Unwelcome Guests

Log Title: Unwelcome Guests

Characters:

Location: Triax - Uraya - Southeastern Cybertron

Date: February 08, 2022

Summary: Someone crashes the Cybertron peace meeting.

As logged by Ramjet - Tuesday, February 08, 2022, 5:40 PM

Triax - Uraya - Southeastern Cybertron[]

Triax prides itself as a fiercely independent city. It welcomes Autobots, Decepticons, and neutrals alike, and maintains a strong enough defense and police force to minimize inter-factional fighting within city limits. It's been one of the first polities to take advantage of Cybertron's rebirth. Almost as soon as they got the power back on, construction sprung up across the municipality. Its shiny blue skyline gets brighter and more impressive by the cycle, beckoning back those who would consider returning to Cybertron.

Ghost is already here as those invited and entering, part of their varied groups arrive. Her swords are visible on a long table set near the doorway and she offers a faintly distant smile to shoe entering, gesturing to aid in directing the various 'dignitaries' to one or the other side of the circular table. On the table sits a small, green recordicon, the mini-dragon simply watching and taking notes of what belongs to whom, offering a toothy smile while above, nestled in the various lights and cameras is a cyber raven.

Hot Rod is entering in near the back. Hot Rod is disarmed beyond the weapons on his arms, which have peace locks upon them. He's hoping for the best here, and expecting that it will all go to the Inferno in a scooper. So that means stay in the back, stay quiet, and make sure he has clear line of sight over everything just in case.

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "I wish you all the best of luck."

Starscream worries not as he arrives, he'd intended not to bring any weapons, but, well.. never can be too careful, specially with how Bludgeon acted, he has his own weapons set aside on the table. He'd been prepping for this for MONTHS, just took forever to get everything going, which he's VERY annoyed by, but here we are...

Needless to say, he's also polished, waxed, and detailed, and looking his very best for the cameras.

Still.. He's going over all the notes he has on his datapad, he's been prepping, and was very much serious about this... Even if he did have to go and yell at Prime on his own Lawn, something Starscream is sure Prime is NEVER going to forget. "About time." He huffs to himself.

Kodiak feels a bit out of his element in this diplomatic stuff, but still, he's cleaned up as well as he can to look presentable, and reading over the datapad in front of him.

Ramjet, who had been reported missing quite some time ago, shows up with a group of also MIA Decepticons - Blitz, Road Block, and Aquablast among them. Ramjet and the others transform and land right outside the facility. Without invitations, they don't try to get in - they merely observe the proceedings from outside. They remained armed, but keep their distance from the entrances, causing no immediate trouble. For once the usually aggressive Ramjet is silent, simply watching and waiting.

The delta winged jet suddenly halts it's forwards momentum and pulls up as it bends in half. The lower half of the jet extending downwards to become legs, while arms extrude themselves from the fuselage sides.

Incognito, for his part, is present, although he's not sporting any weaponry of his own, aside from his own photon eliminator, also set at the table along with the rest. He's here simply to observe... and hope that perhaps this isn't more Decepticon shenanigans.

Up on the ceiling, a small cyberbee drone is perched upside down, though looking downwards at the scene from on high. While her Queen wasn't invited to this particular affair, that doesn't mean that she isn't above sending someone to observe as well.

Thrust has arrived without weapons as well. He has metal sign with him that says "GIVE PIES A CHANCE." He is hoping the peace accords go off without a hitch. He even purchased the sign from the Battlechargers.

Blaster is in the HOUSE. He's struttin' into this spot as cool as he always struts. He don't really have any of those violent weapons or whatever so it's more about just vibing on his way in. He offers everyone he passes some Cybertonian Dap because that's what this whole thing is about, right? Peace. So Blaster's here to get some Peace on!

Through the speakers in his legs comes a soft backtrack of 'We Are The World'. Strangely enough, the volume is on 2. Which Blaster's not too happy about but he doesn't want to get too crunk up in here.

Ramjet: Before you is a Decepticon Seeker with a black torso and purple arms terminating in blue hands. Each arm is adorned with a menacing purple weapon attached just below the shoulders, from the waist down the colours fade out to black including entirety of his legs. Attached to the back of these are his two distinctive black delta wings bearing the Decepticon insignia. His chest is separated with a purple streak which includes the cockpit of his alt mode. Above this surrounded by purple is a pitch black face with burning yellow optics mirroring the dark pleasure he enjoys from taking things head on, literally. Atop this unlike other seekers such as Starscream and Skywarp is the jet-black nosecone from his jet mode.

Ramjet carries himself with an air of a confidence only possible for those that have held a position of high esteem in the Decepticon ranks. Assertive, reckless and a little hardheaded at times here stands a more than capable Seeker leader.

<<Decepticon>> Ghost says, "Commander Starscream, the area has been secured, and agents are monitoring. You and your designated contingent are assigned one of the half circle tables with you at the center. Please assign the remainder of seating as you see fit. I will be at the end furthest from the weapons and will not interrupt unless there is a request or clarification needed."

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "understood, thank you all for your efforts."

Banshee is as decorated as Starscream, in her own way. Her Cityspeaker markings have been picked out in silver and gold leaf, leaving observers under no illusions as to who she's representing today. She stays quiet, lurking near the back of the Decepticon group. Like Starscream she steps up to the table to turn in her weapons; two Luger-styled pistols and, because she's got that sort of sense of humour, a 250kg 'Torpedo Ted' bomb, thankfully with the fuse-wells conspicuously empty.

<<Decepticon>> Ghost says, "I do as ordered Commander."

Spike hurriedly arrived at the last minute, after finally getting to Earth. It's been awhile since he was here on Cybertron. Instead of his usual work coveralls, he has some pressed slacks, a pressed shirt and a tie, and some polished shoes. He spots Ghost and gives a friendly nod, not too sure if Ghost will see it. He then makes his way near Crosscut. The time on Nebulos has pretty much left him out of the loop on recent events, so he's sitting next to his diplomatic mentor in case he needs any emergency onboarding tips. Things are going great, until he hears the song coming out of Blaster's speakers. Spike lets out small sign and mumbles to himself "really? that song?"

Ratbat has deigned to attend this meeting. It was bound to be totally /functionary/, even if no treatise was actually signed today. The assignment of roles, by-laws, and accepted lines of terminology....why it was going to be nothing but stale, overpowering bureaucracy... and Ratbat couldn't wait. He was always an administrator more than a warrior anyway, and this scratched the red tape itch he'd had for millennia. The other itch, the 'lets manipulate the masses' itch, was scratched every time he lied to Decepticon Intelligence.

There was bound to be a lot of wellwishers, and low-key threats from the rest of the Decepticons, so Ratbat deigns to get his words in Starscream's ear early. He alights on the table, and retracts his wings as he looks up to Starscream. "You will be goaded. You'll be threatened here, probably by one of us. Either side are going to expect you to break under their words. Jeers from the more....hesitant side of the Decepticons, and all that nonsense from the secondary Autobots trying to get a rise out of you. Its just how these things go. Be above it. You have to be. If you can't, leave it all right now."

Ratbat peers about at the Decepticon escorts, "Don't shake any hands you don't have to, and keep in mind that reigning in this mob of lunatics and psychopaths is going to be the real tough part, if they speak up, give em the null blaster." His red optics narrow at Blaster, "I thought I detected some radio static. hmm. Well Starscream...This is it, your moment. You succeed here, this will be a tremendous part of a legacy. The Decepticon leader who ended the war. For good......or ill." Ratbat shrugs, "Who's to say? Regardless. I'm sure there's a few dozen others wanting to whisper in your ear, or demand compensation for backing this play. Don't let any of them touch you. Contact poison is pretty deadly." With that, he takes to the air, and flies up to the ceiling.

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "I'd like body guards at each of me, and then fellow dignitaries placed beside them, and repeat as to ensure at least each of their sides are protected"

Crosscut makes his way around the room, schmoosing with Autobots, Decepticons, and neutrals alike. He's courteous and has done his research, politely asking about projects and recent happenings with each person he meets, regardless of political background. The ambassador is in his element - his silver armor is brilliantly shined, and his optics are bright and energetic. For this event, he's subtly adapted a pan-Cybertron accent, not identifying himself too strongly with any single region or faction.

Crosscut's defensive weapons are stored away in locked compartments of his forearms. His internal radio chirps and he nods to whomever he was addressing. He then excuses himself and moves to Optimus Prime's side, giving him a smile. Turning to Spike, he says quietly, "I'm so glad you could make it. Please extend Carly my deepest apologies." While his exterior is calm, Spike alone can tell that inside Crosscut is bursting with suppressed excitement.

Floodlight sits next to Starscream, feeding him intelligence information as needed but otherwise keeping her mouth shut. She glances at Ratbat and raises an optic ridge but pretends not to overhear his advice to the Regent.

Valour lurks towards the back, with the Con security contingent, his arm lasers and replacement sword sitting on the table nearby. He frowns as Ramjet and the others land outside. He looks from them to Starscream, but he, too, remains silent for now. There can be serious inquiries later.

Optimus Prime doesn't break the line of those removing visible or well-known weaponry. If anything, he patiently waits his turn, giving the small dragon a curious look over before setting his Path-Blaster Rifle and that well known energy axe of his on the table with a thoughtful, "Thank you." He turns, watches to where he and his are being directed, then steps to the table, making his way towards that center curve. A polite "Greetings" as he passes Ghost and a nod towards Hot Rod and Incognito who gets a thoughtful brow furrow.

Optimus Prime settles into the seat at the center of his side of the arranged duo of tables and steeples his hands in front of him, waiting with the patient air of a saint. Or a Prime.

Windblade arrives late, the Camien Cityspeaker moving as quietly as one can in such a situation, pausing only long enough to assess who is there and where before she makes her way quietly towards pausing long enough near Optimus to speak to him quietly, "Apologizes, Prime.. Metroplex was a bit.. anxious about this, it took longer then expected to settle him." With a polite dip of her to him she moves over to Crosscut unless directed otherwise.

Dust Devil has arrived with Crosscut, the young mech playing the part of junior ambassador to the elder mech's senior. He helps carry a small box with datapads and the like and despite radio chatter to the contrary, is doing his best to pretend to be behaving himself.

Red Alert had thought to sit in the audience and watch the fias...proceedings. But, Prime has summoned him and he's answering the call. And he's gonna snark.

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

With a foam finger and a bucket of Energon popcorn, Thrust takes a seat next to Ratbat. He still holds his sign but under his left arm. "I think I can get used to not fighting." He shrugs, "Though I am not sure if we can get Runasmuck and Runabutt to understand that things will be now quiet and we have to stop shooting at the trucks and cars." He kind of wishes Sideswipe was around. He did enjoy that bit of peace they had the one time.

Ratbat yawns from the rafter of the room and samples an enercubit. " At least the refreshments are decent enough. Who has odds that this ends up in a firefight? I'd like to make some bets."

Omen side-optics Ratbat and snaps her beak at him, plating ruffling up aggressively. she side-claws away from the other rafter dweller.

Ratbat squints his optics, "Oh you wound me with your savagery, Omen." He raises a tiny claw up to his head in mockery. " Get your own fuel."

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "May the negotiations go as well as expected"

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "Indeed. My agents will be there unless you need me present. I will record from here."

Omen wark-kraas, optics flashing, "Here working, not fueling. Guarding."

<<Decepticon>> Ghost replies evenly, "Yes. -your- Ratbat is here, Commander Soundwave. And Commander Floodlight is also present."

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "As are you."

<<Decepticon>> F.A. Ratbat chuckles "Oh I wouldn't miss this."

Kodiak finds a place to sit, settling in. A glance is paid to the Decepticons sharing the gallery, but he tries to pay them no mind, instead focusing on the proceedings.

<<Decepticon>> Deathsaurus says, "Heeh. does seem interesting."

<<Decepticon>> Ghost says, "That's debatable."

Hot Rod is almost tempted to lay down his own wager, before glancing at Ratbat, "So, what's the news on Megatron coming back? Figure that this sort of thing is going to draw his attention sooner or later."

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "you are no longer one of my agents?"

As people are let into the peanut gallery, Ramjet and his friends move to the back, forming up along the wall and standing quietly at ease, not mixing with the others. Ramjet glances at Thrust, and gives a small nod if Thrust looks back, but doesn't approach his conehead brother or say anything. When Valour joins the gallery, Ramjet fades to the side a little more, trying to use his new black and purple paint job to fade into the shadows.

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "Oh this is not the time for a lovers squabble"

<<Decepticon>> Ghost says, "Do excuse me, I have work to do. -click-"

<<Decepticon>> Soundwave says, "See what I mean. It made things ineffective. Ratbat, monitor for me."

Banshee steps into the observation gallery, looking to the others. She thinks a moment, then opens one of her thigh compartments. It's evidently one of the ones linked to her subspace, because she pulls from it a long rack of jerrycan-shaped energon containers. She browses the selection a moment, then pulls one of the cans free, along with a rack of drinking cubes. "Libations, anyone? Courtesy of Trypticon."

Optimus Prime nods at Windblade as she enters, optics crinkling as she settles herself at the 'diplomats' end of the nominally 'Autobot' table. As others move and shift, filtering into the more ancillary areas to observe, he unseals taht mug and pours himself a glass of whatever is in that mini Keg. "Well, Starscream. Esteemed Ambassadors, Autobots, and Decepticons. How do we wish to proceed with this? Formal or an initial open discussion?"

Incognito glances over at Ratbat. "Only you would want to lay that kind of a wager," he says with a shake of his head. "Clearly, we still have a long way to go."

The tiny cyberbee drone ignores the back-and-forth, unmoving, and focuses all its' attention on the proceedings below.

Omen scrunches down and returns to observing and recording.

So many things to say but not to do here. Hot Rod feels itchy. But as Autobots they're supposed to give peace the benefit of doubt, so here they are. He's expecting more 'trouble' out of this but is here to stay polite and as one of the observers. That means playing along with things and obeying orders and protocols. So he would just sit and glance at Banshee, "No, thank you."

Starscream was partly annoyed by Ratbat telling him what he already knew, but at the same time it brought a bit of twisted joy, that Ratbat seemed to think him capable enough to offer such advice, hells, the whole fact there seemed to be people that BELIEVED in him actually brought him some sort of sick joy.

Interestingly.. Things have so far gone off without a hitch so far, he'll definitely need to give Ghost, Soundwave and their like a praising for all this, he's actually impressed.

Course one red femme catches his attention, whom he's not heard or seen since his one request, a pity really, but.. still, course they would meet under these terms, wouldn't be other way wouldn't it? And was it obvious he was looking at her? He wasn't sure, he looked back down at his datapad.

Least that annoying natural of a canine wasn't around, though part of him wondered /why/ as he'd started this whole thing, well one less person to gloat at him... He can't help but internally roll his eyes at his comms, whatever was going on between /those two/ better not clog the coms.

His attention then snaps to Prime. "I'd prefer to start formal, as I'm quite sure there will be those with /opinions/ come open discussion." Starscream says with a hint of annoyance, oh he knows there are going to be stupid questions, that will need stupid answers.

Dust Devil sits by crosscut and uses his survival skills to assess those around him. His weapons are retracted into their housings. Much of his focus is on crosscut to make sure he is catching everything while still learning this trade.

Omen hrmphs, grumbling about idiots. She talons over the rafter-beam she's sitting on, plating rippling as she watches.

Crosscut nods to Windblade as she joins the Big Kids' table. "Glad you could make it," he says sincerely. "Thank you for calming Metroplex. I understand his concerns, but as a Camien, your unique perspective is invaluable to the conversation. We need those capable of thinking outside the same box of endless war." Crosscut glances at Dust Devil and Spike, as other members of his team for whom he has great respect.

Crosscut doesn't comment on Prime's question about format, leaving that question to the regent. If Starscream's rude response irks him, he doesn't let on. Instead, he simply says, "Very well." He turns to his commander. "Optimus Prime," he asks formally, "what concrete steps are you willing to take to deescalate the conflict between the Autobots and Decepticons?" He turns to face the other table. "Regent Starscream, I will ask you the same question."

Floodlight meanwhile silently pulls up personal information on all present, and up-to-the-astrosecond intelligence information and both Autobot and Decepticon troop buildups and locations for Starscream to have at his fingertips.

Windblade moves and sits down near Crosscut, giving the Ambassdar a nod in greeting as well, the Cityspeaker having followed suit with many of those here today and tidied herself up though she herself did not go all out and 'glitterfy' herself, simply ensured she was a proper representative of Caminus. She does take the time to finally look towards the Con side of things and gives a respectful nod of greeting and acknowledgement to Starscream before she clasps her hands in her lap and settles in to listen for now incase she is called upon for one reason or another but smiles as Crosscut addresses her, "These talks are meant to bring peace.. a worried and jumpy Titan would cause /minor/ issues if he decided to take watching over me into his own hands."

Blaster is relaxing up in here and just bumping some peaceful instrumentals out of his speakers. Just to try and keep everyone in the Peanut Gallery in chill mode.

Hot Rod is not one of those chilling out. The Cavalier is fully quiet, and sweeping about the place. Seeming too far wary that something is going to go wrong when there is not the slightest semblance of evidence for it.

Ramjet also politely declines Banshee's offer with a slight smile and a raised hand. He glances at Blitz and back to the assembled Autobot and Decepticon leaders. To get into the gallery, Ramjet had to give up his new hand blasters, and he flexes his gauntlets, looking anxious without his weaponry. Still, he and his new cohort remain silent still, optics narrowing any time Optimus Prime or Starscream speaks. Ramjet does give Blaster a perplexed frown as he starts pumping out soft easy listening.

Omen waaaarks and peers at the 'other host' "Bot bot!.. Aaautobooot.. hosst? Helped.. carrier-idiot. Did not thank you for freedom."

Ghost settles in at her position at the 'diplomats' end of that curved table. A polite nod is given as Spike waves but her expression returns to distant and focused. She's not adorned nor 'dressed' up at all, simply in her clean 'whites', bereft of any markings factional or otherwise. She watches Crosscut across the small gap before resting her hands in front of her, growing still, simply observing and listening now.

The green 'dragon' on the weapons table settles in to watch from there.

Red Alert shifts in his seat, trying to find the most comfortable position from which to observe as much of the room and the proceedings as he can. He fidgets with a stylus as he looks over the rules of engagement laid out on the datapad in front of him. His expression is grumpy and skeptical as he hrumphs softly to himself.

Spike smiles and looks around. "To paraphrase a human adage ... this is your party. I'm just an observer" He then looks at Starscream and Optimus Prime "However, I just want to state the obvious... most likely everyone here will not get entirely what they want. A war this long will have some level of inflexibility on both sides, but just this moment has me feeling a great sense of hope."

Spike sighs "If I can say anything, I would say to consider that what is discussed and agreed upon here will have repercussions far outside this planet."

Spike folds his hands. "Specifically, I am here as an advocate of the citizens of Earth. And I ... strongly ... make a plea that any agreements involving cease fire MUST involve a full and permanent end of aggression toward Earth and its citizens." He nods to Starscream. "Thank you... "

Banshee shrugs a little and pours a cube for herself, taking a sip and watching. "Zo tense."

Optimus Prime nods. "Then formal it is. As Regent Starscream is the one to have asked for these negotiations to occur, I leave the answering of the initial question to him and his party. Myself, the Autobots, we only wish for a united, and peaceful Cybertron, but not at the cost of freedoms and liberties. We are here to listen, like we have listened many times before. Regent Starscream, I yield the position of first response to the question to you."

And finally Hot Rod goes to try and break the wall of silence and paranoia that makes up the two sides sitting separately, "so, uh.." He would point at Ramjet, "Question.. Unrelated to current events?"

Dust Devil looks at Spike and smiles as he manages to eloquently state his case. He looks at Optmus and then at Crosscut before settling on Red alert. A grin appears before he goes to focusing on other things.

Starscream knits his fingers together as he listens, while also writing down notes, while quick, their much to the point. "First and foremost, I'd like to mention I have already taken steps for such, such is the release of all of Megatron's previous slave labor, given I doubt they want much of /our/ help, but it is a step, I've also been allocating resources to the rebuilding of cities and rebuilding informational archives.." Starscream explains, eyeing up those around, before looking back.

"As for earth... I can agree to such, mind, there will still be those that will attempt to cause some form of bafoonary, but I suspect by that point no one will be jumping to blame one side or another, which is something I hope we can agree upon here."

Starscream muses, glancing about, before continuing back on point.

"I'm willing to allocate resources necessary to help with those that have undoubtedly gone to the autobots and other neutral cities for aid, that and I am sure building supplies will be needed for repair of the cities of the reformatted planet, given the Decepticons do control a vast amount of resources during Megatron's rule, and given the cooperation in New Harmonex, I'm quite sure both sides can work together to work together in such cases." Starscream explains. "As for.. being united, as Prime says, there will need to be... Compromise." Starscream says with a spin of his wrist.

"As I'm quite sure, you're aware there those on our side that are quite fearful of being persecuted after all is said and done, despite what is said or promised upon."

Ramjet looks around awkwardly about being singled out. "Yes, Autobot?" he asks, optic ridges raised. He turns slightly so he can focus part of his attention on Hot Rod while still monitoring the peace proceedings.

Blitz flexes his green hands, looking longingly over at the rotors he had to leave on the table. He feels almost naked without them.

Road Block also glances at his distant saw, then back at Hot Rod to growl. Ramjet gives him a threatening look.

Hot Rod would glance over and hold his hands up in a neutral position, "Have you guys ever thought about trying to review some of your hiring protocols? I mean.. You're the guys that work with Misfire and Triggerhappy, the Battlechargers.. Remember the time that Weirdwolf got his head stuck in Blot's aft and set on fire? I mean.. Have you guys ever sort of tried to review those things?"

Banshee looks to Road Block, shaking her head slightly. "Platz." She says. "Don't make me tell Trypticon you're the reason this all kicked off." She says. She pours a measure of the pale green engex she's chosen for tonight and offers it to him. "Calm yourself."

Optics moodily flickering from robot to robot on the stage, and keeping an eye on the periphery, Quickswitch observes with skeptical trepidation. This is peace.. that which he has fought for under the Autobot banner.. depending how the talks to, this could be a fortuitous, monumental moment in Cybertronian history. The massive sixchanger turns grim as his optics settle on the Regent, Starscream. Hmph. It would only take a moment, just one shot... He folds his arms, face pinched in a terse expression.

Omen grumble-kraas softly, still observing from on high.

Incognito watches quietly, his attention focused solely on the proceedings below. The cyberbee drone, in the meantime, moves a little to get a better visual angle on the proceedings, though pauses for a moment, multi-faceted optics flickering towards Blitz briefly before resuming focus on the Autobots and Decepticons at the table.

Crosscut glances back to Windblade to nod agreeably. He then turns to listen to Starscream. "Quite a generous and reasonable offer, Regent Starscream," he says appreciatively. He turns to Optimus Prime. "And what is your response, sir, both to the offer, and to Regent Starscream's concerns about anti-Decepticon hostility in a post-war world? Admittedly, many blame Megatron for the end of the Golden Age. It's reasonable to expect some enmity to be extended to his former followers."

Crosscut makes a note to discuss later who would enforce the no-violence ban on Earth, but leaves that to after the larger issues are debated.

Floodlight brings up stats on number of slaves released and how many have been relocated, how many remained in Decepticon cities as free citizens, statistics of Earth violence caused by Decepticons versus others like Cobra, etc. Whatever Starscream needs for future talking points.

Windblade moves her head just a bit from time to time as she focuses on who is talking, remaining mostly still though her optics do narrow a bit at one comment in particular but remains quiet for now as she waits to hear more details before she is tempted to add to the talks.

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "On the subject of Earth, please do remind them that Trucal Abysmia willingly joined the Empire, Reichsführer Starscream. We couldn't just abandon zem.""

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "will do."

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Danke!"

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "And please do maintain a watch along the perimeter in the event of provocateurs"

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Of course, I have zer peanut gallery under covert surveillance."

Ramjet smirks at Hot Rod. "I don't make the recruitment decisions, but you can trust there is soon going to be a purge," he says darkly. "It is time for a new generation of Decepticons to rise and take power." He glances at Starscream. "All in the interests of peace, of course. If Talkscream can't handle it, we know who will."

Road Block glances at Banshee in surprise. His red optics narrow, and he takes a moment to compose his thoughts before responding to Banshee in German curses so foul the galley's forcefield ripples.

Ghost tilts her head, watching Starscream and listening. Even recording. A nod as Crosscut takes the lead on presenting questions thus far. he is a more senior diplomate after all. And her orders were to arrange this, not coordinate words. But there is a small frown that crosses her face and she makes a note before, "Regent Starscream, you mention releasing those who did not wish to be a part of the empire, even using the term 'slave'. What of the free-cities that were taken in haste prior to the beginning of this cessation of hostilities such as the City of Calyhex and the medical facilities there? And the subsequent violence in those city-states that have foresworn the Empire in its entirety."

Ghost leans forward, only now showing something like an expression, "What of those that wish to wear the badge no longer? Or those who have left the umbrella of the empire? Will they, too, be granted 'freedom' as well, no longer pursued?" A look at Optimus, expression sharpening, "Both sides are not free of the levels of crimes that war has graced us with. How will any of us be judged moving forward?"

Now that definitely catches Hot Rod by surprise, "Good luck to you guys on it. I mean.. Well, good luck." The whole 'Decepticon' and 'purge' thing is just filed away. If Blaster hasn't caught it, then Hot Rod will bring it up later to just note for someone i Operations to review.

Red Alert watches Starscream closely as the Decepticon Regent begins his spiel. His lips are twitching, as if he's fighting the urge to start saying "Liar" becuase if he starts now, he's not going to stop for a while and it'll end up being Yet Another Incident and he'll have to go talk someone again because people will Be Concerned about him. Starscream's remarks about Decepticons fearing being persecuted gives him a nasty knock, causing his jaw hinges to creak audibly with the effort of keeping his mouth shut.

Vizier uncoils from his position on the weapons table, raising his head. "What of us who have just joined? Are we to be blamed for millenia of war while we while we are here only to bring about this compromise?"

Omen hunkers down and lets out a series of soft, startled knok-knok-knok noises.

Banshee gives Road Block a thoroughly unimpressed look. "You are representing zer Reich, even here, and you use language like /zat/, to a Cityspeaker of your own side, no less?" She shakes her head softly.

Spike frowns, Starscream's comments about Earth aggression sound ... crazily 'vague' - like there will still be some 'bad apples.' That doesn't bode well for him at all. He knows Earth's population won't take that. He opens his mouth to challenge Starscream, but after seeing Ghost's and Vizier's comments he looks at Crosscut and leans back, opting to be quiet...for now.

Serving as security, Quickswitch moves position, nervously wondering if /he/ will appear. A wellspring of bitter mirth. No, not /that one/ not here. Thus far, thank Primus, everything has remained uneventful. The sixchanger looks on.

Ramjet gives Hot Rod a grin of pure malice. "No luck will be needed, but thank you, Autobot." He shuts back up, turning back as Vizier asks a question about new Decepticon recruits.

Decepticon Auto Roller Road Block, who looks like he got rejected by the Constructicons after they chose *Scavenger* instead, glowers and takes a step towards Banshee. "I do," he growls in a low voice. "What are you going to do about it, arschgeige?"

Valour looks over and frowns, missing the words but clearly hearing the tone.

Hot Rod would stay quiet. The point has been made and.. Well, it would be rude to attempt to interfere in 'private Decepticon affairs' now. He's going to sit to make sure that he has his hands in front of him and visible and disengages some of his motor functions to ensure he won't be jumpy.

Dust Devil frowns as he processes the words being spoken. "If we are unable to find a neutral starting point where blame is no longer beng pointed at either side then these proceedings would be nothin but a lesson in futility. Both sides are guilty of atrocities. what is that saying an eye or optic for an eye? what ya end p is with alot of mechs blind and unable to see a future before them. But we do have to admit there are those in both factions that will need help fnding places in a peaceful society. These talks can only be a beginnin to a real united cybertron.

Banshee shakes her head with a soft sigh. "It is not what /I/ am going to do about it - although I assure you I am quite capable of leaving you writhing on zer floor in agony without even touching you." Banshee replies, calmly. "The important question you must ask yourself is what /He/ is going to do about it after the fact." She indicates her armband, bearing Trypticon's sigil. "Do you wish for yourself, and anyone associated with you, to be banned from Trypticon? Or worse, the target of his ire? Calm yourzelf unt consider your actions, Schweinehund."

Appearing completely unruffled, Banshee pulls her enercig packet from her pocket and pulls one free. She taps it down the packet a few times, inserts it into a long, Titanbronze holder and then lights it.

Optimus Prime studies Starscream, watching the gestures, listening to the words. "Earth is not part of these discussions. We, Autobots, have our own treaties with them, the Decepticons do not. IF you wish to remain there, that.. is another discussion." He makes a few notes on the datapad, "Cessation of hostilities is only the beginning. The freeing of those pressed into service was a step, Starscream. The other now being taking responsibility for their long term well-being. Of which we Autobots have been working on."

"Before we are dragged down with back and forths, let me begin with simply this. Starscream, do you wish to end the mutual hostilities formally?"

Omen glares downwards, looking at hte knot of 'cons to see if any are worth perching on. Nope. She half fans a wing, preening the line of a bladed feather with a tiny, malicious kraa.

Starscream knits a brow. "Yes, /those/.." he says, rubbing at his temple, those have been a HEADACHE to deal with... He didn't like how close some where too the Autobot capital... Mainly Kalis, and the Tyrest sector. "I'm willing to compromise in releasing some of them, mainly those around Iacon, however others, I admit, I am unsure, however there /are/ those that have been putting in to restore such, but don't call me.. coy, I am willing to admit that there is a bit of a strain in maintaining them all under a single front, my hope is that a compromise can be made to release them, but maintain a sort of.." He'd spin his pen as he thought about the words to use.

"Cooperation, in such areas." He nods. And then glances back at Spike and then to Prime. "Going back to earth, there are those we cannot just leave behind in our accords, but if we can leave that to /off world/ I'm sure it can be sorted, given it goes without saying, there will be those who will join one side or another, given Earth is.. intertwined with ours, much to the horror of past accords." Starscream huffs.

He glances at Ghost once more. ".../I/ have no issue with those not willing to wear a badge or to leave such behind and see no reason to waste resources presueing such...Negotiations will need to be made with those cities in Decepticon 'territory' as it were.. To come to a agreement in how to coexist." Starscream adds. After all, Megatron was the one that made 'The List'.. Sure Starscream would throw petty jabs, but even he isn't THAT barbaric.

His optics dart to Prime, his fingers knitted now. "..Yes." he says simply and straight to the point, his posture straight, internally, a little tense though. "Hence my ordinance of the ceasefire from our end some months ago." he explains.

Dust Devil's comments get a very light tightening of Hot Rod's optics that quickly relaxes. Normally he might want to jump in about how the vast majority of those are -Decepticon- ones.. But this is neither the time or the place. The fact that the Decepticons at least seem willing to bring the up or live in denial.. Well, that's a wait and see thing on. The offering over from Starscream seems a little more than fair, which also has him wary. But.. Prime things that Starscream is here in good faith and he'll respect that. He's just a grunt.

Road Block scowls at Banshee. "Why would I want to visit that kotzbrocken, anyway?" he scoffs. "Bring him on. When -"

Ramjet slaps Road Block's arm to get his attention, and then just glares. Road Block looks over, realizing he's garnered Valour's attention as well as others with his taunting. He glowers angrily but shuts up for now.

Crosscut glances back at Spike, catching his look and nodding silently in agreement of letting Prime talk first before the two of them chip in. When Prime speaks, Crosscut takes notes, making sure his official follow-ups will track according to the Autobot leader's words. Likewise, he listens and takes notes on Starscream's answers, but for now, doesn't feel the need to interject. The leaders are talking. It's an important step. Of course everything won't be resolved today, but it's a start.

Banshee is about to say more to Road Block when both Ramjet and Starscream interrupt her. She blinks at the Regent's words, smiling slightly. It seems like he actually means it. Well, there's a truth for Trypticon.

Banshee gives Road Block a glare, then looks to Ramjet. "Control him, will you?" She says, as if the other Decepticon is a wayward dog, before turning her attention back to proceedings

Windblade keeps listening for now, still watching whoever is currently speaking.

The proceedings.. Well, that's taking Hot Rod by surprise even as he's running factors through his processor. Maybe it's now.. Give peace a chance? Well.. If anything is going to show up to disrupt things.. Now is about the place. But he's not moving or shifting his position to look about. No sense in spooking anyone.

Ghost tilts her head the other way, still wearing her 'observer' mask. A nod as words fly back and forth and more notes are taken. She then looks up again, fixing Starscream with a placid expression, "So you say. Now. You are giving away much, Regent Starscream, what do you -want- in return?" A pause, collecting herself, expression going steely as her gaze focuses on Optimus. Now there's a twitch of finials, the slightest movement.

"If you really want this -peace, Regent Starscream is offering to you and yours on a silvered platter. The release of long held territories, those that no longer with to 'serve' and abide by oaths, what are you willing to give up, Optimus?" Ghost tilts her head, leaning back slightly, attention distracted before refocusing, "If you really want peace, Optimus, you should step down. Religious figures have no -place- in leadership."

Omen waaaaarrrrks.. twitching up in the rafters.

Ramjet is a known disrupter - by the Pit, he'll even ram other Decepticons if they get too close - and yet, he seems to be keeping Road Block mostly under control, and fellow Conehead Thrust has actively expressed interest in lasting peace. What is Cybertron coming to? Might this actually work? Then Ghost suggests Optimus Prime step down as leader, and even Ramjet's mouth hangs open.

Vizier nods solemnly, "They're a relict of our distant past, let all your people have a vote be a democracy, Autobots, not an... autocracy."

Red Alert slaps a hand on the table. "I object!" he says. "What assurances do we have that this isn't *et another* attempt by the Decepticons to decapitate Autobot leadership for some scheme of their own? Or are you as willing to let your people elect a new leader?" He snorts at the very idea.

Spike frowns and can't help but let emotion come over him. Humans... He blinks and takes his microphone. "Wait... Ghost...with all due respect, peace is a two-way path at minimum. One of the only reasons we are here is because of Optimus Prime." He looks over at Optimus.

"Optimus Prime has fought his ENTIRE life for peace! Yes, those who are blind to religion and religion alone should not be in positions of power like this, but Optimus has been a steadfast defender of beings who wish nothing more than to be free...not only on Cybertron, but on other planets as well!" He looks at Ghost pauses...feeling like he might have overstepped things. He nods to Ghost. "Sorry...I yield my time."

Hot Rod would very quietly snort to himself, "Yes, Regent, Emperor of Destruction.. Those are all.." Then he goes quiet. This isn't his negotiation. And now he's back to his full distrust of Starscream.

Dust Devil snorts, "Sure...we can always put up another senate. At least with Prme we can hope the blasted nightlight would tell him when things aren't a good idea. Last time I checked Optimus has done an admiral job of listening to his fell cybertronians no matter their station. And as cybertron heals, areas of cybertron will govern themselves until Prime is allowed to relax. But there is no reason fer him to quit just yet."

Ramjet smirks, glancing at Blitz and Road Block. Blitz remains calm, but Road Block still looks ready for a fight. At Ramjet's look, however, he nods back and keeps his silence... and temper. For now.

Banshee blinks at Ghost's words, then chuckles. "She has a point. It's the same reason I am only in charge of Trypticon. I count, to some, as a religious figure, a prophet or emissary of a Titan."

"An order of ceasefire is not the same as a formal agreement on both sides to participate in such. We've only responded to attacks since you and your shave pulled back." Optimus nods at Crosscut before continuing, "If we, those of us here and now, agree to a formal ending of hostilities, from there we can build upon that one single moment, a beacon of hope for all, for the now, and the future, Starscream. From that moment we can negotiate on terms that both of our sides can agree upon, live with, thrive on"

There is a slight pause at the 'step down', "While I am the Leader of the Autobots, Ambassador Ghost, I am guided by my command team and those that council me. In a matter such as this, while I speak for the Autobots, I do not do it alone, nor without their wishes and words to guide me. Should the matter of stepping back be formally brought to the table.." tone stern, "It will be given consideration by my command and council and thoroughly reviewed before even considered. I will, do what is -best- for Cybertron and all those that live here."

Omen warbles, "Buir is an -idiot-.."

Starscream smirks. "Indeed, what will you give? What I want is a.. clean slate, for those under the Decepticon banner." Minus a few but he doesn't say THAT aloud... not yet anyway. "And to be allowed work within whatever new government there be formed, instead of simply being shunned as 'evil' and 'untrustworthy'.. After all those who would come from other colonies would not even know of such things." Starscream muses.

Starscream keeps his hand folded, but for when he writes a note, but they soon come back together. A slightly ammused smirk at Red Alert's outburst. "Indeed.. You're held in high esteem in regards to past religions, having you seated in a governing position would be detrimental, no offense too you of course, but I think we can all agree that Cybertron's people need to be the ones to choose their leaders." Starscream agrees, side opticing Red Alert and Spike. "Mind, there maybe a place, there maybe not, heavy is the crown, as they say." He nods with a open hand gesture. "But that will be determined by what Cybertron's people decide.. After all, its what you would ask of Megatron had he been here and willing to listen." Starscream adds with a cunning smile.

"Of course, but I figured it a start along with what else I have done in proving such to get us here." Starscream nods. "Well then, shall we make this a formal agreement then?" Starscream asks, folding his arms.

Thrust pauses and looks for another Decepticon grunt to talk to, "Pstt, I am confused. Are we doing this for real? I am all for it but we are called Decepticons. We aren't called /Trust/icons. I just want to make sure that if I relax, you all don't just jump and start fighting. I didn't bring any weapons and I didn't want to."

Engines can be heard roaring overhead. Within moments, a unfamiliar ebony stealth bomber wearing Decepticon symbols flies into view , firing missiles at the ceiling, exploding himself an entrance. The stealth bomber transforms, his crimson optics looking over the crowd, and then the accords. "I thought I had made things clear." a familiar dark voice rasps. "There will be peace on Cybertron once the Autobots surrender to me. Not when Starscream gives them the empire..." he motions with his hand. "If you will. Bring up images of Stanix and Helex." he says. "An example needs to be made." Can it be? Only one person would have the arrogance and raw audacity to make his presence known. Can it be? Megatron has returned.

Ramjet looks over at his conehead brother-in-arms. "For once, Subparscream seems sincere. However, it could just mean he's getting better at lying. Stay alert. Listen for the 'Rains of Castemere'," he snickers, not expecting many to get his Earth media reference. He's probably been spending too much time with Thundercracker. He smiles as the roof is blown open and a powerful figure flies in. "Now is the time," he chuckles, and he and his team step forward.

<<Decepticon>> Floodlight says, "Starscream, sir! Explosions detected in Helex and Stanix!"

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Oh for..."

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "What the slag?!"

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "... is this our doing!? Requesting update from the conference."

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "NO"

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "It isn't!"

Just before the explosions, Crosscut had checked his notes. He looks at Ghost and Starscream. "I'm sure a compromise can be reached," he says confidently. "A Cybertronian Parliament-" Before he can finish his though, the roof ruptures above him. Reacting quickly, Crosscut leaps to protect Spike with his body, protecting the human from ceiling fragments and blaster fire alike.

Floodlight eeps and ducks beneath the table, covering her large head with her small tablet. She immediately starts reassessing the situation based on new information.

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Somebody clarify vot I'm seeing, bitte?"

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "Floodlight, update!"

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "I need information on what the ever loving slag is going on!"

<<Decepticon>> Deathsaurus says, "as always better than cable."

"Is that... is that... Omnicron? I heard about Omnicron striking panic on Earth these days!" says Thrust. "He was joined by Delta I think!"

Windblade sighs a bit before shaking her head just a tiny bit but doesn't say anything as others speak up loudly. Concern flashes across her face before she resettles it into a smooth and blank look as she waits for the actual diplomats to keep things organized and peaceful. But of course, this is Cybertron, so that does not happen as a new arrival shows up with a explosive entrance.. and mayhem in other locations. She stands up, hands sliding towards her blades but she does not draw them as she waits to see what happens.

Vizier snarls and arches his back like a terran feline, "What treachery is this, Autobots?"

Red Alert knew it. He knew it. He told them. Any Decepticon talks of peace are nothing but a lie meant to lure the Autobots into a false sense of security so they can shoot us like fishibots in a barrel. The only thing he *hadn't* predicted was which one of the Decepti-creeps would be leading the attack. He snarls back at Vizier. "Look at the sigils, sunshine!" he snaps. "That's Decepticon purple and you bloody well know it!"

<<Decepticon>> Floodlight says shakily, "A new figure has interrupted the conference. Frame is unknown but voice and mannerisms match Megatron. Feeds from our spies in Helex and Stanix report detonations across public squares and government buildings. They don't match any missions given by Decepticon Intelligence, unless they were initiated personally by Commander Soundwave."

Ghost writes down a few additional notes, giving Spike the smallest of frowns before her expression returns to net-neutral at best. "It is something to be considered, if there is to be a peace and a planetary governance, all must agree on who.. should be allowed to join. And you, Optimus Prime, would be the center of concern for many of mine." Then there is the sound of engines overhead, nothing to be terribly concerned with, the city does have security monitoring. But it's the explosions. As the roof is ripped back and debris falls, she pushes away from the table, twisting to avoid debris, optics narrowing at the form. Wings give a single slight re-angle. "Who the ever-loving frag do you -think- you are?" Quietly spoken, but crisp and clear.

File:MegatronStealthBomber.png

Primus Pilus

Dust Devil raises his hands and works on rojecting a forcefield to help keep the rubble from hitting the delegates! "I don't care what sigil everyone is wearing, we need ta evacuate before the dark bomber adds us to his counts!"

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Reichsführer Starscream. I am on my way to assist, what are your orders?"

The whine of approaching engines are perhaps the first sign to Incognito that things might turn amiss. He looks up as the negotiations continue, a small frown creasing his features. But when the explosions rock the building, he's already on the move, first to grab a couple of bystanders watching the proceedings and jerk them back before they take a nasty tumble. He doesn't even bother to stop long enough for thanks, however; he has somewhere else to be.

The cyberbee drone, having that seeming sixth-sense that insects have, actually flies off, zipping through the falling rubble of the ceiling like a certain roguish smuggler through a certain asteroid field. Finding another vantage point, it lands, focusing attention on the new arrival. The Queen will /definitely/ want everything she can get in analyzing this one.

Banshee stands up at the carnage going on, hands dropping to where her pistols should be, but aren't. She cusses quietly in German and then cricks her neck, the cogs all turning one or two teeth in their races. She starts to make her way towards the stage. ""Reichsführer Starscream. I am on my way to assist, what are your orders?" She says into her comms, moving slowly enough to change course as needed.

The newcomer snaps his finger just at the same time the bombs go off. "I am Primus Pilus, leader of the Decepticons. You may know me as Megatron." He says. "You saw what happened to Helex and Stanix. No one leaves my empire. No peace is made. Without my authority. Or you will follow their fates."

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Until I see proof he's just another pretender to zer throne."

<<Decepticon>> Soundwave says, "they were not but if this our lord's return...."

Ramjet and his team move to block the exit from the gallery. Ramjet touches the side of his chest, and his Decepticon sigil flips - it's still a Decepticon sigil, but the design is slightly different, and light blue instead of purple.

Road Block turns into a lime green mining loader, revving its engine and spoiling for someone to ram.

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "they were not but if this is our Lord's return...."

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "I can't... tell. The voice matches but voices are easy enough to adjust. Until I see proof this is Megatron, I'm not buying it."

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Primus Pilus sends a radio transmission.

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

The young robot begins falling forwards, as his roof spins into place, legs come together, chest rises into position, and arms form into doors, converting him once again into a futuristic hot rod car.

Primus Pilus sends a radio transmission.

A quick series of rapid back and forth insults with their invader, Hot Rod is transforming to vehicle mode. "Hey, Ramjet! I'm sorry." Then he's going to hit the accelerator, trying to just smash through the blockade to try and send Ramjet flying out of the way and put the pedal to the medal, tires screeching to try and punch a hole in it for the others to get out!

>> Hot Rod tries to ram Ramjet but misses. <<

Optimus Prime focuses that blue gaze of his on Starscream, "Again, should my Autobots consider it, then so shall I." He looks over at Crosscut, Spike, then at Red Alert, brows crinkling. "There are some, even among your own kind, by your own words that a clean slate isn't going to be possible, Starscr-"

Boom goes the ceiling. Optimus pushes up from his seat, moving to shield Red Alert, as the closest, from the falling debris. This newcomer is looked at and over, and one hand tightens into a fist. "There will be no surrender. We come to this meeting as two sides looking to join together for the future. Not for one side to bow and bend to the other." Optics narrow, "Then negotiate, after you are proven to be who you claim to be. We've seen several pretenders to the name before. Prove it, or be removed from these proceedings."

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "I would -encourage- an extraction from the area."

Omen waaarks from above, twitching. "Buir get out, get out buir.."

Ramjet moves quickly to the side and kicks at Hot Rod, trying to throw him off course to slam into the wall instead. "You try to ram the king of the skies? Foolish Autobot!" Ramjet's gaze flicks to Thrust. "Brother, join us. Failscream is no leader - he was a loser on Earth, and he's a loser here. Megatron is the true Primus Pilus of the Decepticons - the one that will lead the Cybertronian Empire to victory! Join the new generation of Decepticons. Let's kill these Autobots and their tired cries for peace."

>> Ramjet misses Hot Rod with Bash. <<

Starscream looks up at the new comer, not knowing who this was, pushing himself up and slamming his hands down on the table. "And whom the slag are you?! Other then some hooligan from a side-show of overly edgy youths?!" Starscream shrieks, a sneer on his face, he's just as surprised as everyone else, a bead of sweat? on his brow as he hears of the explosions, he mutters trying to keep composure... Of course, ooof course this would happen here, and now, should of done it over channels, that way no one could interfere but nooooo!

"I need information on what the ever loving slag is going on!" He yells into his com in a panic, he was /not/ going to get blamed for this.. That and this interloper, no.. no, no.. no, he was not going to STEAL his victory from him! Not while it's RIGHT IN FRONT OF HIM!

If this was megatron.. Of course, of course he'd show up to knock Starscream down right when he was going to win, snatch victory from him and prove himself the better leader, and for once, remind Megatron how fleeting his memory will be! It angers Starscream to his spark, showing a full on toothy snarl, all Starscream can see right now is red, pure red.. kicks his heel jets on without thinking from where he stood, drawing one of his beam-sabers and attempting to stab into this so called Primus-Pilus-Megatron, as Starscream should.

>> Starscream strikes Primus Pilus with Slash. <<

Then Ramjet is going to charge at Hot Rod right as the melee is escalating as he would all out << Trying to! >> Then as Ramjet is going to bash at him, and he's going to tag 'Cybertronian Empire' in his processor to go over later, Hot Rod goes to duc down, low, and avoid the strike from Ramjet. "Really, Ramjet? That's bad even for you. I take it that all the theories of if you hit your cone enough that some of it would go on down!"

Going to look at Thrust, "You said you wanted peace, that you wanted an end to the war! This is your chance to stand up for it and fight! So you stand for something! And not letting Megatron do that things he does!" A quick jab in as Hot Rod attempts to go ahead and pick up Ramjet to try and get in some room to twist him and flip him to the side to make an opening! "Hey Coney! how about we shake you up and twist you!"

>> Hot Rod succeeds with his generic combat roll on Ramjet. <<

Incognito stops, not just because Ramjet and his 'Decepticons' have blocked the balcony (which they have), but what's being said afterwards -- both by "Primus Pilus" and by Ramjet. Optics dim briefly, and a curse dies on his lips before he can speak it. Fracking Arends.

Crosscut pulls Spike to him and transforms, dropping the human diplomat into the driver's seat. "I'm getting you out of here, Spike. Don't worry," he promises. Suddenly wishing Road Rage was here, Crosscut burns rubber, pealing out as fast as a 1980s Japanese compact car can go, heading for the exit. He's here for talks of peace. Fighting? Not so much.

Floodlight remains cowering under the table, doing analyses of this new 'Megatrons voice and fighting style, trying to determine a definite match to stored data.

>> Crosscut retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Primus Pilus, Red Alert, Windblade, Dust Devil, Starscream, Optimus Prime, Ghost, and Vizier. <<

Ghost sends a radio transmission.

<<Decepticon>> Floodlight says, "Analyzing... voice match, 92%. Strength profile, 102% recorded. Evaluating fighting style..."

Ghost sends a radio transmission.

Windblade pulls back, not engaging at the moment.. but she does sidestep just a bit, placing herself in front of Crosscut and between him and this new arrival as the ambassador withdraws, stepping back to keep some distance still but waiting for Prime's orders for the moment.

Thrust looking at Ramjet and then around exhales, "I'm not armed. I'm not fighting tonight." He sighs slightly, "Look, let's face it. That thing is going to mess with all of us unless we team up against it?" He shrugs, "Maybe we can offer the Junkions as a sacrifice?"

Ghost sends a radio transmission.

Ramjet is thrown to the side, hitting the floor hard as Hot Rod strikes with both words and blows. However, before anyone else can get past him, Road Block backs into the doorway, making HIMSELF the RoadBlock of his namesake.

Aquablast frowns at Thrust. "Join us, Thrust, or die with our enemies," he claims. Having no weapons either, he physically throws himself at Hot Rod.

Ghost sends a radio transmission.

>> Generic Seekers misses Hot Rod with Bash. <<

Ghost sends a radio transmission.

There's another twist around as Hot Rod has managed to be able to get Ramjet playing bouncy boy, and then has Road Block going. "This is gonna hurt you a lot more than it hurts me!" Going to gun his engine at high speed. Hoping to dislodge Road Block.. OR failing that, knock him enough out of the way anyone else in the stands can escape. Then to Thrust..

<< Get out of here. You can fly. Just bug out. This isn't your fight. >> Engine revving, going to pour on all the speed he can get out of his frame in close quarters.

There's several clicks of staring at the new form as screams and yells and bellows echo in what was once a nice room. Ghost looks to get her optics on her symbiotes, noting Vizier having gone to ground and Omen high up in the rafters. The newcomer answers, and she lifts a brow. "Well this is.. lovely." Then Starscream reacts and she, in turn, shifts into action. "Commander -No!- You need to get out of here!" making a leap to get between the two even after this Pilus is struck. "Starscream prepare to receive!"

It's one thing to ask for weapons to be left at the door, it's another to completely restrain a living weapon.

>> Hot Rod tries to ram Generic Seekers but misses. <<

Omen sends a radio transmission.

"Ramjet, if don't fight whatever that big thing is... we all risk dying!" Thrust exhales as if he is defeated, "Eh, when with Ram, do as Ram." He grabs a generic Autobot gumby and throws his fist as if he is going to punch the Autobot but he pulls his punch to just give a slight impression of a hit.

Vizier is all spikes and talons by now. His wings snap out and fill with air pulling him backward into the air leaving the weapon table unguarded as he ascends toward the ceiling of the Decepticon side of the room/rubble, attempting to find a place in the rafters near Omen.

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Ramjet stands, nodding to Thrust and falling for his fake attack on one of the Autobots. As Hot Rod rams Road Block but doesn't even budge him, Ramjet balls his own fists. He stalks towards Hot Rod, trying to pick him up in car mode and fling him against the wall.

>> Ramjet strikes Hot Rod with Slam. <<

Omen sends a radio transmission.

Thrust sends a radio transmission.

Quickswitch has observed enough. Annoyance gives way to abject rage, and the Autobot slams his foot down onto the ground not unlike a certain Dinobot. "DECEPTICON ROT!! *I* WILL FINISH THIS!!!" And he transforms and opens fire!

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "BLAST OFF! ESCORT OUR DEPOLMATS FROM THE PREMISUES!"

<<Decepticon>> Blast Off says, "....If you insist."

Quickswitch transforms into his jet-propelled laser cannon mode.

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Primus Pilus lifts his right arm, a rail gun in place where a fusion cannon traditionally sits. He aims it at Starscream "You dare..." he snarls. "If you wish to die with your peace, so be it."

>> Primus Pilus strikes Starscream with Fusion-Cannon <Medium>. <<

The comments he gets along the radio have Hot Rod tensing. But with Ramjet atop him and not really in the position to have the leverage to take another shot.. He's not throwing Ramjet off.. Instead Hot Rod goes to pull a move that other Autobots use with farmore aplomb. It's not a good one nor is it a fair one. But in this fight where the point is to just survive and get out.. You do what you can.

Trying to slash his hands hard as he can at the mid-point of Ramjet's optics!

The sleek, futuristic sports car begins to stand up, doors forming arms, hood lowing into the chest piece, roof twisting around one-eighty degrees. Soon, the familiar appearance of Hot Rod is revealed.

>> Hot Rod misses Ramjet with Smash. <<

Red Alert grunts, nodding as he picks up Prime's order to protect the non-combatants. He catches sight of Starscream attacking the interloper and briefly tries to decide which one he wants to win, then opts for mutual destruction being the best outcome for his peace of mind. He scans for exits, making calculations for the best way to get the Autobot ambassadors safely out of the building.

Thrust starts to warm up his engines. "Hot Rod, I'm thinking you're going to be a Cold Rod when I am done with you!" He tries to give a wink! He then pauses, "We really want to deal with that big floating menace out there?" He ponders if he could use his VTOL engines and hover around until the dust clears.

>> Quickswitch misses Ramjet with Laser <Low>. <<

Ramjet rears his head back to avoid Hot Rod's Three Stooges attack, and then brings it back forward for his signature move. Connect or not, he then backflips off Hot Rod, hoping Quickswitch will shoot the Autobot instead. It may be an illusion, but Ramjet seems faster and stronger than before - almost as if he's been getting illegal upgrades as well as a dark new paintjob.

>> Ramjet misses Hot Rod with Headbutt. <<

Hot Rod goes to get an idea grimly over as Ramjet goes to try and cone him. "Hey, Thrust! CATCH!" He goes to try and move to as Ramjet goes to surge forwards, moving to try and pick up Ramjet to HURL him hard along. "Quickstrike, uh, make a hole! In the wall! Without bringing the place down!" Going to try and do a maneuver to try and flip Ramjet over to hurl him 'up' to the flipping Thrust getting some lift!

>> Hot Rod succeeds with his generic combat roll on Ramjet. <<

Crosscut is racing away as someone claiming to be Megatron is shooting up the peace conference. But, really... he doesn't even have a fusion cannon. Second-rate Cosplayer.

Spike is inside Crosscut, looking back. "Wait! We gotta go back!"

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Optimus Prime backs away from the table now that a fight has broken out, looking to insure that Crosscut and spike have been gotten to safety, "Autobots, it's time to depart. This looks.. like an internal matter."

There's a throwdown! Or throwup?! Who cares! Hot Rod has managed to launch Ramjet straight at Thrust. "This wasn't the plan..." He goes to catch Ramjet as his Air Commander is rocketed straight at him. "Why didn't they just bring the slagging Battlechargers!" Thrust winces as the impact happens. "Ramjet, why?!"

GAME: Ramjet FAILS an AGILITY roll of Above Average difficulty.

Starscream digs his blade in, trying to do as much damage as he can, but damn, that armor of this supposed 'Megatron' is tough, of course, no simple blade would do it... Still, Starscream isn't totally thinking straight, his victory stolen, and perhaps, deep deep down, a part of him really did want this peace.

Starscream then hears Ghost, his attention focused for a moment, and understands, he takes the fusion cannon like he always has and, perhaps, he's starting to build up a bit of an immunity to it, which is a scary thought.. Though he's now leaking energon from the blast wound he kicks on his jets uses the momentum form them and the blast to spin his way to Ghost, smoke trailing behind him, and reach out his hand to grab her, and takes aim to fire!

Ramjet slams into Thrust, losing his balance in the process. Picking himself back up, he frowns and looks at his fellow Conehead. "The Hub contacted me and told me they found Megatron and would assure his return. Are you really going to side with Bizarrescream over our Primus Pilus?"

Windblade sighs and shakes her head, a disappointed look on her face but she does as ordered and moves back towards the exit, withdrawing when she is sure she is clear and there are no more civilians in the engagement area.

Omen remains huddled up in the rafters with Vizier.

>> Spike retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Omen, Blast Off, Vizier, Primus Pilus, Red Alert, Windblade, Dust Devil, Starscream, Optimus Prime, Ghost, Crosscut, and Hot Rod. <<

>> Red Alert retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Omen, Blast Off, Vizier, Primus Pilus, Windblade, Dust Devil, Starscream, Optimus Prime, Ghost, Crosscut, and Hot Rod. <<

Dust Devil may be an ambassador in trade but he's also a forcefield generator and diversionary tactician. Whoever this guy is seems to be capable of doing some decent damage. As much as a glitter bomb to Pilus' face feels like a good test to see if he's Megatron, there's the fact that the glitter would affect everyone else in such close quarters. Instead the smaller bot raises his arms and compartments open along his arms to allow his turrets to reappear. He then takes a few pot shots at the mech interrupting the proceedings before moving to find cover hopefully before Crankymech turns on him.

CRASH! Thrust does get thrown off balance from Ramjet. He tries to help him up. "Look, I don't know if that is really our Megatron." He points to whatever that big thing is out there. "If that is him, why did he leave us here with Starscream for all this time?" He shrugs, "So, if we are going to do this, why not get out of here, get our weapons, and waste the Autobrats with firepower?"

>> Windblade retreats from the area, leaving herself open to Blast Off, Vizier, Starscream, Crosscut, and Omen. <<

>> Dust Devil strikes Primus Pilus with Plasma-Turrets <Medium>. <<

Crosscut races outside, past the Triax security moving in. Trying to get Spike to safety, he planned to keep going until he's long gone. He'd meet up with others later. For today, peace is dead.

However, at Spike's shout, Crosscut slows and pulls over, just outside the meeting place (but still within sight and shooting distance). "What is it, Spike?" Crosscut asks. He trusts Spike enough to stop but wants to hear an explanation before he drives back into the fire.

From under the table, Floodlight continues her analysis.

<<Decepticon>> Floodlight says, "Figure claiming to be Megatron is utilizing an advanced rail gun system rather than his traditional fusion cannon. Origin unknown."

<<Decepticon>> Thrust says, "Is he the Omnicron variant?!"

A laugh, the gleam of an optic flashing a violent violet amidst metal bending, joints changing, systems switching over. Ghost shows her true nature, reforming into a Plasma_Fusion_Rifle.

GAME: Ghost PASSES a COURAGE roll of Very High difficulty.

Ramjet frowns, accepting Thrust's help up. "You know Megatron - he likes to be dramatic. Getting our guns and laying waste to the Autobots sounds like a good idea, though - let's go!" He nods to Road Block, who moves out of the doorway, especially since Hot Rod has already gotten past him.

Ghost transforms, folding in on herself then twisting further and further down, the machinations taking just enough time that she manages to shadow-pull just enough to power herself up, and falls as a rifle, even as this Pilus strikes Starscream. "Protocol.. is.. until proven otherwise, you're a -pretender- to the name, Pilus!" There's a concern that she'll have to fire herself until the hands grab her. Systems cycle, shift, and she murmurs, "And my orders.. my.. orders.. this isn't.. orders.. " She silences.. then allows her self to be fired, cycled up to maximum output. "Par haar imperium"

>> Ghost misses Primus Pilus with Plasmic Fusion Rifle <High>. <<

"He better give us some upgrades now that he's big and powerful and we've got our old tech?" Thrust shrugs, "We could just get out of here while it's quiet. Get our weapons. Find Dirge. And form a band?"

Vizier hovers near Omen, "Time for us to leave, we can't help here."

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "Suggestion: If this /is/ Megatron. Is it wise to go up against him?"

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "Is this peace something he'd support?"

Ramjet grins at Thrust. "Now we're talkin'! Who do you think gave me this spiffy new paint job? And that's not all, I promise you. Let's go. We can get our weapons, and then Primus Pilus will lead us to victory!" Ramjet grins with unusual fervor in his now-yellow optics.

Meanwhile, still in the gallery, Valour hasn't moved. The mech of action seems frozen, showing unusual hesitation. If that is Megatron, his loyalty is clear. But the Decepticons have been fooled before. Can he really join this stranger against Starscream?

Primus Pilus moves quicker than anything that large has any right to. He moves out of the way of the attack, focusing on the Decepticons first. Perhaps cleaning house before going after his old enemies. "I see your new friends run, leaving you to a threat. See how peace with the Autobots would have gone. You've bee played Starscream. Everything would have been settled in Prime's favor. I am not going to stand by and let that happen. Nor should any self respecting Decepticon." as Ghost fires he turns his ire to her. "Ghost. Always loyal to the cause first." he chuckles. always following your orders. Its good to see. However, it is futile. If you stand against me you will be dealt with like the rest."

Primus Pilus moves quicker than anything that large has any right to. He moves out of the way of the attack, focusing on the Decepticons first. Perhaps cleaning house before going after his old enemies. "I see your new friends run, leaving you to a threat. See how peace with the Autobots would have gone. You've bee played Starscream. Everything would have been settled in Prime's favor. I am not going to stand by and let that happen. Nor should any self respecting Decepticon." as Ghost fires he turns his ire to her. "Ghost. Always loyal to the cause first." he chuckles. always following your orders. Its good to see. However, it is futile. If you stand against me you will be dealt with like the rest." he growls as Dust Devil hits him the attack barely scratching his armor. "I will deal with the turbo gnat. But first.." he aims at Starscream's ghost hand, ready to let off another fauxion blast.

GAME: Starscream FAILS an INTELLIGENCE roll of Immense difficulty.

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Red Alert is fully intent on following Prime's orders to leave the Decepticons to kill each other off -- but he wants to be sure Prime is out of the area first.

>> Optimus Prime retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Omen, Blast Off, Vizier, Primus Pilus, Red Alert, Dust Devil, Starscream, Crosscut, and Hot Rod. <<

Spike catches his breath, still feeling the adrenaline of narrowly escaping a battle. He gestures back to the area of conflict. "We gotta go back and check on the others! Red Alert, Optimus, Dusty and the others!"

Optimus Prime is retreating, making certain that his are also departing the area with all due haste.

Chaos and confusion. How irritating. Blast Off has been outside, up above it all and waiting for word when he might be needed, mostly acting as backup shuttle for the Decepticons if anything goes wrong. And now it apparently has. The shuttleformer's been following the live feed and-waitwait WAIT IS THAT?!- Blast Off's spark leaps inside his frame. He's thrilled- it's Megatron! SEE! MEGATRON DIDN'T DIE, IT'S NOT HIS FAULT for letting the Con leader slip away in that space portal SEE!!!??? And then he's less than thrilled, because... wait, what if...if it IS Megatron, what if Megatron himself remembers all this and DOES blame him and.... wait. Maybe he should stay closer to Starscream instead. *cough* You know, just in case.

The Combaticon makes his way to the scene, noticing how several people seem to be leaving in a hurry. Still, not his concern. Unless they start shooting at him, that is. For now, he'll focus on the one who called him. "<< Starscream, I have arrived. >>" He radios the message to the jet because in the chaos he's not sure he'll be heard otherwise. Especially since- it appears Starscream is rather busy at the moment, ahem. The shuttle grasps his ionic blaster but waits to see if he's needed for a little sniping, or not.

"Ramjet, when you get a paint job like that... something seems a little off. Are we sure the paint isn't bad?" Thrust begins to take a few steps back. "I'm going to go get our weapons. Why don't you stay here and see if you can stall the Autobots..." He smiles, "I'll be right back." He then looks around and hopes that there is a better plan.

Thrust sends a radio transmission.

Dust Devil scrabbles to follow Optimus and the others before Mockmegs decides to make good on the swatting. Best to listen to the Prime right?!

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Ramjet nods slowly. "OK, Thrust," he says quietly. "You go. We'll catch up later." Maybe Ramjet believes him, and maybe he's just giving his friend a chance to get away. Ramjet will never tell. Instead, Ram gets for the security table to grab his new blaster pistols.

>> Dust Devil retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Blast Off, Vizier, Starscream, Crosscut, and Omen. <<

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Ghost sends a radio transmission.

GAME: Starscream FAILS an INTELLIGENCE roll of Immense difficulty.

Starscream misses, blast-damn it all! but instead of a cold dread he'd normally feel from fighting Megatron, if that's who this really is, he just.. feels that hot, burning coal like feeling in his tanks. He wants to /fight/ and put whomever the frag this is down, how many more years of having to take megatrons orders will he have to do if this is him, and he losses?! how much more war will there be?! how many more times will he be humiliated?

"<< Pull out those of our people you can, there two tapes in the rafters. >>" Starscream reports through gritted teeth. "<< If you must, do /shoot/ if you need. >>" Starscream adds, now if Blast Off wants to draw the ire of this Megatron-not-Megatron, that's up too him.

Starscream fails to see where they are aiming, so he doesn't take the necessary counter maneuvers, instead he tires to fire Ghost once more, this time, using both his hands to keep her steady.

Valour pulls together his resolve, and steps into the main peace area.

There are some moments where instinct takes over. Fake-O-Tron is busy going after the Decepticons. The Autobots are retreating. Hot Rod is poised to move to get in the way to cover it. Then there's Megatron casually sneering. Then there's Megatron casually belittling the Decepticons. Whom came here in good faith. Then there's a radio message from Thrust over something. Personal. And then Hot Rod is going to just ever so calmly get up and charge. While the shots are going everywhere, where Megatron is pontificating.. The Decepticons are trying to get their own out of there and cover a retreat. Hot Rod goes to do something stupid with most of the Autobots clearing out. Something incredibly stupid. Possibly brave.. And futile. Ignoring orders.

"No you don't Megatron!" There's a moment of what in another place would be a servo towards destiny drawn out of pain and forged by suffering. Here.. Here, perhaps the intent is just a little purere, even if the idea is just as much borne from nothing but instinct.

Hot Rod is leaping through the air over at Megatron, or whatever he is. going to slam over into the far bigger, bigger Con and going to try and slam a fist HARD into him. Not that it would hurt.. But that hopefully it would give everyone else some time to get out of there. And hopefully put Megatron ina position to not get that heavy gun into the way of things.

"C'mon, we were just starting to get to know the new, dumber you!" Along with a swear over tightband << Get out of here! >> Send as best as he could. It was not the things that fate or destiny were made out of. Hot Rod was not meant for anything particularly grand. But in this fight the intent was to just give some time. A few precious seconds. And maybe to give peace just a little bit more of a chance. Struggling, holding his own and moving to try and just make himself as -big- a slagger as he could while Megatron would be facing off mostly just against the.. Remaining Decepticons. Trying to struggle as brutally as he could just to give those few seconds that it would take hopefully for Blast Off to cover the withdraw faster than if he heard Brawl was in his wine cellar.

In another world, another lifetime, someone might be yelling 'flee you fools'. but this is not that life or that story.

Thrust mounts his weapons from the table as well and he starts to gear up. "Ramjet, we were always good friends, right? Even when we disagreed?" The maroon Seeker seems a little concerned. "I've always enjoyed being your friend and Dirge's. Even if I was never the intelligence of you both." He looks around, "I hope we still will be." He turns his back on Ramjet. "We'll leave one day about all of this. I hope."

>> Thrust retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Incognito, and Ramjet. <<

Ramjet watches Thrust go. "I'll always be your friend, Thrust," he says quietly, long after Thrust is gone. "I do hope I won't be forced to kill you."

<<Decepticon>> Blast Off says, "Just so you know, if anyone wants to get out of here in one piece, then you should head to the spot outside here *sends coordinates* and meet me for a flight out. And then you should *thank* me for saving your skidplates. And also, do NOT track dirt in my cargo bay- and most certainly do NOT bleed in my cargo bay. Do that outside before you come in. Understood? Good."

Ghost remains as held, smoke wafting from her barrel. << Starscream you need to get out of here, now, Commander. This.. we can figure this out later. Not now, not in a firefight! >> She feels herself re-aimed and once again cycles systems, pulling power from everything else as she can't transform out of the doubled-grip. Phase - offline. Archives - offline, coms - offline. Just a tool in another's hands, again. And a twisted ionic-fusion stream erupts from the business end of the rifle, near silent, very visible.

>> Ghost critically strikes Primus Pilus with Ionic-Fusion-Cannon <High>! <<

Vizier is trying to persuade Omen to leave with him, "Get into Blast Off and we can sort this out later."

Omen waaark-warbles, flat-birding, going with Vizier but not happy about it. "Buir.. But.. can't leave.. Buir.. protect.. Idiot.." She goes.

Primus Pilus snarls as Hot Rod comes his way. He tries to grab Hot Rod and pull him to him as if seeing if the cons will shred him in their attempt to take him down. He uses his free hand, that cannon hand to fire at Ghost.

>> Primus Pilus strikes Hot Rod with Punch. <<

>> Primus Pilus strikes Ghost with Railgun <Medium>. <<

After a conspicuously long delay, Valour steps out of the gallery, moving immediately between Primus Pilus and Starscream. Blanching at the damage to Ghost, he looks first at Pilus, imploringly. "Sir. If you are Megatron, you will understand the need to verify who you are before we simply drop everything and follow you."

Valour turns to Starscream. "And if it is Megatron, then we shouldn't be fighting each other, especially in front of the Autobots." He turns back to Primus Pilus. "Let us lower our weapons and return to Vos to discuss this rationally."

Blast Off isn't so sure he wants to draw the attention, much less the ire, of this Megatron, or whoever he is, but transport- now he can do that just fine. "<< Understood. >>" The shuttleformer then radios to the other Decepticons, letting them know to follow him outside- back the way he came in, it would seem. He will attempt to make sure the two casettes find their way towards him, but he won't linger for lollygaggers... seems time is of the essence.

"Outside, now." The Combaticon will guide those he can but then he makes his way back out the doors, pausing a moment to marvel at Hot Rod's.... heroism? Sheer baffling stupidity? Well, aren't they basically the same thing? Probably. Still... kind of impressive. Whatever. He makes his way outside, preparing to transform, board passengers, and fly off.

Dust Devil is going to regret this. Like...alot. Ignore the radio chatter and he could go back to being an only child. But Noooo he'd have to hear it from Daniel...and Spike.. and that damn conscience thing that likes to rise up. But at least he's going to do this the right way. Let's not run headlong into a fight, especially one you weren't invited to and is several weight classes out of your level. Dust Devil gets to where he can see what is going on and prepares to shield Hot Rod if it's necessary. Optics watching for either that or a chance to shoot megatron's hand and get Hot Rod free. He primes his turrets....

Ghost 's barrel and venting release another gout of coolant after she's fired again, systems focused on nothing at all, just being -there- and cycling power through to her weapons core. And then - she's struck. The rifle doesn't even yelp, it's more of a soft hiccup of systems that cross-fail, the rail shot ripping through and down the side and out another. Sub-systems spark, flare and flame out, leaving the rifle - Just a rifle, silent and dark.

<<Decepticon>> Ghost disconnects

GAME: Starscream PASSES an AGILITY roll of Very High difficulty.

Starscream hits, finely! redeemed! Still.. Ghost's words ring to him, and he takes a slow vent, getting something of a grip on himself. "<< Right.. >>" he mutters, sadly with that control, also comes the burning out of his energy and he makes for the spot Blast Off indicated, he is so not going to fly all the way home like this!

"<< Decepticons.. Retreat. >>" he rasps, right.. deal with it later.. right. First he has to deal with something.. Ghost is blasted form his hand! Thankfully he's able to pull some areal maneuvers to catch her and.. He glances back, optics trained on Velour, then this.. who ever this is.. His backs turned already, but with Ghost in hand once more.. He heads for the meeting point, smoke from his wounds trailing behind him.

>> Starscream retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Omen, Blast Off, and Valour. <<

Vizier looks to Omen, "Starscream still has her, follow him." He takes off after Starscream's retreating form.

>> Vizier retreats from the area, leaving itself open to Valour, Omen, Blast Off, Dust Devil, Starscream, Crosscut, and Thrust. <<

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "My lord, request rendezvous coordinates"

Omen wings after Vizier, who's following Starscream.

>> Omen retreats from the area, leaving herself open to Valour, Blast Off, Vizier, Starscream, Crosscut, and Thrust. <<

Primus Pilus lowers his weapon once Starscream does. "I would, if your so called leader would stop attacking me for five astroseconds. " he throws Hot Rod aside like he's a ragdoll, no longer necessary. "There /are/ ways for identification but not here. Not now. Decepticons....or those who have not yet bowed to Prime's command. Come. " He says. "We can resolve this on our own turf. Perhaps the pits of Kaon? Or the halls of Vos would do just as well. If Starscream managed to keep them." he shakes his head. "Retreating. That's what you've always been best at." he snarls. "I will see any loyal Decepticons at Kolkular." with that he turns to go.

>> Primus Pilus retreats from the area, leaving himself open to Valour, Hot Rod, Omen, Blast Off, Vizier, Dust Devil, Starscream, Crosscut, and Thrust. <<

The Decepticons are retreating! Hot Rod is face to face wtih Megatron, held over brutally. "So, Megatron, what suckers have you working for them this time? Cybertronian Empire? Aren't you lowering your standards? First it was Decepticons, then Decepticon Empire, then Cybertronian.. Wow, are we getting desperate or something? I have to say, I really consider that level of stuff impressive. If you're the new Megatron, you're managing to be even dumber than the last one." Run his vocalizer off at the crazed Slagmaker that held him in his grip. But he's still held tight. "So how about we see how well the classics go with you?" Just igve the Decepticons time to retreat..

And then he would be thrown down over to the ground to bounce and roll hard, going to keep up his weapons to keep them charged. Glancing at Valour. "You know how this is going to go, don't you. And you're going to watch it all crumble. Ashes to ashes, rust to rust." Weapons fully charged and moving to wait for Megatron to leave.

Floodlight peeks her head out, and Valour turns to her. "Go with Starscream. Tell him what happened. I will go with Primus Pilus. I will determine if he is truly Megatron, and then contact the rest of you." With that, Valour bravely follows the villain back to his lair.

Dust Devil moves over to Hot Rod, "We better get our afts outta here and rendezvous with Prime before he realizes we didn't follow like we were supposed ta...."

Valour sends a radio transmission.

Primus Pilus sends a radio transmission.

Hot Rod sends a radio transmission.

Valour sends a radio transmission.

Starscream sends a radio transmission.

Primus Pilus sends a radio transmission.

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "headed to upper vos to regroup"

<<Decepticon>> Deathsaurus says, "so he didn't cannon ya?"

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "he did.. I lived though.."

Kolkular - Kaon - Southern Hemisphere - Cybertron[]

As the capitol of the city-state Kaon, Kolkular is where one of the Decepticon commands is located. Via the many monitors and other equipment in the Cradle, the fortress's command hub and throne room, contact is maintained with the outside world. Kolkular has artificially been lifted up far above the Kaon landscape to keep it out of reach of attacks and other harmful events, with extendable elevators allowing the inhabitants to enter and leave.

Megatron's original arena was well known. The place where he had met Ravage and they had abandoned the corpse of the last ancient, decrepit Autobot Overlords was.. Something else entirely. So Ravage would wait there, in a place where his old life ended and his new one began. The cat would stalk in the darkness, above the flamed areas and the pit of the damned.. Where in the distance the firings of the war between Vos and Tarn had begun oh so many hundred thousand vorn ago. And so Ravage would wait. Watch. And listen Ravage fades into the shadows without a sound.

Primus Pilus would have returned to Kolkular. To the arena. To the place it all began. The place where hes ready to prove it will all continue. Until he can make his return, this will be where he regroups. "Starscream. Figures he'd take this opportunity to destroy the empire from under me."

And there in that exact space Ravage is waiting. Not the arena itself.. But in one of those small alcoves. Ravage would glance up, "Yes. Somehow appropriate. Do you remember that speech you gave to the desperate that had been damned by Iacon's abandonment?"

<<Decepticon>> Comm Guy Soundwave says, "and kept the throne? Hrm. Interesting. Will you be needing repairs as well?"

Ramjet follows Primus Pilus back to Kolkular with a handful of other Decepticons - Blitz, Road Block, and Aquablast among them. Ramjet and the others transform and land, kneeling immediately. "Primus Pilus," Ramjet says. "We've awaited your return."

Valour, who has followed this Primus Pilus back to Kaon, frowns. THIS is what Ramjet and the others were doing while they were MIA? Disturbing. He turns to Primus Pilus. "Regent Starscream did what he thought was best for Cybertron. If you are Megatron, you left him in charge in your absence. He exercised the power you provided him."

And now the ever so small trap is laid and will be passed or avoided. Either the speech where there were no survivors from in the end beyond those initial psychopaths whom are long since dead to attrition, of Megatron and Ravage.. Well, either it will be Megatron himself or it will be an easy enough way to show that it is not. A small little game but an effective one

Primus Pilus places a hand on a long rusted wall, one which was part of an arena back in the golden age. He rumbles in almost reverence, of a time long gone by of words said long ago and still remembered "Decepticons... our ranks have swollen, our stockpiles of weapons have grown. " he raises his fist. "But we must bide our time. From this day forward, we are not merely Cybertronians. We are not automations. We shall call ourselves. Decepticon. And we will rise. And when they least expect it, we will have our revenge on the Primes and Iaconians!" he snarls. "And those words are still true. We will stand against oppression and build a better, stronger cybertron."

Ravage would go to bow his head over, "You remember. Strong words then. Strong ones now." Some level of concern from Ravage is brushed away. "I await your return, my Emperor. So now what will your orders be to your army now that you have taken revenge upon those cities that have failed you?"

Primus Pilus turns to Ravage, adding. "And you back me still as you did then. Even when Nightstalker stood with the Autobot overlord." he says. "Now is the time to put our house back in order. To force Starscream to yield if he will not back down. Same as Ghost and the others that were backing this peace. I must know. Who is loyal to our cause. And who wants Prime's peace?"

<<Decepticon>> Air Commander Starscream says, "..hmph, yes"

Valour stands back, listening. Could it really be him? Ravage seems sure, but for now, Valour holds his peace.

Ravage would mm over, "There are those whom are merely tired, my Lord. That have seen the pace of conquests slow. And seen but the war turn to another stalemate. They need to have some reforging made of them." Ravage would just watch over through the darkness, quietly. "Those whom serve the empire first and foremost do so of loyalty."

Ravage sends a radio transmission.

Ravage suddenly fades into sight without a sound.