Outside the Crystalis another group was taking interest in the ship and the Matrix on board.
Got the scan. Rattrap said. Yes sensors have confirmed. The Matrix is on board.
Good. Jeff said. Now all we have to do is get on board.
Perhaps I can help you with that. A voice said behind them. Every Specter turned around to see a robot in white and blue walk behind them standing imposing over them all.
That ship is named the Crystalis. It belongs to one of the allies of the Autobots. ut I have security protocols and ways to get through the defenses and we can all get what we want, if you will listen to me. The robot said.
“And who might you be? Tall, blue and handsome?” Black Arachnia asked in a sultry voice, but the giant Autobot was not amused.
“My name is God Magnus. And I’m your new best friend.”
The Specters listened to what God Magnus had to say, but Zips was having a hard time paying attention. Mostly due to her body temperature gradually climbing. She took a look at her arm and saw white blotches start to form. She considered telling Slasha, but decided not to.
I’m not going to give up. Zips promised. Specters never give up.
Mackenzie tossed and turned in her bed until she opened her eyes and saw a sneering monster looking down over her. A monster with reptilian skin and bone like armor with fangs shaping into a monstrous smile. Hello little girl. The boogy man has arrived.
This monster was none other than Robert Harper who placed a hand over her mouth then injected Mackenzie with some sort of drug before she could react that sent her back into unconsciousness. But not before she pressed a button that activated an auxiliary defense.
Lasers started to appear out of the wall sending Harper scurrying for cover as he had to relax his grip on Mackenzie in order to hide. After hiding behind a night stand he realized that the lasers were starting to cut through his hiding place and that he needed to mount a defense against them. As he raised his hand a sabre started to form which Harper used to deflect the laser bolts, as well as cut off the tips of the lasers as well. Soon all the lasers were destroyed and Harper could focus on his quarry once again. Quite the workout. He said putting his blade away and turning towards Mackenzie.
You’re going for a ride girl. Harper glared at the unconscious Mackenzie. But you’re going with me. Grabbing her wrist Harper activated his teleporter and transported both himself and the unconscious Mackenzie out of the Specter’s base. Just before he left Harper thought about thanking the informant who allowed him to shut down the security system and break into the Specter’s base.
In a special nursery fit for a royal demon, Empress Bansheera went over a crib designed with bat, demon and dragon images. In the crib was a green-eyed, purple scaled dragon baby sucking on a black pacifier and in a purple cocoon for swaddling.
“Mama!” the demon squealed.
The Empress picked up the baby and held her gingerly and smiled. “Oh Jezera my little princess.”
“Luv you mama.” the baby demon giggled.
“I love you too Jezera.” Empress Bansheera smiled at her baby girl. ~ To think I only thought of my dear Impus as a tool to further my conquests. How single minded and blind was I back that. So young, so powerful… ~ she started but then added with shame. ~ … and so ignorant, impetuous and foolish. ~
She reflected on her past. When she was simply Queen Bansheera. The ruler of the Demon Race perhaps but she was also a being that didn’t care about anything except one thing. Her palace. It was so damn important to her back then she was willing to do anything to get it rebuilt. ~ I didn’t have to do anything though. It was done by those I sent before me to complete my work. ~ She thought.
But then that was part of her problem. Once she got her palace what was next for her? The Universe? All of reality? By the time five years of her conquest had happened she had already had the Milky Way Galaxy under her grasp with outposts on all planets. Still though there was a missing part in her soul. Yes even demons have souls.
She found what it was when Diabolico murdered in secret her child Impus 13 years ago today.
She didn’t have a meaningful existence. Yes she had been Impus’s mother, but had she really attended to her own son’s needs. No. Not nearly enough. She had left him to Jinxer’s or Vypra’s care and did not come to him as much as she SHOULD have. She though he would become a stronger warrior and then she realized that was what she thought of Impus, as a possible warrior and nothing else.
She was coming around to thinking of something else with her child when she found him one morning dead. He had been bludgeoned to death.
Bansheera went mad with grief and annihilated half of the human slaves in Asia to take her mind off the deed and she would have continued on had it not been for her last kill. She saw a young girl looking at her wondering why her mother was dead. She didn’t even care that she was the Ruler of the Earth, let alone a demon. The girl didn’t even recognize Bansheera as even that.
All she wondered was why her mother had left her alone.
It then hit the Empress. ~ Isn’t this was Impus felt all his life. ~ The treatment that she had given to her own flesh and blood. A treatment that should have never been given at all. She treated her own people even worse. What was the demon race becoming, just a warrior race to demolish and kill?
It was in that moment that Queen Bansheera decided to change appointing herself as EMPRESS Bansheera. Her first decree as Empress was to launch themselves into space and find pockets of evil in the cosmos and invite them into her empire. The UAE as she knew it had once been a place of order and stability within the ranks of evil. She would make something greater. With her own forces, those she found in space and former warriors of the UAE, the Dynasty of Chaos was formed.
She didn’t enslave every world she came across. She researched and studied. Some she made allies with while others she dominated. Her power and knowledge only began to expand by incredible magnitude by her actions.
Two years after Impus died, Obsidian set a trap and invited her to watch in secret, it was then she found out that Diabolico had killed her son to keep his place as her second in command and the star power.
Thirty seconds after she found out, Diabolico got sent a one-way ticket to the Shadow World. Permanently.
Coming to a decision, the Empress decided to revise the entire command structure of her Empire. The Battlings she retired and set them free to live lives in the empire as if they were normal people. ~ Now nearly a decade later they are talking in English and look like real bat humanoid creatures. They are the civilian populous of my Dynasty. ~ she thought. However without the Battlings she needed a newer breed of infantry warriors for the Dynasty. She had heard of reptilian ninjas of another world who had could look human and spat acid at their enemies. She wanted such a breed of warrior for her own. The Reptile Race, as it was, found a common link with Demons and joined Bansheera’s Dynasty whole heartedly, becoming the Dark Assassins.
Bansheera then needed to create her generals. She found the tale of the Four Horsemen to her liking and then thought to make her generals even better than the story, her Four Lords of Havoc. First was Tasha, a human/demon hybrid, one that had more than proven her worth and loyalty to the Demon Race. She was made her Lady of Fire. Then there was Kartia, a Dark Elf that went by the title the Thunder Queen. Such raw power made Bansheera bring her into the fold as her Lady of Wind. Obsidian of course was the Lord of Earth, being fully human and a soul attuned the power of earth.
Of course then came the part of choosing the leader of the Four Lords of Havoc. Whoever that was would then take the Star Power. After much thought, she chose Vypra to be her new second in command and leader of the Four Lords of Havoc. She could still remember the look on Vypra’s face as she placed the Star Power on her chest. She didn’t think she looked any more shocked or estatic. Giving Vypra the star power had increased her abilities to levels that she would have never dreamed. Vyrpa had become an excellent second in command and had yet to let the Empress down.
“Oh Jezera. Soon the universe will be ruled by our kind.” the Empress said. “Now Queen Bansheera might have wanted to just obliterate them, but I love to dominate and rule the lower species.” Bansheera smiled snuggling her child. “After all I have to give you something to play with when you get older.”
“Play!” Jezera laughed. Play with me Mama!
The Empress laughed. “Okay!” This is just what I needed to get my mind off of the…
“My Empress!”
Empress Bansheera growled for a moment and then kissed her girl on the head. “Mama has to go talk to Jinxer now. You behave.” The Empress then put her child back in the crib.
“Fun!” Jezera giggled.
“My Empress I…” Jinxer started but the Empress was not in a good mood as she cut him off with a stare. “Get to the point before I make a few on you Jinxer.”
~ Sometimes we have to wonder which is the worse Bansheera; the one that only cared about getting her palace rebuilt type or the protective and caring of Jezera type… not that I don’t mind the latter. Its just that she can be brutal with her punishments. ~ “Um… it’s about our warriors they…”
“Let me guess…” Empress Bansheera growled. “We are losing to the Demon Hunter and her allies…”
“Yes… and also to the Order…”
“WHAT!!!” the Empress shouted. “The Order of Destruction dares to meddle in my affairs again!!!” She saw a human slave walking past her when she grabbed him and then brought him into the nursery. “Jezera darling… its time for a treat!”
The Empress then extended her nails to have them be like very long nails with an edge sharper and stronger than diamonds as she then cut the slave to pieces literally.
“FUN!!!” Jezera laughed. “Human fall down and go boom!”
The Empress then kissed her child on the head. “I have to go sweetie. Mama’s got to go spank the bad men.”
“FUN! FUN! FUN!” Jezera laughed.
“I know Jezera.” Empress Bansheera replied. “I’ll be back as soon as I can. I love you.”
“Love you mama.” Jezera said.
As she walked out, Empress Bansheera looked at Jinxer. “You take care of her EVERY wish while am I away and you look after her with the utmost care. Understood?”
“Y… yes my Empress.” Jinxer said as the Empress left him. Jinxer looked back at the hyperactive Jezera. ~ What did I do to deserve this? Not even Impus was this hyperactive! She LIKES to annoy the heck out of me to no end. ~
At Gigatron’s citadel however someone else was taking great interest in what Empress Bansheera was doing making use of the information a probe had sent in. Originally Gelshark was supposed to use it to spy on Black Convoy in order to drive the Combatcons away but a wrong turn was taken on the space bridge and Gelshark found himself looking in on the Empress’s citadel.
On his main viewer Gelshark took notice of Bansheera’s words and inspiration hit him. This ‘Order of Destruction’ must be a powerful group if they had stolen a Matrix from Bansheera. Gelshark thought out loud. And they can travel across realities too. Impressive. It was than that Gelshark had an idea that he considered genius.
If I were to make an alliance with the Order of Destruction then Gigatron would be so proud of me. Gelshark thought as his imagination went into overdrive as a dicast Gigatron patted a diecast Gelshark for a job well done. Well done Gelshark, your alliance with the Order of Destruction has guaranteed Predicon domination across many realities. You are now my second in command.
Gelshark shook his head out of his dream and decided to put his plan into action. First he would need his three warriors. Gaskunk, Gildo, Goosher report to launch deck!
He could hear the ranting of the three Predicons as they responded to Gelshark’s command. Yeah yeah we’re coming. And What’s tuna breath got in mind now? were the comments in regard to Gelshark, but Gelshark was so lost in the possibilities of his mission he couldn’t be bothered with his troops’ naysaying. The launch bay awaited as did a chance to further his status with Gigatron.
As Gelshark made his way to the launching bay he started singing. “Da da da. Da da da. Who’s the baddest shark around? Who’s the biggest shark in town? Gelshark, that’s me. Who’ll drive Black Convoy in the ground, and never let ol Gigatron down? Yeah Gelshark. Yes Gelshark. That’s me.” The Predicon known as Gelshark continued to sing as he searched for his fellow Predicons. They had a mission to complete and allies to make.
At the Crystalis’s landing bay Speed Breaker, Mach Alert and Wildrider were standing waiting for some news on what Fire Convoy was doing. Geez man. Why did he have us wait here? Speed Breaker asked. I’m itching to know what’s going on?
Fire Convoy wanted us to make sure we didn’t come off as too imposing. Mach Alert said. He thought it best if he went on alone. When Fire gives the all clear we’ll be allowed to join him.
An ‘all clear’ that has come now. A voice said from the corridor as Fire Convoy, AI-2, Avatar Spectra, Ravage, Justin, Rocky and Brainstorm appeared from the hallway. Ravage looked at the three Autobot brothers and had a look of distain.
I see Autobot design doesn’t really improve over time. Ravage scoffed. He did take a look at Mach Alert and was slightly impressed. But only slightly.
Hey. Who are you calling unimpressive? Wildrider shouted. There doesn’t seem to be anything impressive about you!
Oh really? TRANSFORM: GET ON! Ravage shouted as he changed into his Cybertron Jaguar form and pounced on Wildrider knocking him down then fired a missile at Speed Breaker at low power. Low power that was just enough to send him staggering. Mach Alert grabbed Ravage by the neck justifying Ravage’s faith in him, but making it slightly discomfortable for him as well.
TRANSFORM: HEAD ON! Rocky shouted as he transformed into Brainstorm’s head and Justin transformed into Bumblebee as he said TRANSFORM: GET ON! They were about ready to say ‘Let Go!’ when Fire Convoy gave the order instead.
Mach Alert. Release him. If this Ravage is anything like his ancestor then he was just testing you to see how good you are. Fire Convoy explained. ~ And apparently, you are the one who impresses him. ~ he thought as well. ~ He must sense your devotion to duty. Much as Ravage was devoted to the Decepticon cause all those years ago. ~
Mach Alert released Ravage just as four vehicles landed on the Crystalis. They were carrying two other vehicles which had transformed into Sureshot and Blurr. Also appearing were the Stuntbots and Arcea who was clutching her arm. Sureshot and Blurr were surprised when they saw Fire Convoy and like Bumblebee, Justin, Brainstorm, Rocky and Ravage almost mistook him for Optimus Prime but Brainstorm quickly corrected them.
This is not Prime. Brainstorm said. This is Fire Convoy. A decendent of Optimus, only he’s called Convoy in another reality. Blurr and Sureshot nodded saying that they understood, but they were still trying to wrap their minds around Fire Convoy. AI-2 and Spectra saw the Phoenix back so that meant Miyaka was on board so they then looked at the three vehicles resembling the raven, the crow and one other that looked sinister as the pilots disembarked. Both AI-2 and Spectra were shocked when they saw Ashley and Alison disembarking.
Is that? Avatar Spectra asked.
It is it’s AI-2 was about to say but Sharon quickly corrected her as she disembarked from the Demonzord.
Not the momma. Sharon said quoting Baby Sinclair from the old show Dinosaurs. And neither is the other one. She added making reference to Alison.
Sharon are we glad to see you! AI-2 said floating over to where she stood just as Kincaid disembarked from the Demonzord. Who are you?
Meet Jeffrey Kincaid. Sharon said. He’s from another reality as well. In fact all of them are. That’s Sureshot, partnered with Ashley as a Targetmaster. Blurr is partnered with Carlos as a Targetmaster as well. Karone, Alison Hammond, Farkas Bulkmeyer, and Jeffery Kincaid, the leader of this merry group.
Kincaid nodded at AI-2, but she then took notice of another ship approaching the landing bay. A ship that looked like a giant hamburger setting down on the landing bay. Bulk went to it and pulled out a burger from the cockpit and after taking a bite from the burger said Lunch has arrived. No one knew what to say after that so everyone got down to business.
So you are all here looking for the Matrix? Fire Convoy asked. To go against the Order I trust?
Yes. Kincaid said. In order to stop them from unleashing some terrible weapon with the Matrix of Evil.
Then perhaps we should see how it’s fairing. Arcea, I want you to head off to medical right away. Get that arm repaired as soon as possible.
You got it Fire. Arcea said. The Stuntbots quickly followed their leader as she made her way to the medical wing. AI-2 led the rest to the security area where the Matrix of Synergy resided. When they entered they saw the Matrix in all its glory.
Magnificent. Brainstorm said.
It is isn’t it? Fire Convoy said as its glow started to shine throughout the room. Then AI Spectra had appeared on the computer screen and was clearly distressed.
Security Alert! Security Alert! AI Spectra reported out loud.
What is it Spectra? Fire Convoy asked.
We’ve got new intruders on board! AI Spectra said calling up the visuals.
And thanks to you, Spectra shoved Ravage back emphasizing it was his fault, Almost all of my droids are off line!
Ravage then grabbed her forcibly. I don’t care if this is your ship but you DON’T do that with me!
Spectra however returned the look back with interest. I don’t know who the hell you think you are… she then twisted Ravage’s arm around and then forced him to the ground using her own strength not the ships and Ravage for the first time then kept his mouth shut. But you are already on thin ice with me and if you piss me off just one more time I might decide to terminate you in a very painful way so don’t incur my wrath! Spectra then let Ravage go after shoving him hard to the ground and after seeing a glare from Fire Convoy.
We don’t have the time or the luxury for you two to be fighting. Spectra get us a clearer picture of the intruders. AI-2, increase defense systems around the Matrix of Synergy, we must not allow it to be taken. Fire Convoy stated.
On it Fire Convoy. AI-2 stated as she appeared again.
The visual turned to the outer most section of the ship where a ship was mooring with the outer skin and was cutting a docking hole to allow boarders to get onboard. Smart. Spectra said. Using the weakest link to board knowing it would take time for the security bots to come on board.
But that would have to mean that they would have to have had inside knowledge on your operating systems. AI-2 added. Where would they get it?
I don’t know. Kincaid said. But right now I’d say confrontation is the way to go, whoever they may be. Karone then spoke up giving her two cents.
Jeff I think we know who those intruders are. She said nodding to Carlos, Blurr and Bulk. Kincaid then got the message.
Those you were watching that had a version of me in their ranks? Kincaid asked. Karone nodded confirming what Kincaid speculated.
The Specters had arrived.
And they were looking for the Matrix.
At the point where the Specters had docked God Magnus was leading the Specters through the docking ring. All right now, just because we’re on board doesn’t mean the computer doesn’t know we’re here. We’ve gotten in at the least important part of the ship, so it allows us a little room to move through the ship to get to the Matrix.
So that means we have to be sneaky? Tsara said with eagerness.
Very. God Magnus said. Tsara and Rattrap had no problem with that. Annihilus, Rack’althor and Raccharal were ready to clear house with their weapons drawn. Well I guess they are eager and ready to go. Black Arachnia joked and soon the Specters made their way through the ship’s superstructure. Jeff and Slasha were the last to go through.
Ready? Jeff asked Slasha.
Why must you people always ask if they are ready before you are about to do something completely unwise?
Tradition. Jeff answered as they followed the Specters on into the inner structure of the Crystalis.
Back at the Order’s landing site Destructor was looking at Loki, Titanar, and Harper with distain. From the back Alison Doe was looking on with great relish at what her master would do to those who failed him.
He stood silently. Not making a sound, not making an expression. He just stood there looking down at his failed warriors, and they kneeled down waiting for the other shoe to drop. Destructor continued to stand looking down. He knew they wanted him to make a move, if only to get rid of the anxiety the three were feeling. But Destructor wouldn’t. At least not yet.
He wanted them to sweat for a while.
Then he’d let them have it, which he did when he tired of waiting.
So, you have had two run ins with the Matrix team, and a run in with some sort of Shadow unit, and you have all come back failing me! Destructor said putting emphasis on the term ‘failing me’. No one bothered to justify their actions. Against Destructor they didn’t see the point. To him it would seem like groveling, and while he liked it sometimes he didn’t like it all the time.
What he liked all the time was victory, and the Order so far had yet to deliver.
I trust I do not need to remind you what would happen if those Rangers get those Matrixes. They could severely hamper our plans. None must interfere with the mission we have for the Leviathan and the Matrix of Evil. NOTHING! He then turned to Harper and glared at him. Not even your feud with Jeffrey Kincaid. Victory is relevant now. Not your vendetta.
Maybe to you. Harper said then one second later Harper realized he had said the wrong thing. Destructor then reared back and punched Harper in the face sending him into a run down building twenty feet away leaving a hole where Harper crashed through it. When Harper made his way out he looked up at Destructor who was glaring down at him.
Kincaid is irrelevant. Remember that! Only the Matrix is relevant now! Destructor remained adamant about that fact but whether or not Harper shared it or not remained to be seen. He then looked at Titanar and Loki and said nothing. Since Titanar had Harper with him he could see how Titanar could have failed since he had to keep Harper in line. Loki’s failure was due to outside interference as well and he knew where it could have come from. He also figured it was only a matter of time before SHE made her presence known. Destructor also noticed a slight sick smile across Harper’s face and wondered what he had in mind, then he knew that it must have involved Kincaid again.
Destructor didn’t know whether or not to be nauseated or curious about what Harper had planned so he just finished addressing his troops. At least Rygog and Hardhead haven’t failed me… yet. Destructor said. Of course I haven’t seen him for a while. Have you?
I think he said he was going to check out some things in a nearby sector. Alison said. Not the Matrix, but something just as important.
Such as? Destructor asked with curiosity and distain.
You’ll never know! a voice said from behind that struck Destructor down in the back. Everyone then turned to see Obsidian and Tasha then appear with a squad of Dark Assassins with them. Boy you sure are easy to follow Loki. Obsidian sneered. I guess in any reality you walk like you own everything.
And that led us to you and your Order friends. Tasha added. And for that we shall get some payback for your transgression against us. Destructor tried to get back up again but another bolt from behind struck him down, and then came the voice.
“So you are the Order of Destruction and you are its head.”
All turned around to face Empress Bansheera, who had just knocked Destructor down.
“I am not impressed at all.” Empress Bansheera stated.
You should be! Destructor seethed getting back up. After all, you’d be nothing without me!
The Empress just stared at Destructor for a few moments before she started to chuckle and it then erupted into a full blown hideous laughter.
What are you laughing about!? Destructor shouted.
I knew the Order of Destruction had its problems… I just didn’t know it had an insane lunatic ruling them! The Empress laughed.
Lunatic! Destructor shouted.
I made myself and furthermore this the first time we have ever met so there is no real logic to what you had just said. Empress Bansheera sneered.
What are you talking about? Alison Doe asked coming to her master’s side.
I’m not exactly your typical Bansheera. Empress Bansheera said. I wasn’t necessarily created by you. Even though we were most likely created from the same place, except while you have tapped from it to create your versions of me I merely broke away from it, and the destructive path laid down before me to establish my own path and destiny. Not one laid down by another.
Destructor then knew what Bansheera was getting at. The Unifying field. You’re a divergence from it aren’t you?
Yes. Bansheera stated. And unlike other Bansheeras or villains you may have ‘created’ I have built my own status in the universe I live in. I answer to no one. And I certainly don’t answer to you.
Destructor didn’t know what to say. Here was an anomaly. An element he couldn’t control with power and knowledge that could rival his own, and he didn’t like that at all. He had to control everything and everyone, and Bansheera was a threat to that control. Bansheera sensed Destructor’s unease and seemed to sneer at that unease.
What can I say? I’m an inspiration. Bansheera said in a seemingly gloating tone. Then she felt a touch on her arm. A touch that burned and burned more as her stomach turned, she started to burn up more and more beyond her body temperature, white sores started to appear around her skin and she felt herself getting weaker and weaker by the second. Bansheera knew what this could have been, it was an ancient Kerovan disease who’s name was lost to time and the destroyed KO-35 colony, but who people and demons dreaded nonetheless.
And it was being fed into her by a girl who looked a lot like Ashley Hammond, but wasn’t.
And now you’re just sick! Alison Doe sneered as she touched Bansheera, the disease spreading through her body eating through the insides moving faster and faster as much as Alison willed it to. A will that is enforced by Destructor. Everyone looked at Bansheera writhing in pain as her body seemed to mutate into a mass of infected tissue. She also was burning up with fever and her sores started to quickly mutate much like the disease Zips had right now only it was moving much faster than Zips’s was progressing.
So you are the leader of the Chaos Dynasty. Destructor sneered at the writhing Bansheera as she tried to fight the disease’s progression. He then leaned in close and said his last words with a mixture of malice and mockery.
I’m not really impressed at all.
EMPRESS!!! Tasha and Obsidian shouted in defense of their mistress but Harper, Titanar, and Loki held them back. And some newly arrived Tek’Latha appeared to confront the Dark Assassins as well.
But nothing could have prepared them for Bansheera standing up with all traces of the disease burned away. She stood upright again in pristine form. Her power radiating strong once again.
Not bad girlie. What other flavors have you got? Bansheera said glaring at Alison. Hmmm. Vendari Mustali. Rather a deadly disease from Kerova. It was a good thing I had a sample on hand as well as a cure. I wouldn’t want something so deadly to be used against me.
Bansheera then walked towards Destructor and touched him hoping to send the disease back through him. Especially when I can make use of it as well. As Bansheera touched Destructor he looked up and sneered then struck her with a backhand that sent her flying back. But not as far as Harper. She then stood up and glared at Destructor who just said, For your sneak attack earlier.
You will regret that! FORCES ATTACK! Bansheera ordered as Tasha, Obsidian and the Dark Assassins moved forward to confront Loki, Harper and Titanar. Destructor and Bansheera went at it in their own private little battle.
The battle between the Order of Destruction and the Chaos Dynasty had begun.
But Alison was hanging back floored by what Bansheera had said.
~ A cure? Is it even possible?~
For the first time in her life Alison Doe was filled with something she never thought would have been possible for her to have ever again.
Hope.
Not far away from the battle Rygog was driving Hardhead down a path making his way back to the Order’s landing site. Well our patrol was a bust. Hardhead said. There was nothing to find.
I know. Rygog answered. I don’t think I’ve ever been more bored than I have been right now. Rygog added. Even listening to Elgar would have been better than the patrol they had done now. However things were about to pick up soon, and pick up in the form of three Cybertronian forms standing in the way of the Destron Headmaster. A fourth one also appeared and raised something resembling a claw. Halt! We only wish to talk! the big one said.
Rygog and Hardhead considered the words and decided a change in mode might be best. TRANSFORM: HEAD ON! Rygog then transformed into Hardhead’s head and Hardhead became his robot body allowing his head to rest. Who are you? Hardhead asked the three ugly robots in front of him, as well as the big one behind them.
Whoa! That’s a Headmaster. I haven’t seen one of those in years. Goosher said astonished.
Not only that he’s an Autobot. Gildo added. Don’t you recognize him? That’s Hardhead.
I once was an Autobot. I’m not anymore. Hardhead then explained. I am a member of the Destron Alliance, allied with the Order of Destruction.
You quit the Autobots? Gaskunk said in surprise. I didn’t think anyone would do that.
They would if the taste of war gets into their spark, and one needs to satisfy it. Hardhead then added. It was then that the big robot known as Gelshark stepped forward and spoke.
We are the Predicons. And we wish to join the Order of Destruction. Gelshark said in a smooth voice. Hardhead seemed a little skeptical. Why would you want to join?
Because there are some here looking to stop the Order from accomplishing their mission. And they have Cybertronian robots on their side. I don’t know how the sides on your world work, but they call themselves Decepticons here. They bring disgrace to the Decepticon cause. Gelshark said trying to get on Hardhead’s good side, but it wasn’t working.
I don’t serve the Decepticon cause. Hardhead said. That cause is dead.
Then what about your own cause? Gaskunk asked. You said you weren’t with the Autobots anymore.
Yeah! Goosher said following up. You don’t want anyone getting in the way of your own plans now do you? You want to keep fighting. And the Order are your allies. Don’t you want to help them?
Motivated self-interest is always good motivation. Gildo added. Hardhead seemed to be considering the Predicons’s words then Hardhead turned back to the four and said All right you can come back to our landing site. But if you try anything
Say no more. Gelshark said. I don’t want to disappoint he who will be our new business partner. The Predicons then transformed into their beast modes and followed Hardhead back to the landing site. On the way Hardhead had to tell Gelshark to stop singing.
Well I’ll give this guy credit, he sure knows how to pick talent out. Gildo laughed.
Or who hasn’t got it. Gaskunk added. Hardhead looked at the Predicons before him, and thought they looked a meanacing sight. A little goofy but ~ At least they aren’t as bad as Waspinator~ he thought.
As the five Cybertronian robots left they were unaware of who was watching the exchange with great interest.
Black Convoy and the Combatcons watched nearby, smiling as they wondered how this could be used to their advantage.
The Specters ran through the hallway following God Magnus’s lead. Everywhere they went God Magnus pointed out a security obstacle and it was quickly dealt with. Camera eyes just above! Magnus shouted. Rackal’thor was already jumping up and disabling the center camera eyes with savage strikes. Raccaral also did some damage of his own to the cameras on the left while Annhilius blasted the cameras on the right.
Tsara and Rattrap were quick to detect laser eyes and security programs, and God Magnus input the codes needed to get past security defenses. I know this ship pretty well. The captain is an Autobot ally.
Then isn’t this like going against your allies? Ven’ya asked.
Hey, I’ll be willing to consider Sharon an ally still, but I’ve got a mistake to correct and I intend to let nothing stand in my way. The Specters watched God Magnus fly down the corridor and Raven couldn’t help but mention to Stitches Demanding isn’t he? Stitches couldn’t help but smile and nod.
We’re almost there! Magnus shouted. This should be where it’s kept. We’ve got to move quick though. It’s a safe bet the security program is moving against us.
I thought your measures were foolproof. Raven said.
Nothing’s really foolproof. It’s just a matter of choosing what’s less foolish. Magnus said as he came across the Matrix chamber with anticipation. Rattrap would you do the honors? Jeff asked. The rat was all too eager to insert his tail into the data socket and open the door.
Sure enough the door was opened and the Matrix was there. Oh man. It’s beautiful. Rattrap said mesmerized by the light, along with Black Arachnia. Even the rest of the Specters felt a sense of warmth from the Matrix. God Magnus felt the warmth too, but not far away was his own need for the Matrix. The need to correct the mistake he believed was made. To receive the recognition for all he had done for Cybertron. And even closer were those that were protecting it.
We are not alone. God Magnus said. And true to his words the Matrix’s protectors came out of the shadows. Kincaid, Alison and Karone were all morphed. Bulk also was morphed. Ashley, Carlos, Rocky and Justin transformed into their respective weapons, head or transformer. Also Sharon and Miyaka stood ready for battle. Mach Alert, Speed Breaker and Wildride also stood alongside the Master transformers.
Fire Convoy set his weapon down and walked up to his brother. Hello God Magnus.
God Magnus froze for a moment but then anger was displayed over his face and in his appearance. Fire Convoy.
Fire Convoy shook his head sadly. It’s been a while brother.
Not long enough for my tastes. God Magnus returned. You know why I am here and I know why you are here. The Matrix.
Magnus there is more stake here than our own feelings. Fire Convoy said. Don’t do this.
I’m doing what I must! Magnus said then shot a look at Jeff whose forces had come alongside him. Jeff got the message.
All right people. Pick your targets! Jeff ordered. On the other side Kincaid heard everything and shouted Do what he said, only do it to them! All the Specters and Matrix team went at it in battle, each picking their opponent or opponents as the case may as well be.
Demon Hunter wound up facing the heavily armed Annihilus who looked to have every weapon he could spare aimed at her. Missile launchers and a gatling gun rested on his shoulder. On his arms were rifles and pistols. Demon Hunter looked to be facing a well armed one man army.
Surrender now! Annihilus commanded. You cannot hope to beat me.
Oh I think I can. DEMON GUNBLADE!!! Demon Hunter called forth her Demon Gunblade and converted it into her rifle mode. She then hit a setting on the weapon and fired off a shot into Annihilus’s central control circuit, which disabled all his weapons. She then roared back and delivered a flying side kick to Annihilus and he was knocked down flat. Looking down Demon Hunter said, In case you were wondering that’s a static pulse shot. It’s known for disabling electrical systems very thoroughly.
Annihilus looked like a turtle on his back as he struggled to reach the master release. Sadly that release was out of his reach. But the emergency teleport was not. Realizing that he was no good to the team he activated his teleport control and left the battlefield.
Ashley transformed into Sureshot’s weapon and Sureshot was ready to face Rattrap who looked like a dwarf compared to the giant Cybertron. This sure doesn’t look like a fair fight does it? Ashley said. I mean you are bigger than him.
And it is two on one isn’t it? Sureshot added. Rattrap however wasn’t too worried.
Shows what you know. Never underestimate someone due to their size. Rattrap then transformed into his roving rat mode and burned rubber all around Sureshot who was trying to keep him in sensor sight. Little did he know that Rattrap transformed right behind him and hacked into the I/O port in the back of his neck and sent a shutdown command to the Cybertron. Sureshot fell to the ground and it would be a good six minutes before he’d get back up again.
Rattrap looked down at Sureshot and smirked. It’s not what you’ve got kid, but what you do with it that counts.
Is that so? Ashley said from behind and as Rattrap turned around Ashley in her blaster mode squeezed off a shot sending Rattrap flying. Ashley then quickly advanced on Rattrap and transformed into her armored human form as she walked towards him. As Rattrap was regaining his bearings Ashley was walking towards him.
Anything further to say? Ashley asked standing just across from Rattrap. Rattrap had a Cybertronic smirk on his face as he got ready for what he had in mind next.
Just this. Da da da dahn da dahhh!!! CHARGE! Rattrap got a running clothes line and struck Ashley across the chest sending her down flat on her back. Soon Rattrap stood over both Cybertron and Targetmaster partner in victory.
Blurr and Carlos looked at Stitches and seemed to learn the lesson they saw from Rattrap when he defeated Ashley and Sureshot. They would not underestimate the Specter before them. Nor would she underestimate them, which she was proving by drawing out her rifle and taking aim at Blurr’s sensors.
Ohno!Ohno!Gottatransformtransformtransform! Blurr shouted as he transformed into his vehicle mode as Carlos climbed in trying to ride shotgun, but Blurr moved so fast that Carlos was getting dizzy.
Stitches however had Blurr’s number though. As she anticipated where Blurr would go within the next few minutes after analyzing his travel pattern as he roved around her, she got a lock on where Blurr would come next. After squeezing a shot off Blurr suddenly spiraled out of control sending Carlos down into the force field wall that protected the Matrix, then down onto the ground unconscious.
Blurr transformed back into his Cybertron mode and was holding his knee from where Stitches shot a hole through it disabling him. The Specters were two and one so far and they wondered if Racc’althor would make it five and one.
Rackal’thor looked up at Brainstorm. A sneer crossed his face realizing that the bigger one was the harder they fell. Brainstorm wondered what Rackal’thor would do when he reached into his tunic and pulled out a grenade and threw it at Brainstorm.
AHHHH!!!! Brainstorm shouted as a flash went off in front of his sensors effectively knocking them out and blinding the Cybertron. Next thing Brainstorm knew was that he was being attacked from all sides by someone who could only be Rackal’thor. Attacks that were wearing Brainstorm down.
Brainstorm transform. Quick! Rocky thought to his partner. Quick to wonder what Rocky had in mind Brainstorm transformed into his jet mode and Rocky transformed from being Brainstorm’s head and took to the cockpit. When Rocky took the controls he used the limited space to circle around and fire a release from the ceiling that dropped a net down on Rackal’thor. The net was a stun net that would activate when given the proper command.
I guess brawn and brains wins over brawn. Brainstorm said transforming back to robot mode and Rocky transformed back to being Brainstorm’s head when the sensors were recalibrated. Especially when you’ve got two brains going for you. Rackal’thor tried to struggle but couldn’t escape the emergency netting that Brainstorm dropped from the ceiling. Brainstorm then activated the stun netting and Racc’althor was knocked unconscious. The Matrix team was now five and two.
Next up were the dirtiest pool players on both sides. Ravage and Black Arachnia. Ravage couldn’t help but smirk. He knew of Black Arachnia’s reputation back in his own reality. He hoped this one was just as dangerous if not more so.
Wow. It’s not every day one fights a legend. Black Arachnia said. I hope you don’t mind if you’re defeated too badly.
Not at all. Since I won’t be beaten. Ravage said as he jumped onto Black Arachnia and slashed with his claws at Black Arachnia’s face. Arachnia countered with a foot to Ravage’s chest and a push back across the room. When Ravage recovered he tried another pounce which Arachnia deflected with a wheel kick. Is that all you’ve got jo jo?
Far from it. Ravage said as he jumped in the air again with Black Arachnia trying to deflect whatever blow that would come. Any blow except for a low level proton missile that Ravage fired at Arachnia which blinded her and sent her sprawling back and Ravage on the attack. The fight immediately turned into a seesaw battle with Ravage and Arachnia exchanging the advantage with one another.
Ravage and Black Arachnia looked like they could go on forever. But Black Arachnia didn’t have forever. Neither did the Specters. She needed something to tip the odds in the Specter’s favor. Also she needed to end her fight with Ravage.
Catch me if you can. Arachnia shouted as she ducked behind a set of terminals. Ravage in close pursuit when he came across Arachnia wired into the ship’s systems for only one second. Again Ravage fired off a low level missile which sent Arachnia flying away from the terminals and down on the ground a second time.
Ravage may have stood victorious over Black Arachnia, but Black Arachnia kept a small smirk over her face. A smirk Slasha picked up on from her hiding place. She knew Black Arachnia slipped something in the Crystalis’s computer, but she had no idea what.
Next up were Ven’ya against the Hamburger Ranger. A battle that would be… unique.
May the God of Lies on Delta Pavonis IV cloud your perceptions and grant me a victory. Ven’Ya said as he faced Bulk.
My perceptions are already clouded but let’s shake on it anyway. Bulk said as he then extended his hand as if an offer of respect and Ven’ya took it despite slight confusion on his part.
Next thing Ven’Ya knew was that he was holding a stick of dynamite in his hands that was lit. Ven’ya then threw the dynamite at the Burger Ranger who remembered the cartoon rule involving dynamite. ‘When a stick is lit it takes about four seconds for it to go off. A rule Burger Ranger remembered when the dynamite went off in his face.
The Burger Ranger stood with his face all blackened. May the ACME corporation send a product that actually works. Was all he said before he fell over. Ven’Ya heard Bulk’s request and said Good luck on that score.
Alison was left facing the monstrous Raccharal who immediately jumped into the fray letting out a monstrous howl as he charged. Alison dodged the claw swipe as she delivered a kick to the stomach. She then followed up with a side kick to the head and a shoulder tackle that sent the beast down to the ground.
Raccharal however wasn’t about to be outdone. As Alison stood over Raccharal he did an instinctive spinning leg sweep that sent Alison down. Raccharal soon got up and stomped at the places that Alison was as she rolled out of the way. Alison then quickly got back up and faced Raccharal with a smile on her face.
Hey this is fun. Can we do it again? Alison said with a smile. Raccharal however let out a monstrous growl and charged Alison again. Even though he wouldn’t admit it Raccharal was enjoying the fight. Rarely did he find an opponent like Alison, and he wanted to keep the fight going forever. And something told him Alison felt the same way.
Raccharal was ready to oblige as he drew out his bone clubs and charged at Alison. Alison drew out her Night Daggars and soon it became a fight with weapons. A fight that both were evenly matched for and could have gone on forever. Each one matched the other’s moves and it was evident no victory would come right away.
Karone and Tsara looked at each other. Their battle would take place on a whole different battleground altogether.
Well. Karone. Formerly Astronema. It’s kind of nice to meet a legend. Tsara said sizing up her opponent.
Yeah well. Karone said as she got into a fighting stance. I hope you don’t mind if a ‘legend’ defeats you now does it?
Oh I don’t mind. If we play on my court. At the completion of Tsara’s sentence Karone’s world fell away and soon was replaced by a starry expanse that was laced with energy tendrils. There was some disorientation on Karone’s part but she soon got her wits about her as she took in her surroundings.
She had heard of this place through the Kerovian elders, but never had she visited it. Of course Ecliptor never did train her in how to deal with the astral plane. As Karone struggled to get her bearings Tsara quickly launched her attack, firing off with a flying punch that sent Karone flying back until she used her raw telepathic power to stablize herself.
Tsara stood facing Karone. I know you have great power. And that you are protected from spells and enchantment. But I also know that you can only be defeated through outright combat. And I had to set the rules so that you were at a disadvantage. You see Karone. I know Astral plane fighting is not your strongest area. I know this from having faced you before as Astronema.
The whole area started to erupt around Karone as it seemed like the astral plane was turning against her. Karone fought off all manner of creature that came towards her and successfully, until Tsara snuck in just as Karone’s warning senses went off. Befoe Karone knew it Tsara sent her fingers through Karone’s astral form and screamed as pain raced through her like never before. Karone was sent back to reality holding her head while Tsara stood over her in triumph.
Don’t mess with an Eltarian. Tsara said looking down at Karone who had Excedrine Headache number 749. Mind battle.
Fire Convoy and God Magnus faced each other. One was glad to see his brother again. Another was not.
Magnus. Please. You don’t have to do this. Fire Convoy pleaded with his brother.
Not only do I have to do this. I want to do this! God Magnus said activating his rockets letting out a missile barrage towards Fire Convoy. Fire Convoy rolled out of the way of the rockets and minor explosions seemed to rock the Crystalis. Hey I just got done repairing that! Spectra shouted.
I’ll repair it when I get the Matrix! God Magnus shouted ready to attack Fire Convoy again. But this time Spectra was getting involved.
No one wrecks me PERIOD!!! Just then the lasers of the ship’s security system were activated. All of them aimed at God Magnus who quickly ducked for cover.
Good thing I had something to fight with. Holo Spectra said. I had to pull a dozen drones from the TSD to get partial security back on line.
Your efforts are appreciated Spectra. Fire Convoy said not hiding the regret he felt for his brother’s animosity.
Justin and Zips soon found themselves staring at each other and both getting into their respective fighting stances. Zips however was sweating like there was no tomorrow and Justin quickly took notice of this as he got out of his fighting stance and approached Zips out of concern. You okay? he asked approaching her.
Zips was able to get her focus for a few seconds to kick Justin in the stomach then loop her arms around his neck to send him crashing down to the ground. Unconsciousness came for Justin as Zips struggled to get back up. She then stood over Justin barely standing, but standing nonetheless.
Sorry kid. Zips said looking down at Justin. It was then she felt herself falling to the ground off to the side. Her body felt like it was on fire and blisters started to form on her arm. Due to the fighting that was happening, no one noticed Zips fall to the ground. Except one.
Not far away, in something that almost resembled a Mortal Kombat Mirror match, Jeff and Kincaid eyed each other. Well, it’s like looking in a mirror. Kincaid said.
Not from where I’m standing. Or can’t you fight me unmorphed? Jeff shot back. Kincaid considered Jeff’s words and called DOWNTIME. To demorph. They then looked at each other face to face, and eye to eye.
Now it’s face to face. Jeff said.
And the resemblance is uncanny. Kincaid shot back as he looked at Jeff’s face. A face that was so different, yet so much the same as well. He wondered what else was different, yet the same about his counterpart as well, then Jeff answered that question.
He delivered a knifehand attack that was to Kincaid’s neck which Kincaid dodged. A kick to the midsection quickly followed knocking the wind out of Jeff. Jeff fell to the ground but quickly followed up with a spin to the back of Kincaid’s knee knocking him off balance, then getting up quick to deliver a blow to Kincaid’s upper body knocking him down to the ground. His arms blocked most of the impact but Kincaid knew that if he hit head first that it would not have been a good thing for him.
~ He’s skilled. ~ Kincaid thought. ~ But his style is unfamiliar. He must have had different instructors. ~ All the same however Kincaid got back up and charged at Jeff delivering blow after blow to Jeff’s face and mid section. Jeff also followed up with his own blows hoping to knock his counterpart down just as Kincaid was doing. Each one giving their all, then Kincaid decided to end it quick as he gave a kick to Jeff’s midsection then made ready to deliver a clothesline across Jeff’s chest.
Jeff however was able to counter that by moving out of the way as the clothesline came rushing by. Jeff then followed up with a bulldog to the back of Kincaid’s neck and his forehead hit the floor rattling him for a bit. Kincaid then looked up at Jeff and couldn’t help but smile.
You’re quite the dirty pool player. Kincaid said.
Jeff kept his expression stern. I do what it takes to get the job done.
Really? Kincaid asked. He then brought his foot to the area where the sun doesn’t shine for Jeff and sent him doubling over in pain. Kincaid then stood up and said So do I. To his counterpart. Jeff would have continued but his wrist transmitter sent a message, a message that sent a wave of fear to Jeff.
Pull out! Jeff ordered to his team. We’ve got other concerns.
Disbelief came from each one of the Specters. Never once was a retreat ordered. What kind of concerns? Annhilius asked.
Our base has been compromised. Jeff said. Someone kidnapped Mackenzie.
Every Specter broke away from their respective combats and followed their leader’s command. God Magnus was wondering what was going on, and why his allies were running away, especially with the Matrix so close. One of our own has been taken. I know you may want the Matrix, but we look after our own.
God Magnus scowled a bit, but he knew Black Arachnia was right. Loyalty to one’s teammates was important, and they had to look out for one another. There will be another time Fire Convoy! God Magnus vowed as he and most of the Specters made their way back to their ship. All but one whom Miyaka was kneeled down by.
They got in pretty good. Sharon said after demorphing. We’re going to have to beef up security and make some adjustments in some areas.
They almost got us good. Carlos said transforming from being Blurr’s gun. We were lucky they were called away.
Kincaid stood watching where Jeff had left. He had heard what his counterpart had said. Someone kidnapped Mackenzie. Someone kidnapped the alternate reality version of she who would be his counterpart’s wife. And while this Mackenzie Dekalb wasn’t the one whom he met and fell in love with, he still felt a responsibility to her regardless.
Jeff you okay? Sharon asked. Jeff turned to Sharon and said. The reason they pulled out was because someone has their version of Mackenzie.
Mackenzie? As in your girlfriend back home? Karone asked.
I have a sinking feeling I know who took her, but right now we need to be sure. Kincaid said just as Miyaka spoke up.
We’ve also got other problems. Miyaka said as she kneeled down to Zips’ side. This one is terribly sick.
I’ve got a few drones operational. They are preparing to transport her to medical bay. AI Spectra said. Soon enough the drones had arrived and Zips was sent to the Medical bay.
The Specters and God Magnus ran down the corridors making their way to the docking ring where their ship resided. Damn! Magnus cursed. We were so close!
I wouldn’t worry. Jeff said casting a look at Black Arachnia. Would I? God Magnus wondered what the look between Jeff and Black Arachnia meant.
Because. Black Arachnia said. There’s a virus in the computer’s systems. Once it activates we can go back in anytime we want.
Great job legs. Rattrap said. Is everyone here? Everyone looked around to see if all the Specters were present. All were including God Magnus. Except one.
We’re missing someone. Tsara said. Zips is not here.
Damn. Jeff cursed. He hated leaving someone behind, but his wife was in danger and she needed him now. Yet he couldn’t leave Zips behind either. It was then that Slasha volunteered.
I’ll go. Slasha said. Zips may be hurt, and she’ll need medical treatment.
But you may have to fight. Ven’ya said saying his peace. Are you sure you want to do this?
They won’t hurt her. Slasha said. I think they do want to help her.
How can you tell? Jeff asked.
Because they were led by you, and you always care for your teammates. Slasha said. And because you would never leave anyone behind. Jeff couldn’t help but smile and wished he was going with Slasha.
You’ve got to get Mackenzie back. Find her. Slasha then went back into the Crystalis’s docking ring to board the ship again then the Specter ship disengaged and flew away. Slasha would call once she had Zips.
But for right now Jeff had to find his fiancee’. He had to know who had her.
And he had a good idea who the number one suspect was.
The suspect in question was fighting members of the Chaos Dynasty when all of a sudden he was attacked from behind and knocked down.
Surprise! Neji Blue laughed over Harper who he had sucker attacked with his ax. Though he didn’t know it yet, Harper would get payback.
However the Order did take a moment to look at the five new additions to this fight, five warriors the resembled their own Psycho Rangers but looked more powerful and more evil than the Psycho Rangers.
In case you don’t know, we are the Neji Rangers and an enemy of the Dynasty is an enemy of ours. Neji Yellow stated.
Destructor looked on at the Neji Rangers and couldn’t help but smile. Impressive. He said before firing a bolt at the nearest building sending debris on them, which the Neji Rangers had to use their super speed to avoid. Most impressive.
He then saw in the corner of his eye five flashes come towards him, which he dodged by flying into the air. The Neji Rangers missed Destructor only to run face long into Gelshark and the Predicons.
Gelshark. What’s the meaning of this? Empress Bansheera asked. What are you doing here?
Oh I am so sorry my Empress. Gelshark said flashing his fanged smile. But it’s just that I have been granted full control over the Decepticon army, and I have made an offer with the Order of Destruction.
WHAT!!! Bansheera shouted. WHAT DID YOU SAY?!!!
Oh yes. Gelshark continued to say. You see, due to the interdimensional reach the Order possesses we figured they would be better allies that you would. Also we have a chance to regain the Matrix of Evil this way instead of trying to butt heads with them trying to take something back which would only be a waste to Decepticon resources.
Who told you this? Obsidian asked doubting very much that Gelshark could have come to this conclusion on his own.
I believe you have me to thank. Hardhead said stepping out of the shadows. Destructor smiled pleased with the allies Hardhead has made. Bansheera however was not pleased with the current developments.
You idiot! When Gigatron hears of this! Bansheera cursed.
He won’t! PREDICONS ATTACK!!! Gelshark ordered. Soon Goldo, Goosher and Gaskunk followed their commander’s lead and fired their weapons at the Chaos Dynasty.
Left laser!
Center laser!
Right laser!
Shark missiles!
All Predicons opened fire with the Order joining in, sending the Chaos Dynasty into retreat. Destructor and the Order was pleased at their adversaries running, all except for Alison Doe who wondered if what Bansheera said about a cure was in fact true. Destructor paid it no mind however and turned to look at Hardhead who had the Predicons standing with him.
So tell me Hardhead. What can you tell me of our new allies? Destructor sneered.
The Empress and her forces gathered at a clearing trying to recover and regroup. I can’t believe it! Neji Red shouted. How dare the Predicons betray us! What is Gigatron thinking!
I don’t know. Empress said. But I know Gigatron. He would not have allowed Gelshark to turn on us. Gigatron’s and my agendas are too similar right now. Especially since we both want the Matrix.
Besides, if Gigatron was going to turn on you he would have had me do it. A voice said aproaching from behind as it transformed into six robots of great size and power. Robots that were Black Convoy and the Combatcons.
Gelshark is acting on his own initiative. He doesn’t have Gigatron’s sanction. Nor the brains to know worthwhile allies when he sees them. Black Convoy said as he laid on the BS very thick. Bansheera listened to what Black Convoy was saying and seemed to follow along.
As a loyal servant to Gigatron I vow your property shall be retrieved and the traitors punished. Black Convoy said. Bansheera nodded, grateful for Black Convoy’s loyalty.
But what Bansheera didn’t know was that Black Convoy had motives of his own. But a look from Tasha indicated that she at least suspected something.
Slasha in the meantime was making her way through the superstructure of the Crystalis hoping to find the medical ward, or anyone who could take her there. Her luck paid off when she ran into Miyaka who held her blade steady. I surrender. Slasha said with her hands in the air.
Miyaka looked at Slasha. Amazonian. Warrior race. Where’s the rest of your team?
They’re gone. I came back. You have one of our people. We want her back.
The girl? Miyaka asked. Slasha nodded. She’s sick you know.
I suspected. That’s why I came back. To see if I can help. Miyaka looked at Slasha and she seemed to be sincere, but Miyaka still had a feeling of unease about Slasha. As if she knew something. Why should I trust you?
Because I’m going to tell you something that you need to know that I shouldn’t tell. Slasha paused then told Miyaka, You have a computer virus on board.
WHAT?! Holo Spectra shouted appearing next to Miyaka. WHEN?!
During the battle. Our hacker plugged it in, in the event we return. That way we could get the Matrix from you with a second attack. We’ve done this tactic before. Hide it in a very non-essential system then timer activate it so the ship shuts down and we can walk on in. Miyaka and Spectra were surprised that a virus got past them, but were relieved that they could find it before anymore damage could be done.
I’ll initiate a systems check. See if I can find it. Holo Spectra said before fading out. Miyaka turned to Slasha and looked at her. Why tell us this? Why betray your teammates?
Because I’m trying to save one of my team. I’m a medic, and I’m sworn to save lives. Not allow them to be taken. If someone in my team is sick I have to help. Slasha stared at Miyaka who returned the stare as well as thinking about what Slasha said.
Come with me. I’ll take you to medical. Slasha sighed grateful for Miyaka’s concern and followed her to the medical ward.
Has the virus been found? Sharon asked into her comm link.
Yes we got it. Spectra said. Beginning purge now.
All right. Is our ‘guest’ secure? she then asked.
Miyaka took her to medical. She’s attending the other prisoner now. Spectra then added. You know her appearance may be a good thing. We never really left home without a medic. She could be useful in our mission.
Sharon considered Spectra’s words. I’ll think about it. Right now there are guests to entertain. Sharon then cut off the comm link and turned her attention to the Matrix team. Problem? Sureshot asked.
One that’s been remedied. Sharon answered as her attention turned to Ashley who was completely awestruck. “Damn… this is one incredible ship.” Ashley said.
Sharon couldn’t help but blush. Even though this Ashley wasn’t her mother she still felt glad that Ashley seemed to be impressed with how Sharon was faring. “The most advanced ship you’ll ever see. It puts the Astro Megaship to shame… no offence of course.” Sharon said to her newly made allies. The Autobots were currently helping out with the continued repairs to the TSD and keeping ready in case of an attack while Sharon decided to get Kincaid and his people acquainted with the many different workings of the Crystalis.
“As you can already see, the Hanger Deck is more than capable of storing any Zord, even though it’s originally designed to house Slipstream Fighters, some of which you are seeing now.”
They don’t look like anything a Cybertron would be familiar with. Justin said.
They aren’t. Sharon answered. They are unique. But we do have other weapons on hand, as well as the ability to make more.
More? Alison asked.
Come on I’ll show you. Sharon then led the Matrix team to an area that reminded people of an auto assembly plant, only this one seemed to construct ships and weapons like the Slipstream fighters, and not a Ford automobile.
“We also have several well-equipped machine shops located throughout the ship. These shops feature every conceivable device and technology needed to repair, assemble or fabricate the parts, tools and equipment needed to keep everything in top working order.” Sharon said.
Hmmmm. Impressive. Kincaid said. Sharon caught the look in Kincaid’s eye and knew he had thought of something. Something on your mind?
Kincaid was about to speak but then decided to wait a moment until he was certain that what he had in mind was the right decision. Nothing that can’t keep. Shall we finish the tour?
Sharon nodded and led the Matrix team to the medical wing where Miyaka was watching Slasha stand over Zips. Concern clearly on her face. Sharon saw this and went to Slasha’s side. How’s she doing?
Slasha turned to look at Sharon, a look of gratitude on her face as Slasha was clearly grateful for everything Sharon was doing to help Zips. Thank you. Thank you so much! she said letting the tears fall down her face. Sharon held the Amazonian in a hug as if offering her strength and support. Soon Slasha stood back and wiped the tears from her face then finally answered Sharon’s question.
The medical computer is diagnosing all her symptoms. Hopefully we’ll know what she has. Slasha said. Miyaka stood off to the side as if nodding in confirmation. Slasha then asked, Do you think the computer can help?
Sharon’s expression was one of reassurance as she said, “The Crystalis’s medical deck functions as clinic and hospital. Its medical personnel and androids are specially trained to treat everything from minor scrapes to life-threatening injuries or infections. Spectra’s medical database is very extensive. It contains detailed anatomical information on every known sentient species you’ve ever met and many you have yet to see.”
Thank you. Slasha said as she then turned her gaze to Kincaid. She looked at him and saw how he was so different from the Jeff Kincaid she knew and yet so much the same. It’s so eerie. You’re so like him and yet you seem lighter in some areas, and darker in others.
Kincaid then stepped forward and looked at Slasha. Some point we are going to have to talk just how different and similar the two of us are. Hope you don’t mind.
No. Not at all. Slasha said as she went back to the medical computer with the drones helping her to make Zips better. Miyaka then joined the tour group deciding Slasha could be trusted to look after her friend and not cause trouble. As they walked Sharon started to explain the value of the quarters aboard ship.
“Crew quarters are down a level and the officers quarters deck is right above us. The ratio between officers and enlisted crew is about 1 to 11.” Sharon said.
“And where exactly do you sleep?” Carlos asked.
Sharon rolled her eyes, not believing he asked that question. “The captain’s personal quarters of course.”
Ashley and Alison both shot Carlos a look that said ‘Duh’ and Carlos’s face turned three shades of red. The next place the team stopped was at a place that seemed to have plants of all varieties, a basketball court off to the side and a sort of laboratory off in another section. Sharon explained this area with a sense of affection.
“One of my favorite places on this ship is the Hydroponics deck. It’s a multi purpose deck, from being a botany laboratory to source of fresh produce, basketball court, or just some place to mediate in silence.”
Nice. Very tranqil. Rocky said.
Perfect place for a boy to take a girl. Alison said shooting a look at Kincaid and Sharon. Sharon and Kincaid both shot Alison a look that said for her to knock it off, but Alison only gave a coy smile as if saying that she was going to keep it up. Sighing Sharon led them to the next spot on the tour of the ship. An area where all the stars of the sector could be seen, and where the dingy gray of Iocaste could be seen off to the right.
“And when ever I want to just stare out and see the beauty of the universe I just come to the observation deck.” Sharon said to her friends. “Well that is pretty much the entire tour… except for one place.”
“What?” Alison asked.
Sharon told them to follow her down to the lift and then they all entered.
“So where are we going Sharon?” Kincaid asked.
Sharon smiled as she heard the sound that they had arrived. “Command Deck.”
The members of Matrix team could only stare in awe as the doors opened and saw the inside of the Command Deck. There were several stations all around the bridge of the ship, the captain’s and first officer’s chairs and then a chair at the center which had steering controls of some sort.
“I can’t believe it.” Karone breathed. “No ship I’ve ever been on comes close to this.”
“I take it you include the Dark Fortress in those estimates.” Sharon said. “In any case as you may or may not know, the Command Deck is in the center of the ship.”
“Why the center of the ship? I mean every ship’s Command Deck has been in the front of the ship. The Astro Megaship’s was…” Carlos started but then Holo Spectra appeared behind him. “And get blown up in the middle of a battle with the enemy? No thank you.”
“Ah!” Carlos fell down.
“God you like to show people the error of their own ways don’t you?” Spectra said coming into the bridge. Holo Spectra replied, “I can’t help it if they don’t know the difference between good starship construction ethics and bad ones.”
“What Spectra means to say is that Starships like those from ‘Star Trek’ aren’t exactly practical for real battles.” Sharon stated. “I mean why would you want to have the bridge of the ship in the front of the ship where it would most vulnerable to attack instead of in the center of the ship where it’s the most safest place to put it.”
Rocky helped Carlos up who was still staring. “Its confusing. I know. We saw three when we were captives. You’ll get used to it.”
Spectra walked over to Kincaid and put her hand out. “Kincaid I want to say thank you for bring my captain back. I was hoping this wasn’t going to turn into a repeat of Tor-42.”
“It wasn’t like Tor-42.” Sharon replied.
“No if I remember correctly and I ALWAYS remember correctly everything, you had Vypra, Obsidian, Tasha and 50 Dark Assassins trying to kill you in a bar while you tried to get information from a mutant informant, who as I recalled, got killed by Vypra and you barely got to your Phoenix to fly back up to me so we could Slipstream out of that area.” Holo Spectra stated.
Sharon shook her head. “Okay okay I got it Spectra.”
Curious as always Justin spoke up, “What’s ‘Slipstream’? I heard you use that word before Spectra. Transwarp Slipstream Drive.”
“Slipstream is an extension of our reality, an additional dimension that’s integrally intertwined with our own. The slipstream is a place where quantum connections are visible as cords, especially the large and strong connections like those between huge concentrations of matter such as planets or suns. A spaceship that enters the slipstream can harness the energy of these cords and ride them from one star system to another.” Spectra said.
“One interesting thing about moving through the slipstream is that travel time between points has very little to do with the distance actually traveled. If a pilot is lucky, and the stream unfolds just right, the ship could transit between galaxies in minutes.” Holo Spectra stated. “But put an unlucky pilot at the helm and the same trip could take weeks or even months. Of course Sharon could tell you from personal experience.”
Sharon’s face reddened at that. “It took me a while to learn how to transit into slipstream properly… a month to be exact.”
“There’s also another unusual aspect of slipstream.” Spectra said. “The requirement of an organic pilot to guide a starship through the slipstream. Thus I can’t pilot through the slipstream. At an intersection of pathways in slipstream space, both paths manifest the potentiality of being correct and incorrect. It’s only when the pilot chooses a specific direction that this potentiality collapses and one path becomes right, and the other wrong. For reasons still not completely understood, organic beings tend to choose the correct paths, or more precisely, the very act of choosing makes the path they have chosen the correct one.”
Incredible. Justin breathed in awe of what he had just heard.
So what exactly is the future like? Not that well I take it considering what we have seen. Carlos asked of Sharon who simply flinched as she then just fell into the chair. Miyaka then whacked Carlos in the back of the head. Ouch!
Didn’t your mother ever teach tact when you were growing up? Miyaka shot.
Miyaka… Sharon sighed. We really don’t need to be fighting now. She looked over at Carlos and then everyone. Like Carlos said, the future I come isn’t well in fact it could be considered hell at times in some places.
Got the feeling this isn’t going to be pretty. Alison stated.
It’s not. Sharon said. March 18, 2008… that was the day I was put in a cryo tube due a mechanical failure on a ship I was on. Everyone went into cryo to survive… except somehow my cryo tube got shot into space and I fell through a temporal vortex. I was only seven at the time. When I was found on earth by humans and I woke up it was April 4… except it wasn’t 2008… it was 2034. And the universe wasn’t as I remembered it.
June 1, 2029… I learned it was the termed as the Beginning of the End for Humanity… you see that was the day that Lightspeed Rangers were killed by the Cyborg Rangers thanks to Diabolico’s doing. One of his demons had managed to infiltrate Lightspeed, get control of the Cyborgs and then kill the Lightspeed Rangers with them.
Wait wait wait wait a minute wait a minute wait a minute. Rocky said. 2029? Back in the reality we’re from the Lightspeed Rangers weren’t created that late. For us, and I’m sure others here, they were created sooner.
That was explained to me. Sharon said. I was told me that sometimes a reality can have very similar patterns to different realities, yet have differences that could be considered radical.
I know. Kincaid said. I once met someone who said that in the reality she was from Justin was the son of Divatox. Everyone, including Justin, did a doubletake at that statement. Me Divatox’s kid? Justin said.
Don’t ask why. Kincaid said. I have no idea what the higher powers were thinking when they sent your soul down that path in that universe.
Perhaps we should get away from this line of thinking. Miyaka said. Sharon weren’t you talking about home? Sharon sighed and got ready to resume her story. And while she was grateful that the topic was getting away from how Justin could be the son of Divatox she wasn’t grateful that the topic was getting towards the nightmare world she called home.
From there on out things just started getting worse. The Lightspeed Aquabase was destroyed as was Lightspeed by the Demons. The Space Rangers took up the fight to try to contain the demons but it was an uphill fight all the way. The Galaxy Rangers couldn’t come back because Trakeena had returned from the death, most likely the handiwork of the demons, and was stronger than ever. She effectively kept them fighting her on Miranoi while the Demons kept up with their plans. On the one year anniversary of the deaths of the Lightspeed Rangers, they freed Queen Bansheera. A week after that Mariner Bay was leveled. A week later her palace was restored. Sharon started to become emotional as she then spoke what then happened next…. and with in a year everyone on earth that had ever been or was a Power Ranger, along with their families was dead.
Dead? Ashley said with her mouth hanging open. Including their families?
It was very similar to the Jedi purge in the Star Wars movies. Miyaka said. Any Jedi or force sensitive could well have been a threat to the Emperor. And as such needed to be exterminated.
Oh man. I knew Kimberly’s cousin Kelly. And I once met Trini’s cousin Sylvia. Rocky said in disbelief. And they were all killed?
Bansheera left none alive. Sharon said with sadness in her. The only Rangers left were the Galaxy Rangers but as I said they were still against the resurrected Trakeena. In 2032 they finally defeated her for keeps but then I learned from the Resistance why they never came to Earth. Sharon breathed, Two people on the governing body there got their hands on the Galaxy Book and decided to make sure they were safe. So they used the book to split an entire sixth of the galaxy, Miranoi included, from the rest of the universe entirely, creating what is known now as the Nexus Galaxy, a place no one has ever been able to enter. To this day I haven’t seen my Aunt Karone and Uncle Leo hell I don’t even know if they are still alive… she sighed shaking her head.
Karone then decided to come forward and held Sharon. Sharon was grateful for the support, even though this Karone wasn’t her aunt per se. Still Sharon was grateful that some version of her was nearby.
Deciding to get back her past, Sharon decided to talk about her own experiences then. Like I said earlier I was found by members of the human resistance. Over the next 13 years I grew up in a world that was ruled by the demon race and continued to learn that their influence was spreading. Hierarchies changed for the demons with time. Loki was killed by the resistance even though it cost the lives a thousand resistance members to do it. Diabolico was killed by Queen, now calling herself Empress Bansheera, for killing her baby Impus. She gave the star power to Vypra, who leads her four generals known as the Four Lords of Havoc. You’ve already seen Tasha and Obsidian… She had a bit of venom when mentioning Obsidian. She hated the great traitor with a passion at times. The last of them is Kartia, a dark elf of immense magical power. The Dark Assassins we fought replaced the Battlings, which are now the ‘civilian’ populous of Bansheera’s empire.
I wanted to get even I wanted to avenge the deaths of everyone I had ever cared for. So fought and training and learned as much as I could. I became a commander in the resistance but when I was 20, my cell found ourselves betrayed by one of our own to the Demons. Not many of our survived. From there on in, it was a fight for our lives. Sharon said. I thought it was over and then when things looked there worst… a miracle happened. A miracle called the Nomad Star Tribe.
The Nomad Star Tribe? Karone asked, I’ve never heard of them.
I wouldn’t doubt it. They are a race of interdiamentional traveling beings who stay out of the spotlight quite a bit, but they come when they feel the need to be of help. Two of them, Arina and Serin, became my teachers, put me through the Trials of the Soul to test my entire being and when I succeeded I gained the Soul Pendent which lets me have access to the Soul Powers which I use to become the Demon Hunter. From 2047 to 2048 I continued my training, visited different worlds, learning from different teachers, gaining as much as I could to help me fight against the Chaos Dynasty. When I did fight them, I did make progress but… Sharon then sighed, I was just one person and even though I was slowing them down, they were still there and starting to get a chance for the upperhand. I decided to use the one last option available to me. Travel back in time 20 years before the Lightspeed Rangers were killed and save them thus altering history. However before I could I found out about Gigatron and his possession of the Matrixes. I went to Cybertron to get them out of his hands but I was too late to destroy the Matrix of Evil since it had been already taken. I had only managed to get the Matrix of Synergy and activate the drives to get me out of Cybertron space before I got fired at so I had to do a transit into slipstream blindly…
And we ended up in this universe with our engines damaged and unable to leave this reality. That was three months ago. Holo Spectra chipped in.
The rest you know. Sharon said.
“Sharon.” Kincaid spoke up. “Its not that we don’t have trust in you or trust you. However you’ve told us that you come from the year 2049. I don’t think earth technology could possible create something like this in that year.”
“You’re right Kincaid. In fact the reality I’m from will most likely never create this kind of ship.” Sharon said. “You see the Crystalis may have been given to me in my reality and use parts from the Nomad Star Tribe… but she’s not native to my reality’s time line at any point at all. Spectra? Want to talk about where you come from?”
Spectra looked at them while Holo Spectra left to go toward other duties. “I’m from another alternate reality. I, meaning this ship, was created in the year CY 9770. CY standing for Commonwealth Year. Basically you can say I’m from a time that a couple of millenniums ahead of where you all are from.”
“Commonwealth year?” Karone asked.
“In signification for the Systems Commonwealth, greatest civilization there ever was.” Spectra smiled with pride. “Its ancient foundations come from the fearsome Vedran Empire, however over the millennia, the Systems Commonwealth had grown and evolved into the beacon of freedom, justice and prosperity for the universe. The Commonwealth is a representative monarchy with Vedran Empress Sucharitkul XII reigning as figurehead and titular head of state. Executive power is wielded by the Triumveres, a trio of executive officers who are popularly elected by the Commonwealth citizenry. All Commonwealth citizens had equal right to participate in the government via the Conclave, a tricameral legislative body. However, wherever possible the Commonwealth prefers to leave governance in the hands of its individual member worlds. That is provided they adhere to the Commonwealth charter and Universal Declaration of Sentient Rights, societies are free to choose the form of government that best meets the needs of their citizens.
“As to where I fit in, I’m a Glorious Heritage class Heavy Cruiser. A High Guard Ship. The High Guard are the protectors of the Commonwealth. They perform peace-keeping missions throughout space and on planets. Their roots go back to the conquering armies of the ancient Vedran Empire, but the High Guard serves all of the Commonwealth.
“Sounds like a dream of an ideal society.” Ashley said. “How did you end up here?”
Spectra sighed for a moment and took some time before speaking. “The Commonwealth is something I believed in. Something many people loved… however it seemed nothing could last forever. In year CY 9784, after years of planning, a coalition of Nietzscheans forces, who were our allies and members of the Commonwealth, launched a sneak attack on the High Guard, their intent to overthrow the Systems Commonwealth and replace it with a Nietzschean-dominated empire. High Guard and Home Guard facilities on over 500 worlds were simultaneously attacked, resulting in the destruction in homeport of nearly half the Argosy fleet. Empress Sucharitkul XII was assassinated when her royal barge was ambushed by a Nietzschean strike force. Earth was bombarded from orbit. The list of things that happened in the war is still unbelievable to me.”
“But… why?” Justin asked.
“About 18 years before the Commonwealth/Nietzschean war, there was a major catastrophe. On the world of Brandenburg Tor, a previously unknown species attacked. All but a thousand of the planet’s three billion sentients were murdered. The survivors called the aliens the Magog.” Spectra said.
“… three… billion? All murdered?” Karone said in disbelief.
“That’s pretty much my reaction when I got told the story.” Sharon replied.
“Over the next fifteen years, the High Guard fought the Magog time and time again until the Treaty of Antares was signed, officially suspending hostilities with the Magog… the treaty didn’t go over well with the Nietzscheans who wanted the Magog exterminated. However they backed down…” Spectra then closed her eyes. “And when the war came three years later, I knew why the Nietzscheans backed down.”
“It was during CY 9784 that I was caught in a Nietzschean ambush, I lost my crew, I was critically damaged, my core was starting to go critical. I thought was finished.” Spectra said. “… and that’s when the Nomads came. They gave me a choice. Die now or survive, be restored and improved and ready to fight in another war in another reality. It was the most difficult decision I ever had to make. My loyalty was to the Commonwealth, but I couldn’t help the Commonwealth if I was destroyed. I accepted, hoping that one day, once my current mission is over, that I can find a way to return home, and see if the Commonwealth still exists.”
“You know I am here for you Spectra. We’ll find the Commonwealth and your home reality,” Sharon said. “However at the moment we have more immediate concerns. Concerns that are more important than the war in my own reality or my plans travel back in time to stop the Dynasty before it was even formed.”
Maybe you should elaborate. Miyaka said. What kind of concerns?
This time it was Kincaid’s turn to speak. You have an intercom system? he asked Spectra. I’d only like to say this once.
No problem. Spectra said activating the intercom system so the Transformers could hear. Then Kincaid began to give his story.
Alison, Karone and I are from a different reality. As is everyone else here. But with the three of us we were recruited by an interdimensional race known as the Q to stop an organization known as the Order of Destruction which is made up of evil from several different universes. Some of them from our home universe.
Karone spoke next. We found out that the Order had acquired an item called the Matrix of Evil and they intend to put it to use. We later discovered that the only thing that could stand up to the Matrix of Evil are six other Matrixes. The Matrix of Synergy is one of them. All of them were hidden in other universes.
The Order is headed by beings called Evil Q, Destructor, Stygian and Zanzibar. Evil Q had me and the other Rangers killed but thanks to Kincaid and his friends we were able to return and were bonded to Transformers by way of the Masterforce. Ashley said. When Sharon heard that Ashley and the others of her universe were brought back to life she was curious but Kincaid shot that hope down immediately.
No Sharon. The only reason Ashley and her friends were allowed to return was because all of us at the time were willing to give our lives for them. Our reasons were selfless and the Higher Powers saw that. But if resurrection is ever to come about then the rule is usually someone has to sacrifice their life in order to have someone else back. And the sacrifice has to be a willing one as well. They have to willingly give their life for whoever someone brings back.
Sharon sighed and nodded knowing Kincaid was right. Resurrection was never an easy thing and there were rules that went with it, so she quickly put that thought out of her mind and got back to business. So what you say is that the Matrix we have now is one of six that you need to stop the Matrix of Evil and the Order of Destruction?
That about sums it up. Rocky said. And the Order is trying to stop us so we’re really fighting the clock.
And they also bonded villains to the Masterforce as well. Carlos added. Rita, Zedd, Goldar and all those guys are bonded to Transformers known as the Destrons.
The DESTRONS?! AI-2 shouted. That’s one of the ancient names for the Decepticons and the Predicons.
And they were led by a monster named Galvatron who was replaced by someone named Galvatron II apparently. Carlos added. And this Galvatron II isn’t as nutty as the original one I’ll tell you.
He isn’t. Fire Convoy said over the intercom. He got through the Predicon defences on Cybertron which shows that he is incredibly smart. And if he’s part of this Order of Destruction you mention that makes him only more dangerous.
Which means we need to get the ship up and running quick. Sharon stated. Spectra I take it repairs are almost done?
Estemated repair time is thirty minutes. AI Spectra said.
Make it ten. Sharon said. I think we’re running short on time.Part 5