimus Prime at that moment, Skyquake was just getting back to his feet. "Noooooo", screamed Skyquake, as he fired at the Matrix. It hit Rodimus's hand, and the Matrix bounced away. "This is the end for you Skyquake. Prime rushed toward Skyquake, and hit him in the face. He fell to he ground unconscious. Rodimus Prime gave a shot to Stalker, who had just gotten to his feet. He fell again. To the ground again. Without a word, the two Prime's went back and picked up the Matrix. It was at this moment, that Prime realized his right arm had been replaced. It must have been by the power of the Matrix he thought. Optimus and Rodimus picked up the Matrix, and in unison they spoke, "Now light our darkest hour." They pulled and the Matrix opened. The power was unleashed, and it began to tear through Unicron. Elsewhere, Daniel, Spike, Bumblebee, Jazz, and Cliffjumper met up with Percepter, Arcee, and Kup. "Spike, Daniel", said Arcee. "What's going on", asked Spike. "No time now lad", said Kup. "Look!", said Daniel. He pointed to a corridor. Toward them, ran Optimus Prime and Rodimus Prime. "Autobots, transform and roll out", ordered Optimus Prime. Rodimus Prime Transformed, and opened the door for Daniel and Spike. "Hop in", said Rodimus. "I knew you had potential, lad", said Kup. The rest of the Autobots transformed, and led by their leader Optimus Prime, and the chosen one Rodimus Prime, they drove right out of Unicron's eye. The chain reaction caused by the unleashed force of the Matrix tore through Unicron. "Destiny... you cannot destroy my... Destinyyyyyyyy...", said Unicron, as he exploded. Skyquake and the other Predators did not regain consciousness, and were destroyed with him. Optimus Prime addressed the Autobots, with Rodimus at his side. "Let this mark the end of the Cybertronian Wars as we move forward to a new age of peace, happiness, and prosperity. Till all are one." The crowd of Autobots cheered. Finally, Cybertron would be at peace. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Epilogue Optimus and Rodimus went inside the command center. Optimus never liked giving speeches, but this is one that he had enjoyed. "Optimus", began Rodimus, "There is one thing I don't understand." Optimus Prime knew the question, but decided to let Rodimus ask it. What is it Rodimus. "Well you.see.I.." "You are wondering how there can be two Prime's." "Well, yes." "Having the Matrix, gives me the wisdom of the ancient Autobot leaders. In times past, some of our darkest times were after the fall of an Autobot leader. There was not always one ready to take there place. You are sort of a.well." "I'm the vice-president", said Rodimus. "Well, I guess that's as good a term as any. The Matrix knows that none of us last forever. One day, I may be gone. Destroyed somehow. Or perhaps, my time as leader will simply be over. The Matrix in it's wisdom has decided that I should prepare our next leader. It is your destiny to lead us some day. You'll need to be ready." "I can never replace you Prime", said Rodimus. "You can do as your destiny demands. You will be ready. But don't worry. I plan on being around for a very long time." "In that case, I'm going to do what any good vice-president does. I'm going to play some Cyber-Golf." Rodimus got up and left. Prime laughed to himself. It would be a long time before Rodimus would be able to lead. He had a great deal to learn, but Prime was confident that he would. Someday, Rodimus Prime would become the leader he was meant to be. Prime looked out the view port. Unicron's head, had now replaced Cybertron's moon. It would always stand as a reminder to him of what they almost lost. Just then, the communication console came on. "This is Ultra Magnus to Cybertron. Come in Cybertron." "Optimus Prime here." "Optimus. I'm afraid I have some disturbing news." Prime felt like the room had just turned cold. "What has happened." "Autobot City was broken into an hour ago." "Broken into? By who? Thieves?" "We have no idea. We don't even know if they were human, or Transformer. They somehow bypassed the security systems, and left the guards unconscious. The guards remember nothing", said Ultra Magnus. Prime did not like the sound of this. Something about this was not right. "What did they take?" "They only took one thing. I'm afraid that's the real problem", said Ultra Magnus. Now Prime was more worried. Ultra Magnus did not usually beat around the bush like he was doing now. Whatever had been taken, he knew it was very bad news. "Well spit it out Ultra Magnus. What did they take." "Prime...they took Megatron's body." Prime sat back in the chair. They had won a great victory, but now what lay ahead is more uncertain than ever. "I'll be there as soon as possible Ultra Magnus. Prime out." Prime hit the communications panel. "Computer, summon Rodimus Prime, Kup, Grimlock, Spike, and Daniel to the shuttle pad. I want a shuttle ready in 30 minutes to depart for earth." "Acknowledged", said the computer. "Well, as you can see, that one little event changed many things", said Uatu. Starscream, Soundwave, Thrust and Dirge are dead. Galvatron, Cyclonus, Scourge, and the Sweeps were never created. Megatron died, but his body is gone, and no one knows who took him. And Blitzwing is dead, who as you know, figured very prominently into the next chapter of the story, Five Faces of Darkness. Hot Rod, Kup and The Dinobots never landed on Quintessa, and met the Quintessons and Wheelie. Rodimus Prime never had to take leadership before he was ready. I am sure you are all left with one burning question overshadowing all else. Who took Megatron's body, and more importantly, why? Of course the most important difference is that Optimus Prime still lives. For only I the Watcher truly know what is to come. But for that, you will have to wait until next time. TO BE CONTINUED