Generation: NeXt - THE COMPLETE SERIES -, The Rust Restoration Project Options

[Rust]

The Rust Restoration Project is, to be blunt, my legacy.

My writing has stalled something fierce in the last five years and I fear what few fics I've left behind are all that I'm ever going to produce. I hope not, but in the event that does happen, I'd like to save what I can. Most of these fics pre-date my involvement with the Allspark, so they've never seen the light of day here, and the boards they do exist on are decayed, dead or dying husks that will eventually be swallowed by the Internet whole.

To prevent that from happening, not only am I saving what I can find to my own personal files, but I will repost them here for a whole new generation to enjoy.


To begin, I give you what is going to be a fricken huge thread even discounting any replies. I will try and post a new "Episode" every other day or so, but we're talking a 39 "episode" Series over Three "Seasons" and a bonus 40th "episode" for a aborted Fourth "Season".

The series was written by a young High School Student who back then went by the Internet handle "OpMaximus". Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, I give you the Allspark Debut of my very first Transformers Fan Fiction Series:

GENERATION: NEXT

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode One: "Generation: NEXT!"

ACT I

FADE IN: A quiet street in a city that could constitute about 99% of all cities of the
world. People mingle and go about their daily lives. Then, roaring down the street, come 3
sports cars, a Gold Plymouth Prowler, a Black Dodge Viper, and a Silver convertible.
Each are considerably not to scale. On the hood of each, a bug-like symbol in engraved.
As civilians duck out of the way the three sports cars stop. As a police man walks up to
inspect the small cars a clicking sound is heard. The three cars reveal their true natures, as
Robots in Disguise. Standing maybe a head taller then the cop, the robots smirk to one
another.

WINDSHEAR:(The Viper) Well, what do we have here? A fleshing perhaps?
BLARE:(The Prowler, he chuckles) It seems so. The question now is, what to do with it?
SONIC:(The Convertible) I say we play, pin the thermal grenade on the cop!
COP:(Shaking, pulling out his gun) All right boys, enough with the games. Just take off
the masks.
BLARE:(Laughing) Can you believe this guy? We Transform right in front of him and he
still thinks we’re kid punks!
WINDSHEAR:(To the Cop) My good..(Looks at the bars on the cops uniform) Captain. I
am called Windshear. With me are my companions, Blare and Sonic. We together are
called the Lock, Stock, and Barrel Club. A faction of the Cybertronian group known as
Predacons.
COP:(Shaking) Wh...what do you want?
SONIC: Loot, plunder, cause random acts of violence. That sort of thing.

The three smile as the cop begins to back up and they step forward. Blare’s shoulder
blocks the camera view as the cop screams as we CUT TO: A living room. Two young
men sit, looking at a Computer Screen.

RON: This isn’t going to work. Just cancel out.
JOSH:(The one at the keyboard) Shhh, I’ve almost got it.

A few moments of silence. Then a cry of “AWWWW!” from the two as they turn away
from the screen.

The Screen reads, MISSION FAILED. Josh sighs and fakes crying. Ron just looks worn
out.

JOSH:(Sighs again, without the “Crying”) That really ticks me off! I thought I had it won
too!
RON:(Unconcerned) Ah well. I’m going to watch wrestling.
JOSH: You do know that stuff is fake right?
RON: Of course I do! But remember, I’m going to one day be apart of that business!
JOSH: Well, if you’ve got one endearing quality, its that your persistent.

As Ron takes a seat on a couch and turns on the TV, Josh returns to his computer. He
check E-mail quickly. He then joins Ron on the couch.

JOSH: Your girlfriend sent you about 10 new messages.
RON: Dude, stop checking MY e-mail! Just cause you know my password....

Suddenly wrestling is interrupted by Local News. Ron is more then a little upset by this.

RON: Dude! Not cool! I don’t care about some lame bank robbery!
JOSH:(Wanting to listen) Shhh, this could be important.
NEWS CASTER: It is confirmed, 3 Cybertronian Transformers identifying themselves as
Windshear, Blare and Sonic are causing havoc downtown. All residents are urged to take
caution as these are extremely dangerous and have already cause much damage.

With that, Ron turned off the TV and headed for the door. Josh merely looked his friend
over with a look of confusion.

JOSH: Where are you going?
RON: Duh. Isn’t it obvious? I’m going to catch those Transformers. I remember what
they did back in the 80s! Man, they must be HUGE!
JOSH:(Hesitant) If they were huge, don’t you think we’d see them from here? Plus, they
are just a fictional characters. Aren’t they?
RON: Apparently not! Come on, it’d be fun!
JOSH:(Sighs) If you say so.


CUT TO: Ron and Josh are driving towards downtown, people and cars running away
from the area. Josh, who is driving, is concerned.

JOSH: I really don’t like this. No roadblocks....
RON: Good! That way we get to see the action, up close and personal!
JOSH:(Musing) You really DO have a death wish don’t you?
RON:(Smirks, but annoyed) Shut up and accelerate!

As they come up a hill, Sonic stands there, Plasma Rifle in hand, his back turned to them.
Josh honks the horn and swerves, but they still send Sonic sprawling to the ground. Sonic
growls and begins firing at the fleeing car.

SONIC: I hate hit and runs! Unless I do the Hitting!
RON:(Watching a side mirror melt) Holy crap man! Did you see that?
JOSH: I’m a little busy trying not to get hit by the human-sized Transformer at the
moment. Besides, it was YOUR idea to come out here!
RON:(Looking innocent) Me?!? Your the one behind the wheel! You could have turned
around and said “Nah...I don’t feel like dying today.”
JOSH: Don’t start pinning the blame on me! You were the one that said....

Suddenly both realized that they were coming up on Windshear and Blare, weapons drawn
ready to fire. Josh slams on the breaks, both he and Ron’s faces go white.

JOSH AND RON: Oh Sh......(FADE TO BLACK)

ACT II

FADE IN: Ron and Josh’s faces are white as Windshear and Blare get ready to fire.

JOSH AND RON: ......t!
WINDSHEAR:(In a Star Wars like tone) You may fire when ready.

Josh and Ron dive out of the car just as it blows up. They scurry and seek shelter in a
department store. They both are out of breath. As they look up, the whole place is
deserted.

RON: Um, where’d everybody go?
MARCUS:(Off Camera) The same place everybody went, away from here.
JOSH: Marcus! What are you doing here.
MARCUS:(Sitting in a corner) What are you two doing here yourselves?
RON: Well, at least we’re all here now.
JOSH:(Sighs) Only a month out of High School and we’re going to get killed by freaks of
nature that should only be a comic book.
MARCUS: That what I call a pessimistic attitude there.
JOSH: Well? What else am I suppose to say? If we go out there, we get vapped. We stay
here, we get vapped. So there isn’t much other than getting Vapped is there?!?!
DR. TOLWYN:(Off Camera) There is one other thing my boy.
MARCUS:(Looking at the aged scientist) Who are you?!?
DR. TOLWYN: I am Dr. Anthony Tolwyn. I am also, sadly, the reason those monsters
are loose.
JOSH: YOU created them?!?
DR. TOLWYN: In a sense. Come, let me show you. (Motions for the three to follow him)

CUT TO: Lab. Several hundred feet below the ground. Hi-tech devices lay everywhere.

RON: Whoa. Like something out of a Sci-Fi Magazine.
DR. TOLWYN: After working at a Nevada research facility for several years I picked up
a few things here and there. That, (Motions to a machine in the corner) Is my greatest
invention. It takes a Human’s body and reforms it, placing Metal, Armor, weaponry,
circuits where needed. And it gives the ability to change that subject’s form.
JOSH:(In awe) A Transformer Making Machine.
DR. TOLWYN: That fact was not lost to me. I myself am a Transfan. So I named it:
VECTOR SIGMA!
MARCUS: So what about the Brothers Grimm up there?
DR. TOLWYN: A gang, called the Lock, Stock, and Barrel Club, found this place and
forced me to turn them into the most powerful gang members in the world. Thus was born
the Predacons. But I ensured that Speed was their only asset.
RON: Hence the Sports Car modes.
DR. TOLWYN: Correct. But still, I feel bad for even letting them use me. So I wish to
amend my deeds. But, you must understand, if you do agree to this, your lives as humans
are over.

JOSH:(Still in awe) I’m still a fan of them. Even after all these years. I don’t care about
you two, but weather this is for my own fun or the good of the City, I need to become a
Transformer!
MARCUS: You can’t take those three on by yourself. They’ve had a chance to test drive
their bodies. I can’t let you do it on your own.
RON: Sound like a blast. Count me in.
DR. TOLWYN:(Smiling) Then take your places on those tables. Just tell me what form
you want and we can begin.

SHIFT TO: Hours later. Dr. Tolwyn looks fatigued. The last of the “Molds” are removed
from the surgical tables as smoke begins to fill the room.

JOSH:(Groaning) Did it work?
DR. TOLWYN:(Weakly) It did. Uhhhh.....(Falls over. A massive White and Red hand
catches him)
JOSH:(Still in the smoke. His voice now having a Mechanical Echo to it) Dr. Tolwyn!
What happened!?!
DR. TOLWYN: They....they came back. Forced me to make new forms for them.
Couldn’t let them find you......gave them what they wanted. They...they double-crossed
me. I....I’m sorry.
JOSH: You did all you could. It’s up to us now.
DR. TOLWYN: Do everything in your power to stop them. They can’t be permitted to
spread their evil. I...I took the liberty to give you a symbol I am more familiar with.
Good...luck....Vanguard.

With that, Tolwyn’s body goes limp. The larger figure’s free hand clenches into a fist as
two other massive figures come up behind him. The larger bot straightens up, visibly taller
than the other two. An Autobot symbol is clearly visible on his shoulder. The bot’s face
becomes visible, looking much like Optimus Prime’s except he has a mouth, like Optimus
Primal’s face. Two Blade like structures fan out from either side. Not a lot, looking almost
like antenna.

VANGUARD:(Optics narrowing) The Predacons will be stopped. No matter the cost!
(Close on Vanguard’s face as we FADE TO BLACK.)


ACT III

FADE IN: A large, Red and Gray 18 wheel ATV roars down the roadway. On each side
of the ATV, an Autobot symbol is visible. On one side a Black and Gold Hummer with a
Bull painted on the hood keeps up while on the other side, a Silver Tank-like vehicle
crackles with Electricity. Explosions are seen in the distance as we pan back behind the
vehicles.

VANGUARD:(The ATV) All right Autobots. Get ready.
HALF-PACK:(The Hummer) All right! This really Rocks!
SHOCK:(The Tank) Stay focused Half-Pack. This isn’t a game. People are dying.
HALF-PACK: Man, did some downer Circuits get put in you or something? We’re
Transformers!
SHOCK: Let’s just say, I see things a bit different now.
VANGUARD: Heads up bots!

As the three Autobots roar forward, a Brown and Orange and Green Howitzer is firing on
a fleeing crowd, as another Silver Tank like vehicle is shattering windows with Sonic
blasts. A Dark Blue and Purple Hyper-sonic jet streaks through the sky, firing down News
Helicopters.

BLARE:(The Howitzer) Windshear! Incoming!
WINDSHEAR:(The Jet) I see them. Sonic! Nail em!
SONIC:(Turning towards the Autobots) Probably the National Guard. Hey guys, how do
you like my D-Flat!?! (Lets loose a blast)

HALF-PACK:(Window shatters) ARGH! Totally not cool man!
VANGUARD: Those sonic blasts are making the buildings shake. They could collapse at
any moment. Shock! Nail him!
SHOCK:(In a Igor-like voice) Heh...Yezzzz Mazzzter!
VANGUARD:(Annoyed) That’s not funny.
HALF-PACK:(Laughing) That was a riot!

Shock pulls out ahead of Vanguard. Sonic continues his barrage but Shock unleashes over
a thousand volts of Electricity. Sonic screams in pain as he’s blown backwards.

SHOCK:(Musing) Disrupter tanks have no chance against a Tesla!
HALF-PACK: I knew we shouldn’t have let him be that stupid tank!
VANGUARD: Not now Half-Pack!

As Sonic lays there, dazed and charred, Windshear roars above, quickly going to his now
more impressive Robot Mode. He lands, thrusters on his feet hiss as smoke comes out.
Two large missile launchers are attached to his arms as his optics narrow. In this form he
looks alot like Galvatron. Blare transforms as well, the Cannon nozzle becoming his chest.
Windshear is, of course, taller.

WINDSHEAR: No human weapon could knock Sonic back that far unless....
VANGUARD: You guessed it Windshear! Tolwyn had one last card to play before you
offed him. Autobots....TRANSFORM!

The familiar transformation sound is heard as the three now large Autobots reach the same
height as the Predacons.

HALF-PACK:(The smallest of the group) Kicking! We’re G1 height now!
SHOCK: Such a necessary thing to say right about now.
WINDSHEAR:(Looking over Vanguard) So, you’re the leader of the “Autobots” are
you?
VANGUARD: I was given the name Vanguard by Tolwyn before he so rudely left this
world. And, (Looks at his troops) I guess I could be considered the Leader.
WINDSHEAR: Pathetic. You Autobots didn’t even go for the good forms I see. While
we, on the other hand, did.
SHOCK: We chose forms as those we saw fit too, Windshear. I wonder why you didn’t
choose the group name “Decepticons”.
BLARE: Decepticons are so 80s. Predacons sounds cooler. Autobots is just a little kids
name. Buncha Rudy-Poos that Tolwyn probably pulled off the street. You probably never
even been in a Gang War.
HALF-PACK: Hey, Loud Bang, shut you mouth and know your place! You lame ass
Jabroni!
BLARE:(Growls) What did you just call me you WWF Wanna-be.
HALF-PACK: You heard me....JABRONI!
BLARE: Eat melted Slag Autobutt! (Fires on Half-Pack, dives out of the way)

VANGUARD: I suppose a fight’s inevitable. Autobots, defensive positions!
WINDSHEAR:(Taking to the air) Face it Vanguard, you’re through! We’re more battle
tested than you and your group are!
VANGUARD: That may be, but we won’t go down without a fight. Half-Pack, take
Blare. Shock, finish Sonic. Leave Windshear to me. And remember, this isn’t a game!

The Autobots move quickly, rushing forward. Reaching behind him, Half-Pack pulls out
two large chain guns and opens fire on Blare, who stumbles back a bit. Shock and Sonic
seem evenly matched, however, via their Electric and Sonic blasters respectively.
Vanguard rushes forward, grabs Windshear’s leg and throws him to the ground. He leaves
his plasma rifle on Windshear. Windshear quickly brings his foot up and engulfs
Vanguard’s face with afterburners however, causing him to drop his weapon. Windshear
takes off into the air again and opens fire with his missile launchers, sending the Autobot
commander sprawling into a nearby building. Fortunately, it was vacant.

WINDSHEAR: As I said before, pathetic.

Blare has finally gotten the upper hand himself, knocking away both of Half-Pack’s chain
guns with blasts from his chest cannon. Half-Pack rushes forward however and DDT’s
Blare into the pavement. As Half-Pack gloats, he doesn’t notice Blare’s hand clutching the
ground. Blare brings his hand up, dragging a water pipe with him. Half-Pack is caught
off-guard by Blare’s move and his blinded by the onslaught of water. Shielding his eyes,
Half-Pack leaves himself open to Blare’s cannon. Half-Pack sprawls back, smoke pouring
out of the wound in his chest. Sonic right hooks Shock, sending his rifle flying and Shock
dazed. Sonic smiles as he levels his Disrupter Rifle. Shock closes his optics, preparing for
the worst. After about a minute Shock opens them again, only to be punched in the face
by Sonic. Sending him sprawling like his two comrades. But Shock stands up again, and
clotheslines Sonic into a nearby department store. Vanguard tries to get up, but
Windshear’s “Boot” holds fast under the pressure. One of his missile launchers aimed at
the back of the Autobot Commander’s head.

WINDSHEAR: Well, as said in the movie. “Tis a pity you Autobots die so easily, or else I
might have some sense of satisfaction.”
VANGUARD:(Using all his strength now) You’ll....find....I’m harder....to kill then you
think!

Before Windshear can react, Vanguard shoots up, using his jump jets to propel him sky
ward. Windshear falls back into Blare who in turn falls into a building. Vanguard lands,
sparks shooting from his chest. Vanguard levels his rifle which he retrieved.

VANGUARD:(Gasping for breath which will never come) Leave Windshear. Leave or be
destroyed. It’s your choice.
WINDSHEAR:(Calmly) Very well.

Before Vanguard could even process the information and Missile from Windshear slams
into his already battered chest, causing it to explode in a furious explosion. Vanguard
stumbles back, his optics dim. Vanguard is defeated. Half-Pack, despite his own wound,
rushes forward and is quickly hit again himself. He falls to one knee but remains
conscious. Shock flies across the screen into a nearby building. The Autobots have all but
lost.

WINDSHEAR: Pathetic. Predacons, prime all weapons on these fools. We shall teach
them what happens to those who cross us! (Sirens blare in the near distance) The cops!
BLARE: The Autobots gave us a beating Windshear. No doubt the Cops will be packing
some heavy artillery to try and bring us down. We can’t stay and fight.
WINDSHEAR: Fine, let them have the Autobots! Predacons, scramble!

With that, the Predacons return to vehicle mode and roar off. As the cop cars come
roaring to a halt in front of the Autobots, Half-Pack manages his way over to Vanguard.

HALF-PACK:(Quietly) Josh? Josh you still with us?
VANGUARD:(Optics light up again, but dim) Uhhhh, what happened?
HALF-PACK: We won, apparently.
VANGUARD:(Chuckles) Not by my damage. How’s Shock?
HALF-PACK: All that Armor’s kept him alive. He’ll live. And I think you will too.
VANGUARD: I think I will. (Motions to the cops) Live long enough to try to explain all
this. (To the Cops) Good Afternoon Officers. Beautiful day isn’t it?

With that, we FADE TO BLACK.

END.

[Freddycon]

Wow, I liked that! Nice take on a post G1-inspired world. Nice little nod to the wrestling, too! *Although wondering if a DDT would do very much damage on an armored Predacon head module, lol!*

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Two: "Changing of the Guard"

ACT I

FADE IN: Military Base on the outskirts of the still unnamed City. As we close in on the
largest hanger we see several parts being rushed in and out. Once inside, two massive
forms lay in corners of the room on giant tables. In another corner, a larger bot sits in a
chair like structure. Mechanics and technicians working on them. A General walks in and
inspects the work before walking to a corner of the hanger where a “Ops” has been set up.

GENERAL SIMMS: Report.
CORPORAL:(Salutes) General! Well sir, as you can see these “Autobots” are being
repaired.
SIMMS: Why not just trashed?
CORPORAL: Well sir, uh, they, um, made a deal with us.
SIMMS:(Looking the Corporal over oddly) You “made a deal” with some giant robot?!?
CORPORAL: Well sir, they aren’t exactly robots....
SIMMS: Not robots?!? They look pretty damn robotic to me!
CORPORAL: Yes sir, but look at this computer read out on their armor. (Points to the
screen) It shows that they have Human DNA.
SIMMS:(Looking it over) My god. They’re HUMAN!?!
CORPORAL: Were Human sir. Were human. They promised to tell us how they
were..reformed into this if we repaired them.
SIMMS: Still, Robots in Disguise? Autobots? Predacons? What is this? Some mixed up
Comic Book?
CORPORAL: No sir. This is..uh..this is quite real sir.
SIMMS:(Resigned) Damage Report then.
CORPORAL: Well, Marcus Hackner aka Shock is probably the best of the group. He only
suffered minor outer armor damage.
SIMMS: What is he? A Tank?
CORPORAL: Yessir. Well, a Electricity Spouting Tank anyways. He calls his Vehicle
form a...uh...a Tess...a Tessl...A Tesla Tank! That’s it!
SIMMS:(Sighs) Continue.
CORPORAL: The second, Ron Pendle aka Half-Pack, suffered several blasts to the chest.
He’s almost finished with repairs himself.
SIMMS: And the big one?

CORPORAL:(Checking the print out) Um, Josh Maclaren sir. AKA Vanguard. He seems
to be the leader of the group. He’s undergoing the most extensive repairs.
SIMMS: How so?
CORPORAL: Well, we’ve had to replace quite a few parts. His chest was blown
completely apart. We’ve had to reconstruct his face as well. He had a quite distinct look
he wanted.
SIMMS:(Looking towards the chair) By god. That’s.....That’s.....
CORPORAL: I see you’ve watched a little bit of the show sir. That is Vanguard, the Real
World Look-a-like to OPTIMUS PRIME!

Sitting there, active, watching the men work on his chest, now having a face exactly like
the great Optimus Prime, Vanguard looks up towards the shocked General, and nods.
CUT TO: Junkyard. Three large forms are themselves getting fixed up. Several people
scurry around wearing jackets that say “Lock, Stock, and Barrel Club”. Windshear, in
robot mode, scowls as his repairs are completed via an Arch Welder.

WINDSHEAR: Blasted Doc. Couldn’t make us totally Mechanical.
BLARE:(Repairs already finished) A fatal flaw. We can still die of shock.
SONIC:(Growls) Shock. I’ll scrap him!
WINDSHEAR: Not that Shock you idiot!
CAGE:(A tall, Black man, well dressed) You disappoint me ‘Shear.
WINDSHEAR: Mr. Cage, I assure you, this is only a temporary set back.
CAGE:(Narrows his eyes) It had better be. Your employer wants that machine. And your
employer is my employer and he tends to lash out at all his employees when angered.
BLARE: We know Mr. Cage. Now if you don’t mind....
CAGE:(Undaunted by the Predacons size) I do mind! You WILL get that machine. And
you WILL get it by sundown!
SONIC: Now hold on....
CAGE: You have till Sundown. Or else there will be dire consequences. (Turns and walks
away)
WINDSHEAR: You’re intimidation factor is about to meet it’s match Cage. I guarantee
that.

Zoom in on Windshear’s face as we FADE TO BLACK.


ACT II

FADE IN: Military Base. Simms is talking with the now repaired Autobots.

SIMMS: I don’t know any of you. Sure I know who you are now and who you were, but
that’s not who you are.
SHOCK: That doesn’t make much sense.
VANGUARD:(Shooting Shock a warning glance) We’re gracious to your men for
repairing us, (Touches the gold Shoulder pads now covering his shoulders) They do good
work.
SIMMS: Yeah well, if it were up to me you’d all have been turned into scrap. (Sighs) But,
you’re here now, and so are these..Predacons. I guess I’ll have to adjust.
HALF-PACK: What do you mean?
SIMMS: I’ve informed the President. Unless otherwise stated, you’re new home is here.
We’re already building a new building for you and your troops.
VANGUARD: I thank you.

The Corporal rushes in. He seems frantic.

SIMMS: What is it?
CORPORAL: Sir, (Pants) The Predacons jumped us! (Pants) My men...pinned down!
VANGUARD: Autobots! Lets go!
SIMMS: Hold on there! Don’t go jumping at every blasted target....
VANGUARD: Unless I miss my guess, the Predacons are after the same thing we are. Or
do you have another plan?
SIMMS:(Grumbling) You know I don’t.
VANGUARD:(Narrows his optics) Autobots.....
HALF-PACK: Let’s Rock and ROLL OUT!
VANGUARD:(Smiles) I like that. Autobots, let’s Rock and ROLL OUT!

With that, Vanguard transforms to his now more semi-looking ATV mode, Half-Pack
goes to his Hummer mode, and Shock to Tank mode. They quickly roar out.

SIMMS: I pray this was the right thing to do.


CUT TO: Familiar street. The Army troops are doing all in their power to stop the three
Predacons. Windshear smiles as he takes out a jeep with a shot of his missile launcher.

WINDSHEAR: Oh the glory of it! Nothing can stop us anymore!
VANGUARD:(Off Camera) Don’t count your eggs till they hatch Windshear!
BLARE: The Autobots!
WINDSHEAR: So eager to be destroyed once again Vanguard?
VANGUARD:(Roaring up in Vehicle mode) Lets just see about that.

As Blare moves forward in Robot Mode, Half-Pack quickly roars from an alley and nails
Blare. Windshear trains his missile launchers on Half-Pack but electricity shoots through
him before he can shoot. Sonic readies a blast but Vanguard goes to his now more
impressive Robot Mode and grabs Sonic, who is still in Vehicle Mode.

SONIC: Put me down!
VANGUARD:(Smirks) If you say so.

Vanguard throws Sonic into a building. Windshear quickly leaps into the air and kicks
Vanguard in the back of the head. Vanguard once again goes sprawling.

HALF-PACK:(Going to robot mode and pulling out his guns. Points them at Blare) Come
get some.
BLARE: You want your rear beat again?
HALF-PACK: We’ll just see about that.
BLARE: You’re over confident. That will be your downfall!
HALF-PACK: Oh really?

Electricity rips through Blare as Shock stands, now having a Arm Cannon. It crackles with
electricity.

SHOCK: Shocking!
HALF-PACK:(Opening fire) Watch it Shock!

Half-Pack’s chain guns quickly send Sonic, in robot mode, sprawling.


HALF-PACK: Gotta love this!
SHOCK: Hey look! (Points to the now getting back up Vanguard) Where’s Windshear?
VANGUARD:(Bringing his head up) Oh no. (Zoom in on his face as we FADE TO
BLACK)

ACT III

FADE IN: Science Lab. Windshear quickly makes his way towards the Machine known as
Vector Sigma.

WINDSHEAR:(Inspecting the damage) Hmm, one unit has been destroyed from the first
battle. Well, 2 will do just fine.
OFFICER:(Off Camera, a female) Hold it right there Transformer!
WINDSHEAR: Oh, not another one.
OFFICER: I am Lt. Sara Donalds of the US Army Reserve. And you, are under arrest.
WINDSHEAR: I don’t think so.

Before Sara Donalds can even scream a shadow is upon her. CUT TO: Street topside.
Half-Pack, Shock and Vanguard are all scanning around.

HALF-PACK: Great move “leader”. At least Shock and I could take out our targets!
VANGUARD: Not now Half-Pack.
HALF-PACK: No! Not that same old line again! You think I like being in this form!?!? I
just want to be normal again! But nooooooo, you guys have to drag me along in this big
fit of sh...
SHOCK: Pack!!!!! You yourself said that this would be a blast! Now you’re changing
your mind.
HALF-PACK:(Gritting his teeth) I’d be a better leader then “Vanguard” here.
VANGUARD:(Shocked) But we agreed....
HALF-PACK: You two agreed! I’m always left out cause I’m the smallest!
VANGUARD: I know, I’m not the best fighter in the world but....
SHOCK: Stop acting like a baby Pack! It wasn’t Van’s fault! You want to vent, vent on a
Pred.



Before anyone can say anything else, Windshear erupts from the surface in vehicle mode,
hauling a Vector Sigma Module with him.

WINDSHEAR: We got what we came for! Retreat!

The Predacons scatter and rush off. Half-Pack rushes to stop them.

VANGUARD: Half-Pack Halt! That’s an order!
HALF-PACK: I’m through losing to these jokers because of you! Adios!(Transforms and
rolls after the Preds)
VANGUARD: Half-Pack! Come back blast you!
SHOCK:(Over by Windshear’s hole) Van! Come quick! We’ve got someone down here!

As Vanguard rushes over, the crumpled form of Sara Donalds can be seen. Vanguard’s
optics widen. SHIFT TO: Several hours later. The last Vector Sigma module shuts down.
A new figure emerges from the mist. Purple and black in color.

TAILPIPE: Wha..? Where am I? Why does my voice sound this way?
VANGUARD: Lt. Sara Donalds I presume?
TAILPIPE:(Gasps) The Autobots!
SHOCK: Hey baby. My name’s Shock. Wanna be my Absorber?

Tailpipe right hooks Shock, sending him sprawling. She finally looks at her hand and
gasps.

TAILPIPE: Oh my....I...I’m a Robot!
VANGUARD: I apologize for Shock’s....pick up line...
TAILPIPE:(Enraged) What have you done to me!?!
VANGUARD: Calm down. Windshear really threw you for a loop. If we hadn’t found
you when we did you’d be dead.
TAILPIPE: And you didn’t happen to consult me before you did this?!?
VANGUARD: There wasn’t time! You want to blame me for saving your life? Go ahead!
I’ve taken enough slag from my troops for the day.
TAILPIPE:(Recomposes herself) I apologize. I am still adjusting. I take it Vector Sigma is
secure?

VANGUARD:(Sighs) The Preds got away with one of the modules. One was destroyed
some time ago. Only one left operational and salvageable.
TAILPIPE: And I suppose I’m now under your command.
VANGUARD: Either mine or Simms. I don’t care. Just help Shock load up the remaining
Module. We need to get it back to base before the Preds get back.
TAILPIPE:(Resigned) All right.

Vanguard goes to Vehicle mode and opens the back hatch. It doesn’t take long for
Tailpipe and Shock to load up the module. Soon the three Autobots arrive back at base,
Tailpipe seems to be now enjoying her new body, especially the Motorcycle Vehicle mode.
Once inside the base perimeter the Autobots go back to Robot mode and enter the hanger.
Simms and Half-Pack are waiting for them.

SIMMS:(Looks at Tailpipe) A new friend?
TAILPIPE:(Saluting) Lt. Sara Donalds reporting General.
SIMMS: Donalds?!?
VANGUARD: I’m sorry General. But she was attacked by Windshear. I made a choice to
save her life.
SIMMS:(Nods) All right. Next time, radio back before you do that. Do you have it?
TAILPIPE: The Preds got one of them sir. Another was destroyed. But we were able to
bring back the last one. (Motions to the Module, left by Vanguard at the door of the
hanger.)
SIMMS: Good job Lt. Donalds.
TAILPIPE: With all due respect sir, I did not engage any enemy units. Vanguard and
Shock had dealt with them before. According to them, the Preds paid a price for retrieving
it.
SIMMS:(Slowly) Yes. Well, about that. Half-Pack has given me a recorded copy of the
battle. (Looks at Vanguard) And seeing on how I am the superior officer here, I am
making a judgment call. Half-Pack has proven how poorly you operate in the field. I am
now placing Half-Pack in command of the Autobots.

Shock, Tailpipe and Vanguard’s optics widen as Half-Pack stands, smirking. With that, we
FADE TO BLACK.

[Rust]

Author's Commentary/Q&A:

Wow, what a difference 13 (!!!) years makes. I wrote these initial fics in 1999, when I was all but a wee Sophomore in High School. Overall, they stand up "okay". I have pacing issues and not to mention changing the track of the story midstream in the first episode where Predacons were originally "Cybertronian" and then turned into men in a robot shell. But I shouldn't be so hard on 15 year old me - it's true what they say, you are your own biggest critic.

The interesting thing I find is my take is vaguely similar to the likes of the Masters series (Indeed, it'll get even more similar once we hit Season Two). This was prior to my knowing about the Japanese series' at all, so any correlation is completely unintentional. Also I personally got a kick out of Windshear's "A temporary set back" line in the second episode, years before that phrase would become a meme in the annals of World of WarCraft. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/icon-fire.gif)

Wow, I liked that! Nice take on a post G1-inspired world. Nice little nod to the wrestling, too! *Although wondering if a DDT would do very much damage on an armored Predacon head module, lol!*

The wrestling nods will be prevalent. I initially wrote these fics for me and a buddy (The guy playing Half-Pack), and he was extremely into wrestling to the point he was writing his own Wrestling fan fic - one that crosses over with my fic in Season Two's One Hour of the Very Best.

That's one thing I've never had problems with...writing up titles for projects. Looking over the Episode titles for this series, I'm struck at how evocative they are for the most part.

This post has been edited by Rust: Apr 4 2012, 04:35 AM

[Freddycon]

Very cool! Like how Vanguard took the initiative and made the decision to save a life rather than wait and possibly let someone die. Although I'm waiting to see how he will react to having his command stripped from him in an instant like this.

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Three: "Journeyman's Graveyard"

ACT I

FADE IN: Half-Pack and Tailpipe chasing down Sonic, who is carrying a large power
generator. Shock catches him off balance however and Sonic goes flying. They are all in
Vehicle Mode. Vanguard, in Robot Mode, frowns as he watches the replay.

SIMMS: That’s the sixth time the Preds have been stopped in stealing something.
Half-Pack and the Autobots do good work. You should be proud.
VANGUARD:(Annoyed) And how, pray tell, am I suppose to be proud of someone who
ousted me and took over?!?
SIMMS: Look Van, you’re taking this way to hard. The kid’s got talent....
VANGUARD:(Turning away from the screen) I case you’ve forgotten General, we’re all
just a bunch of “kids”. Aside from Lt. Donalds.
SIMMS: Lt. Don.....I thought you called her Tailpipe now.

Vanguard merely growls and exits. Shock and Tailpipe have been listening in. Vanguard
doesn’t even seem to notice them as he storms by.

TAILPIPE: Whoa. I’ve never seen the big guy so steamed before. What’s got his aft in the
shaft?
SHOCK: When did YOU loosen up?
TAILPIPE:(Composing herself) I don’t know what you’re talking about. (Walks away)
SHOCK: Ouch. I may be electric but I got a burn off of that one.

CUT TO: Vanguard’s quarters. He sits in the large chair constructed for him. He seems to
be sulking. Tailpipe enters.

VANGUARD:(From chair) You could have knocked.
TAILPIPE: Sir. I worry about you.
VANGUARD:(Chuckles) Worry about me? I’m a lowly grunt now.
TAILPIPE: Do you have such low self-esteem that you put yourself down to boost it?
VANGUARD:(Allows a soft Chuckle) Maybe. When I became basically the Optimus
Prime of the Real World, I got a sudden rush. I immersed myself in my role as Vanguard.
And dismissed the part that was the teenager Josh.

TAILPIPE: In essence, denying what was you.
VANGUARD:(Nodding and standing) Exactly. When Half-Pack took away my command,
I felt betrayed. He was my friend. Slag, he still is my friend. But I suddenly was hit by my
human side. The Ego. And now that I have had time to think about these victories,
something stands out.
TAILPIPE: What?
VANGUARD: The Preds barely ever fight back. It’s almost as if they want to lose. Boost
Half-Pack’s ego a bit. Make him misjudge.
TAILPIPE: You think they’d be smart enough to actually do that?
VANGUARD: One thing I’ve learned is to never underestimate Windshear. Something
doesn’t seem right. Since Half-Pack has assigned me to Construction duties that’s what
I’ll do. But, keep a comm channel open, will you?
TAILPIPE:(Allows a smile) Count on it sir. (Turns and walks out)
VANGUARD:(Quietly) You’re all right Pipe. You’re all right.

CUT TO: Predacon Junkyard base. Windshear paces as the battered Sonic wheels up.

WINDSHEAR: Report.
SONIC:(Chuckles and goes to robot mode) Went off without a hitch boss. I stole the
Generator and Half-Pack took the credit for my “failure”.
WINDSHEAR: Excellent! Soon Half-Pack’s overconfidence will be crushed. Crushed
very, very hard. (Blare walks up) How is he?
BLARE: He’s holding. He’ll be operational in a few hours.
WINDSHEAR: Good. I want Half-Pack to snap like a twig when he faces us again. And
snap he shall.
BLARE: What about Vanguard?
WINDSHEAR: A broken bot. Not worth even worrying about.
BLARE:(Turning away, quietly) I hope you’re right Wind. I hope you’re right. (FADE
TO BLACK)

ACT II

FADE IN: Military Base. Vanguard rumbles up in Vehicle Mode, he opens his back and
several construction crew members hop out, still chatting.


CONSTRUCTION WORKER: Thanks for letting us go out to lunch Van.
VANGUARD:(Returning to robot mode) My pleasure gentlemen.

Vanguard allows a small smile. At least not going out into the field all the time had some
advantages. Then the alarms sound and Tailpipe, Half-Pack, and Shock rush out of the
main Hanger. Tailpipe and Shock both transform to Vehicle mode and head out.
Vanguard starts running towards Half-Pack.

VANGUARD:(To Half-Pack) What’s with all the hustle and bustle?
HALF-PACK: Windshear and the Preds are raiding an Oil Factory in the next town.
We’re going to give them a run for their money.
VANGUARD: Pack. Something about this doesn’t feel right...
HALF-PACK: You’re just jealous cause I’m doing such a better job leading then you are!
VANGUARD: Partly! But just....be careful ok.
HALF-PACK:(Sighs) Look. I’m not a big A-hole, ok. I really wish you were still the
leader. But I’ve gotta go with my instincts on this one. We’re beating back the Preds.
VANGUARD: Open your eyes Pack. This isn’t so simple! You aren’t doing anything
different then when I was in Command. It’s not different Commanders, it’s different Pred
strategy!
HALF-PACK: It is different Pred Strategy. They screwed up. Vanguard, I order you, no
matter what, to stay here and continue construction of the base. The others and I can
handle the Preds. (With that Transforms and roars off)

Vanguard stands there, visibly angered. Simms walks up to him. Vanguard shoots a glance
that easily says: “Not now!” Vanguard walks off, going to immerse himself in
construction. Simms shakes his head. CUT TO: Oil Factory. Windshear harasses Choppers
as Blare keeps normal police at bay. Sonic begins filling several large tubes with Oil.

SONIC: How much of this stuff do we need?
WINDSHEAR: Drain it dry Sonic. Here is where the Autobots will be buried.
BLARE: Picked up something. Autobots are on there way.
WINDSHEAR: Excellent. Soon, Half-Pack’s ego will be shattered, and the Autobots will
BURN IN FLAMES!



CUT TO: The Autobots, all in Vehicle Mode, are driving as fast as they can down the
interstate. Half-Pack leads in the front as Shock and Tailpipe stay back to the sides.

TAILPIPE: Something about these attacks bother me.
HALF-PACK: Oh man. Don’t tell me you’ve talked with Van!
TAILPIPE:(Darkly) I didn’t realize I wasn’t suppose to.
HALF-PACK:(Sighs) It’s not like that.....
TAILPIPE: Isn’t it?!? You two have been hosing down the entire base with testosterone!
HALF-PACK: Hey!
SHOCK: Can we please discuss this later? The battle is just up ahead.

CUT TO: Oil Factory. The Autobots roar up and go to Robot Mode. Blare begins to
unload. The Autobots dive out of the way.

HALF-PACK:(Pulling out his chain guns) Hit ‘em Hard!
TAILPIPE:(Growls and pulls out her Laser Pistol) I don’t like this.
SHOCK: Head’s up!

Windshear soars above and covers the Autobots in Crude Oil.

TAILPIPE: Yuck! What is this stuff?
SHOCK: Crude Oil! We best kick it into Overdrive if we don’t what to go up in flames!
BLARE: You think I would hurt you? (Laughs and goes to robot mode) No, no no. I’m
not the one you should worry about.
WINDSHEAR:(Going to robot mode) That’s right. HE is the one you should worry
about!

As the Autobots look up, a large spider-like creature steps on a fuel pump, making it go
up in a ball of flames. It doesn’t even scorch the monstrosity.

WINDSHEAR: I present the newest addition to the Predacon force...BACKLASH!
TAILPIPE:(Into Comm Link) Um, Vanguard. We’re in trouble here.....(FADE TO
BLACK)



ACT III

FADE IN: Half-Pack leaps out of the way of another fireball.

SHOCK: Ya know, I’m beginning to see why they covered us in crude oil.
TAILPIPE:(Firing at Backlash) Good for you. (To comm link) Vanguard. Need
Assistance...NOW!

Windshear comes down and kicks Half-Pack into a pool of oil. Windshear aims his missile
launcher and fires, with Half-Pack barely rolling out of the way of the missile then dodging
the oncoming inferno. Half-Pack grabs one of his Chain Guns. He aims it a Windshear and
fires. The Chain Gun merely sputters and whirs.

HALF-PACK: Aw Slag!
WINDSHEAR:(Laughing) Did you really think we are going to let you win Half-Pack.
Like all those other times. Oops! Did I give away too much there? (Smirks) You Autobots
are truly pathetic. Vanguard, I doubt, would have never fallen for such a trick like this.
HALF-PACK:(In shock) No. No he wouldn’t. I....I’ve been such a fool.
WINDSHEAR: Oh well. Your loss now. Backlash! Obliterate them!
BACKLASH:(In a Metallic Voice) As you command.

The ominous creature transforms into a almost 100 foot tall monstrosity. Giant pinchers
open and shut. He grabs a giant Cannon weapon and holds it in his hand. His optics
narrow at the smaller Autobots. A giant Predacon symbol is burned into his chest.

SHOCK: That’s why we’ve been winning all the time. To keep us occupied.
TAILPIPE: And to shatter the confidence of our “leader”! (Points to Half-Pack)
SHOCK: Half-Pack! Half-Pack snap out of it! We need leadership here!
HALF-PACK:(Sitting down in the middle of a puddle of oil) I’m such a fool. I’m such a
fool.
TAILPIPE: Um, Half-Pack has gone bye-bye Shock. You got anything left.
SHOCK: Yes. RUN!

The Autobots scatter as Backlash lets a volley of flame from his large cannon. Engulfing a
whole area of the Factory in flames.

TAILPIPE:(Shaking Half-Pack) Snap out of it! You’re our leader for god’s sake!
HALF-PACK:(Still in shock) Leader? Hah! I’m just an idiot! I should have listened to
Vanguard instead of my instincts!
TAILPIPE: No time for regrets now! Let’s roll!
BLARE:(From behind) Fools. There is no escape!
VANGUARD:(Off Camera) Oh yes there is!

Before Blare can react, Vanguard’s Vehicle Mode hits him dead center, sending him
flying. Tailpipe betrays a smile as Half-Pack seems to brighten.

VANGUARD:(Going to robot mode and pulling out his rifle) Half-Pack. I am hereby
resuming command of the Autobots.
HALF-PACK: Not a problem Big V.
VANGUARD: Good. Now that that’s out of the way...(Points his rifle at Backlash) Let’s
mingle!
WINDSHEAR: Vanguard! NOOOOOOO!

The Autobots fire on the large Predacon. Surprisingly, Vanguard’s weapon seems to be
doing the most damage. Backlash stumbles a bit, then falls. He lands on the Oil Refinery
sending it erupting in flames, along with Backlash. Both the Predacons and Autobots are
caught in the blast. A few minutes later, the inferno subsides.

SHOCK:(Getting up) Man! That’s what I call a curtain call!
TAILPIPE:(Getting some rubble off of her) You said it.
VANGUARD:(Getting up, a little charred) Damage report.
SHOCK: I’m here.
TAILPIPE: Still Functional.
HALF-PACK: Ego busted up, but otherwise I’m ok. Listen Van....
VANGUARD: No need to explain yourself Half-Pack. You were doing what you thought
was good for the team. But hey, for the first time, we actually did win.
HALF-PACK: Actually, I was going to ask why you didn’t obey my orders and stay back
at base?

Vanguard’s optics widen as Half-Pack, Shock and even Tailpipe begin laughing. Vanguard
soon joins in.

SHOCK: Hey, where did the Preds go?

CUT TO: Junkyard. The 3 Predacons come to its center, charred and beaten. Cage stands,
waiting for them.

CAGE: The boss will be most displeased.
WINDSHEAR: Vanguard got involved. You knew Backlash’s armor couldn’t handle
Vanguard’s Plasma Rifle.
CAGE: Yet you did nothing to stop Vanguard.
BLARE: What could we do?
CAGE: I must inform the boss of your failure. It was nice knowing you gentlemen.

Cage begins to walk away. Windshear snatches him up and brings him to face level. Cage
betrays a look of fear as Windshear’s face remains stern and unemotional.

WINDSHEAR: I lost one of my own today. I need a replacement.
CAGE:(Daunted) Wh....what are you going to do with me.
WINDSHEAR:(Smirks) You’ll see. Then, we’ll take care of the “boss”. Soon he’s going
to learn, just as you are, that no one bosses around the Predacons. And I do mean, No
One.

Zoom in on Cage’s frightened face as we FADE TO BLACK.

END

[Rust]

Author's Commentary/Q&A

Probably one of my more weaker entries, even for the time this was written. You can definitely see the Teenage ego boosting I was doing to myself in making my own avatar - Vanguard - necessary to beat the big bad for ill defined reasons.

Backlash, meanwhile, was actually a play on a Freeform RPG character of the same name I had running at the Axalon Underground at the time. A notorious Mary Sue, it's not surprising I'd write him as a gigantic monster here only to be pushed down with ease to elevate my own hero character. Not to mention Half-Pack goes from confident to utterly broken in the span of a few lines. I recall even my friend didn't much care for that.

All in all, Journeyman's Graveyard had good points to it, but if I were writing it today it would have at least been a two parter to better build up the tension and break Half-Pack down more gradually.

[Freddycon]

Actually I found that pretty realistic. Most anyone will get a swelled head when they are handed a few easy victories without realizing it could be a ploy, and that inflated ego pops like a balloon when the tables are turned so drastically. I must ssay I like the Predacons usurping Cage and becoming the evil b*stards they should be! And not jsut a stomping target for the Autobots.

PS LOVED that little Ghostbusters nod in there! :-D

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Four: "Dagger of the Mind"

ACT I

FADE IN: Night time. The Military base, aside from the Graveyard patrol, is quiet. The
Autobot Facility is half completed now, with a Autobot Symbol clearly marked on the
front of the Building. Inside, several labs, simulators, quarters etc are set up at Autobot
height. Once completed it could hold up to 70 Autobots comfortably. General Simms
walks the deserted halls, the Autobots in their respective quarters, shut down for the night.
He enters one of the large Science Labs to find it operational. Half-Pack sits at a far end,
looking at a computer screen.

SIMMS: Good Evening Half-Pack. I didn’t realize there was anyone still up.
HALF-PACK: Well, as a Robot I don’t HAVE to shut down. Just looking over some
tapes of past battles.
SIMMS:(Chuckles) Past Battles my rear. You’re watch that WWF again, aren’t you?
HALF-PACK:(Smirks) So what if I am?
SIMMS: It’s funny. When I first saw you three I was going to scrap you all. But now,
after well over 4 months together, I feel as if my life wouldn’t be quite so interesting if I
had never met you.
HALF-PACK: Well, you should take a trip with Vector Sigma. Make a new man out of
you. Then your life would never be boring.
SIMMS: That was so funny I forgot to laugh. (Alarms begin to blare) Oh for pete’s sake.
Can’t we just go one day without something happen!?!
COMPUTER: Alert! Alert! Incoming Predacon signature.
HALF-PACK: Computer, location.
COMPUTER: 3 miles west of current position.
HALF-PACK: Computer, reactivate Vanguard.
SIMMS:(Smirks) Not going at this one alone kid?
HALF-PACK: Vanguard’s the leader. He deserves to know. Besides, I’m through going
behind his back.

Vanguard quickly enters. He seems tired.

VANGUARD: Pack, this had better be important. I’m drained.
HALF-PACK: Pred signature boss. 3 miles westward.

VANGUARD:(Looks at the computer screen) All right. You watch from here and get
Tailpipe out there to check it out. Shock’s still drained and fueling up from all the
construction duties. I would go out myself but I’m running on E right now.
SIMMS: All right Vanguard. You get back to recharging. We can handle it from here.
VANGUARD: Tell Tailpipe not to go sticking her neck out any farther then it needs to
go.

CUT TO: A tree filled field. Tailpipe, in Vehicle Mode, roars down a highway in the
middle of the field. A small radar screen shows she’s tracking the Pred.

TAILPIPE: Odd. I should at least be seeing some tail lights by now if he’s in Vehicle
Mode. Unless....

A large “whump-whump-whump” sound is heard as we pan up and see a black Apache
Helicopter bearing down on Tailpipe. It opens fire with it’s missile batteries, causing
Tailpipe to go off road.

TAILPIPE:(Going to Robot Mode) You want to play rough? (Pulls out her weapon) All
right. Let’s play!
CRAZYHORSE:(The helicopter) Yes. Let us play. (Transforms to Robot Mode. The two
missile racks on his arms swivel up to an attack position)
TAILPIPE: Oh great. Another Predacon. Wait, let me guess the name. Um, Blade? No,
Chop Shop?
CRAZYHORSE:(Darkly) My name is Crazyhorse. And I suggest you run.
TAILPIPE: Now why would I want to do that?
CRAZYHORSE: Because if you don’t, I will scrap you where you stand. (Opens fire)

CUT TO: Autobot HQ.

TAILPIPE:(Over Comm link) Head’s up Half-Pack! Big problems! Need assistance!
HALF-PACK: Got it. On my way!

Half-Pack runs out of the room and transforms to his Hummer mode. He quickly roars out
of the building towards the distant fire fight as we FADE TO BLACK.


ACT II

FADE IN: Half-Pack, vehicle mode, rolling slowly down the road. 3 army soldiers are
within him. The slowly shine spot lights on either side of the road.

HALF-PACK:(To soldiers) Anything yet?
SOLIDER #2: Nothing.
HALF-PACK:(Sighs) Heeeere Tailpipetailpipetailpipe.

The soldiers look at their ride oddly.

HALF-PACK: What!?!
SOLIDER #3: Sir! Look! Debris!
HALF-PACK: Tailpipe!

Half-Pack quickly goes off road, as they come up on it we see the battered form of
Tailpipe, with something attached to the base of her neck The soldiers quickly get out of
the vehicle as it transforms into the robot mode of Half-Pack. He leans over her, looking
at her with worry.

HALF-PACK: What did this?
SOLIDER #1: These blast marks are consistent with a Apache Attack Helicopter.
HALF-PACK:(Optics narrow) Predacons.

CUT TO: Autobot HQ, dawn. Vanguard and Shock are both looking from glass down to
the operating table where Tailpipe now resides. Half-Pack stands with them, worry on his
face. Simms stands on one of Vanguard’s Shoulder pads.

SIMMS: Security Cameras picked up the fight. Definitely Predacon.
VANGUARD: ID?
SIMMS: Unknown. He called himself Crazyhorse.
VANGUARD:(Darkly) Fitting.
SHOCK: This sucks!



The Autobots and Simms all look at Shock. It was odd to have one of them speak like that
nowadays.

VANGUARD: Have something to share Shock?
SHOCK: How come the Preds get TWO fliers and all we’ve got is you!
VANGUARD: Actually, I can’t really fly....
SHOCK: Exactly! We have no fliers! We need fliers!
VANGUARD: We don’t NEED anything. We just learn how to fight off this new threat.
SIMMS: Van, I’m with Shock on this one. We really do need someone to be a flyer.
HALF-PACK: I will!
SIMMS: I meant someone who didn’t already have a form. Any ideas Van?
VANGUARD:(Thinking) Maybe.
SHOCK: What about that thing attached to Tailpipe’s neck?
SIMMS: The Meds are working on it. Who knows what it could be though.

CUT TO: Junkyard. A new building stands in the center, looking as if it was built out of a
mound of junk. A Predacon symbol is visible on the side. Inside, Windshear smiles at a
computer as Crazyhorse stands behind him.

WINDSHEAR: You have done well drone. Now I am uplinked to all of Tailpipe’s internal
processors.
CRAZYHORSE: With all due respect sir, we are still part human. How can you hack into
her internal processors?
WINDSHEAR: Over time the Robotic overcomes the weak flesh. In about a year, none of
us will even have a single Human DNA strain left.
CRAZYHORSE:(Softly) Ghosts in shells.
WINDSHEAR: I see even due to reprogramming you still contain your morbidness.
CRAZYHORSE: It’s a gift.
WINDSHEAR:(Regards Crazyhorse with caution) Yes. Refuel yourself, I want Shock to
go next.
CRAZYHORSE: Are you sure this is wise?
WINDSHEAR: Who is the leader here?
CRAZYHORSE:(Bows, resigned) As you command, Windshear. (Turns and walks out)
WINDSHEAR:(To himself) Perhaps it was unwise to create you Crazyhorse. Perhaps.


CUT TO: Autobot Training Simulator. Vanguard stands tall above several army recruits.
Simms is also there along with Shock. Vanguard lets out a sigh.

VANGUARD: All right. I’m sure you all know who I am. And you know that inside this
large, powerful robotic shell is a Teenager that was dragged into this mixed up “war”. No
one is ordering you to do this. You volunteered. Anyone who wants to drop out can.

None of the Volunteers move.

SIMMS:(Stepping forward) All right. You guys are going to be, quite literally, the Grunts
of the Autobots. You’ll have to take orders from Vanguard, Shock, Tailpipe or Half-Pack.
No exceptions.
SIMON:(From the back) Not even me?
VANGUARD:(Smiles) Simon!
SIMMS: You know him?
VANGUARD: One of my old friends from High School. So, you’ve signed up?
SIMON: Never would miss out!
SIMMS:(Using an attentive cough) Back to the business at hand.....

CUT TO: Autobot Med Bay. Half-Pack paces impatiently as the meds still work on
Tailpipe. Suddenly, Tailpipe’s optics shine a bright red.

MED #1: What the?
MED #2: Um, is that normal?
TAILPIPE:(In a echo voice of Windshear) No. (Throws the medics off) As a matter of
fact it’s not!
HALF-PACK: Not good. (Goes for his comm link)
TAILPIPE:(Smirks) Ah ah Half-Pack. (Blasts the Comm link with pin-point accuracy)
Just you, and me.
HALF-PACK:(Growls) Face me like the bot you are Coward!
TAILPIPE: Now where’s the fun in that? (Leaps upward, surprisingly crashing through
the glass and lands next to Half-Pack) I am quite well literate. This all reminds me of a
quote from the book Macbeth: “Is this a dagger I see before me? Or is it, a mere dagger of
the mind?” (Tailpipe smiles and steps forward as we FADE TO BLACK)


ACT III

FADE IN: Vanguard stands, watching several of the trainees. He sighs and goes over the
roster of recruits. Simms seems disappointed. He is once again standing on Vanguard’s
shoulder pad.

SIMMS: They’re all good kids. Like you guys actually. Fresh out of High School, ready
to fight.
VANGUARD: We were transformed for different reasons then this. I can’t allow these
kids to just give their lives away for no good reason.
SIMMS: But you’re going to accept that Simon kid right?
VANGUARD:(Sighs) Yes.
SIMMS:(Smirks) Favoritism?
VANGUARD: Maybe. But I know I can work with him. Strangers are just.....
SIMMS: I understand. All right. We’ll accept Simon and someone else.
VANGUARD: Who?
SIMMS: A Med Officer.

CUT TO: Shock, wanders the halls. Suddenly the wall in front of him explodes as Tailpipe
and Half-Pack come out, weapons blazing.

SHOCK: If this is your guys version of rough se.....
HALF-PACK: Shut up and Help me out! She’s being controlled by Windshear!
SHOCK: Why didn’t you say so then? (Uppercuts Tailpipe, sending her flying into a wall)
TAILPIPE: Fools! You only succeeded in hurting your friend, not me!
HALF-PACK:(Growls a bit) He’s right! What do we do?
SHOCK:(Smirks) Improvise. (Rushes Tailpipe)

CUT TO: Training Center. Vanguard and Simms are discussing something as all the
trainees leave. Then Vanguard’s comm link chirps.

VANGUARD: ‘Guard here.
SHOCK:(From the other end) We got problems Big Bot. Remember that device that
Tailpipe has attached to her neck?
VANGUARD: Yes....

SHOCK: Yeah well, it turns out that this device is actually a remote control unit...
VANGUARD:(Optics narrow) So, who’s on the other end?
SHOCK: Windshear.

CUT TO: Still under Construction Area. Shock swings a large metal bar at Tailpipe, who
dodges easily. Half-Pack gets her from behind, however, and tackles her to the ground. A
familiar sound is heard as Crazyhorse, in vehicle mode, comes down, unloading with both
barrels.

TAILPIPE: Change of plans Crazyhorse. DESTROY THE BASE!
CRAZYHORSE: As you command.
HALF-PACK: Not good.

CUT TO: Trainee barracks. They all are watching the battle unfold.

TRAINEE 1: Man. The Autobot’s are losing to a mind controlled bot and an Apache.
TRAINEE 2: They stink!
SIMON: Oh yeah, YOU guys try and deal with fighting a friend and fighting off a ship that
has more firepower then you guys combine and see how well you do!
TRAINEE 4: So what are we suppose to do about it?
SIMON: Simple. We transform.
TRAINEE 3: What!?! We haven’t been authorized to....
SIMON: They can stop us if they want too. (Smirks) I say we do it.

CUT TO: The raging battle. Sonic and Blare have now entered the fray, as has Vanguard.
But things are not looking well for the Autobots as Vanguard is thrown back a little by
Crazyhorse’s scrambler missals.

SHOCK: This is nuts! The regular troops aren’t even helping!
HALF-PACK: Like they could do much anyways!
BLARE:(Transforming to Howitzer mode) Windshear ordered the destruction of the base.
And destroy it we shall! (Begins firing on the base)
VANGUARD:(Weak but functional) Stop them! At any cost!
HALF-PACK: Tailpipe’s got us busy right now!
SHOCK: We need help!

VANGUARD: The military bugged out. (Narrows his optics) Leaving us to die. (Opens
fire on Crazyhorse with his rifle) Give it to them Autobots!
CLOAK:(Off Camera) If you say so sir!
SHOCK: What the...?

As the Predacons and Autobots look up, A Stealth Bomber rushes forward, leading a
small army of different vehicles. All have Autobot symbols. Vanguard allows a small smile
as the possessed Tailpipe looks in worry.

TAILPIPE: More Autobots?!?!
CLOAK: Got that right! Autobots...TRANSFORM!

They all go to robot mode and open fire on the Predacons.

BLARE: Slag! (Returns to robot mode) Time to bug out!
SONIC: Ditto!
CRAZYHORSE:(To Tailpipe) Windshear. Tactical advantage lost. Recommend
retreating.
TAILPIPE:(Scowls) Right. Predacons, Retreat! At least we have one spoil to claim!
VANGUARD: Wrong Windshear! You will return Tailpipe to us!
TAILPIPE: Just make me!
CROSSFIRE:(A Red and Gold Autobot sniper) If you say so.

Tailpipe spins as Crossfire fires with his sniper plasma rifle. The blast destroys the device
on her neck sending her into emergency stasis. Half-Pack catches her as her optics reboot,
once again they’re normal violet color.

TAILPIPE:(In her normal voice) Wh...what happened? (Looks at Cloak and the others)
And who the hell are they?!?
VANGUARD: It’s a long story. But needless to say, this war just go a whole lot more
participants.
CLOAK: Better believe it!
VANGUARD: You know Simon, you’ll have hell to pay with Simms when they return.
CLOAK: Oh I doubt they have much say in it now. (Smirks as we FADE TO BLACK.)

END

[Rust]

Author Commentary/Q&A

GUESS WHAT I WAS READING IN ENGLISH CLASS WHEN THIS PIECE WAS WRITTEN?!

Thirteen years or no, I still find myself proud of this fic, overall. It fits the concept of a weekly action show that I was shooting for (My only two exposures to Transformers at this time being the G1 Cartoon I watched as a wee lad (Along with the early, early, early, EARLY showings of the Generation 2 Cartoon) and the episodes of Beast Wars I caught on Fox Kids after school.

My only real complaint was having the Military bug out like that. Seeing the series progress as it did, I honestly can't believe in the early days I had Simms do something like that.


And if anyone is wondering, yes Crazyhorse is a "reprogrammed" Cage.

[Freddycon]

I think it was more of Simms protecting the troops and volunteers who were not selected, as they likely had little offensive capabilities to handle the Predacons, and thus got out to protect the humans from inevitable risk and possible fatalities with the massive explosions, crashes, and chaos that was bound to erupt.

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Five: "Heart of Heroes"

ACT I

FADE IN: Autobot Base. Now almost completed but still bears the scars of battle when
the Predacons attacked. Zoom in on a totally black Jeep and a Gold and Red Dodge
Viper, they seem to be talking.

PULSEWAVE:(The Jeep) Man, patrol duty stinks.
CROSSFIRE:(The Viper) Nag, nag nag. Man, all you do is nag little bro.
PULSEWAVE: What else am I suppose to do? Vanguard and the big guys all get the easy
jobs and all we get to do is Patrol the slagging compound.
CROSSFIRE: Well, Simms did say we were going to be the Grunts of the group.
PULSEWAVE: Yeah. I know. But I’d like some action! Shock, Half-Pack, Cloak and
Tailpipe get to have all the fun!
CROSSFIRE: They are our superiors Pulse. You, me, Maximum and Realm are all the
lowly grunts.
PULSEWAVE: Yeah, but those two don’t count. Maximum’s the Construction Worker
and Realm’s the Med officer.
CROSSFIRE: And I’m the sniper and you’re the Demolition expert. I don’t see “Grunt” in
there anywhere.
PULSEWAVE: I still hate patrol duties.

CUT TO: Predacon base. Several unknown preds are walking about talking to one
another as Windshear discusses a plan with Crazyhorse and Sonic.

WINDSHEAR:(Pointing at a map) This building is producing formulas that will decrease
how much fuel is expended from machines. Making them perform better but consuming
less fuel. Tomorrow, it gets send to Autobot HQ to see if they can use it. I don’t want the
Autobots to get it.
CRAZYHORSE: A simple retrieve outing?
WINDSHEAR: Not quite. The Building has a built in hotline right to the Military base,
any attack and we’ll have Autobots there in no time. But if we create a diversion...
SONIC: It will divide the Autobot forces!
WINDSHEAR: Correct. Crazyhorse, take Blare, Roadkill and Sidewinder to the center of
town and cause some chaos.

SONIC: What about me?
WINDSHEAR: You get to claim that formula.
SONIC:(Worried) No back up?
WINDSHEAR: You don’t need it do you?
SONIC: Well um....what I mean is......I guess not.....but I would....
WINDSHEAR:(Sighs) Fine. Take Atom with you. But no screw ups!
SONIC: Got it boss!
CRAZYHORSE: As you command.

CUT TO: Autobot HQ. Vanguard is discussing some things with Simms as Shock is arm
wrestling with the newest Autobot female recruit: Whirlwind.

SHOCK:(Straining a bit) You’re good.
WHIRLWIND:(Smirks, also straining) Why thank you.
SHOCK: But you know I’m not going to lose.
WHIRLWIND: Oh no?
SHOCK: Not on your life.
WHIRLWIND: We’ll see. (She smirks and runs her foot up Shock’s leg. This catches him
off guard and Whirlwind easily takes Shock’s arm down) Aww, too bad.
SHOCK:(Grumbling) Cheater.
VANGUARD:(Oblivious to the game) So, the new recruits meet your standards?
SIMMS: They do. I just wish they had waited to be changed.
VANGUARD: They were eager.
SIMMS: They aren’t trained.
VANGUARD: Neither am I.
COMPUTER: Alert! Alert! Predacons attacking downtown. Casualties already reported.
VANGUARD: Slag! (Taps his comm link) Realm. I need you at the gate ASAP. We got
problems.
REALM:(From Comm link) Understood. I’ll bring a compliment of Meds then.
VANGUARD:(Going to another channel) Cloak. Cloak you copy?
CLOAK: Loud and clear.
VANGUARD: We’ve got trouble downtown. Can you guys make it?
CLOAK: Tailpipe, Half-Pack and I are still outside of town checking the survey posts. It’ll
be a good half an hour before we can make it back.
VANGUARD:(Sighs) Understood. Head back and gun it the whole way. We got trouble.

CLOAK: Understood sir.
VANGUARD:(Turning towards Shock and Whirlwind) Looks like you two get to come
along then.
WHIRLWIND: Cool. First day on the job and already get to see battle.
SHOCK: Believe me. It’s not fun.
SIMMS: Should I recall Maximum from Construction and have him help?
VANGUARD: No. We need some Autobots to stay and guard the base if Windshear
decides to use the rest of his force to attack. Maximum, Crossfire and Pulsewave stay
here. You two, lets get to Realm. (Zoom in on Vanguard’s face as we FADE TO
BLACK)

ACT II

FADE IN: Crossfire and Pulsewave, in robot modes, watch Vanguard and the rest head
off.

PULSEWAVE: (Annoyed)“Stay and guard the base” he says. “Nothing we can’t handle.”
he says.
CROSSFIRE:(Jokingly) You WANT to go and get slagged?
PULSEWAVE: I just hate being on guard all the time. I need some action!
ONBOARD COMPUTER:(From Pulsewave) Predacon signatures detected. Heading:
Technobot Research Company.
CROSSFIRE: Isn’t that where our new fuel cell designs are coming from.
PULSEWAVE: The attack downtown is a diversion! We gotta move! (Leaps over the
walls of the base and transforms to Jeep mode)
CROSSFIRE:(Calling out) Pulsewave get back here! Vanguard said we should stay and
watch the base! (No answer. Crossfire sighs and taps his comm link) Crossfire to General
Simms.
SIMMS:(On the other end) Simms here.
CROSSFIRE: New Pred threat heading towards Technobot Co. Pulsewave’s already
hauled out. Permission to persue.
SIMMS:(Taken aback) You’re asking me?
CROSSFIRE: Van said when he or Half-Pack isn’t around you’re the one who makes the
calls to all base bound bots.
SIMMS:(Sighs) Permission granted. Don’t be gone too long though!

CUT TO: Technobot Co. Sonic and Atom, in robot modes, stand outside the gates. The
gates go over their heads.

SONIC: They don’t fool around here do they?
ATOM: Let’s blast it!
SONIC: Check it first.

Atom walks up to the gate and puts his hand on it. Before he can even scream several
million volts jolt through his body and he goes flying into a building across the street, half
melted. His optics blink once and then dim. His form grays. Sonic lets out a cuss.

SONIC: Windshear’s gonna be mad at this. Oh well, (Transforms to Tank mode) The kid
was never too bright anyway.

Sonic quickly opens fire on the gate, making it erupt in sparks. He then rumbles through,
heading for the door.

CUT TO: Interstate. Half-Pack and Tailpipe zoom along at top speed as Cloak flies above
them.

CLOAK: Kick it into overdrive guys, we got to get back!
TAILPIPE: We’re going as fast as we can Cloak.

CUT TO: Downtown. Vanguard and Shock roar down the road in Vehicle mode as
Whirlwind, in her Commercial Helicopter mode, flies above them. Coming up close is the
Apache form of Crazyhorse, the Monster Truck form of Roadkill, and the hovercraft
mode of Sidewinder. Realm comes up in his Ambulance mode and unloads the Medics to
help the populous.

CRAZYHORSE: Readings consistent. Proceed with Operation: Distraction.
ROADKILL: Let’s get ready to rumble!
SIDEWINDER: This will be fun!

The Autobots and Predacons clash. Whirlwind finds herself having to go to robot mode
just to be a challenge to Crazyhorse. Vanguard transforms and de-tires Roadkill, and
Shock easily sends the floating bathtub known as Sidewinder down the street, hitting
everything on the way.

SHOCK: This isn’t too hard.
VANGUARD: Almost too easy.
WHIRLWIND:(Dodging missals) Easy for you to say!

CUT TO: Technobot Co. Pulsewave comes up and goes to robot mode. He glances at the
downed fence and blast in the wall of the building and notices that it’s quiet. Odd. He sees
the slagged form of Atom and passes it with not even a blink. He enters the building and
brings his shoulder missile launcher up to ready position. He also draws his laser pistol. He
steps through the building in a crouched position, the only way he can fit. As he wanders
the halls downed workers are seen. Pulsewave’s optics narrow as he checks their pulse.
All dead. And from the looks of it, cause was shock due to Eardrum shattering. Pulsewave
looks up, a grim determination in his optics.

PULSEWAVE:(Darkly) Sonic. (FADE TO BLACK)

ACT III

FADE IN: Downtown. The three Preds are holding their own against the Autobots. Realm
finds himself having to use his pulse rifle to fight back approaching Preds.

REALM: Slag it Vanguard! I’m a Doctor not a Grunt!
VANGUARD: Can we save the witty comments for later?
CRAZYHORSE: Resistance is Futile Autobots. Surrender or be terminated.
VANGUARD: Not likely Crazyhorse!
CRAZYHORSE: I am more then your equal Vanguard. Do not force unnecessary harm
upon yourself.
VANGUARD:(Optics narrowing) Harm this! (Opens fire on Crazyhorse, sending him
flying backwards in the air)
CRAZYHORSE:(Dark blue optics narrowing) As you wish. Predacons, DESTROY
THEM!
SHOCK: This...is bad.



Crazyhorse, in one motion, fires all of his missiles at Vanguard. Vanguard’s optics widen
as a whole armada of high powered weapons crash into his chest with the force of a
sub-nuclear bomb. He lets out a yell of pain and falls back, his optics dimming. His chest
erupts into flames several more times before he crashes to the ground.

WHIRLWIND: Vanguard!
REALM:(Optics widen) Holy sh.....
SHOCK:(Lets out a yell) That does it!

Shock’s electricity cannon spews forth a barrel of volts. Crazyhorse has no time to evade
as the electricity rips through his circuits and sends him crashing into a nearby office
building. Roadkill grabs his high powered Rail Gun and opens fire on Shock. Shock’s
armor is chewed up quickly and internals begin showing themselves. Shock opens his
mouth as black smoke pours out of it. His optics dim as well. Whirlwind unloads with her
plasma “Shotgun” on Roadkill and the others, intent on keeping them back.

REALM:(Working on Vanguard. Into a comm link) Yes General that is correct! Send in
the trucks! Look, I can’t very well haul TWO bots back to base for repairs. General!
General please calm down! Just get the trucks here ASAP. And send some regular
Ambulances too. General, please, I need to stop the Fuel leaks!
WHIRLWIND: And tell him we need help!
REALM:(Continuing to work on Vanguard) Well, it seems Pulsewave and Crossfire have
vanished and Maximum has a flat. Looks like we’ll have to hold out till Cloak and the
others get here. (Back into the comm link) General, if you don’t mind. I’d like to try and
save this bot’s life!

CUT TO: Technobot Co. Pulsewave peeks around a corner and sees Sonic, going through
some computer files. Pulsewave’s optics narrow as he sets another demolition charge and
activates it. He then turns the corner, his weapon facing Sonic.

PULSEWAVE:(Grimly) Sonic.
SONIC:(Turning) Ah, if it isn’t the Autobot Demo expert. Come to die as well?
PULSEWAVE: You have killed everyone in this building. Now you pay.
SONIC:(Smirks) Make me. (Fires his shoulder sonic disrupter at Pulsewave, sending him
flying down the corridor)

PULSEWAVE:(Clutching his shattered windshield) That hurt.
SONIC: Oh I’ll give you more pain then you know what to do with before I through with
you Autobrat.
PULSEWAVE:(Darkly) We shall see. (Fires his shoulder missile, it crashes into Sonic)
SONIC: AHHHH! (Falls to one knee and clutches his wounded chest. He chuckles) So.
You are a fighter. This will be fun then.

The two lunge at one another. Sonic and Pulsewave both grab one another’s necks, Sonic
rams Pulsewave’s head into the floor a few times then holds it down as he fires another
sonic wave at it. Pulsewave’s left optic shatters and he screams in pain. He grabs his pistol
and begins firing into Sonic’s leg. Sonic sprawls off of Pulsewave, screaming in agony.
Pulsewave doesn’t give up however, he continues firing into Sonic’s chest now. Sonic falls
back, smoke coming from his mouth. He looks dazed. Pulsewave drops the pistol and
clutches the shattered optic in agony. Sonic begins to stir.

SONIC:(Broken. Mechfluid and blood running from the mouth) Well fought Autobrat.
Well fought. But unfortunately, (Grabs a large, sharp section of steel framework) this
ends.

Sonic throws the piece of framework at Pulsewave. It rams into him and pins him to an
opposite wall. Pulsewave lets out a gasp as Blood trickles down the side of his mouth,
along with Mechfluid. Pulsewave blinks a few times, then begins to convulse.

SONIC:(Broken) Now, at least I get to watch you...die.
PULSEWAVE:(Broken, gasping) Cold........so cold......
SONIC:(Broken) Let death embrace you. Let it take you in it’s large cloak to the other
side.
PULSEWAVE:(Broken, still convulsing. Takes out a small detonator) One.....one.....one
last card to play....play....play.....Murderer. Tel....tell.....tell me something......
SONIC:(Broken. Uncaring about the detonator) What?
PULSEWAVE:(Broken. Glares at Sonic) Have....have....have you ever danced with the
devil in the pale moon light.
SONIC:(Broken. Grimly) Yes.
PULSEWAVE:(Broken. Glares) Give...give my regards to him then.



Pulsewave pushes the detonator button and closes his optics. A long, drawn out beep is
heard. Sonic draws in a breath, his face stern. Then the beep stops. Sonic exhales. The
screen fills with a reddish orange.


CUT TO: Outside. Crossfire comes up to the building and goes to robot mode. Looks up
towards the building.

CROSSFIRE: Pulsewave? Pulsewave!?!

Suddenly, the whole top 4 stories of the Technobot Co. erupts in flames. It sends
Crossfire flying back, shock on his face.

CROSSFIRE: PULSEWAVE!!!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! (Falls to his knees, sobbing
and looking up at the raging inferno above.)

CUT TO: Out behind the Autobot Base. Vanguard stands, a large “cast” over his chest.
He seems battle worn and burned. Surrounding him are Half-Pack, Tailpipe, Whirlwind,
Realm, Maximum, Shock, who is in a chair of some kind, Cloak and Crossfire. Simms and
the rest of the base personnel stand behind the Autobots, heads bowed. In the center of
this circle is a large grave. A very large headstone at the head of the freshly dug grave.

VANGUARD:(Saddened) He lived a Warrior, and died a Hero. Wherever he is now, we
pray he has finally found peace. Goodbye Pulsewave.
SIMMS:(Saddened) Present arms! (Seven Soldiers step forward with rifles) Fire! (They
fire) Fire! (They fire) Fire! (They fire)

CUT TO: Predacon Base. Windshear sits alone in the control room, staring at a blank
computer screen. Sadness etched into his face.

WINDSHEAR:(Optics narrowing) This is far from over Sonic. I will avenge you. This I
promise. (Zoom out into orbit. Two comets streak by the screen as we FADE TO
BLACK)
END

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Six: "Upgrade"

ACT I

FADE IN: Vanguard’s quarters. Vanguard sits at a monitor on the far end, reading some
text. Tailpipe enters casually and walks over the Autobot Commander.

VANGUARD:(Looking up at Tailpipe) How’s Crossfire?
TAILPIPE: Realm finally got him to recharge. (Shakes her head) He’s taking this pretty
hard.
VANGUARD: I’d take it hard too if it was my brother.
TAILPIPE: You have a brother?
VANGUARD:(Chuckles and shakes his head) I was born an only child. Of course, I was
born as a human.
TAILPIPE:(Cracks a smile) Speaking of which....
VANGUARD:(Taken aback) Huh!?!
TAILPIPE:(Laughs) Not like that! Geez, you’re the leader for crying out loud, don’t put
your head there.
VANGUARD:(Embarrassed) Sorry.
TAILPIPE: Not a problem. I just was going to say that Half-Pack and Maximum cooked
something up. Want to go see?
VANGUARD:(Shrugs) Why not?

CUT TO: Main training yard. Maximum, a red and orange bot, is hooking on a device
looking up like pants to Half-Pack. The Autobots are all in relaxed positions all around the
yard.

WHIRLWIND:(Sitting on the ground next to Shock) So, what are they going to do
again?
SHOCK: According to Half-Pack, a way to make him fly. Or blow up. Whichever comes
first.
CLOAK:(To Realm) You think this could actually work?
REALM: Yeah right. And if it does I’m a socket set.

Vanguard and Tailpipe enter the yard as Crossfire comes from out back, sadness on his
face. Vanguard smirks under his faceplate at the device. Tailpipe rolls her optics.

HALF-PACK:(Smiling) Hey Van! (Winks at Tailpipe) Hiya Pipe. Glad you came.
VANGUARD:(Looking around) Well, everybody’s here. What’s this all about?
MAXIMUM: Well, Half-Pack wants to fly. So, with persistently nagging me, I created
this device. In robot mode, it acts like a pair of pants, but in actuality, the feet are booster
rockets. In vehicle mode, they transform into a booster which, in theory, could propel the
bot who is using it at sub-sonic speeds.
REALM:(Quietly) When pigs fly.
VANGUARD: How safe is it?
MAXIMUM: Well....It is untested. I’d say about a 50/50.
HALF-PACK: What did you say?
MAXIMUM: About a 50....
HALF-PACK: It doesn’t matter what you said! (Assorted Groans. Half-Pack smirks) I’m
ready to fly!

Maximum shoots a worried glance at Vanguard. He sighs and pushes a small control
panel. Half-Pack’s boosters engage and he hovers about two feet off the ground. His smile
broadens and he grabs the controls away from Maximum. He fiddles with them, all of the
sudden the retro rockets fire and he hurls upward. He lets out a yell of panic and drops the
control panel. The control panel shatters once it hits the ground.

CLOAK:(To Realm) So, how are the pigs flying today? Oh, by the way, I need my bunk
tightened.
REALM: Oh, go suck on a muffler!
SHOCK: He’s going.....going.....going.......Van, I don’t think he’s coming down.
MAXIMUM: Controls are smashed, he can’t control his speed.
VANGUARD: Cloak, Whirlwind! (Sighs) Go and rescue him.
WHIRLWIND: Oh joy. I get to play “Save the WWF-wanna-be”!
HALF-PACK:(From her comm unit) I AM NOT A WANNA BE!

Tailpipe lets out a groan and the two Autobot fliers hit the skies. Cloak, being the faster,
quickly catches up to Half-Pack, who is thrashing about wildly.

CLOAK: Hang on Pack! (Goes to robot mode) I got ya!




Half-Pack doesn’t seem to hear this however and hits Cloak with one of his arms. Cloak
flies back, spinning out of control. He returns to vehicle mode to try and stabilize himself,
all the while, a large hill is rushing up to meet him.

CLOAK: Forward Thrusters activating, adjusting pitch and yaw thrusters, stabilizing.
There, I got it now. (Pulls up, and burns out) Aw crap.

Cloak crashes into a abandoned building on the base. He gets up, in robot mode, dazed
but not injured. We close on the ever distant form of Half-Pack as we FADE TO BLACK.

ACT II

FADE IN: Half-Pack, screaming. He’s heading up and a high rate of speed. Whirlwind
quickly comes up in vehicle mode, trying to keep pace.

WHIRLWIND:(Over Half-Pack’s screaming) I’m reaching the stall out point! I gotta do
something!
VANGUARD:(On the ground) Understood Whirlwind. (Turning to the other Autobots)
Suggestions?
MAXIMUM: With the controls destroyed there’s only one way to bring him down.
SHOCK: Oooo this is gonna H-U-R-T!
VANGUARD:(Sighs) All right. (To comm link) Whirlwind, fire!
WHIRLWIND:(To Half-Pack) Sorry bout this Pack.

Whirlwind’s micro missiles shoot out, destroying the jets. Half-Pack looks at annoyance at
Whirlwind as he begins to plummet to the ground. Half-Pack hits the ground, then
bounces. Realm and Vanguard both rush to him.

VANGUARD: Half-Pack! Are you all right!?!
HALF-PACK:(Weakly, and annoyed) You....let....her....shoot....me....hundreds....
of....feet....in the air. DO I LOOK LIKE I’M ALL RIGHT!?!
REALM: I’ll have to take you off-line while I do repairs Pack.
HALF-PACK:(Angry) Don’t even touch that swwwwiiiitttcccc.....(Optics dim)
SHOCK: Well, at least that shut him up.

CLOAK: How about YOU fall from hundreds of feet and see how YOU feel!
TAILPIPE:(To Maximum) This reminds me of some of those sitcoms I watched as a kid.
MAXIMUM:(Nodding) Agreed.

CUT TO: Autobot base. Mess Hall. The Autobots there chat amongst themselves. Then,
the alarms begin going off. CUT TO: Command Center. Vanguard and Simms are there,
watching some security cameras as the rest of the Autobots rush in.

CROSSFIRE:(To Vanguard) Predacons?
VANGUARD: Just one. Blare’s trying to attack the perimeter. But Whirlwind’s already
out there taking care of things.
MAXIMUM: Then why the alarm?
VANGUARD:(Switching camera views) This.

On the screen, Windshear and Crazyhorse both zoom by, dropping several canisters. The
canisters explode and a whole block is quickly engulfed in flames. The Autobots watch in
horror as several people rush from burning buildings, fleeing their homes.

VANGUARD:(Turning to his troops) Autobots, let’s rock and ROLL OUT!

CUT TO: Vanguard, Maximum, Tailpipe, and Shock roll up to the burning inferno. They
all transform and draw their weapons.

MAXIMUM:(Worried) We can’t fight this fire.
VANGUARD: We’ll have too. With Whirlwind and Crossfire guarding the base, and
Half-Pack and Cloak still being repaired we’re going to have to deal with this. Maximum,
Tailpipe, you two help the fire fighters. Shock and I will deal with Windshear and
Crazyhorse.
TAILPIPE: Be careful Van.
VANGUARD: Always.

Tailpipe and Maximum rush towards one of the several fire trucks in the area as Vanguard
and Shock stand, weapons drawn, scanning the air for their targets. Vanguard’s optics
narrow as he sees something, but it is quickly gone again.


CRAZYHORSE:(Resting on top of a building) Crazyhorse to Windshear. Autobot
interference. Blare failed to distract them.
WINDSHEAR:(Over comm unit) Vanguard always sees through my distractions. Most of
the time. But I can easily take care of him, PERMANENTLY!

CUT TO: Autobot Med Bay. Half-Pack lays under an auto repair unit as Realm finishes
hooking Cloak to the recharge unit. Realm’s comm unit beeps.

REALM: Friendly neighborhood Medical Officer who patches up more pieces of metal in
a day then a blacksmith does in a year at your service.
TAILPIPE:(From the other end) Cut the smug remarks Realm. We’ve got wounded out
here. Best bring all you can.
REALM:(Suddenly serious) Got it. (Cuts comm. Looks at Half-Pack) You won’t be
going anywhere. I guess it’s ok. (Flips a main intercom switch) All Med units! All Med
units! Code Red. Let’s roll out!

As Realm rushes out we pan over to Half-Pack. His lifeless form is still being worked on
as his optics begin to boot up again and we FADE TO BLACK.

ACT III

FADE IN: Burning block. Vanguard and Shock take cover behind some rubble and fire on
the flying vehicle forms of Crazyhorse and Windshear. Crazyhorse’s scrambler missiles
impact on the rubble Shock is behind, sending the massive Autobot sprawling backwards.

VANGUARD: Shock!
SHOCK: I’m ok. Just a little crispier around the edges.
WINDSHEAR: Worry more about yourself Vanguard! Helfire Missile...ENGAGE!

A large missile launches from Windshear’s underbelly. Vanguard ducks, and the missile
misses completely. Vanguard stands up and lets loose with his plasma rifle, hitting
Windshear in the wing. Windshear screams out and crashes to the ground. But then
Vanguard is hit in the back as the Helfire Missile has turned back around and rammed
right into the most vulnerable spot on Vanguard’s body, the joint that connects the upper
chest to the lower. Vanguard falls to one knee, then falls over completely.

SHOCK: Van!
VANGUARD:(Getting up slowly) I’m ok. I think.
WINDSHEAR:(Going to robot mode and leveling his missile launchers) Incredible. I
thought that missile would rip you into two. I was sadly mistaken.
VANGUARD:(Weakly) You’ll find I’m full of surprises.

CUT TO: Block a few blocks down. This one is not on fire. Inside an alley the vehicle
forms of Sidewinder and Roadkill sit.

SIDEWINDER: Scoot over will ya? I barely got any room to hover!
ROADKILL: Oh funny joke you floating bath tub. YOU give ME room!
SIDEWINDER: Why should I give you room when YOU could just give ME room?
ROADKILL: Because I’m higher in rank then you.
SIDEWINDER: No you’re not.
ROADKILL: Yes, I am.
SIDEWINDER: Who says?
ROADKILL: Me.
SIDEWINDER:(Sighs) Look, let’s stop acting like two year olds and keep our optics
peeled for Autobutts.
ROADKILL: Agreed.

Something shoots past them at a high rate of speed.

SIDEWINDER: What the slag was that!?!
ROADKILL:(Roaring out of the alley) I don’t know. Let’s see!

The two Predacons roar off towards the streak. CUT TO: Battle ground. Windshear and
Vanguard are duking it out while the others keep Crazyhorse busy. Suddenly, a streak of
black and gold rush between Windshear and Vanguard, separating the two.

WINDSHEAR: What the slag was that?
VANGUARD: I don’t know. But I do know this! (Hits Windshear square in the face) It
makes for a good distraction.



The black and gold streak stops. Half-Pack revs his engine a second and the boosters on
the back roar with a foot long flame. Tailpipe and Maximum’s optics widen.

MAXIMUM: He found the back up.
TAILPIPE: Wow. That’s some big flame.
HALF-PACK:(Transforming to robot mode, with the boosters) If you thought that was
big Pipe, boy do I have a surprise for you sometime!
TAILPIPE:(Groans) Whatever. Clean your face Half-Pack.
HALF-PACK:(Confused) Why?
TAILPIPE: Because its got some crud on it from dragging it through the gutter all the
time.
HALF-PACK:(Embarrassed) Hey!
VANGUARD: If you two are finished, maybe we can deal with Crazyhorse!
CRAZYHORSE: Dealing, unnecessary. Retreating.

Crazyhorse quickly goes to vehicle mode and latches onto the downed Windshear. He
quickly heads off. Half-Pack makes a move to catch up to him.

VANGUARD: Hold it Half-Pack. No need to chase after them.
HALF-PACK:(Calling out to Crazyhorse) Know your Role Punchingbag!
CRAZYHORSE:(Calling back) This is hardly over young one!
HALF-PACK:(Angered) HEY! Get back here and fight like a Transformer you stupid
Jabroni!
VANGUARD: Power down your combat circuits Half-Pack! That IS an order!
HALF-PACK:(Grumbles) Aye sir.

CUT TO: Roadkill and Sidewinder are heading towards the Autobots. Suddenly both are
hit with several thousand volts of electricity and both tip and fall over, in stasis. Two tow
trucks come out of nowhere and haul off the two downed Transformers. The Autobots
and the Predacons never knew what happened. CUT TO: Vanguard’s quarters. Vanguard
sighs as he enters his room. With a solid motion he reaches for his faceplate and takes it
off, a resemblance of his old face underneath. He breaths a sigh of relief and sets the
faceplate down on a table. Tailpipe enters and uses a attentive cough to get Vanguard’s
attention.


VANGUARD:(Smirking) Can’t you ever knock?
TAILPIPE:(Changing the subject, smiling herself) So, the faceplate DOES come off.
VANGUARD: Tailpipe, why did you really come here? And don’t use the Crossfire
excuse for about the seventh time.
TAILPIPE:(Sighs) I really don’t know. I just......(Steps towards Vanguard, putting her
hand in his)
VANGUARD:(Softly) Tailpipe. We can’t.....
TAILPIPE:(Making a “shh”. Speaks in a soft tone) Just let it go it’s course....

The two kiss. As they break apart, they both blink and kiss again. All the while, in the
doorway, Half-Pack stands, optics wide. His open hand clenches into a fist and he walks
off, leaving the two now totally alone as we FADE TO BLACK.

END

[Rust]

Author Commentary/Q&A

Episode Six was deliberately made more lighthearted then the previous installment, and boy do I wish I'd stuck to fics like it.

Episode Five was the "tipping point" in my early writing, where I - like many teens before me - decided to start writing melodrama and high violence for no other reason then to add melodrama and high violence. I remember at the time being really, really proud of Episode Five. Now I just find it garbage. Episode Six, on the other hand, is a enjoyable romp.

Episode Six officially "starts" the main story arc for the season, with Roadkill and Sidewinder being grabbed by forces unknown. Specifically, it's time Cage's boss and the Predacons ultimate benefactor to make their presence known.

Stick around, Triple Threat is coming up next.

[Freddycon]

more.. More... MOOOOOORRRREEEEEEE!!!!!!

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Seven: "Triple Threat"

ACT I

FADE IN: Computer screen. Several design specs are displayed. One is that of a Jet and
another is that of a Land Rover. In the center is a robot form. Pan out to see Maximum
fiddling with the designs of the specs as Vanguard enters.

VANGUARD: So, what are you working on at this time of night Maximum?
MAXIMUM:(Startled) Huh?! Wha...?!!? Oh, Van. (Sighs) Sorry. I’ve just been going
through some rough ideas in my head.
VANGUARD: What kind of ideas?
MAXIMUM: Oh, new type of warrior. One that has a three mode conversion.
VANGUARD:(Looking over the schematics) Triple Changers.
MAXIMUM: If that’s what you like to call them. But, (Shuts off the program) mere
flights of fancy. No one could ever alter a Vector Sigma device enough to get that result.

CUT TO: Unknown location. In the center of the screen is a Vector Sigma device. A man
of considerable age steps into the light of this base. As we pan out we see the forms of
Roadkill and Sidewinder. The man looks at the Predacons with a fleeting interest. A tall,
younger man steps to the man’s side.

ASSISTANT: Mr. Scythe. As you can see the Transformers are ready to undergo the
process.
MR. SCYTHE:(In an old, raspy voice) Probability of success?
ASSISTANT: A good 75%.
MR. SCYTHE:(Nodding) Proceed.

With that the Vector Sigma machine hums to life. It’s mechanisms quickly rush over
Roadkill and Sidewinder, disassembling and reassembling parts when needed. It is clear
that this Vector Sigma machine is a specially built model. SHIFT TO: Several hours later.
Scythe looks over a totally red bot and a totally silver one. He smirks a bit as he nods to
bring them online. Their optics flare to life.

MR. SCYTHE:(Addressing the bots) You know who I am?
BOTS:(In unison) Yes.

MR. SCYTHE: And you know who your were?
BOTS:(Again, in unison) Yes.
MR. SCYTHE: Good. Now, who are you now.
BOT #1:(The red one) I’m Crash!
BOT #2:(The Silver one) And I’m Burn!
MR. SCYTHE: And who are you loyal too?
CRASH AND BURN: Scythe!
MR. SCYTHE:(Smirks) Good.

A tow truck brings in the almost unrecognizable form of Sonic into the room. Scythe
smiles as Crash and Burn step out of the way. The tow truck dumps Sonic and the cranes
hook him up to the machine.

ASSISTANT:(Looking over some read-outs) His vitals are chaotic at best. He has a
survival rate of only 25%.
MR. SCYTHE: He was almost dead when we found him. If he dies, he dies. Proceed.
ASSISTANT: But sir, we spent a half a million dollars just keeping him alive for this.
Shouldn’t we wait until....
MR. SCYTHE: I said proceed!

The Machine goes to work again. But now, Black and Dark blue metal pieces are attached
and the burned and damaged pieces are tossed away. When it is over, a almost totally new
bot stands tall, almost 2 feet taller then either Crash or Burn.

MR. SCYTHE:(To the new bot) Sonic. Sonic can you hear me?
SONIC:(Green optics coming to life) Yes......
MR. SCYTHE: You know what happened to you?
SONIC: Yes.
MR. SCYTHE: You know that I brought you back to life?
SONIC: Yes.
MR. SCYTHE: Who are you loyal too?
SONIC: Scythe.
MR. SCYTHE: And what is your name?
SONIC: My name is........BANSHEE!


MR. SCYTHE:(Turning to his assistant) Prepare the machine, for me. (FADE TO
BLACK)


ACT II

FADE IN: Predacon base. Windshear, Blare and Crazyhorse all stand around their Vector
Sigma unit, which is hard at work.

WINDSHEAR:(Annoyed) First Backlash. Then Atom. Then Sonic. Now Roadkill and
Sidewinder are both missing! (Turning to his two remaining troops) They all abandoned
me. But the Autobots forces continue to grow! (Clenches his fist) Luck is against me.
BLARE: But boss, we got a newcomer on the way!
WINDSHEAR:(Growls) Yes. But it is the LAST member of the Lock, Stock, and Barrel
Club! She was suppose to get more recruits for the Predacon cause!
CRAZYHORSE:(Cold and mechanical) Situation: Changed. Troops: Required.
WINDSHEAR:(Cocks a smile) At least you two stick with me.
CYCLONE:(Emerging from the machine. A light blue femme bot) And I will too hon.
WINDSHEAR:(Smiles) Welcome to the Predacons my dear.
CYCLONE:(Smirks) Glad to be here.
SHADOW ZARAK:(Off Camera) I doubt that will be true soon my dear.

The Predacons quickly turn and standing behind them are the forms of Crash, Burn,
Banshee and behind them, clad in Dark Red, Black, and Gold Armor, with a metal “cape”
coming down to his ankle joints, with two large horn structures protruding from his head,
on his wrists two arm blaster like structures, and a pitch black visor and a black faceplate,
Shadow Zarak stands; Energon Sword drawn.

SHADOW ZARAK:(Laughs) Hello Windshear. I’ve come to collect with a force of my
own!
WINDSHEAR:(In awe) Scythe!
SHADOW ZARAK:(Chuckles) I prefer to call myself Shadow Zarak now. Combaticons,
DESTROY THEM ALL!

CUT TO: Maximum looking over some diagrams. On a table, more then a little annoyed,
Half-Pack sits. Maximum shakes his head as he looks at the Autobot
Second-in-Command, who has welded the Retro rockets to himself.

MAXIMUM: Well, I’ve installed the control device in your neural net. But something
bugs me...
HALF-PACK: What?
MAXIMUM: How the heck did you reboot your operating systems?
HALF-PACK:(Shrugs) I dunno.
MAXIMUM: Half-Pack, you’re auto-shut down sequencer is missing. It looks like a ball
and it’s silver.
HALF-PACK:(Takes out a small, hand made video game. Crudely built.) You mean this
thing? (Flips it over to the back and shows Maximum the small silver ball.)
MAXIMUM:(Taken aback) You....ripped it out of your own operating system!!?!?
HALF-PACK:(Shrugs) Why not? My scanners said it wasn’t of nominal importance
anyways.

Maximum groans and slaps his forehead. Suddenly the alarms blare. Half-Pack sighs as
Maximum taps his comm.

MAXIMUM:(Annoyed) Now what?
WHIRLWIND:(From the other end) The Preds are getting their mufflers handed to them
Downtown. Big V wants every bot that’s charged and Primed to head over to Damage
Central. Oh yeah, I almost forgot: “Let’s rock and roll out!”

CUT TO: Downtown. Military Tanks have blocked off the battle zone. Crash and Burn
seem to be double teaming Blare. Banshee has gone to his Futuristic Disk-like fighter
mode and is hunting down Cyclone while Shadow Zarak seems to be handling Windshear
and Crazyhorse easily. The familiar vehicle forms of Vanguard, Crossfire and Tailpipe
come up from behind the tanks. General Simms, in combat uniform, walks up to the
assembled vehicles.

SIMMS: The Preds are getting beat pretty bad. You sure you guys want to get mixed up
in all of this?
VANGUARD: If the war can end here, yes. Autobots, Transform!

The assembled Autobots quickly transform and train their weapons on a individual target.
Crossfire seems, doubtful, however.

CROSSFIRE:(To Vanguard) Is this really necessary? I mean, why continue the
bloodshed?
TAILPIPE: Do you really think the Preds would be debating this if situations were
reversed?
CROSSFIRE:(Thinking) Well...no. But...
TAILPIPE: Then stop yacking and start slagging!

The three Autobots opened fire. Their shots seemed to bound harmlessly off of Shadow
Zarak and the large bot turned and smiled.

SHADOW ZARAK: Ah, the Autobots have finally arrived.
WINDSHEAR:(Damaged, but functional) Slagging Autobots.....
SHADOW ZARAK:(Smiles at the downed Predacon Commander) I am forced to agree.

A strange shifting noise is heard as Shadow Zarak transforms into a large tank. With two
large Missle batteries on top, two Chain Guns on the sides and spiked treads, it is a
ominous sight to behold. The Missle batteries raise up and shoot out, several hundred
micro-Scrambler missles heading for the Autobots. Vanguard’s optic widen and he pushes
both Tailpipe and Crossfire out of the way before dodging himself. The Missle impact and
tear up the street. Vanguard’s optics narrow as he opens fire with his plasma cannon. The
shots harmlessly bounce off of Shadow Zarak’s armor.

CROSSFIRE:(Growls) What is that guy made out of?
SHOCK:(Off screen) Let’s see! (Fires on Shadow Zarak)

Shadow Zarak doesn’t seem to notice the several thousand volts rushing through him for a
second then screams out and flies back. Shock smiles as Realm, Maximum and Half-Pack
come up and transform. All begin firing on other Predacons and/or Combaticons.

BANSHEE:(Breaking off from Cyclone and going to robot mode) Master! (Anger welling
up in him) Slagging Autobrats!


Banshee transforms, but not to fighter mode, this time he transforms into a sonic tank. He
levels his cannon and fires as we FADE TO BLACK.

ACT III

FADE IN: The Autobots shake as a deafing roar fills the ears of all. Then they all are
blown back, all scattering in different positions.

SHOCK:(Dazed) Haven’t felt a compressed sonic boom for awhile. I forgot how much
“fun” they could be.
VANGUARD:(Struggling to get up) Defensive positions...
SHADOW ZARAK:(Rolling up to Vanguard) No need. (Levels chain guns) As you can
see, Vanguard, we Combaticons are the next generation of Transformers...the glorious
TRIPLE CHANGERS!
HALF-PACK:(Getting up) That doesn’t sound good. Retros...FIRE!

Half-Pack’s rockets flare to life and he jets into the sky. He pulls out his Chain Guns and
opens fire, seeming to make the Preds and Combaticons dive for cover. That is, until
Half-Pack broadsides a building and crashes to the ground. Shadow Zarak goes to robot
form and laughs.

SHADOW ZARAK: You Autobots are such funny creatures. (Levels his wrist blasters)
Pity really, I could have used some entertainment.

Suddenly, Shadow Zarak erupts in explosions. From above, the vehicle forms of
Whirlwind and Cloak soar overhead, bombing Zarak from above. Banshee, reacting on
impulse, transforms to fighter mode and quickly speeds after the two Autobot fliers.
Shadow Zarak, for his part, does not seem damaged.

SHADOW ZARAK: Face it Autobots. You’re old technology. You can not stop the
might of the Combaticons!

Crazyhorse goes to robot mode and helps the down form of Windshear up. His face
betrays a look of worry as the Predacon commander seems badly injured.


CRAZYHORSE: Orders?
WINDSHEAR:(Dazed. Weakly) Where am I? How did I...?
CYCLONE:(From above) I suggest we bug out. Let the Autobots get pounded on for
awhile.
WINDSHEAR:(Dazed) Yes. Pound. Fall back.

The four Predacons quickly transform and head out, leaving the Autobots to their fates.
Simms orders tanks to open fire on Shadow Zarak. Shadow Zarak looks in annoyance and
opens fire with his plasma wrist blasters, obliterating the tanks. Simms lies, unconscious.
Vanguard tries to stand but Zarak left hooks Vanguard, sending him sprawling with his
optics dimming. Shadow Zarak’s storage cells shut down, sending a backlash of Shock’s
electricity coursing through the rest of the Autobots. As the Combaticons stand over the
fallen Autobots Banshee comes down in Robot mode, carrying the unconscious and
severely damaged forms of Whirlwind and Cloak. He tosses the two aside and walks up to
his leader.

BANSHEE:(Bowing slightly) Your orders?
SHADOW ZARAK:(Crossing his massive arms) Take them to Project: Trial by Fire. I
want to see how tough these so-called Autobots really are.

Zoom in on Shadow Zarak’s face as we FADE TO BLACK.

(Definitely not the) END

[Rust]

Author's Commentary/Q&A

In the words of Shang Tsung: IT HAS BEGUN!

I'd begun to become more aware of TF fiction outside the G1 Cartoon and Beast Wars by this point, and the general plot of the Japanese Masters series started seeping in. Specifically, the name "Black Zarak" leapt out at me, and I ended up pilfering the name for Shadow Zarak without the least idea what the name meant.

The story of Alexander Scythe and his monstrous alter ego get fleshed out more in the various retellings of this series (Generation: NeXt -the Masterpiece edition- and The Human Complex), but to say he makes a impact of the story is a bit of a understatement.

Really, going back through these fics, it's entertaining to see what character concepts I ended up keeping through the various re-tellings and which ones fell by the wayside for one reason or another. Or, as is the case with Sonic/Banshee, end up being merged with other character concepts in later retellings. Specifically, in The Human Complex at least (And maybe The Masterpiece Edition, but it's been awhile since I read through that one), Banshee and Cyclone are effectively one in the same - indeed, the name "Sonic" is henceforth dropped in all subsequent retellings.

EDIT: Fun fact: Shadow Zarak actually shows up in the Allspark's version of More Then Meets The Eye, and he's the same Wasp/ANRAM Missile Platform he is in this continuity, though the design is more streamlined. Have a look:

(IMG:http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b66/GuardConvoy/Pictures/ShadowZarak.jpg)

This post has been edited by Rust: Apr 16 2012, 09:45 PM

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Eight: "Drawing of the Web"

ACT I

FADE IN: Military Base, training grounds. Pan over to see Half-Pack, wedged in between
some equipment, his jets still firing. Half-Pack’s optics flare to life and he winces at the
pain.

HALF-PACK: What the...? (Looks to see his jets still firing) Yikes! Off! (The boots shut
off and Half-Pack stands) What happened?

Half-Pack looks around, confused. Then a Military Jeep drives in, with Simms in the
passenger side, his arm is in a cast. Half-Pack, still dazed, does not register this as he
walks up to the jeep.

SIMMS:(A weak smile crosses his face) Half-Pack! At least one of you didn’t get
captured.
HALF-PACK: Captured? What are you talking about? (Dawning) What happened?!?
Where’s Van and the others?!?
SIMMS:(Sighs) Gone, I’m afraid. Where we really have no clue. That Shadow Zarak
character took off with them in a hurry, that’s for sure.
HALF-PACK: I have to go rescue them!
SIMMS: Hold on there big guy! You’re pretty banged up yourself. You need to spend
some time in the machine shop and get patched up. Van and the others will be ok. I mean,
how bad of shape could they possibly be in?

CUT TO: Unknown location. The Autobots lay in a heap on the floor. Suddenly
Vanguard’s optics kick in and he raises himself to a sitting position. He groans.

VANGUARD: What happened?
MAXIMUM:(Also getting up) It appears Shadow Zarak can store energy and redirect it
as a weapon.
CLOAK:(Clutching his almost scrapped chest) Thanks for telling us that useless piece of
information Maximum!
REALM:(To Cloak) Here, let me see that.
TAILPIPE: Where’s Half-Pack?

WHIRLWIND: Last time I saw him was when he bounced off the building and took off.
SHOCK:(Chuckles) He really wasn’t made for flying.
CROSSFIRE: Then there is hope. He might have made it back to base. Simms will
definatly be sending a rescue party soon.
MAXIMUM:(Groans) Oh no.
VANGUARD: What is it Maximum?
MAXIMUM: A project of mine. It isn’t finished yet but......

CUT TO: Maximum’s workshop. Half-Pack, now repaired, looks over a small bright
yellow robot on a table. Simms stands on his shoulder.

HALF-PACK: Hmmm.
SIMMS: I don’t think Maximum is done with him yet.
HALF-PACK: Does it really matter? Now that the Preds have the advantage, they’ll
surely take it. We need to defend this base right?
SIMMS: Right. But...
HALF-PACK: So it’s settled! (Hits the power up switch on the robot)

The greenish-blue optics of the bot light up, and it soon sit itself into a upright position. It
looks at Simms, then at Half-Pack, then back at Simms.

HALF-PACK: Wow. A fully mechanical Transformer.
TWITCH:(The new bot) AH! It talked to me!
HALF-PACK:(Confused) Huh?
TWITCH: Sweet mother food processor! AH! A talking machine!
HALF-PACK:(Looks at Simms) Right. In case you haven’t noticed...(Notes the new bots
involuntary twitching) Twitch, you’re a talking machine too.
TWITCH: I am? AH! Oh man, what happened to me?
SIMMS: You were a human?
TWITCH: AH! A talking pimple!
SIMMS: HEY!
HALF-PACK: Look Twitch, I need you to calm down. Calm down.
TWITCH: What do you mean? I’m, AH!, calm.
HALF-PACK:(Sighs) It’s gonna be a loooooong day. (FADE TO BLACK)


ACT II

FADE IN: The Autobot prison. Vanguard touches a forcefield and it flares with energy.
He sighs and returns to the group.

VANGUARD: The forcefield is motion sensitive. It activates when we trip a laser beam
and deactivates when we stand back from it.
MAXIMUM: And, due to Crossfire’s unique vision, that laser goes all the way to the
ceiling and to the floor.
TAILPIPE: Then we can’t get out.
SHADOW ZARAK:(Voice Echoing out of nowhere) That is correct.

From the prison opening Shadow Zarak, flanked by Crash and Burn, appears. Crossfire’s
optics narrow and he rushes the forcefield, Vanguard tries to stop him but no avail.
Crossfire runs full force, but does not hit the forcefield. Instead he is grabbed by the neck
by Shadow Zarak.

SHADOW ZARAK:(To Crossfire) Thank you for volunteering. It made my job much
easier. (He vanishes, with Crossfire and Crash and Burn)
VANGUARD: NO! (Slams his fist against the Forcefield)

CUT TO: Autobot Base. Half-Pack is out in front, with Twitch. Half-Pack seems to be
focusing on something then shakes his head.

HALF-PACK:(Sighs) No use. I can’t get any signal.
TWITCH: Maybe you need a new scanner. AH!
HALF-PACK:(Shaking his head) That’s not the problem. They just aren’t showing up.
They’re being jammed.
TWITCH: AH! So how are we going to find them?
HALF-PACK:(Smirks) Are you ready to go kick some Jabroni-Preds?
TWITCH: I’ll tear out their optics! AH! No wait, that might be dangerous!

CUT TO: Predacon Base. Blare mans a survey system when a Hummer and a Voltzwagon
Beetle roll up. Blare chuckles.


BLARE: Well, well, well. (Hits a comm button) Windshear. We got Autobutts at the front
gate.
WINDSHEAR:(From the other end) Let them in.
BLARE:(Taken aback) What?
WINDSHEAR: Must I repeat myself?
BLARE: No sir.

CUT TO: Half-Pack and Twitch enter the main control room of the Predacon Base.
Windshear sits in a large command chair, flanked by Cyclone and Crazyhorse. Blare steps
behind the two Autobots, making escape impossible. Windshear smiles and crosses his
legs.

WINDSHEAR: Well, well. Two lowly Autobot Grunts come alone into Predacon
territory, obviously they tire of their living functions!
HALF-PACK:(Optics narrow) I’m Second-in-Command of the Autobots Windshear!
WINDSHEAR:(Mockingly) Really? Oh dear. Vanguard was more unstable then I thought.
HALF-PACK: I’m laughing on the inside. Really, I am.
CRAZYHORSE: State your business.
TWITCH: AH! Man! Look at the size of him!
WINDSHEAR:(Looking at Twitch) You Autobots get stranger and stranger.
HALF-PACK: One of Maximum’s pet projects. Look, the reason I’m here is because I....
need your help.
WINDSHEAR: Could it be? (Smiles) An Autobot actually asks for HELP, from a
Predacon?!?!
HALF-PACK:(Angering) Shadow Zarak took Vanguard and the others! I need help
locating them!
CYCLONE: Bad move there hon.
TWITCH: AH! Oh geez Pack. You just, you know, AH! told our status!
WINDSHEAR:(Standing up) Indeed you did. You and your twitching friend there are
now in a whole lot more trouble then you bargained for. Predacons...TERRORIZE!

The Predacon fliers open fire, Half-Pack grabs Blare and uses him as a human shield. He
then throws Blare into Windshear and he and Twitch duck behind the door. Half-Pack
pulls out his chain guns and opens fire. Twitch just stands there, twitching.


HALF-PACK:(Growls) Don’t just stand there! Help me!
TWITCH: All right I will! AH! No wait, I don’t have a weapon!
HALF-PACK: Here! (Throws Twitch one of his chain guns)
TWITCH: Wow cool. Thanks. Now let’s see here. Push the trigger and..AH!

Twitch pulls the trigger, but the Chain Gun proves too powerful and begins going wild in
different directions. Half-Pack ducks out of the way again and even the Preds are forced
to take cover.

HALF-PACK:(Over the firing) Twitch! Let go of the trigger!
TWITCH:(Lets it go) AH! Won’t do that again.
WINDSHEAR:(Angered) Get that BUG!
TWITCH: Oh AH!

Twitch transforms and hauls out, Chain Gun mounted to the top. Windshear, Crazyhorse,
and Cyclone transform and rush after the small beetle, leaving Half-Pack behind.

HALF-PACK:(Breathes a sigh of relief) At least their gone. (Dawning) Hey! Wait a
minute. That stupid Jabroni has MY Chain Gun! (Half-Pack groans as we FADE TO
BLACK)

ACT III

FADE IN: A cavern. Water drips from a Stalagmite onto the head of Crossfire. His optics
flare to life and the water hits him on the side of the head, running down his helmet and
onto his face. Crossfire sits up, with much effort, and looks around.

CROSSFIRE: Well. This wasn’t one of my better ideas.
BANSHEE:(Emerging from the shadows) Indeed. It was not.
CROSSFIRE:(Optics narrow) You. You’re that Banshee character aren’t you?
BANSHEE:(Nods) I am.
CROSSFIRE:(Stands) So, who were you? A bum they dragged off the street?
BANSHEE:(Showing no emotion) Actually, I was one of the three original Predacons.
CROSSFIRE:(Laughs) That’s impossible! Windshear and Blare are alive and well, Sonic
is.....(Optics widen and Banshee nods)

BANSHEE: That’s right Crossfire. I’m Sonic.
CROSSFIRE:(Growls and leaps at Banshee) You killed my Brother!
BANSHEE:(Stepping out of the way, letting Crossfire go sprawling) Brother? Ah, I see.
So, Pulsewave was your brother eh? Well, I am sorry to disappoint you but your brother
blew himself to kingdom come. I just helped him along.

Crossfire doesn’t answer, he just pulls out his duel Plasma Sniper Rifles and takes aim.
Banshee dives again, but now Crossfire had something he could work with. Both blasts
knock Banshee into a wall. Crossfire stands and readies for another shot. Banshee
anticipates this, however, and raises his arm. A small Sonic Disrupter pops up and sends
out a sharp sonic boom that makes Crossfire drop his rifles. Banshee leaps up and drop
kicks the Autobot Sharpshooter, sending him the the ground again. Banshee smirks and
transforms to Tank mode, intent on running Crossfire over. Crossfire quickly lunges out of
the way and throws a small plasma grenade that knocks Banshee over and causes the
whole cavern to shake.

BANSHEE:(Returning to robot mode, pulling out a Energon Sword resembling a kitana
blade) Fool! You could have brought this cavern down on top of both of us!
CROSSFIRE:(Making a “Bring-it-on” motion) No more words.

Banshee leaps upward, bringing his blade down hard on Crossfire’s shoulder. Crossfire
grunts but pushes Banshee off of him which also detaches the blade. Crossfire picks up
one of his rifles and takes aim. Banshee kicks his leg up, sending the rifle flying. Banshee
then does a full 360 flip and lands on his feet. He punches Crossfire in the face then rushes
him again. Banshee brings his shoulder cannons to bear, firing on the hapless Autobot.
Crossfire steps back, armor flaking off. Crossfire grabs Banshee by the neck and thrusts
him downward, kicking up sand and dust from the floor because of the shoulder cannons.
Banshee growls and sweep kicks Crossfire, sending him sprawling. Banshee rips one of
the Stalagmites from the ground and walks over to Crossfire. Banshee turns the
Stalagmite to it’s pointy end and raises it above his head.

BANSHEE:(Grins) Goodbye Crossfire. Tell your brother I said hello.
CROSSFIRE:(Broken) And I’ll see you in Hell!



Suddenly, Crossfire’s palm stiffens and from a small compartment three Plasma Grenades
fall out. Crossfire tosses them to the ceiling and rolls out of the way. Banshee looks up in
shock as the whole roof of the cave blows up and begins to fall on top of the two.
Banshee grabs Crossfire, punches him twice and tosses him aside. Banshee goes to flight
mode and shoots out of the cave as fast as he can. The whole Cavern collapses. Banshee
transforms and lands beside Shadow Zarak.

SHADOW ZARAK:(Looking at his Sub-Commander) Well?
BANSHEE: Crossfire put up a good fight. Pity he couldn’t win.
SHADOW ZARAK:(Smirks) Now now Banshee. He couldn’t win. Just like all the rest of
the Autobots. They can’t win. But, (Turns to Banshee) next time, keep the Autobot alive.
BANSHEE:(Bowing) Yes my master.

The two Combaticons walk onward. Pan over to the rubble of the cavern. Some loose
rocks fall over. Then a hand, dusty, sparking and damaged, emerges from the rubble. A
scream of rage is heard, muffled by the rock as we FADE TO BLACK.


TO BE CONTINUED......

[Rust]

Transformers Generation: NeXt
Season One: Shadows
Episode Nine: "One Tin Soldier"

ACT I

FADE IN: The cell that holds the Autobots. Crash enters, dragging a almost lifeless
Maximum behind him. He sets him down and walks over to Realm, who is trying to treat
Cloak, who now has barely any chest armor at all. Crash just drags the Autobot Medic out
however, leaving the Autobots damaged and without help. Vanguard’s armor has flaked
off in several places and his helmet shows signs of major blast damage. Tailpipe is near
him, her own condition no better. Cloak’s optics fizzle in and out, as do Maximum’s.
Whirlwind tries not to show her pain, however, despite the fact that her left arm is quite
useless and her gold and blue coloring is now almost ash black. Shock seems the least
damaged, but his armor seems as if it was torn to shreds by missiles. Vanguard stirs
slightly, and shifts over to Maximum.

VANGUARD:(Weakly) How are you doing?
MAXIMUM:(Broken) Not too good. Can’t feel anything anymore.
CLOAK:(Who seems to be straining) Why don’t they kill us and get it over with?
VANGUARD: Because we aren’t going to be killed. We’re being tested.
SHOCK: Heck of a way to be tested!
TAILPIPE: What I’m worried about is Realm. If they mangle him as bad as they did
Max....
VANGUARD: Let’s not think about that. Let’s just hope that Half-Pack has something in
mind.
CLOAK:(Chuckles) Yeah right. That guy’s probably being chased all around the city by
the Preds.
TAILPIPE: I agree with Van. I bet Half-Pack’s already deep into planning some way to
rescue us.

CUT TO: Half-Pack, vehicle mode, with Twitch, vehicle mode, being chased by
Crazyhorse, Windshear and Cyclone.

HALF-PACK:(To Twitch) I blame you for this!
TWITCH: Me? AH! What did I do?
HALF-PACK: You ran!

TWITCH: Those who AH! fight and run away AH! live to fight another day. AH!
HALF-PACK: I’m not seeing much living left for either of us if we don’t shake these
guys! AFTERBURN!

With that, Half-Pack’s trunk pops open and the boosters flip up. They flare to life in a blue
flame and Half-Pack shoots off. Twitch stops and Crazyhorse, Windshear, and Cyclone all
pass him.

WINDSHEAR: Follow that Autobrat! Full throttle!

Windshear and Cyclone both drop their tanks and hit high seed, determined to catch the
Autobot. Crazyhorse, on the other hand, lags back and turns, ready to finish off Twitch.
Twitch goes to robot mode and pulls out his “borrowed” Chain Gun. By some miracle,
Twitch is able to hit Crazyhorse’s back propeller, sending the Predacon running into the
ground. Twitch smiles and walks up to the unconscious Pred and gives him a kick. Then
Half-Pack shoots by, transforming to robot mode and running on the ground, boosters
deactivate.

HALF-PACK: Twitch! Quite screwing around and run!

Windshear and Cyclone quickly dive for Half-Pack, sending Twitch diving to the ground.
The Predacons both open fire, sending small plasma blasts everywhere. Half-Pack dives
behind a tanker Truck only to discover it’s marked Fuel.

HALF-PACK: Bad cover! (Fires some rounds from his Chain Gun, running again)
CYCLONE: No where to run hon. Give it up!
HALF-PACK: Not likely sister! (Fires on Cyclone, tearing her left wing to shreds, she
screams and spirals downward, hitting the ground hard.)
WINDSHEAR: You’re going to regret that Autobot. (Goes to robot mode, leveling his
blasters)
HALF-PACK: Windshear! Behind you!
WINDSHEAR: Please. Such a pathetic little trick....

Windshear is hit on the back of the head by Twitch, sending the Predacon commander to
the floor. Both the Autobots smile at one another as we FADE TO BLACK.

ACT II

FADE IN: Cavern. Realm looks around, wondering what’s coming next. Suddenly
something blasts the floor right out from under him. Realm lands on his back, looking up.
Looming over him is a large Insect-like creature. Fully mechanical. Shadow Zarak stands
on the creature’s head.

SHADOW ZARAK: Welcome Realm. Meet my new pet.
REALM:(Uninterested) Lovely. Well, how about I just allow your “pet” to kill me so we
can get this over with.
SHADOW ZARAK:(Chuckles) Kill you? Now why would I want it to kill you? I just
want it to rip you to shreds!

Shadow Zarak vanishes as the creature rears up, producing several Scythe-like blades.
Realm looks in shock and barely dodges the massive creature.

REALM: Whoa there big guy! (Fires his laser pistol, which does nothing) Reinforced
Steel! Not good.

The Creature rears back again, hissing and sending a spray of shrapnel towards Realm.
Realm dodges, but gets a piece of shrapnel in his leg. He yells out in pain but rips it out,
intent on fighting onward.

SHADOW ZARAK:(Voice coming from nowhere) Forget fighting it Realm. Nothing you
can do can stop it.
REALM:(Optics narrow, he continues firing) Go to hell!
SHADOW ZARAK: I’ve been there. I think I like it!

Realm leaps up and transforms into vehicle mode. He rams the creature, which only
succeeds in denting his own form. The Creature roars and brings some blades down,
barely missing Realm as he returns to robot mode. Realm does the only logical thing left,
he runs.

REALM:(To himself) I’m a doctor, not a warrior! Think Realm, think. That thing can’t be
impenetrable. Nothing is! (Dodges another blade) Well, maybe ALMOST nothing!

CUT TO: Autobot HQ. Simms and Half-Pack look over a diagram in Maximum’s lab as
Twitch looks at some of Maximum’s inventions. Half-Pack seems more serious for once.

SIMMS: These are the read outs on Shadow Zarak and the other wackos.
HALF-PACK: Could we use them in some way?
SIMMS: Actually, yes. I’ve got two recruits ready and waiting. (Motions to a window
that looks down on the Vector Sigma Machine) They’ll help you find and free Vanguard
and the others.
HALF-PACK: I don’t know Simms. Making more Autobots? It just doesn’t seem right.
SIMMS:(Smiles) Don’t worry. This will be the last of them.
HALF-PACK: I hope so. Too many to keep track of.

CUT TO: Realm dodges another blade. He rolls but gets stabbed in the arm. He yells out.

REALM: I can’t keep doing this!
SHADOW ZARAK:(Chuckles) Then give up.
REALM:(Panting) But then I’d die.
SHADOW ZARAK: A possibility.
REALM: I think not. (Dodges another blade and fires a shot at the creature)
SHADOW ZARAK:(Sighs, uncaring) Suit yourself.

Realm dodges several more blades, but then gets slashed across his chest. He gasps and
falls to the ground, realizing his knees have also been taken out. The creature does it’s
best impersonation of a grin and readies itself for the final, killing, blow. Shadow Zarak’s
laugh echoes all though the chamber as he reappears in a corner.

SHADOW ZARAK: Pity. You almost gave a good fight.
REALM:(Straining and gasping) You....you can’t!
SHADOW ZARAK:(Visor widens, he chuckles) Can’t I?
REALM: We’ve done nothing to you!
SHADOW ZARAK:(Walks forward) You were born.

The Creature lunges forward and Realm lets out a final scream. High above, in a cove, a
unseen and unheard figure watches with disgust. The remains of a thin, eye covering, red
visor gleams as we FADE TO BLACK.

ACT III

FADE IN: Shadow Zarak, sitting on a stone throne, talks with Crash, Burn, and Banshee.

SHADOW ZARAK: Well. Two Autobots down, only what? Six more to go?
CRASH:(Smirks) About that.
BANSHEE:(Grumbles, quietly) This holds no sport.
SHADOW ZARAK: What was that Banshee?
BANSHEE: I said this holds no sport. We don’t even give the Autobots a chance.
SHADOW ZARAK:(Shrugs and leans back) Isn’t that the point? Not giving them a
chance?
BANSHEE:(Looking down) You know what I mean.
SHADOW ZARAK:(Visor narrows, he stands) No. No I don’t. So please, clarify.
BANSHEE: I mean, we pit Autobots up against “Bowser” in there and barely any can
even dodge his blades, let alone fight him.
SHADOW ZARAK: So?
BANSHEE:(Taken Aback) So?!? SO!?! THIS IS TORTURE!
SHADOW ZARAK:(Chuckles) So it is.

Banshee storms off, visibly angered. Shadow Zarak chuckles and leans back. Burn looks
at the steeled cavern with worry. Roars come from the cavern.

BURN: Say boss. Why’s he doing that?
SHADOW ZARAK:(Listens, hearing it for the first time, gets up) I don’t know. Let’s find
out.

Shadow Zarak raises the door as the Creature is seen, roaring in pain. It’s belly is a bright
shade of red. The Creature, in a frenzy, lashes out, almost taking off Crash’s head. He
steps back, frightened. Shadow Zarak just narrows his visor at it.

SHADOW ZARAK: What is wrong with this Mechanical Monster?
BURN:(Chuckles) Bad Autobutt?

Suddenly a plasma grenade goes off by Burn, sending both he and Zarak flying back. As
the two look around for what threw the grenade the creature rears up.

SHADOW ZARAK:(Alarmed) Look out!

The creature erupts in a shower of shrapnel and sharp objects. In the middle, ripped up
and bleeding, Realm stands, micro torch in hand.

REALM:(Dazed) Always use what’s on hand.....
SHADOW ZARAK:(Astonished) Impossible!
UNKNOWN VOICE:(Broken. Echoing throughout the cavern) Anything’s possible.

Realm shakes his head and transforms to vehicle mode. He roars out of the cavern.
Shadow Zarak hops to his feet.

SHADOW ZARAK: He must not be allowed to escape!

Shadow Zarak leaps up, transforming into his third mode, a giant metal Wasp. Crash and
Burn also transform into their car modes and all three go after the Autobot Medic. Realm
seems to slow a bit, then Transforms to robot mode and begins to run.

SHADOW ZARAK: Odd. Why would he transform?
CRASH:(Laughs) He got metal in his tires!
BURN:(Joining in) Yeah! He got.....metal?
CRASH:(Dawning) In....his tires?

The duo yell out as their own tires explode as the metal is finally pushed in deep enough.
They crash into one another and lie there, smoking. Shadow Zarak moans.

SHADOW ZARAK: Idiots!

Shadow Zarak’s missile batteries pop up from behind his wings and target the medic. They
fire, and Realm is soon engulfed in flames. Shadow Zarak laughs victoriously as we pan
over to the Autobot cell. They stare in disbelief.

TAILPIPE:(Quietly) Oh my god.
SHOCK:(In shock) They....they killed him. Up and killed him! Not even gave him a
chance!

WHIRLWIND: Thus is our own fate Shocky.
CLOAK:(Moans weakly) Well. This is just great! Game over man!

Vanguard can not say anything. He just turns away, looking at the form of Maximum.
Maximum’s optics flicker as he gives a nod and a small power down sound is heard. He
shuts his optics for the last time as his form grays. Vanguard stands over the dead
Autobot, and clenches his fist. Sorrow and anger welling up in his optics. We shift to the
Autobot Base where the Vector Sigma machine hisses open two of it’s doors and two
metal tails whip around wildly. Half-Pack crosses his arms and nods.

HALF-PACK: Lets have some fun.(FADE TO BLACK)

TO BE CONCLUDED.....