//------------------------------// // Space Bridge // Story: My Little Pony: Grimlock is King // by Flanagan //------------------------------// Things happen, it's a part of life, but every once in a while, something happens that radically changes your perspective of the way things are and what they used to be. Things that rock your very beliefs to the core, things that make you feel insignificant, things that make you feel weak. Things that make you look to the stars and wonder; just what else is out there? The sound of beating wings loomed over the skies of what was once a peaceful town, but now all that remained was smoke and crumbled building. Those who were trying to rebuild their lives looked to the sky for some sort of answer, but all they saw was a golden chariot, one that shined like the sun before it came into their town. The chariot's occupant looked down to the wreckage, never in her life had she seen so much devastation and all of it was supposed to be brought by one being? Surely the letter she had received was incorrect, nothing was that strong, or so she thought. The chariot landed near what remained of the town's once proud library, now just a smoldering pile of ash. Fearing the worst the occupant burst out of her chariot Calling the name of the one she feared for most. Fortunately for her, the one she cried for came sprinting to her, eyes full of fear. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight cried, wrapping her forelegs around the Princess's neck as tightly as she could, "I'm so glad that you're here!" "There is no need to be afraid anymore Twilight." She replied softly before her student released her, "I came as soon as I received your letter." "I wish you would've got here sooner." Twilight said looking around, "Thank goodness that nopony was hurt by it." "It?" Princess Celestia asked. "Yes... It..." Twilight replied, "It came from the Everfree Forest, and when Rainbow Dash tried to stop it..." Twilight paused to look at what was left of Ponyville before continuing, "It did all of this." "I see." Princess Celestia said looking upon the destruction as well, "I'm glad I left the Elements in your care, whatever it was may have done this to many more towns if you had not stopped it." "That's... the problem Princess..." Twilight said turning her attention back to her mentor. "We didn't destroy it." "Excuse me?" Celestia said with a raised eyebrow, "You didn't use the Elements of Harmony on it?" "We did!" Twilight exclaimed, "But it wasn't even scratched! It just stood there taking the full brunt of our magic! And it didn't hurt it at all!" "Where is it now?" The Princess asked, her horn glowing and ready for a fight. "Do we need to evacuate the civilians?" "No... no." Twilight said frantically shaking her hooves, "We couldn't stop it, but we managed to contain it." "I beg your pardon?" "The Elements of Harmony didn't hurt it," she expailned, "but it made a crater big enough so that it couldn't get out without our help." "I see," Celestia replied with a nod, "Could you perhaps bring me to this 'It' we have been discussing?" Twilight gulped at Princess Celestia's sudden interest in the beast that nearly killed everyone in Ponyville, even herself, but she knew that she couldn't deny such a request. "F-follow me..." Twilight said uneasily, motioning for the Princess to take her lead. Princess Celestia followed her pupil through the once happy and colorful streets to where 'It' was being held. The sight reminded her of the early days of her rule alongside her sister. Back in those dark times even she was unsure how their new kingdom would hold, but through selflessness and perseverance Equestria was now the leading power in the world, despite the few mistakes she had made along the way. A few minutes later they were there, where Sugar Cube Corner once stood, but now it was just a crater, a crater that had an eerie red glow and strange metallic noises coming from the bottom. Unafraid The Princess walked to the crater and looked into its depths, seeing only what appeared to be glowing red eyes, but there were so many, all in different shapes and sizes. Her curiosity had gotten the better of her she wanted to see more than what the dim lights from the pit had to offer. Using her magic she cast a single, bright beam from the sun into the pit. What she saw next left her in both awe and fear. A giant beast, easily taller than what the Town Hall used to be was at the bottom of the pit, shielding what she believed to be his true eyes from the unwanted light. Its colors gleamed brightly off the light, silvers, yellows, reds and blacks all shined against her spell. Its body seemed to be in constant motion, little parts adjusting themselves on its massive arms and legs. as well as an oddly shaped symbol on the center right of the beast's chest. Finally it lowered its arm, revealing its cold, expressionless face to the Princess, who stepped back at the sight. "Is this the 'It'?" She asked Twilight, who nodded uneasily. "Does it go by anything other than 'It'?" "I-I don't know..." Twilight replied, nervously looking down the crater, "I believe it was yelling something, but in the panic I never really heard what it said." "Have you asked it?" Twilight jumped back at the thought, for the hours that it was down there it hadn't made a sound, other than the metallic grinding. She never considered that it was capable of complex thought or speech, how could it be if everything it seemed to do was destroy? "I... uh..." Twilight began, trying to think of a good reason, "It attacked us before we could ask it anything..." "According to you Rainbow Dash attacked it first." The Princess corrected, "Perhaps it was only acting in self defense." "I doubt that... 'thing'... would need to act in self defense." Twilight said, glaring at the creature, but the moment it looked to her she darted behind the Princess, who slightly giggled at the reaction. "There is only one way to find out." Princess Celestia said with a smile as she walked closed to the crater, leaving those around her in shock. "Princess!" Twilight cried, "No WAIT-" "GREETINGS CREATURE!" Celestia yelled in the Royal Canterlot Voice, "I AM PRINCESS CELESTIA! CO-RULER OF EQUESTRIA, DO YOU BY CHANCE UNDERSTAND ME?" The beast at the bottom of the pit looked up to Celestia once again, giving her hope that it might be able to talk. "DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME?" she asked again, and much to her excitement, the giant nodded. "DO YOU HAVE A NAME?" she asked and yet again, it nodded, "THEN WHAT IS YOUR NAME?" The beast rose as proudly as it could from the bottom of the pit, stoically staring at the only being who had decided to talk to it. "Me, Grimlock!" The beast called back, "ME KING!" *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Several days earlier... “Autobots, the battle to save our new home has now come to a critical point.” Optimus Prime said grimly to the audience of giant robots that stood before him. “The Decepticon forces have recently made several brutal yet efficient raids on oil rigs, solar energy farms and other various places where the humans gather resources for their energy.” “Why are you going over the same thing as last time?” Cliffjumper asked, “I say we just hit them where it hurts and-” “Easy kid…” Ironhide said forcing the smaller robot to sit down again, “Ol’ Optimus wouldn’t be saying something like this if it weren’t important.” “Indeed, old friend,” Optimus replied, “Though actions like these are not uncommon for our enemy, it is uncommon for the rate and amount of resources being stolen from the humans… I fear that Megatron is preparing to build a space bridge back to Cybertron.” Everyone’s jaws hit the floor, a space bridge back to Cybertron was not unheard of, but it had been years since their enemies had even tried to build something of that scale. The amount of energy to make it work was staggering, let alone the hours that had to be put into its construction. “Why now?” Arcee asked, “If Megatron’s had all this time to spare in making a space bridge then what took him so long in the first place?” “I believe that with this renewed vigor, that Megatron had made contact with and old friend of his…” Optimus explained, “Shockwave…” “You can‘t possibly believe that Shockwave is here…” Ratchet interjected, “He hasn’t been heard from since we left Cybertron all those mega cycles ago.” “It is the only explanation for such maneuvers taking place now, Ratchet,” Optimus said, “though Megatron cares none for the human race, he wouldn’t so carelessly send his troops out like he has been without there something of such a massive scale at hand.” Optimus’ fellow Autobots started to talk amongst one another, trying to fully grasp the scale of what was happening. Each spouting out their own theories and doomsday scenarios about what would happen if Optimus was correct. “If they get another space bridge running… they can send recourses and reinforcements right on top of us and we wouldn’t be able to do a thing about it…” Ironhide said grimly clinching his fist, “That’s gonna be a real pain in my axel…” “Well what are we standing around for?” Cliffjumper yelled, turning his arm into a subsonic repeater. “Let’s roll out and give Megatron a new exhaust pipe!” “It will be hardly that easy, Cliffjumper…” Optimus said, “We will need far more firepower than just the few Autobots here at the ark…” The conversations fell silent once again as every Autobot turned their attention back to Optimus. His stoic gaze casting a foreboding feeling among all of them before one of his most trusted officers decided to break the silence. “You can’t possibly mean…” Ratchet said in shock, “Them…” “Indeed,” Optimus replied, “We will need the help of Grimlock and his Dinobots…” The other Autobots jumped in their seats, Optimus hadn’t called on the Dinobots since the incident the South Pacific. There in the heat of combat, Grimlock and his fellow Dinobots destroyed nearly a dozen oil rigs in their battle with the mighty Decepticon combiner Bruticus. The fray had nearly cost hundreds of human lives, but thanks to the actions of Optimus and the other Autobots present all humans were saved, at the cost of their enemy escaping with vast amounts of energon. “Do you really think that’s necessary, Prime?” Ironhide asked, “You know how Grimlock is when it comes to following orders… and if there is a chance that Shockwave IS there…” “I know how Grimlock and the other Dinobots feel about Shockwave…” Optimus said, “Especially Grimlock.” “If you take them along with us they’ll automatically disregard any orders you give them and go straight for Shockwave.” Ratchet said somberly, “and we can’t afford anymore Autobot losses, I barely have enough energon for our forces still here… let alone the Dinobots.” “Though you are correct Ratchet,” Optimus said, “if Shockwave is involved there will be far too many Decepticons for our forces to handle without Dinobot support.” “I know Prime…” Ratchet said, “But I’m just voicing my concern about involving them.” “Then it’s settled…” Optimus said turning to Teletraan one, “Teletraan, signal Jetfire, Air Raid and Silverbolt.” “AS YOU COMMAND OPTIMUS…” Teletraan’s voice echoed through the ark, “LONG LIVE THE LAST PRIME.” The large computer screen fizzed and blurred until it received Silverbolt’s signal. “Send your traffic, Optimus,” he said, “but be quick, we’re tracking Hard-shell, Kickback and Sharp-shot after they raided that solar plant in Nevada. We’ll be on those creeps in five mikes, easy.” “Silverbolt,” Optimus began, “I want you to stop tracking the Insecticons and bring the Dinobots back to the ark.” “What?” Silverbolt said, “But we-” “That’s an order, Silverbolt,” Optimus said sternly, “I will brief you upon your successful return with them… Prime out.” “What was that about?” Jetfire asked. “What did Prime want?” “We’re cutting the chase short…” Silverbolt said disappointedly, “now we’re on a recovery mission.” “I thought recovering the energon cubes those bugs stole was our-” Jetfire began but he was cut by Silverbolt. “We’re headed to Alaska…” he said grimly, “to recover our sentries there…” “THE DINOBOTS?!” Air Raid shouted in shock, “What in Primus’s name would Optimus want them for?” “I don’t know, Air Raid…” Silverbolt said banking north, “but the way he said it… whatever it is it can’t be good…” The other jets followed Silverbolt’s lead, heading to the one place they thought they would never return. Meanwhile back at the ark, Optimus and the other Autobots present were preparing themselves for the upcoming assault. It was then that one Autobot approached Optimus. “Bumblebee…” Optimus said looking over his weapon, “what can I do for you?” Bumblebee began to make relay his concerns to Optimus via a menagerie of clicks and beeping noises. It took nearly ten minutes, but Optimus listened to every concern. When he was finally finished, Optimus just placed his massive hand on Bumblebee’s head. “I know how you feel, Bumblebee.” Optimus said reassuringly, “and I understand that you, like the others believe that bringing Grimlock into this is a bad idea, especially on account that he rarely listens to me as it is.” Bumblebee responded with another long assortment of clicking and beeping noises. Only to be halted by Prime. “I know I said that we require as much firepower as we can muster Bumblebee…” he began. “But leaving the ark completely defenseless is a risk I cannot afford to take, besides Jet Fire, Silverbolt and Ari Raid will be accompanying you here upon their return with the Dinobots.” The yellow Autobot’s next array of code blasted Optimus’ auditory sensors recounting past events involving the Dinobots. They may have efficient and never failed to accomplish their missions, but they had a total disregard for the humans they were sworn to protect. Especially Grimlock, who had time and time again has ignored Optimus’ orders and put hundreds if not thousands of lives at risk due to his insubordination. “I understand your concern, young one.” Optimus answered, resting his hand on his shoulder, “but the risk I take in bringing Grimlock and his Dinobots to face the Decepticons compared to what would happen if I didn’t take them…” Prime shuttered at the thought, “the risk is far too great. We are the protectors of the human race and we cannot fail in that duty.” Bumblebee sighed, he understood Optimus’ reasoning in calling upon the aid of the unpredictable Dinobots and their rebellious leader. Even if it wasn’t the best course of action, it was the only action his leader could take. He’d always admired, even revered Optimus for that, Bumblebee wouldn’t know the first thing about leading the Autobots, let alone make decisions that may cost the lives of his fellow bots to save a few humans. Saluting he turned around and began to make his way to Teletrran 1, reading himself for the enviable call from the jets as they inched closer and closer to Alaska. “What’d Bee have to say to ya?” Ironhide asked walking next to Prime. “The same thing you are likely to speak to me about…” Prime let out with a sigh, “He is just as concerned as everyone else about including the Dinobots in this mission.” “It’s a tough call Prime.” Ironhide said reassuringly placing his hand on Prime’s shoulder. “You’ve been makin’ those longer than I can even recall.” “Ever since Zeta Prime fell to the hands of my brother…” Optimus said clinching his fist, “I will not allow Megatron to succeed. All sentient life in the universe will suffer if I do… starting with this planet.” “And ya know I’m gonna stand by ya until my spark goes out and Primus calls me to become one with the All-Spark.” Ironhide said through a rare smile. “And I’m sure the rest of us think the same thing.” “It’s good to know that you have the upmost faith in me, old friend.” Optimus replied, placing his hand on Ironhide’s shoulder “I only hope I’m wrong about Shockwave’s return…” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* “Lord Megatron…” Starscream mumbled next to the monstrous Decepticon next to him, “Are you sure that Shockwave’s new, and if I may add, radical plan is what we should focus on in this, our most pivotal point in the war?” “I have faith in Shockwave… because unlike you Starscream…” Megatron growled his eyes fixed intently upon the horizon, “Shockwave has yet to fail me.” Starscream swallowed his pride, but continued his attempt to talk Megatron out of what he believed was a mistake. “But, my lord…” he continued, “A space bridge… all the resources required… It will surely gather… unwanted attention.” “Let the Autobots come.” Megatron replied, “Optimus will be unable to muster enough forces to even approach the space bridge before we launch our team.” “They could always call upon our greatest scourge…” Starscream growled, looking at his tattered wing. “I have yet to fix the damage from our last encounter with them.” “If Prime unleashes the Dinobots then he is more a fool then I believed him already.” Megatron said letting out a laugh, “He would dare not risk the lives of those pathetic humans again. Especially after that lumbering oaf Grimlock destroyed an entire oil rig by himself.” “That nearly cost us the comabticons…” Starscream added, “And without Bruticus, we would have never made such progress.” “But Grimlock’s arrogance and unwillingness to follow Prime allowed us to escape with enough Energon to begin our project.” Soundwave said from behind the two. “And as the Autobots are sworn to protect human life, they were too distracted to follow us to this location.” “Indeed Soundwave…” Megatron replied, turning to face his communications officer. “And by the time the Autobots do reveal our location… it will be too late, and I Megatron will finally have this planet while Prime and his followers beg for mercy as they are turned into slag!” “By your word, Lord Megatron.” Soundwave said bowing, “I shall continue overseeing the construction of the space bridge.” “Hurry up then!” Starscream snapped, “I will not allow you to stand here idly while there is work to be done.” “An interesting sentiment, Starscream.” Megatron said looming over his lieutenant, “We can’t have anyone standing idly.” Megatron then dropped several energon cubes into Starscream’s unsuspecting arms, nearly causing the Decepticon to fall over himself. “But, Lord Megatron!” He exclaimed, “You can’t possibly think that I should be given such an unworthy task!” “Given your past service to me, Starscream...” Megatron growled, “You’re lucky I even allow you to see energon.” Starscream Grunted in disappointment. How could he, the great Starscream, be forced to do such a medial task? His pouting was cut short however, when Megatron’s eyes met Starscream’s with a glare that would melt an I-beam. Hastily, Starscream fled his leader’s presence, allowing Megatron to bathe in the slender of his latest project alone. “Soon, Prime…” he growled, “Soon that ancient humiliation you placed on me will be null and void, and I… Megatron… will not only rule this world, but all life in the universe!” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Alaska, midsummer, the land of the midnight sun: The three jets cut down their thrusters and reverted to their bot forms. Silverbolt was the first to land, searching the area for the five they were searching for. After straining his optics, he turned to face his counterparts. “Did either of you pick up their signals on the way here?” he asked. “Just the one that lead us here…” Jetfire said, looking to the hologram projecting out of his wrist, “And this signal belongs to Sludge, the others are off the map.” “Well, that’s just great…” Air Raid grunted, “Now they’ve gone A.W.O.L., and this was obviously, placed here to pull us off the trail. I’m reporting this back to Optimus.” Before he could transform however, the ground shook, sending Air Raid and his partners to the ground. The earth broke underneath them, nearly sending them into the pit itself. It was Jetfire’s quick thinking that saved them however, transforming quickly into his jet form he saved his allies from what he believed to be certain doom. “An earthquake?” Silverbolt said reverting to his own jet form. “I thought we were miles from the nearest fault line.” “We are…” Jetfire said, typing several commands into his hologram, “And this is no natural earthquake… this is-“ Before he could finish the ground erupted with a thunderous boom, then a terrible roar form the very thing causing the quake. Sludge reared his head into the sky, lashing his tail into the air he nearly struck Silverbolt. Without a second’s hesitation Air Raid readied his nucleon charge rifle and aimed squarely at the robotic lizards head, but before he could fire Silverbolt grabbed his arm, sending his shot over sludge’s head. “Are you crazy?!” Silverbolt roared, “He’s on OUR side!” “He attacked us!” Air Raid replied. “I’m not gonna be torn a new exhaust pipe without a fight!” “With that weapon you’d just make him mad.” Jetfire said, turning his attention to the recently risen Dinobot. “Sludge!” he called out, “Where are the others?” Sludge looked up to the three jets, then to his surroundings. “Sludge not know…” he said, “Sludge look for them, but all gone… so me sleep.” “So they are A.W.O.L.” Air Raid said, “NOW can we tell Optimus?” “We still don’t know.” Silverbolt said thinking about what they should do next, “They could be-“ “We heard it straight from the Dino’s mouth!” Air Raid interrupted. “They’re gone! A.W.O.L.! Never coming back! Finito! What more do you-“ Air Raid was cut off by something flying through their little group, screeching like a crazed animal. Swoop, The Dinobots reconnaissance officer, had arrived. “Where you been?” he asked Sludge, “Long time pass since we hide with stealth signals, why you no look?” “Sludge look… but no find, so Sludge sleep instead.” He replied. “We had have YOU look for us…” Swoop sighed. “Wait…” Jetfire said, “Did you say STEALTH signals?” “Yeah…” Swoop replied, “Slag find them, brought them to Grimlock, he say they help us hide. To test we hide and Sludge find us, but he no find I guess.” “How did Slag get the knowhow to-“ “Slag not knowhow, Grimlock knowhow.” Swoop corrected. “Is Grimlock coming?” Silverbolt asked, looking to Swoop. “Grimlock coming.” Swoop answered, “And he already know what you here for.” “How does he already know?” Air Raid asked, “He’s just a dense as the rest of you.” “Because puny Jet-bot…” a deep, commanding voice said from behind the three jets, “Me Grimlock… Me KING!” Air Raid nervously turned around to see the unmistakable blue visor of one of the Autobots mightiest combatants, the legendary Grimlock, known both for his prowess in combat and his insubordination to Optimus and other higher ranking Autobots. He stood there glaring at Air Raid as if he were about to pay for a wrong doing, which in truth made him more nervous in Grimlock’s presence. After a minute of silence, Silverbolt was the one to break the tension. “Grimlock.” He began, “We’re here to-“ “Bring me and Dinobots back to Ark.” Grimlock finished; much to his surprise. “How did you know that?” Jetfire asked. “Autobots weak,” He replied, “Not strong without Dinobots… not strong without Grimlock.” He beat his chest three times, “Optimus know that without Dinobots, they lose, Optimus need Dinobots to be strong, Optimus need Grimlock.” “Oddly enough… your right.” Jetfire said reverting back to robot form, “The Autobots need you and your team Grimlock, the Decepticons are planning something big and as you know, there are so few of us now.” “You need Dinobot help?” Swoop asked, “But after last time you say you no need Dinobot help.” “We do now.” Silverbolt said stepping before the three Dinobots present, “Optimus needs you, the Autobots need you, but most of all humanity needs you.” “Grimlock could care less about puny, weak humans.” Grimlock said coldly, “But Grimlock will crush all Decepticons who are in way of going home to Cybertron.” “That’s the… spirit…?” Silverbolt said confused, “So are you ready to return to the ark?” “No…” Grimlock said turning away from Silverbolt. “WHAT?!” Air Raid exclaimed, “You’re denying a direct order… from a PRIME! That’s a violation of order code 1937 D! I’ll have to-“ “Grimlock wait for Slag and Snarl.” He interrupted, not bothering to look back, “They slower than Swoop and Grimlock. We ready when they arrive.” Air Raid was speechless, he didn’t expect that amount of loyalty out of one he considered a mindless brute. The look on his face managed to get a snicker for the usually stoic Silverbolt and the always professional Jetfire, but when he finally brought himself out of his shock he felt a new sense of respect for the giant Autobot. Though Grimlock was a hothead who rarely listened to orders he saw that Grimlock’s team was very important to him Some ten minutes later the two missing Dinobots showed up and after some careful maneuvering and adjusting, Silverbolt and his team were ready to transport the Dinobots back to the Ark. Several tense hours had passed inside the ark as the other Autobots prepared for what could be the most pivotal battle in their war against the Decepticons. Optimus was watching over the preparations, ensuring that nothing was left to chance in the upcoming battle. His commanding trance was only broken by the sound of frizzled and choppy signal that was coming from Teletraan one. “Opti… This is… bolt… co… in… …mus…” the transmission was gargled, and a few broken words didn’t cut it for the Prime. “Preceptor, Prowl!” Optimus yelled into the massed group of Autobots, the two in question perking up the instant their names were called. “Teletraan, is acting up again, I need you two to repair it so we can receive an incoming transmission from out brothers in the field. Ironhide, Cliffjumper, Jazz and Bumblebee, I want you four to check the towers outside; we can’t simply assume that this is a simple mechanical failure.” “Will do Prime!” Ironhide replied with a salute, “Come on you three, maybe I’ll tell ya ‘bout the time ol’ Optimus and I fought our way to the core back on Cybertron.” “Oh sure go ahead!” Cliffjumper said sprinting past the three, “I’m sure the story gets better the twelfth time!” “Stay cool fellas!” Jazz said swinging past Cliffjumper with his grappling hook, “We don’t need our chassis heated up right now! Let’s save it for those Decepticon cats.” “Jazz is right.” Ironhide said, “Now let’s go make sure that those towers are still intact.” Optimus watched the four bots disappear outside and then turned his attention to the two that were now working feverishly on Teletrraan. “Can you fix it?” he asked looking over Preceptor’s shoulder. “Of course I can Optimus.” He replied confidently, pulling out his sonic driver, “But as with every piece of art it will take some time.” “He’s right Prime.” Prowl added, “We may need a few minutes to get Teletraan up and running again.” “Of course…” Optimus sighed bringing his hand to the bridge of his faceplate, “Just hurry…” Meanwhile outside the Ark, Ironhide, Jazz, bumblebee and Cliffjumper had reached the communication towers. What they saw sent a chill down their frames. Lazerbeak, Sowndwave’s most reliable servant was cutting the wires to Teletrran’s communication systems. Ironhide motioned the others to remain in position as his arm to the form of a Scatter Blaster, he was close enough for the blast to take full effect on the Decepticon. Steading his self for the shot he almost pulled the trigger, but Cliffjumper jumped in front of the shot, making Lazerbeak aware that he was not alone. With little hesitation He sped off into the sky leaving the four Autobots in the dust. “What in Primus’s name were you thinking kid?!” Ironhide yelled, “I coulda blasted you a new exhaust pipe and then some!” “I was trying to capture him…” Cliffjumper said, “Maybe if we caught him we could download his memories and find out where those Deceptacreeps were building that space bridge.” “That’s some smooth thinking there kid.” Jazz said patting him on the back, “But we could’ve done that if that old rust bucket got in a good shot.” “I might be old but I ain’t rusty yet!” Ironhide snapped, “Now did any of ya bring a self-repair kit?” The three Autobots looked to one another, each shaking their heads. Ironhide then let out a small laugh and pulled a small kit from out behind him. “You kids these days…” He said attaching the kit to the damaged tower, “Never leave the house prepared.” “We’ve got it!” Preceptor said triumphantly, as Teletraan’s systems went completely online once again. “Thank the maker…” Optimus said relieved. Just at that moment a call came in from Silverbolt. “Optimus?” He said frustrated, “Optimus are you there? I have the Dinobots, we’ll be at the Ark within the hour.” “Understood Silverbolt.” Optimus said, “I’ll ready the others for your return, Prime out.” Just as Optimus cut communications with Silverbolt the four that he had sent to investigate the towers had returned. “I assume that everything was well?” He asked looking to Ironhide. “Nothing we couldn’t handle.” Ironhide replied, “So did ya get communications up and runin’ again?” “Indeed.” Optimus replied, “And I believe I have you to thank for that.” “Maybe…” Ironhide said with a smile, “So what’s the word on the Dinobots? Are they coming?” “Within the hour old friend.” Optimus said looking to the entrance, “and once I inform them of the mission we’ll be able to roll out.” “You’re gonna tell them about Shockwave?” Ironhide gasped. “I won’t lie to them Ironhide…” Optimus said, narrowing his optics, “If they ask I will tell them, but they don’t need to know that Shockwave maybe involved upfront.” “I understand Optimus…” Ironhide said lowering his head, “Tough choices?” “Tough choices…” Optimus repeated, looking back to the other Autobots still preparing. Almost an hour had passed before the sound of jet thrusters thundered through the Ark. Silverbolt and his team had returned along with their cargo. “Optimus!” Silverbolt said sprinting to his leader along with his fellow team mates, “Mission accomplished.” “Well done Silverbolt.” Optimus said nodding. “All of you have done good today.” Silverbolt then rendered a salute, which made Grimlock sigh sarcastically and shrug his shoulders. The action didn’t go unnoticed by Optimus, or any other Autobot present. He just returned the salute and then made his way to Grimlock and his team. “It’s been quite some time Grimlock.” Optimus said extending his hand, “It’s good to have you back.” The Giant Autobot crossed his arms and stared down at his ‘leader’. Grimlock was nearly twice Optimus’ size, ten times stronger and there was that ever so present concern for the weak creatures that called this planet home. If he were to lead the Autobots then this war would be over and they could return to Cybertron, his beloved home, the home that he was willing to die for, not this puny rock full of fleshy, pathetic beings. “I take it that nothing happened at your new station?” Optimus asked, bringing Grimlock out of his thoughts. “No…” Grimlock growled, still staring Optimus down. He didn’t really think that he needed to know about the signal jammers that Snarl had happened upon while they were undergoing a covert mission in a recently ‘abandoned’ Decepticon base, and he used that term because it was his team that made it abandoned. He also knew the real reason why he was summoned with his team. He knew that Optimus was planning an attack on the alleged space bridge the Decepticons were building. However there were a few things he knew that Optimus didn’t, like that the space bridge was real and where it was located. “You go through lots of trouble to bring us back…” Grimlock growled, looking to the somewhat terrified Autobots the filled the Ark. “Why?” That was the thing that separated Grimlock from the other Dinobots; he was actually very intelligent, for a Dinobot at least. The whole ‘Me Grimlock’ thing was just a ploy so that others could assume he wouldn’t know what they were talking about. He wanted to know if Optimus would tell him the truth, or lie to him and hope he was too stupid to understand. “Our enemy has been attacking human resources at an alarming rate…” Optimus began, “And…” “That old news…” Grimlock said waving his hand, “And as if me Grimlock care about puny humans… they weak… and among the winners there is no room for the weak.” “I didn’t bring you here to argue philosophy Grimlock.” Optimus replied annoyed, “I brought you here because I need your help.” “What a surprise…” “Please listen to me Grimlock…” Optimus said letting out a sigh, “The Decepticons have been stealing human resources to build a space bridge…” At least he was telling the truth about that, Grimlock thought. “If they are allowed to succeed then they WILL be able to defeat us, and many more worlds will fall starting with this one.” Grimlock remained silent, his optics staring squarely down at Optimus’. He knew that he was withholding something from him, but what he couldn’t figure out. However he decided not to pry, it had been a very long time since he and his team had had a good brawl. “Ok Optimus,” Grimlock said walking past Optimus, “Dinobots help… but only if they follow Grimlock’s orders… not yours.” “Very well…” Optimus said, much to the surprise of the other Autobots, he had to have been desperate, they all thought. As if calling on the Dinobots wasn’t a sign enough, he was now giving Grimlock full reign over his very dangerous, very powerful comrades. “Then you have Grimlock and Dinobot help.” Grimlock said walking up to Teletraan one. “What are you doing?” Preceptor asked as he was pushed to the side. “Helping…” Grimlock said pulling a small chip out from the back of his head. Before anyone could protest Grimlock placed the chip into Teletraan one, sending it into overdrive as it processed the information the chip held. Finally a hologram emerged from the motherboard, blueprints, locations and individuals among the Decepticon ranks. Information that just blew the minds of all that saw them. “Grimlock…” Optimus said awestruck at what he saw, “What is that?” “Location of space bridge.” Grimlock replied pointing to a maker on the map, “North… in Greenland.” “How did you get this information?” Optimus said sternly. “Ask no questions…” Grimlock said forebodingly, “And be told no lies…” Optimus glared at Grimlock. Knowing for a fact that he had deliberately disobeyed his orders, but he soon realized that without that insubordination they would be lost when it came to finding Megatron’s space bridge. “Let’s not waste any more time.” Optimus said turning to the other Autobots, reading his blaster “Autobots ready the transport! Because now we have few allies, and time isn’t one!” With several more hours of preparation and finally all the Autobots, minus the jets, Preceptor and Bumblebee were off to Greenland. The ride was long for all who were on the trip, but the ride especially long for Grimlock. He spent each second of each hour racking his neural processors trying to think about what Optimus was withholding from him, but ever since his transformation, it made it very hard for him to process thoughts. He would have to excursive patience, knowing soon that the answer would come. The transport landed about ten miles away from the actual location of the bridge so that the assault could at least stand some chance of surprise. It didn’t take long for them to get to the site, maybe thirty minutes, but when Optimus looked over the edge of the crater the space bridge was supposed to be in fear came over his very being. “No…” he whispered to himself, “We’re already too late…” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Ten minutes earlier. “Is the bridge stable?” Megatron asked looking over Sowndwave’s shoulder. “Yes Lord Megatron.” He replied, “Ready for coordinates.” “Send it to the location of our last communication with Shockwave.” He ordered, “Whatever he found was important enough for him to use some of the precious energon he has left to signal us.” “As you command, Lord Megatron.” Soundwave said igniting the energon batteries, unleashing an unholy sound across the land. A light began to flicker around the pillars, with each passing second the light became brighter and lasted longer. Until finally, the light was at a constant, glowing the eerie mix of green and blue that all space bridges are known for. The moment the bridge had become stable Starscream landed just behind Megatron, looking at the space bridge underwhelmed. “How do we even know that he’s still at that location?” He asked, “He could be megamiles away from where we’ve pinpointed his signal.” “Shockwave is a Decepticon of logic Starscream.” Megatron growled, “If we were to send a message to us requesting transport to earth he wouldn’t wonder off from the position he sent it at.” “Well I still don’t see anything stepping out of-“ Before Starscream could finish his thought the consistency of the space bridge began to falter. Something was coming through the bridge. Without hesitation Starscream readied his Null Ray, prepared to blast whatever was coming through back to Cybertron if necessary, but before he could steady his aim Megatron grabbed his arm in his crushing grip and threw him into a nearby boulder. “I will NOT allow such stupidity to threaten a chance at my supreme control!” Megatron roared, “If whatever lies beyond the bridge IS hostile, I will deal with it myself!” Megatron then made his way to Starscream, who was still holding his arm in pain. “Do I make myself clear?” Starscream looked to his damaged arm then back up to Megatron, the furry in his eyes could turn even the fiercest of sharkticons into a cowardly insect. “Y-yes… Lord Megatron…” Starscream said rising back to his feet. “Good…” Megatron said turning back to Soundwave, “Ensure that the bridge remains stable… I wouldn’t want Shockwave to be lost in limbo.” “Yes Lord Megatron.” Soundwave replied, turning several knobs on the panel before him. The space bridge continued to act up, sending random bursts of electricity into the air. It took Sound wave all his skill to maintain it, because even with their recent successes in acquiring energon it was still barely enough to keep it running. He had to maintain the careful balance of power and energon conservation in check, or else the bridge would fail and send whatever was trying to come through into a pocket dimension incapable of maintaining any life. Several tense moments passed until finally a shadowy figure formed from within the light. The figure walked closer and closer until it became clear to any Cybertornian who the silhouette belonged to. “Shockwave…” Megatron said with a smile. “It has been some time.” “Yes Lord Megatron.” Shockwave replied focusing his eye on the surrounding area, “This world is full of resources, it was logical to come here. If done properly we will be able to rebuild Cybertron within a few megacycles.” “That’s why you are here.” Megatron said, “We received your message about the possible location of an artifact?” “Indeed.” Shockwave replied, holding up a hologram on his wrists. “In the last days of the war on Cybertron, the Autobot leaders thought it wise to expel their most powerful and ancient creations into space so that the approaching Decepticon forces would be unable to use them against their soldiers. It was a most logical conclusion, for if we were to get our hands on one or two of the devices, most Autobots would be nothing but partials floating in the sea of rust by now.” “I don’t require a history lesson Shockwave,” Megatron said, “Tell me why you decided to finally make contact after nearly four million years.” “As I have already explained… Several artifacts were sent off Cybertron to stem the tide of Autobot casualties…” Shockwave continued bringing up yet another hologram on his wrist. “But these artifacts had distinct signals attached to them. So that in the chance the war would end the Autobots could retrieve them… they never thought that we would be able to pick up the same signals.” “You managed to track down one of the artifacts?” Megatron asked in excited shock. “Several actually.” Shockwave replied, “But there is one that would grant us limitless energon and infinite power… the Titan Sphere.” “The Titan Sphere?!” Starscream gasped, “That is merely an old legend, such a device never existed.” “Then perhaps you could explain THIS to me.” Shockwave said, showing him a distinct spherical shape. But that’s not what was special about it. The markings however sent chills throughout his core. “That’s… that’s-“ “The very same Sphere that allowed Primus himself to create the thirteen original Primes and the same sphere that granted them their vast power and knowledge.” Shockwave finished. “And it was one of the artifacts that was sent into the far reaches of space… for millions of years it was lost… until now.” “You have found the Titan Sphere?” Megatron asked, “Where?” “Here” Shockwave answered, pulling up a third and final hologram, “In the constellation known as Orion, near the horse head nebula. Its signal is on one of the planets of a nearby star.” “Then we mustn’t waste any more time…” Megatron said turning to Soundwave, “Put these coordinates into the space bridge…” He ordered, smiling to himself. “We have a date with destiny…” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Optimus couldn’t believe what he was seeing. A working space bridge, it had been so long since he had seen one that he all but forgot what one looked like. However that wasn’t the only thing that caught his attention. There were four Decepticons very close to the bridge, Megatron, Starscream and Soundwave were a given, but the forth made his hydraulics run cold. Shockwave was already among them, he was hoping that if he was right that they could at least get there before the Decepticons could bring him over. Unfortunately that wasn’t the case, scenarios ran through Optimus’ mind, trying to think of a way to salvage the situation before it came to a head. If he ordered the Autobots top fall back then he’d risk the entire universe, but if he were to wait for the right moment to ambush the Dinobots would see Shockwave and lose all control and he would run the risk of losing every Autobot present in the ensuing battle. After some thought he decided that the risk to the universe was too great, he and the Autobots were ready to die for the cause of freedom. “Why you take so long to act?” Grimlock asked from behind him. “We take space bridge now or we lose it!” “Grimlock get down!” Optimus said franticly, hoping that he wouldn’t notice a certain Decepticon. “You’ll blow our cover!” “Grimlock not sure why you so-” at that moment Grimlock’s optics fell squarely on the one Optimus was desperately trying to hide from him. The memories of torture flooded his mind as rage began to build from within, “S-Shockwave…” he growled. “Grimlock stand DOWN!” Optimus ordered, but it was no use, Grimlock was already too far gone. “SHOCKWAVE!” He roared pulling his sword out and summoning his shield, he ran into directly into the fray, cutting down several Decepticons in the process. “Autobots!” Optimus roared reading his blaster, “Provide Grimlock covering fire!” The sound of weapons firing and metal being ripped apart drew that attention of the Decepticons overseeing Soundwave’s progress. Megatron was the first to realize what was happening and quickly called upon the Combaticons, Onslaught, Brawl, Swindle, Vortex and Blast Off. “Yes Lord Megatron!” Onslaught said standing before his peers. “What do you need us to do?” “Quickly form Bruticus!” He roared, firing his own weapon, “We cannot allow any intrusion on Soundwave’s progress!” “By your word Lord Megatron!” Onslaught replied, “You heard him Combaticons! Activate Bruticus!” The five robots fell into their formation, changing into various parts. Blast Off and Vortex formed arms, Brawl and Swindle comprised the legs and finally Onslaught made the Torso. Quickly connecting to one another the monstrosity finally formed a head with a pair of deep purple eyes. Bruticus, the mightiest of the combiners, was complete. “Bruticus go NOW!” Megatron roared, “Bring me every Autobot head, but leave Optimus… he’s mine…” “It will be done Lord Megatron.” Bruticus replied, slowly making his way into the fray. Meanwhile, on the other side of the crater the sounds of violence and destruction grew louder and louder. Grimlock was cutting his way through those Decepticons who were foolish enough to try to stop him, they had to know that they didn’t stand a chance, but it mattered little to him, just as long as he could rip Shockwave’s arm off again, then the rest of his body. The moment his blade impaled yet another Decepticon soldier he saw a towering mass of metal slowly making his way to him, Bruticus. He didn’t care who got in his way, if they were between him and Shockwave, they were getting turned into scrap, but at least now it was going to be a challenge to get to his ultimate goal. “SHOCKWAVE!” Grimlock roared again, sprinting at top speeds towards Bruticus, who followed suit and also began to charge. Before the two ran into one another Grimlock jumped into the air and slammed his fists into the ground, sending shockwave across the crater, but that wasn’t the end of it, Grimlock was transforming. His body surged as the multiple parts that made him who he was began to shift. Starting with his arms his fingers disappeared and formed powerful talons. His legs and torso folded into one another, followed by his sword which created his powerful tail and cylindrical body, finally his head folded into his hew chest sprouting small arms and lastly, a fierce reptilian head. Flames shot out of the titan’s mouth as he roared to the sky, making all who had surrounded him flee in terror. Now in his new form the Dinobot continued his charge to Bruticus, until at last, the two monsters collided. It was like a train wreck on steroids, both combatants rolling over one another struggling for dominance. It didn’t seem to matter to them that they were squashing anyone that was in the way. The two finally came to a stop, with Grimlock on top, biting and bathing his foe in intense flame. Bruticus quickly threw the Dinobot off, allowing both a short pause in their conflict. “Move away Bruticus.” Grimlock growled, “This between me and Shockwave… not you.” “To get Shockwave You’ll have to get through me!” Bruticus declared, reading his propeller shield. “Grimlock hoping you say that…” Grimlock said quietly just before the two charged one another yet again. As the two titans clashed another pair was exchanging blows of their own. Megatron and Optimus crossed steel again and again neither had a clear advantage, both were so equally matched that there was no true way to tell who was winning. “Not bad for a Librarian…” Megatron scoffed, “Perhaps you should’ve spent more time in the pits.” “And you could’ve spent more time in the library.” Optimus retorted, “What happened brother? You once stood for the same thing I stand for now! In fact you inspired me to stand in the first place!” “YOU happened!” Megatron roared sending his mace towards Optimus’ face, only to be blocked by his axe. “You stole the title that rightfully belonged to ME! I was supposed to lead Cybertron to a new glorious age, not YOU!” “You were willing to take away the most basic rights form all of Cybertron!” Optimus yelled pushing him back, “A Prime’s duty is to protect and preserve freedom! Not to steal and destroy it!” “Enough philosophy, let’s finish this!” Megatron roared reading for a devastating blow. “NOW!” The attack was barely blocked by Optimus, sparks flew off his axe the moment Megatron’s mace met it. Now he was fighting Megatron’s might from completely overwhelming him, he continued to fight, but with every second Megatron seemed to be gaining the upper hand. While the two were struggling among one another Starscream landed in the distance, training his Null Ray squarely on Optimus’ head. “I shall have the glory this day Megatron…” Starscream smiled to himself, “Once I kill the Prime all shall see that I am the TRUE leader of the Decepticons!” He was about to take his shot, but he failed to notice the two titans battling behind him. The moment he turned around he was nearly flattened by Bruticus. He started to transform but before he could finish Bruticus’ hand fell directly on him. Felling something in his free hand Bruticus used it as a weapon against Grimlock, unaware that it was Starscream. He tried to yell at the monster that had him but every other second his body was being slammed against the nearly indestructible skin of a Dinobot. “Are the coordinates set?” Shockwave asked Soundwave, “It would be highly illogical for me to stay here any longer. I must be off to retrieve the artifact.” “Coordinates set.” Soundwave replied, “Ready for departure.” “Excellent.” Shockwave said looking to the bridge, “There’s no need to send anyone else, I shall be-“ Shockwave was suddenly knocked into the portal by the furious fighting of Grimlock and Bruticus, Starscream being involuntarily included. It didn’t take much longer for all three of them to fall through the portal as well, sending the bridge into overdrive. The sudden flux of energy was too much for Sound wave to control. He ran from the control panel and jumped the second the entire rig exploded, sending molten debris across the battlefield. The explosion caught everyone off guard, even so much as to pause the conflict between Optimus and Megatron. “No…” Megatron said dropping his mace, “No… no… NO! MY SPACE BRIDGE!” He ran to the wreckage, followed closely by Optimus, who was also shock at the carnage he saw. Bodies of both Decepticon and Autobot littered the crater. Many were severely wounded, including a few that were searching for missing limbs. The sight devastated him, there was only one other time that he saw so much death and that was back on Cybertron. “No more…” Optimus said placing his hand on Megatron’s shoulder. “We have lost great soldiers on both sides… there is no need to continue any further.” Megatron was silent still staring at what used to be his ticket to universal control. Several tense moments pasted before he finally spoke. “Leave… Take your dead and wounded and leave…” He said slapping Optimus’ hand off of him, “Now.” “Thank you brother.” Optimus said quietly. “I said Leave…” Megatron hissed, “Before I change my mind…” Megatron left Optimus with no more than a word before he saw Soundwave rising from the rubble of the space bridge. He looked to the devastation before brushing off some of the debris that clung to him. Finally he looked to the hologram that suddenly appeared on his wrist. “Did it work?” Megatron asked. “Are they at the target planet?” Soundwave stared at the hologram for a few seconds before finally turning his attention to his leader and nodding, “All four Decepticon signatures identified.” He said. “Excellent now there’s still a chance that-“ “And one Autobot signature.” Soundwave interrupted. “WHAT?!” Megatron roared, “Who among them would be foolish enough to- Grimlock…” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* “Urrgh…” Grimlock groaned reaching for his head, “Grimlock not feel good…” He knew that much at least, his optics were fuzzy, his auditory sensors were ringing and his equilibrium calculator was going haywire. He sat up slowly shill cradling his head in his hand, but that couldn’t be right, last thing he remembered he was in dino mode. ‘Just how long was I out?’ He thought to himself while his inner workings finished reconfiguring themselves. Once they were done he realized that something was different, he wasn’t in Greenland anymore. “Space bridge…” he said to himself, “Must’ve fallen into it while fighting.” Grimlock pressed two fingers into his commlink, listening for any chatter, but all he got was static. “Slag? Come in Slag it Grimlock!” But the only response was static yet again, swallowing some of his pride then tried to make contact with the only other individual the he thought would hear him. “Optimus? Prime… Come in Prime it ME GRIMLOCK!” again static, which lead to a great deal of frustration within the giant metal titan. “Now what Grimlock to do?” He pondered that thought for a second or two before remembering what exactly conspired to get him in this position in the first place. The fighting in Greenland, over space bridge, a space bridge that had… Shockwave. Grimlock then shot to his feet and roared in primal anger, he was so close to finally destroying the one that did this to him and he had gotten away. Grimlock proceeded to punch the ground at his feet, sending small tremors through the forest that now surrounded him. He continued to do this until a thought suddenly popped into his head. “Grimlock know what to do now…” he said to himself, “Grimlock go find Shockwave, then KILL Shockwave… then Grimlock go home. Now to find…” Grimlock strained his optics to find a path or trail of some sort. That’s when he saw a small dirt trail leading off into the distance. Though he knew that Shockwave couldn’t have taken that path, he thought it could lead to a town full of those fleshy things. Even though he didn’t like them they would at least know that he was an Autobot because of his symbol and they may be able to point him in the right direction. Grimlock followed the path until he saw buildings in the distance. He continued in the direction to the town, but he kept himself low, knowing that some of the weaklings overreacted when they saw his race. That was another thing the trees were really, really small compared to him, he thought little of it however he just wanted to ask one of the puny humans a question and then continue his quest to kill Shockwave. When he finally reached the edge of the forest he poked his head out of the trees. What he saw confused him beyond all reason. It was a town alright, but there were no people, in their place were tiny little horses, each a different vibrant color. Some looked like regular horses, but some had horns, others had wings, he even swore he saw one with both standing next to a tree. Grimlock shook his head several times just to make sure that his optics weren’t playing tricks on him, but the little horses were still there after each shake. “Me think… don’t think Grimlock on Earth anymore…”