This is my first real attempt to write anything Transformer-related. I've tried a couple of times before, but it's hard to get past the first few lines. This time, however, I'm approaching this with several things in my mind.

 

My story will not be completely about the battles, but the politics that lead up to the battles. The relationships that are forged, the back room workings of the Cybertronian Senate. It's very much drawing its inspiration from Roman history, so I hope it's well liked. Thus far, I have 16 pages written, and I hope to show them all off as well as many more. I have this planned out for a great deal of time, so if you all do enjoy it, I'll be bringing out a bit more.

 

Chapter I is going to be this entire topic, Chapter II will be its own topic later. It's not necessarily broken down into chapters like in a book, either...but consider The Rise of Megatron as season one of a television series. So, without further ado...

 

-----

 

Long had Cybertron seen its lands ravaged by oppression and unrest. The Cybertronian Senate held the planet in its vice-like grip, and could control both the military might and the flow of information to the general public. The Senate had one line of defense. The same sort that had defended Cybertron and its citizens for as long as time had been chronicled.

 

They were called The Autobots, and they were the prime military might on Cybertron. Their roots in the history of the planet were deep. So deep, in fact, that not only did the Cybertronian Senate utilize their forces, but the select few elder Senators who comprised the fabled Cybertronian High Council were the only ones capable of selecting a leader for the Autobot forces, known as the rank of Prime, bestowing unto that particular Autobot the fabled Autobot Matrix of Leadership.

 

Several terrorist groups had risen and fallen during the reign of the Cybertronian Senate. The latest were rumored to be known as Decepticons. The Decepticons, as the common Cybertronian knew them, were a myth. A fabled batch of terrorists who could appear in and out of time, weave their way through reality, and disappear as quickly as they unleash their carnage. They were said to be led by a mighty and savage Cybertronian named Megatron.

 

The Autobot Security Enforcer known as Prowl continued to play the knowledge of Cybertron’s history through his head as he made his way towards the Senate House of one Senator Decimus. A sleek and expeditious being, Prowl moved as swiftly through the traffic in Iacon until he could smell the stench of murder near him. He transformed from his form of security enforcement vehicle to his robotic form, staring at the burning smoldering ash that once was Senator Decimus’ home. He grimaced, knowing such a high profile murder would be all over the news by night’s end.

 

He proceeded towards the home, greeted immediately by his colleague in charge of the crime scene, Ironhide. Gruff and an Autobot of few words, Ironhide let out an exasperated sigh as Prowl approached.

 

“Ironhide,” Prowl said, more a statement than an acknowledgement.

 

“It looks bad in there, Prowl,” Ironhide said, looking over his shoulder, “Ain’t never seen anything like it.”

 

Curious, Prowl walked past him and stepped into the charred remains of the home. He froze when he took a long look at what used to be Senator Decimus’ private quarters. There was Decimus, torn apart and scattered across the remains of the room, his lubricants used to paint a strange and sick symbol into the one remaining wall. A jagged, horned mask that Prowl instantly recognized as the Decepticon insignia. He glanced over to Nightbeat, a highly trained officer in his own right, as he tried to assess the damage around him.

 

“Speculation, Nightbeat,” Prowl said.

 

“I have no…real answers for you now,” Nightbeat said, “Nothing concrete. The evidence is telling, but it is…small.” Nightbeat walked over to the doorway. “The Decepticons—“

 

“The suspects,” Prowl corrected him, “You know how the Senate and the High Council don’t like the D word.”

 

“The SUSPECTS,” Nightbeat corrected himself, “made forced entry through the door and, it seems, tortured Decimus for an undeterminable amount of time.” Nightbeat sighed, “Decimus died relatively unhappy…scared for his life as he was…torn apart.”

 

Prowl bent down, looking at Decimus’ chest plate. “Bite marks?”

 

“It’s possible whoever attacked was just feral,” Nightbeat remarked, “Or we could be looking at a faction of…suspects…psychotic enough to carry with them a beast. Possibly an Allicon.”

 

“Any witnesses to the attacks?”

 

“Three, actually,” Nightbeat replied, “Though they aren’t going to be talking any time soon.”

 

“Could you ID them at all?” Prowl asked, still surveying the carnage.

 

“A maintenance worker named Dion,” Nightbeat said with a sigh, “though he doesn’t look to be lasting much longer. An aberration called Ariel, who also sustained heavy damage. Finally, there’s another maintenance worker named Orion Pax, though whoever got to him definitely didn’t want him to talk.”

 

“How do you figure that?”

 

“They ripped off the bottom half of his face.”

 

Prowl nodded, trying not to show how sick that made him. A set of Cybertronians out there, grim enough and psychotic enough to tear apart a Senator and thrash two maintenance workers as well as an aberration affectionately referred to as a fembot? It unnerved him more than he’d like to admit. He stood up, looking over to Nightbeat.

 

“Inform Streetwise and Checkpoint to assist you in locking this scene down,” Prowl commanded, “I’ll take Ironhide and head over to the Senate. Hopefully I can at least land an audience with the Autobot High Council, since you know Senator Ratbat won’t be seeing anyone with a dead Senator on the news.”

 

Prowl left Nightbeat there, stepping out to see Ironhide pacing at the door. They spot several cameras watching them.

 

“What’re you gonna tell Prime?” Ironhide asked, sighing as if he already knew the answer.

 

Prowl looked over to his old friend. The two served in the Autobot forces together the last time they were mustered.

 

“The truth,” Prowl said, “I’ll see to it Alpha Trion is informed immediately of what’s happened so that he may quell the Senate’s wrath.”

 

“You know they’ll blame me.”

 

“I do,” Prowl said, nodding, “I do. Alpha Trion needs to use his unique healing capabilities on Orion Pax, get him to talk.”

 

“What about the other two?”

 

“I don’t think, judging by what Nightbeat told me, that Dion or Ariel will be functioning for much longer. I haven’t seen them myself, but I know Alpha Trion needs to see them immediately.”

 

Prowl transformed back into his security vehicle mode.

 

“Don’t go into hiding, Ironhide,” Prowl said, “Stay close to Nightbeat, though. I’ll tell Alpha Trion and Sentinel Prime everything I know.”

 

Ironhide nodded as Prowl sped off. Nightbeat stepped out, looking at Ironhide, who turned back to him and sighed again.

Prowl sped through the roads of Iacon again, trying to find the frequency needed to reach either Sentinel Prime or Alpha Trion.

 

“Prowl?” an old voice came across his transmitter, startling him.

 

“Alpha Trion?!” Prowl said, driving faster, “How did you know to contact me?”

 

“At my age, my boy, you know these things,” Alpha Trion said with a small chuckle.

 

“Your wisdom is the stuff of legend, Alpha Trion.”

 

“It’s on the news, dear boy,” Trion said with a laugh, “I saw you on the newsmonitors, so I sought you out.”

 

Prowl chuckled, “Still as humorous as ever, I see. Still, sir, I need your assistance.”

 

“On the matter of the injured three Cybertronians?”

 

“Your powers of healing are known throughout Cybertron. Your ability to save Vector Prime against the might of the Traitor Fallen was taught to all Cybertronians.”

 

“You do not need to flatter me, boy,” Trion said, leaning back in his seat in his private quarters located near the High Council Pavilions, “Send me their location, where they are being treated, and have the local security officer sign them over to my custody.”

 

“Will do, sir,” Prowl said.

 

“I trust you’re going to Sentinel Prime now?”

 

“I am, sir.”

 

“Then I shall go there myself. Senator Ratbat is calling to convene an emergency review of the incident. Prowl…”

 

“Sir?”

 

“Keep your audio receptors open,” Trion warned, “Once I get to the three of them, I’ll need them protected.”

 

“Yes, sir.”

 

“Trion out.”

 

Alpha Trion reached forward, shutting down the signal. He interlocked his fingers in front of his aged face. He is the rare elder of the Cybertronians, oldest known surviving member of the planet, he is a lifelong member of the Senate in a show of appreciation for his deeds. He looked over to his secondary monitor, The Ceremonial Throneroom of the Prime, and he could see the hulking visage of Sentinel Prime, deep in thought. Prowl must have already sent him the report detailing all that had occurred at the crime scene.

 

Alpha Trion rose from his seat and walked towards the Throneroom.

Sentinel Prime continued to stare down at the Autobot Matrix of Leadership. He sighed, touching it lightly with his fingertips. The Senate was convening now, and he was summoned to speak to them about the murder of Senator Decimus. Behind him came a familiar face, at least to him. Alpha Trion watched his friend and pupil for what felt like ages as Sentinel seemed lost in thought.

 

“Sentinel?” Alpha Trion called for Prime, shaking him from his thoughts.

 

“Trion,” Sentinel said with a smile, “It is good to hear your voice this day. At least before the Senate decides to chew me up and spit me out.”

 

Alpha Trion smiled, taking a seat in the ceremonial throne room of The Prime.

 

“May I have a moment alone with you, Sentinel?”

 

Sentinel motioned to his second, a young Autobot built in his image called Excellion. Excellion bowed to both Sentinel and to Trion before departing. Sentinel turned to Alpha Trion, his red and yellow body shimmering in the light of the Matrix as its blueish glow illuminated the room.

 

“You can speak freely now, Trion,” Sentinel spoke softly.

 

“The weight of the Autobot Matrix of Leadership is still the burden, I see,” Trion said with a small smile.

 

“I fear, Trion, that the Cybertronian High Council saw too much in me,” Sentinel said, “That choosing me to lead the Autobots was a foolish venture on their behalf to place a soldier’s soldier in charge.”

 

“And you came to this decision how?”

 

Sentinel smirked, “My disdain for the tastes of Senatorial and political life.”

 

Trion laughed a hearty laugh, “So you’re not looking forward to meeting with the Cybertronian Senate?

 

“Would you be?” Sentinel replied, “Ratbat and his ilk look forward to eating me alive with the day to day of Cybertron, wanting to know what my Autobot legions have been doing besides wasting their valuable resources they could put to better use with frequenting the energon bathhouses…”

 

Alpha Trion laughed again, “Sentinel, there are a multitude of reasons why the High Council elected you as carrier of the Matrix once Nova Prime fell, but rest assured your humor is not one of them.”

 

“Comforting to know I don’t need to quit my day job,” Sentinel said as he walked to the doorway, “Still, though. They don’t want me to mention Decepticon or Megatron or any other words bandied about with the rumors of whoever it is that’s killed Decimus, so why do they want answers from me they forbid me to speak of?”

 

“Ratbat is keen on maintaining order, Sentinel,” Trion reminded him, “If there are Decepticons…if there is a Megatron…the Cybertronian Senate would rather look foolish once you’ve provided evidence in the form of their remains rather than send the whole of the planet into a panic.”

 

Sentinel stared at Trion for a long moment before he sighed, “I must go. Who do I have to look forward to in this hearing?”

 

“I shall be there,” Trion said, “As shall Ratbat and Senators Cy-Kill, Starscream, Shockwave, and Highbrow.”

 

Sentinel sighed, “Damn.”

 

“It is customary for these hearings to contain six of the Senator Leader’s choosing,” Trion reminded Sentinel, “And you know Ratbat will always choose Cy-Kill and Shockwave and myself.”

 

“Because you are the oldest serving Senator,” Sentinel said, resting his head against the wall, “It’s why he fills these hearings with all of his closest contemporaries like Starscream and a random eunuch like Highbrow.”

 

“Come, my friend,” Trion said, placing his hand on Sentinel’s shoulder, “Let’s go. Prowl informed me I have three Cybertronians in dire need of my assistance, so we must make haste.”

 

“What happened?”

 

“The three survivors of the attack that claimed Decimus,” Trion said, “They need my help in healing them.”

 

Sentinel nodded and the two Autobots proceeded out of the throne room, where Excellion silently followed them. Trion patted Sentinel on the shoulder once more and departed to enter the chamber through a different door, since there was a partition separating the Senators from whoever they spoke with.

 

Sentinel entered the room silently until he heard the sounds of the voice of the speaker.

 

“Now entering,” he spoke, “Autobot Supreme Commander Sentinel Prime, followed by his second, Excellion.”

 

Sentinel looked up to see the seven Senators glaring back down at him.

 

“That will be all, Soundwave, thank you,” the middle Senator, black and purple in color, said to the speaker, waving him from the room. The Senator looked down at Sentinel and smirked, “Now, I’m sure you’re well aware of who we all are, correct?”

 

“You are Senate Leader Ratbat,” Sentinel began, already annoyed with the pomp and circumstance. All who speak to the Senate must acknowledge all whom they speak to, and in private hearings such as the one Sentinel is forced to go to regularly, he must address all Senators present, “Senators Shockwave, Highbrow, Starscream, Alpha Trion, and Cy-Kill. As always, a pleasure.”

 

“Indeed,” Shockwave said callously, “Tell us, Sentinel Prime, what have you heard from the security officers in charge of the investigation surrounding Senator Decimus’ death?”

 

Sentinel immediately tensed. Shockwave was not one for the pomp and circumstance, either. He wanted the answers and he wanted them now.

 

“Decimus’ body was found ravaged,” Sentinel began, “Found first by Decimus’ guard Ironhide, who was sent away on a private matter…”

 

“Private matter?” Cy-Kill interrupted, as the Senate was prone to do, “Ironhide was not even there?”

 

“No, he wasn’t,” Sentinel replied, “As I was saying, he was sent away on a private matter.”

 

“Do you know of the details pertaining to this private matter, Sentinel Prime?” Ratbat asked.

 

“I do not,” Sentinel replied, “Only that Decimus sent him away, either to investigate something or to run an errand.”

 

“That doesn’t sound like the Decimus I know,” Starscream scoffed, “It sounds to me like Ironhide has something else to hide!”

 

“You can’t jump to conclusions!” Sentinel spat back, “Ironhide is a good soldier and a good friend to both myself and to Senator Decimus!”

 

“Do not raise your voice to me, Prime!” Starscream gritted his teeth at Sentinel, “Your precious little friend may have served in the Autobots during some skirmishes on Quintessa, but I don’t care if Vector Sigma gave you the right to be Prime or not…it does nothing to preserve the judgment levied against your supposed friend!”

 

“But you have not bothered to even hear me!” Sentinel said to them, desperation in his voice, “Do you not care to hear these details you have asked me to speak on here today?”

 

“I do,” Alpha Trion said.

 

“As do I,” Highbrow said, leaning forward, placing his hands on his chin, “Starscream, please. Sentinel Prime has been called here to speak on this very damaging matter. It is paramount to our understanding of the matter in question if we let him finish.”

 

Starscream glared at Highbrow, “Fine. Sentinel, finish your story.”

 

Sentinel sighed, continuing, “Between the time of Ironhide’s departure and his return, three Cybertronians named Dion, Orion Pax, and Ariel happened by Decimus’ home. During this time, it is believed a group of individuals, believing the propaganda produced mentioning a rogue faction, broke into Decimus’ home, tortured him, and destroyed him. His death seemed to have been very painful, and he was torn into pieces once Nightbeat, the security officer first on the scene, arrived.”

 

“And what of the three who happened by his home?” Ratbat asked.

 

“Dion’s condition is grave,” Sentinel said, “He may not last the night, or he could be dead by now. Ariel is also critically injured. The one who is said to have suffered the least is Orion Pax, but even he has had his face and vocal systems gouged out.”

 

“Primus…” Highbrow muttered under his breath, “Ratbat, surely this gives credence to muster the Autobot legions once more.”

 

“I don’t believe so, Highbrow, no,” Ratbat replied coolly, “A Senator is dead, to be sure, but it seems we have a viable suspect in Ironhide. Not only that, we won’t want to create a Cybertron rife with the stink of fear, do we?”

 

“I disagree,” Alpha Trion spoke up, “If we do not show that we are willing to combat this great injustice by bringing about even the smallest of Autobot forces put together, we risk the possibility of even more violence and more panic, particularly once the word spreads of Decimus’ death!”

 

“Decimus shall be mourned, no doubt,” Ratbat replied to Trion, “But I do believe that I know what is better for Cybertron at this juncture, Trion, with all due respect.”

 

“Then we shall vote,” Shockwave said.

 

“Agreed,” Ratbat replied, “On the first matter, on the mustering of Autobot forces in retaliation over the death of Senator Decimus, how do you vote?”

 

“Against,” said Starscream.

 

“For,” Alpha Trion said.

 

“Against,” Cy-Kill said with a smirk.

 

“For,” Highbrow said.

 

“Against,” Shockwave said.

 

“Then I need not vote,” Ratbat said, “There will be no Autobot army set up in response to this paltry threat. On the second matter, declaring Ironhide as the prime suspect in the murder of Senator Decimus and having him arrested until such time as a proper trial be given him, how do you vote?”

 

Sentinel Prime’s mouth dropped in shock. Ironhide was suddenly a suspect?

 

“For,” said Starscream.

 

“Against,” Alpha Trion said, “And if you were all truly invested in the law, you would agree!”

 

“For,” Cy-Kill said, rolling his eyes at Trion.

 

“Against,” Highbrow said.

 

Shockwave pondered for a moment, “While there are certain qualities in Ironhide that can be respected and admired, his role in this murder are clearly suspect to further investigation. As such, I vote for.”

 

“As do I,” Ratbat said, smirking down at Sentinel Prime, “You wanted your Autobot forces, Sentinel? Go, then, get five of your finest Autobot warriors and arrest Ironhide. Immediately.”

 

“But, Ratbat,” Sentinel stammered.

 

“SENATOR Ratbat,” Ratbat spat back at Sentinel, “If you’re going to be so reckless with your vocal processors, Prime, you will have no problem shutting them down completely! Take Ironhide to the Justice Building at Yuss. We shall judge him.”

 

“Who do you request that I send to him?” Sentinel said, his head dropping.

 

“Who are some of those pit fighters we enjoy so much, Cy-Kill?” Ratbat said with a smile.

 

“Grimlock’s a good one,” Cy-Kill said with a grin, “Maybe him. Sideswipe, too. What about that old friend of Ironhide’s…Kup, I believe is his name. Oh, and Springer and Thundercracker.”

 

“Thundercracker?” Starscream asked.

 

“Your friend could use some fun,” Cy-Kill replied, “Do you disapprove?”

 

“No,” Starscream said, grinning, “Perfect.”

 

Sentinel turned from the Senate, gritting his teeth.

 

“Sentinel?” Ratbat said, summoning Sentinel Prime back, “Are you not forgetting something?”

 

“As always,” Sentinel said, teeth still clenched, “The Prime thanks the Senate in the High Council Pavilion for their continued wisdom. May the light of Primus shine down upon your just and gracious heads.”

 

Ratbat grinned as Sentinel left the room, fists tightly held against his body.

Definitely a good piece of work, though I'd suggest not calling Ariel an "abberation". just call her what she is, a female.

This is fantastic! I love your lack of fear regarding dialog ~ WONDERFUL! Is there any way you could email me a copy of this??? I'd love to sit down and read through it again but this stupid laptop of mine hardly ever gets access to the internet. It's a fluke I'm on here now!! (I live on an island in Scotland with funk internet access...)

 

I'm about 2,000+ pages into my own Transformers novel. It's SO AWESOME to see someone else that has the guts to take the risk and write Transformers!!!!

Thank you guys for all your feedback thus far. On the topic of Ariel, really quick...this is very, very early in the mythos I've got in my head. As such, it's a subtle prejudice against those like her. Make no mistake, she is a female, but the Cybertronian race doesn't really know how to comprehend just what a 'female' is at this point in time. Consider is like how African Americans went years being called "coloreds", at least that's the idea I'm working with.

 

I've got a great deal more of this written, and I hope you'll all continue to read.

 

-----

 

Elsewhere, in the city of Kaon, an arena was fashioned from an old energon processing plant. Over the loudspeaker the announcement is made.

 

“GREETINGS CYBERTRONIANS!! TONIGHT WE HAVE A BATTLE WORTHY FOR THE AGES!! ENTERING FIRST…THE RETURNING CHAMPION…LEADER…ONE!!!”

 

Leader-1 paced the ring, glaring out at all of the faces jeering for him. He had been champion for going on three stellar cycles, but he’d been fighting for the last three days in endless battles, in the hopes of finally breaking him down and taking his title from him. He was proud, sold into slavery and then sold to the black market to these gladiatorial games, and he wasn’t about to go down without the best fight he could give.

 

High above, in the makeshift skybox, sat in darkness some of the Cybertronian Elite. Mirage, heir apparent to a Senatorial seat, sat beside Sunstreaker, another of high society with a bloodlust that has made him quite the hero in these games. With them was Razorclaw, the security officer for the city of Kaon.

 

“Look at him,” Razorclaw said in his gritty tone, “So pompous. Who is his opponent?”

 

“Somebody new,” Sunstreaker said, “I wouldn’t worry, Razorclaw. My title shot is guaranteed after this match.”

 

“Your matches have drawn in quite the audience,” Razorclaw said, “The fans look forward to your eventual shot at Leader-1.”

 

“Anything for the people,” Sunstreaker said with a grin.

 

“Silence, both of you,” Mirage said, leaning forward, “They’re about to announce his opponent!”

 

“AND HIS OPPONENT…MAKING HIS GLADIATORIAL DEBUT…”

 

A large white robot suddenly arrived in the arena, glaring down Leader-1.

 

“…MEGATRON.”

 

The fans in attendance grew to a hushed silence. Leader-1 stared at Megatron, who stood high above him. Megatron’s body was shimmering white, with a gigantic black blade fastened to his right arm. He looked down at Leader-1 and awaited the bell to ring. Once it did, Leader-1 immediately transformed into a jet, flying directly at Megatron. Megatron moved to the side swiftly and slid the blade down into the belly of the jet, causing Leader-1 to panic and transform back into his robot form.

 

Leader-1 landed a solid punch to Megatron’s midsection, but Megatron grabbed Leader-1’s arm and gouged it out from his body completely. Leader-1 howled in pain as the fans in the audience grew silent. Leader-1 cried out, reaching with his lone arm to the stands, but Megatron slammed his new weapon, Leader-1’s torn arm, and smashed Leader-1’s arm into the ground, shattering both. Leader-1 staggered away from Megatron, dropping to one knee. Megatron lifted him up, sliding the blade into Leader-1’s midsection. Leader-1 continued to shout and cry in agony. Slowly, Megatron slid the blade upwards, slicing through Leader-1’s chest, then his throat, and finally coming out the side of his neck, leaving his head intact. Leader-1’s body fell to the ground and shivered in agony until Megatron slammed his boot down onto Leader-1’s head, destroying it completely.

 

“YOUR…YOUR WINNER…”

 

Megatron held his hand up, silencing the speaker. He looked around to the audience.

 

“I…am Megatron,” he spoke. His voice resonated in the building, gravelly and dark, “None of you have seen my face before, but I know all of you. I know all of you love to watch a great battle and a great bloodbath. I bring to you an option. An…idea.”

 

He grinned as two smaller robots came in, clearing away Leader-1’s remains.

 

“I bring with me the idea of a new Cybertron, where politics give way to might. Where senators in their mansions are forced to see the poverty they allow other Cybertronians to wallow in. Here tonight, Cybertronians, I bring to you…the Decepticons.”

 

A hush fell back over the audience as Megatron summoned his troops to his side.

 

“These two are called Frenzy and Rumble,” Megatron began, “Two of the first to join my cause. Behind me is Clench, Straxus, and Trannis. Together, we are the first of many Decepticons, here to dismantle the pathetic Cybertronian hierarchy and give birth to a new Cybertron, in which the strongest shall rule, where your power is EARNED…NOT BEQUEATHED!!”

 

Megatron glared at the audience.

 

“Join me,” he continued, “Join me and we shall see a new dawn together. Oppose me…or stay silent…and prepare to never see the twilight. For now, I shall let you all go peacefully. However, those who are willing to stand with me, come to me tomorrow night, here.”

 

He grinned.

 

“Now…you may go.”

 

Megatron glared at the skybox in which Razorclaw stood up in awe of the monochromatic monarch. Sunstreaker backed to the doorway slowly, followed by Mirage.

 

“Razorclaw,” Mirage said, “We’re departing now. We have much to think about.”

 

“Can you imagine,” Razorclaw said softly, “having the inner strength to stand up in public like this…and begin open recruitment. It is…amazing. They must have truly done something mighty in Iacon. Amazing.”

 

“You don’t know?” Sunstreaker asked, stunned.

 

Razorclaw turned to Sunstreaker.

 

“The Decepticons murdered Senator Decimus this morning,” Mirage said.

 

Razorclaw turned to Megatron, who was sending Trannis out.

 

“Amazing,” he repeated.

 

Sunstreaker and Mirage walked away from the arena into the dark streets of Kaon.

 

“Is your ride here yet?” Sunstreaker asked, clearly nervous about being in Kaon during nightfall.

 

“Not yet,” Mirage replied.

 

“Mirage, Sunstreaker,” came a deep voice from behind them. They turned to see Trannis, with Frenzy with him.

 

“Megatron took a special likin’ to the both uh you,” Frenzy said in his slightly whiny voice.

 

“I appreciate that,” Mirage said, “but I need time to think, as do many Cybertronians this night.”

 

“Your allegiance would go a long way towards securing some possible Autobot recruits,” Trannis said.

 

“Because of my previous military experience?” Mirage said with a laugh, “I was discharged for desertion. Sunstreaker quit to be a pit fighter. I fail to see how our endorsement could help in any great manner.”

 

“You don’t understand,” Trannis said, brandishing an axe, “I’m here to ensure your endorsement.”

 

Sunstreaker immediately pulled his pistol, aiming it at Trannis.

 

“Tell your leader this isn’t the best way to guarantee any sort of allegiances,” Sunstreaker said firmly.

 

Trannis slammed the butt of his axe into Sunstreaker’s midsection, prompting Sunstreaker to drop his pistol. Frenzy dove for it, as did Mirage. Trannis slammed the axe into the ground, trying to kill Sunstreaker. Sunstreaker, on the other hand, backflipped away, firing a flare into Trannis’ eyes, temporarily blinding him. Trannis staggered backward, stepping on Frenzy’s hand in the process.

 

“AHH!! TRANNIS YOU IDIOT!” Frenzy called out as Mirage tackled Frenzy, taking the pistol into his hands in the process. Mirage looked up to see his transit had arrived.

 

“Sunstreaker!” Mirage cried out, “Our ride is here!”

 

Frenzy’s hands transformed into drills as he dove as Mirage, tearing at Mirage’s feet.

 

“You’re stayin’ PUT!” Frenzy said, drilling Mirage’s feet to the ground, causing Mirage to cry out in pain.

 

Trannis swung his axe again, but Sunstreaker continued to dodge it. A massive uppercut staggered Trannis and allowed Sunstreaker the chance to charge Frenzy, shoulder blocking him out of the way. Frenzy fell to the side, allowing Sunstreaker to get Mirage up.

 

“Let go!” Sunstreaker said, dragging Mirage onto the transit. The two of them got in, Mirage typing in the directions and getting the transit to take off speeding down the alleyway out of Kaon. Mirage and Sunstreaker leaned back in their seats as Mirage rubbed the wounds in his feet.

 

“Primus,” Mirage said, “That was too close.”

 

Sunstreaker looked up, his eyes growing in horror. “We’re not through yet!”

 

Trannis was behind them, charging them at full speed, the axe high above his head.

 

“You’re taking a lot of interest in two former Autobots, Trannis!” Sunstreaker called out.

 

Trannis continued his charge until he managed to drive the tip of his axe into the back of the transit, causing it to rip apart in mid air, sending Mirage and Sunstreaker flying. Mid air, however, Mirage transformed into the sleek racing vehicle he was and took off, sending Sunstreaker’s pistol flying into the air. Sunstreaker managed to grab the pistol, rolling to the ground until he managed to get to his knee, aiming the pistol at Trannis. Trannis swung his axe once again, and Sunstreaker fired three shots into Trannis’ chest, causing the hulking Decepticon to stagger backwards.

 

“Megatron…will hear of this…” Trannis bellowed.

 

“Oh, he’ll do more than hear of it,” Sunstreaker said with a smirk. He fired a fourth shot, blasting the axe from Trannis’ grasp. Trannis dropped to one knee, glaring at Sunstreaker. He lunged forth, and Sunstreaker fired a final shot, blasting a hole straight through Trannis’ head, killing him. Sunstreaker stayed in his position, pistol stilled aimed at Trannis. Soon, he looked up and saw Frenzy back at the alley, stunned at what he had just seen. Sunstreaker fired two shots at him, but Frenzy managed to hide back in the alley, taking off into the darkness. Sunstreaker bowed his head, breathing a bit easier. But he was still in Kaon, and he needed to get out of there. He transformed into his vehicle mode, one of the fastest on Cybertron, and sped away, trying to leave the murderous city behind.

Definitely getting better. My point about females is that in most continuities, females are just taken for granted, Being male and female is normal, not something strange. IT's perfectly natural. There's no need to "explain sexes among Transformers, they've always had them in most realities. My advice is to not place any undue "peculiarity" to female Transformers. Simply take them for granted as always existing along side males.

Alpha Trion stepped into his private chambers, where three beds were created in the center of the room. Standing there in the center of the room was Prowl and Nightbeat. The two of them turned to face Alpha Trion, bowing their heads. Trion returned their greeting and looked down to the three beds, filled with bodies in each.

 

“Are these the three unfortunates?”

 

“Yes, sir,” Prowl said.

 

“What were you able to find out, Nightbeat?”

 

“It’s the most brazen Decepticon attack since the rumors began circulating, Alpha Trion,” Nightbeat said firmly.

 

Alpha Trion nodded.

 

“Where is Sentinel Prime, sir?” Prowl inquired.

 

“The Senate has given him the task of apprehending Ironhide.”

 

“As a suspect?!” Prowl said, stunned.

 

Alpha Trion nodded.

 

“I have to warn Ironhide,” Prowl said, moving to the doorway. Alpha Trion placed his hand on Prowl’s chestplate and shook his head no.

 

“Ironhide will be safe for now,” Alpha Trion said, “First, the two of you must continue your investigation. You must find evidence that clears Ironhide of these charges.”

 

“Beyond hearsay,” Nightbeat said with a sigh, “There is little at that crime scene that implicates…anyone, frankly.”

 

Alpha Trion looked down at the ravaged and mangled face of Orion Pax.

 

“Then Ironhide’s hopes rest completely in these Cybertronians,” Alpha Trion said, “Please leave me. I will contact you when they are ready.”

 

Prowl and Nightbeat both nodded and exited without a word. Alpha Trion closed and locked his door. He walked slowly over to the beds, looking down at the unconscious Cybertronians in front of him. Dion was near death, a white and blue Cybertronian. Ariel was a bit better, but as an aberration, she bore deeper scars than could be seen with the optics of Alpha Trion and he knew this. Orion Pax was the least damaged of the three, but he was still barely functioning. He would be the easiest to rebuild.

 

Alpha Trion walked over to the side of his room where he kept a strange cabinet. He unlocked it and the yellow glow of glorious yellow orb illuminated the room. He placed his hands around the orb, allowing the orb to crackle with energy and course through his body.

 

“Vector Sigma,” Alpha Trion said flatly, “I seek your assistance. Within me is your Key.”

 

After a few moments, the orb began to crackle with greater energy. Then, a thunderous rumble echoed through the room, but Alpha Trion knew only he could hear anything that was happening here.

 

“ALPHA TRION,” the orb spoke, “YOU HAVE ACTIVATED A HUB OF VECTOR SIGMA. WHAT IS IT THAT YOU SEEK.”

 

“I need to see you directly,” Alpha Trion said, “I have three Autobots in dire need of your makings.”

 

“YOU REQUIRE REFORMATTING OF THESE AUTOBOTS,” Vector Sigma asked.

 

“I need you to analyze them,” Alpha Trion said, “I need to know if these are the three of prophecy.”

 

Vector Sigma grew quiet for a long moment.

 

“BRING THEM TO MY CENTRAL HUB,” Vector Sigma commanded, “YOU WILL NEED THE AUTOBOT CREATION MATRIX AS WELL.”

 

“Understood,” Alpha Trion said, moving away from the orb as its powerful light dimmed and the energy fizzled out. He turned to Orion Pax and watched him for a long moment before he exited his room. He took a few steps until he could see the High Council Pavilions before him. Instantly, he transformed into his vehicle mode, a jet, and immediately took off to the Pavilion.

 

Sentinel Prime cocked his rifle, looking at the soldiers before him. The smaller, red and black warrior was working on the missile launcher attached to his shoulder while the blue and black Seeker called Thundercracker stared out at the city with a smirk. Sitting in the corner, twirling his blade on the ground, was a massive yellow and grey robot, his eyes one blazing red visor. The final two were two close soldiers Sentinel knew well. The eldest was Kup, blue, grey, and white and ornery. He seemed overly annoyed while Springer, green and yellow, merely loaded up his own rifle.

 

“This stinks,” Kup said, breaking the silence, “You know as well as I do dat Ironhide’s done nothin’ wrong!”

 

“I can only do what the Senate commands, Kup,” Sentinel replied, “You know that.”

 

“Either way,” Springer said, “I’m with Kup. Ironhide stood tall with us against every foe we all fought against in the last two big wars.”

 

“As upstandin’ a ‘bot as I’ve ever seen!” Kup said, gritting his teeth.

 

“We still gotta take him in,” Thundercracker said, “It’s what Senator Ratbat wants.”

 

“Exactly,” Sideswipe said, “So stop bellyachin’ and just do your job so we can all do this and go home.”

 

“What did you say to me, boy?” Kup said, cutting a glare at Sideswipe.

 

Sideswipe stood up, looking Kup directly in the eyes, “I don’t like this any more than you do, but orders are orders. You know that. You KNOW that.”

 

Kup shook his head, “Don’t mean I gotta like it.”

 

“No like it, no problem,” said Grimlock, his rugged voice capable of hushing any room, “Ironhide prime suspect in Decimus’ murder. He go to trial. He go peaceful, he okay. He fight, he dies.”

 

“There will be NO KILLING,” Sentinel Prime said, glaring at Grimlock, “NONE.”

 

“Me mean no disrespect, Sentinel Prime,” Grimlock said, locking his sword into his sheath, “But we here to do a job. You know why me here. Me here to provide a final deathblow if Ironhide no come in peace.”

 

Sentinel grew silent. Grimlock was right.

 

“Stand back, Grimlock,” Sentinel Prime commanded, “Let the five of us handle this. Kup, Springer…converge on the rear entrance of the home. Thundercracker, lock it down from the air. Sideswipe and I will take the front door and arrest him. Are we clear?”

 

“Yep,” Thundercracker said, stepping out of the convoy and transforming into his jet form and taking off into the air. Kup and Springer walked past Sentinel Prime, saying nothing.

 

Sentinel Prime and Sideswipe stepped out of the convoy last and walked to the front door of Senator Decimus’ home. Sideswipe looked at Sentinel for the signal, which Sentinel gave, allowing Sideswipe to kick the door in, pistol aimed directly in front of him.

 

“AUTOBOT ENFORCEMENT!” Sideswipe called out, “IRONHIDE! STEP OUT HERE AND GIVE YOURSELF OVER TO US!”

 

Suddenly, a revving of an engine was heard. Immediately Sentinel aimed his rifle down the hall, only to have a large vehicle barreling out from a side room, shattering the door and running over Sideswipe before transforming into Ironhide, flying through the air, dodging a rifle shot from Sentinel, and planting a stern punch on Prime’s face.

 

“FER YEARS!” Ironhide yelled as he punched Prime again, “YEARS I SERVED Y’ALL…AND THIS IS HOW YOU REPAY THAT?!”

 

Ironhide punched Sentinel again, transformed again, and took off down the road. Sentinel got up, helping Sideswipe up as well.

 

“Are you alright?” Sentinel asked.

 

“That’s not the Ironhide I know,” Sideswipe stated, “He must be guilty, runnin’ like that.”

 

“Or he’s not about to put his fate in the hands of the Senate,” Sentinel replied, “He knows what’ll happen if we hand him over to them. You do, too.”

 

Sideswipe sighed.

 

“Autobots, this is Sentinel Prime,” Sentinel said over his radio frequency, “The suspect is running. Pursue. I repeat, pursue! Do not cause grave bodily harm, apprehend only. I repeat…APPREHEND ONLY.”

 

Ironhide rolled down the highway, trying to weave his way in and out of traffic. He hadn’t made it a mile before a blazing red sword tore through the road in front of him. He swerved to miss it, but a hand reached up, grabbing him by his bumper and dragging him to the sewers beneath Iacon’s streets. Ironhide immediately transformed into his robot form, aiming his cannon into the darkness. He heard nothing but the traffic overhead and the dripping of the waste’s condensation.

 

“Who’s here?” Ironhide demanded, “Where are you hidin’?!”

 

Ironhide fired once, nailing the wall. The light of his shot illuminated the sewer just long enough for him to see just who brought him down. The hulking Grimlock stood before him.

 

“You no have sensors to see in dark?” Grimlock asked.

 

“Never had ‘em installed,” Ironhide said.

 

“Me here to take you in,” Grimlock said, his sword starting to glow, “We do this easy, we do this hard, it no matter to me.”

 

Ironhide sighed.

 

Thundercracker flew over the streets of Iacon until he saw the gaping hole in the road.

 

“Thundercracker to Sentinel Prime,” Thundercracker said, “I think Ironhide’s gone underground.”

 

Suddenly, Ironhide’s body went flying through a new hole in the road. A hole made with Ironhide’s body.

 

“Negative on that, cancel that,” Thundercracker said, “Suspect found.”

 

Ironhide landed on the pavement but before he could get back up, Grimlock was over him, the tip of his blade aimed at Ironhide’s neck.

 

“You under arrest, Ironhide,” Grimlock said, “You yield or die?”

 

“Kiss my slaggin’ bumper,” Ironhide said, spitting in Grimlock’s face.

 

“GRIMLOCK!” Sentinel Prime called out, “STAND DOWN. I REPEAT, STAND DOWN!!”

 

Grimlock glared down at Ironhide before landing a final punch, completely shattering Ironhide’s right eye and knocking the Autobot unconscious. Kup arrived first, transforming to robot form and tackling Grimlock off of him.

 

“HOW DARE YOU!” Kup said, pointing his gun at Grimlock’s head, “That is my FRIEND! He was YOUR fellow soldier! Your comrade! He would have DIED for you!”

 

“Me doing my job,” Grimlock said, glaring back at Kup, “Me suggest you do same.”

 

“Grimlock’s right, Kup,” Springer said, putting his hand on Kup’s shoulder, “Ironhide’s under arrest now. Like it or not…he’s going to the Justice Building.”

 

Kup sighed, getting off of Grimlock. Meanwhile, Thundercracker locked Ironhide in his shackles as the convoy arrived to take him to Yuss. The Autobots said nothing to one another as Thundercracker carried the unconscious Ironhide into the back of the convoy. It took off to the temporary holding cells in Iacon before Ironhide would be transferred to the Justice Building before awaiting trial.

Ironhide stirred, his left optic sensors trying to work overtime in the darkness. He could hear the clicks and buzzing of several monitoring machines, keeping tabs on him and whoever was with him.

 

“DON’T YOU SEE?! OH PRIMUS, DON’T YOU SEE?!?! HE IS COMING!! HE IS COMING!!”

 

Ironhide lifted his head, staring at where the sounds of the voices could be heard. He tried to move, but failed to do so. He suddenly became aware of the fact that every one of his limbs and his head were all hooked to monitors. Hooked…to something. The door to his cell opened and before him stood a black, blue, and orange guard.

 

“Ironhide,” he said, his voice flat and monotone, “I am Dirge. I assist in the running of this facility. For now, I am here to consult with you on your crimes.”

 

“Don’t talk to me ‘bout no crimes,” Ironhide said, gritting his teeth, “I ain’t done nothin’ to nobody ‘cept my job.”

 

“And what is…your job?” Dirge said, kneeling, touching Ironhide’s chin with his hand ever so gently, “The slaughter of Senator Decimus? Tell me, Ironhide, are you a Decepticon spy?”

 

Ironhide glared at Dirge with his one good eye.

 

“It doesn’t matter, does it?” Dirge said with a smile, “Soon, death shall come to you. The Senate will be meeting for your fate very soon and then…I have the honor of dispatching you myself. You see, Ironhide, here in the Justice Building, I am also the executioner.”

 

Dirge smiled once again at Ironhide before he closed the cell door. Dirge took a few steps before turning slowly to the other cell, wherein the prisoner had been screaming. He stopped, peering into the darkness of the cell. He stared long and hard at the prisoner, named Jhiaxus. Dirge opened the cell door and stepped inside.

 

“Now tell me,” Dirge said, cocking his head to the side, “Who do you think is coming?”

 

“I…” Jhiaxus stammered, “I…I am his herald, you see. I am mighty, before the Senate…the Senate…did this to me. He will…he will…”

 

“Who do you speak of?” Dirge said, aiming his two arm mounted missile launchers directly at Jhiaxus.

 

“YOU know…you KNOW…”

 

Dirge laughed, firing two shots, completely tearing Jhiaxus’ head from his body. He fired two more shots, destroying completely the body of Jhiaxus, letting the head fall to the floor at his feet. He walked from the cell and looked to Ironhide’s cell, knowing Ironhide could see him.

 

“There is the justice in the Justice Building, Ironhide,” Dirge said with a small smirk.

 

Dirge walked slowly to the air lift, which sent him rocketing up towards the main command center in the Justice Building. Once he arrived, he saw with his own eyes the destroyed remains of Yuss. Yuss had become one of the Senate’s personal projects, working diligently to create one specific place to house the prisoners and criminally insane of Cybertron. It was manned by those who were in the command center with Dirge. Dead End, somewhat of a religious figure on Cybertron, stood at the helm of the Justice Building. With the two of them, were Stampede, Breakdown, Wildrider, and Vortex. Dirge walked over to Dead End, who watched the people of Yuss once again attempt to break the walls of the Justice Building. Something they did…with alarming frequency.

 

“They attempt this nearly ever solar cycle,” Dead End said, smirking, “Oh they certainly try, don’t they? Needless to say, it’s ever so amusing to see them try and fail again and again at the might of the Omega Sentinels and Fortress Maximus.”

 

“Where is Maximus?” Dirge asked, looking down at the once again slaughtered masses who inhabited Yuss.

 

“Not a big enough threat here today,” Dead End said with a smile, speaking through his communication link with the Omega Sentinels, “Excellent job today. Power down, maintain monitor status, activate upon any outside movement.” Dead End looked over to Dirge with a smile.

 

“Sir,” Stampede said, “I’m picking up some sort of disturbance on the outskirts of Yuss.”

 

“Hmmm,” Dead End said, looking at the monitor, “It would appear to be two Cybertronians who have ventured much too close to this sector. Keep an eye on them, don’t let them get close enough to make contact with us. If they do, we must ensure their destruction.”

 

Stampede continued to monitor as the two Cybertronians in question continued their travel north to Iacon. Mirage and Sunstreaker had traveled throughout the night after their encounter with the Decepticons. They were tired, Mirage had managed to arrange a second transport that had zig-zagged over Cybertron’s landscape all night long, coming perilously close to Yuss, the wasteland province that housed only horror stories for those fortunate enough to be ignorant of the truth.

 

“I think we’re safe to head to Iacon,” Mirage said, reading his monitors.

 

“About time,” Sunstreaker said with a yawn, “Who knows what’s happened elsewhere tonight.”

 

Mirage looked at the scanner on his transport which showed the latest in news. He pursed his lips and looked over to Sunstreaker, his face grim.

 

“No new updates about the Decepticons,” Mirage said, “Though I’m a bit concerned by the update pinning Decimus’ murder on his bodyguard, Ironhide.”

 

“Ironhide?” Sunstreaker said, perplexed, “He’s an Autobot! C’mon, you KNOW the Senate’s covering something up. Can’t you tell?”

 

Mirage looked back to Sunstreaker and then to the monitor again.

 

“I can only hope you’re wrong, Sunstreaker,” Mirage said, frowning.

“MY FELLOW SENATORS,” Starscream called out on the Senate floor, prompting the attention of the other Senators in attendance at the meeting, “We have been brought together to discuss the recent attacks upon us and what we may do to…bring them to a cease. Senator Ratbat, in his wisdom, still believes we should not anchor ourselves behind the Autobot forces. Instead, Ratbat believes that we are all capable of handling this with our city state’s security forces—“

 

“That’s easy for Ratbat to say,” said Spanner, interrupting Starscream, “He is the most secure of us all!”

 

“For the most part,” Starscream replied, “Yes, Ratbat is. We are composed of the best scientists, religious figures, and military minds to lead this planet to its bold new era. Ratbat – the mighty Ratbat – is a politician, born and bred.”

 

“I must intrude upon this discussion,” Shockwave said, leaning forward, “While we do have several members of the Senate right now absent…I am perplexed by the absence of Alpha Trion. Do we know his status?”

 

“As liaison for Alpha Trion, I can attest that Trion is safe and sound,” spoke one voice.

 

“And who might you be?” Highbrow said, speaking up.

 

“I am Perceptor,” he said, “Alpha Trion has given me the authority to speak on his behalf if he is absent from these proceedings.”

 

“I’ve never even heard of you,” Starscream said, glaring.

 

“Alpha Trion has never missed a Senate hearing,” Perceptor said, fighting back his smirk, “You haven’t a need to know me prior to this moment.”

 

“Can we get back to the business at hand?” Cy-Kill said, irritated, “Let’s face it. The Autobot forces are nothing more than a pathetic relic. If Ratbat votes against their continued enforcement and protection, so shall I!”

 

Highbrow leaned back in his seat, “Pathetic.”

 

“My Senators,” Starscream said with a smile, “Let us vote!”

 

“All those in favor for the continued Autobot presence assembled in Iacon, input your votes!” Shockwave said, amassing the votes as they come in, “And those against, now you may input your votes.”

 

Perceptor looked over to Highbrow and pressed in his vote for Autobot presence.

 

“Well?” Starscream said, his head cocked to the side.

 

“The votes are counted,” Shockwave said, “The Autobot forces are to be disbanded in the city of Iacon. Iacon shall henceforth be defended by its security force consisting of Head Security Officer Prowl, Checkpoint, Nightbeat, Streetwise, Devcon, Kup, and Thundercracker, with continued supervision from Sentinel Prime.”

 

Perceptor nodded and walked out of the Senate meeting as quickly as he had arrived. Highbrow sighed.

 

“Then this meeting is adjourned,” Starscream said, smirking.

 

Mirage pointed to the golden dome in front of the two of them. He tapped Sunstreaker to get his attention and smiled.

 

“Iacon, my friend,” Mirage said, grinning, “We made it.”

 

Sunstreaker groaned, “Wonderful.”

 

“What?”

 

“I haven’t been to Iacon in…I don’t even know how long.”

 

Mirage laughed, “It’s the symbol of Cybertronian superiority, Sunstreaker! Those of us who enjoy the finer things in life should relish even seeing the golden dome!”

 

“My brother is an Autobot soldier out here,” Sunstreaker said as the transport slowed down to the entrance to Iacon. The two of them were approached by two Cybertronians, Hound and Thrust.

 

“What have we here?” Thrust said, aiming his arm mounted blasters at the two of them, “Two of Cybertron’s Bastard City’s finest?”

 

“Easy, Thrust,” Hound said, walking up to where Mirage was seated, “You’ll have to excuse him. He hasn’t ever seen the beauties of Kaon.”

 

“Believe me,” Sunstreaker said, glaring at Thrust, “Neither have we.”

 

“State your business in Iacon,” Thrust demanded.

 

“We seek an audience with the Senate over some…things we witnessed,” Mirage stated to Hound.

 

“Very well,” Hound replied.

 

“Wait a second!” Thrust said, shaking his head, “These two elite chumps ain’t gonna come to Iacon and toss their weight around! You two get one thing straight. You wanna get in Iacon, you leave your Kaon mentality at the door!”

 

“Pfft,” Sunstreaker scoffed, “You’re from Polyhex, get off your high horse before I knock you off.”

 

“What, you think you can beat me because you landed a few lucky punches in some pit fights?” Thrust said, aiming both his blasters at Sunstreaker, “I think I’ll need to be convinced of how good a fighter you think you are.”

 

“I don’t need to convince you of anything, Seeker,” Sunstreaker spat back, Hound and Mirage quickly getting between the two of them.

 

“Mirage,” Hound said, drawing attention to himself, “Go ‘head in. Thrust, take a breather. I’ll contact Blaster, let him know you guys need to speak to the Senate.”

 

“Why tell him?” Mirage asked.

 

“Why tell..? Listen to this guy,” Thrust said, laughing, “He’ll get any message to anybody you need him to. What on Cybertron do you guys have down there in Kaon for communiqué, maybe a radio tower?”

 

“We just line up some of your conehead brethren to get the best reception,” Sunstreaker said with a smirk.

 

“You’re lucky you even made it to Iacon, don’t push it,” Thrust said with a glare, “Get outta here.”

 

Mirage moved the transport forward, sighing.

 

“The nerve of that idiot,” Sunstreaker said, clenching his fists, “He’s lucky I didn’t…hey. Mirage, hey.”

 

“What?”

 

“What did he mean we were lucky to make it to Iacon?”

 

Mirage shrugged, “I’m too tired to question it. We still have to go to the Pavilions, seek council with the Senate, and report what we’ve seen. I don’t want to bother with the pointless tripe someone like him spews that he defines as bravado.”

 

“Right…” Sunstreaker replied.